7 Top Speech Pathology Master’s Programs: Wisconsin Guide 2026

Are you searching for Speech Pathology Master’s Programs in Wisconsin that work with your busy schedule? The field offers remarkable career prospects. Speech language pathology jobs grow much faster than average, and this is a big deal as it means that median salaries top $80,000 annually.

Part-time online programs give busy professionals a flexible path to this rewarding career. Wisconsin’s speech pathology graduate programs deliver ASHA-accredited curriculum in convenient formats. To name just one example, students can complete some programs online over three years with a single week of on-campus residency each summer. These speech and language therapy masters need about 54 total credits and blend rigorous coursework with clinical practicums.

This guide outlines the top online speech pathology master’s options in Wisconsin for 2026.

1. University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire

The University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire stands out from other speech pathology graduate programs in Wisconsin through its innovative online education approach. Students get the same quality curriculum in both residential and distance formats. This ensures equal educational experiences for everyone.

Program overview

Students complete the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program over three years of part-time study in a cohort model. The program requires 54 graduate credits – 40 academic credits and 14 clinical credits. Most coursework happens online, with a one-week summer residency each year. The first cohort week runs in June, while later weeks take place in late July or early August. Working professionals can advance their careers without moving. Students need to maintain a 3.0 GPA and pass comprehensive examinations before graduating.

Clinical experience

The clinical training is detailed, with students needing at least 375 clock hours of supervised experiences. Students must complete work at three different clinical sites. Each site should provide 50 hours of experience in medical and educational settings. The program also needs:

• 25 observation hours before clinical practicum begins
• Clinical seminar participation each semester
• CALIPSO documentation to track coursework and clinical hours
• Annual criminal background checks and specific immunizations

Students arrange their clinical experiences in their home regions. The Online Graduate Coordinator and Director of Clinical Education must approve these arrangements. This lets students gain practical experience locally while meeting certification requirements.

Admission requirements

Getting into this speech and language therapy master’s program is competitive. Basic requirements include:

• Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited university
• 25 minimum GPA in CSD/SLHS coursework
• 30 SLHS semester credits completed before starting

Meeting these requirements doesn’t guarantee admission. Recent admitted students had an average 3.95 GPA in major coursework. The program reviews candidates based on academic excellence, communication skills, empathy, adaptability, and relevant experiences.

Tuition and fees

Tuition costs $733 per credit as of 2025, making this online program economical. The Board of Regents might approve up to 5% annual increases. You’ll need 54 total credits to graduate. Extra costs include technology requirements, clinical placement expenses, and a $100 CALIPSO registration fee.

Licensure and accreditation

The program has earned several important credentials:

• Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accreditation
• Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction approval
• Higher Learning Commission accreditation since 1950

Graduates qualify for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). The program prepares students for licensure in all states. Students should check with their state’s licensing agency before enrolling.

Student outcomes

Recent years show exceptional success rates:

• 100% on-time completion rate
• 3% three-year average Praxis exam pass rate
• Strong job placement in the profession

A graduate working at Marshfield Medical Center said, “The clinical experiences were wonderful and we had great mentors/supervisors providing us with the support we needed”.

Application process

Submit all materials through CSDCAS (Centralized Application Service for Communication Sciences and Disorders) by November 1. You’ll need:

• Official transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal essay
• Kira Assessment

New cohorts start each summer, and applications get reviewed once yearly. Strong applications should showcase your academic achievements and relevant experiences.

2. University of Wisconsin–River Falls

The University of Wisconsin–River Falls uses its prime location near the Twin Cities metropolitan area to offer a versatile Master of Science program in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Students can experience clinical placements in urban, suburban, and rural settings – a unique advantage that helps develop complete professional skills.

Program overview

Students complete UW–River Falls’ full-time, five-semester program with 54 total credits. The curriculum spans two years with a structured timeline. Students take intensive coursework and gain clinical experiences at the university’s Speech-Language & Hearing Clinic during the first three semesters (fall, spring, summer). The final two semesters focus on external practicum experiences, where students take one evening course per semester while gaining valuable ground experience.

The complete coursework has these essential areas:

• 34 credits of specialization courses (research methods, anatomy, cognitive disorders, audiology)
• 20 credits of required clinical experience

The program offers three completion options: Plan A (thesis), Plan B (research paper/project), or Plan C (comprehensive exam). Students can arrange their graduate education based on professional goals and research interests.

Clinical experience

The university’s on-campus Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic, 60 years old, serves as the starting point for clinical training. About 80-90 clients receive services weekly through in-person visits or teletherapy. Graduate student clinicians provide assessment and therapy services under licensed and certified speech-language pathologists and audiologists’ supervision.

Second-year students complete two 12-week full-time externships—one in pediatric setting and one in adult setting. This structure will give students complete experience across the lifespan and various disorder types, preparing them for different career paths after graduation.

Admission requirements

The program maintains competitive admission standards. The university receives approximately 135 applications annually and admits 77 candidates for a target class of 22 students. Successful applicants usually have GPAs between 3.02 and 4.00.

Key admission requirements include:

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• Completed prerequisite coursework in Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Three letters of recommendation (at least two from faculty in the CSD field)
• A personal statement
• All application materials submitted through the CSDCAS portal

Applications must reach by January 15 for fall admission. Early preparation matters since incomplete applications don’t receive review and admission deferrals aren’t available.

Tuition and fees

Graduate CSD students’ tuition rates vary by residency status as of 2025:

• Wisconsin residents: $3,046 ($6,092 annually)
• Minnesota residents with reciprocity: $3,671 per semester
• Non-residents: $6,531 per semester ($13,062 annually)

Your residency status and required semesters determine the total program cost. Plan your budget based on the 54-credit requirement over five semesters.

Licensure and accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited the Master’s program through August 2030. This accreditation confirms the program’s educational quality meets national standards.

Graduates become eligible for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence after completing the program, passing the Praxis examination, and meeting clinical fellowship requirements. This credential helps secure professional practice and state licensure.

Student outcomes

The program has 22 full-time first-year students and 42 total graduate students. Recent reports show 20 students completed the program—achieving a 100% completion rate for full-time students. These numbers showcase the program’s selectivity and success in supporting students.

Application process

Applicants must submit materials through both CSDCAS (Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service) and UW System application portal. A complete application package needs:

• Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Application fees for both CSDCAS and UW System

The UW System application form requests a statement essay, but it’s not required. Applications must be complete by January 14th CSDCAS deadline (11:59 p.m. EST), as the portal closes at midnight EST on January 15th.

3. University of Wisconsin–Whitewater

The Master’s program in Communication Sciences and Disorders at University of Wisconsin–Whitewater shows amazing results. Students achieve a perfect 100% Praxis examination pass rate. They also reach 100% employment within a year of graduating since 2014. These numbers show why UW–Whitewater excels among Wisconsin’s speech pathology graduate programs.

Program overview

UW–Whitewater provides a detailed academic and clinical education program that ends with a master’s degree. This degree lets graduates work as state licensed and American Speech–Language–Hearing Association (ASHA) certified speech-language pathologists. Students need 47 semester credit hours to graduate. The program balances strong academic work with extensive clinical training. Students can also build a portfolio to show their growth throughout their time here. Small class sizes and easy access to faculty members give students tailored attention during their studies.

Clinical experience

Clinical training is the core of UW–Whitewater’s educational approach. Students get hands-on experience at the university’s Center for Communicative Disorders. They work with clients of all ages who have different communication disorders. The center helps community members, faculty, staff, and students. Services include aphasia therapy, pediatric speech and language help, and gender-affirming voice services.

UW–Whitewater faculty choose placement sites for students. This takes away the stress of finding clinical experiences. Off-site work includes:

• School placements with 100 supervised hours that meet Department of Public Instruction rules
• Medical speech-language pathology work with different patient groups
• Special clinical options based on student interests and needs

Admission requirements

Getting into this speech and language therapy masters program isn’t easy. They usually get 149 applications and accept 43 students. Most successful students have GPAs between 3.10 and 4.00. The department looks for students who excel academically and show promise in clinical work. You need three recommendation letters that show you can handle graduate-level work, plus a personal statement and resume.

Tuition and fees

For 2025-2026, Wisconsin residents pay $5,531.33 per semester ($614.60 per credit) for full-time graduate studies. Non-residents pay $11,061.38 per semester ($1,229.05 per credit). UW–Whitewater gives the “best value to earn a college degree in UW System”. This makes it a smart choice among Wisconsin’s speech pathology graduate programs.

Licensure and accreditation

The program has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA through February 2030. This means the program meets high educational standards and prepares students for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). The program meets most states’ educational requirements. Students who want to practice outside Wisconsin should check with their state’s licensing board before starting.

Student outcomes

Classes stay small with 16 students per cohort and 29 total graduate students. Students get lots of individual attention. The program’s perfect Praxis exam pass rate and 100% job placement within a year since 2014 prove it works well at preparing future professionals.

Application process

Submit everything through the graduate application portal by February 1, 2025. You’ll need official transcripts from all colleges, three recommendation letters, a personal statement about your skills and success strategies, and a background check. Only 7 out of 43 accepted students usually get funding. Apply early if you want financial support.

4. Concordia University Wisconsin

Concordia University Wisconsin launched its Speech-Language Pathology program in 2024 with full accreditation. The program blends compassionate care with clinical excellence. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum focused on developing well-rounded professionals who can serve people from all backgrounds.

Program overview

The Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology takes two years to complete as a full-time program. Students become competent practitioners who understand cultural sensitivities. The program needs 63 total semester credits split between 47 core academic credits, 3 elective credits, and 13 clinical practicum credits. Students need a 3.0 GPA to stay enrolled. Students can choose between comprehensive exams or a thesis. The program covers everything in speech-language pathology with specialized tracks in:

• Pediatric feeding disorders
• Pre-externship offsite clinical placements
• Coordinated interprofessional opportunities

Clinical experience

Students start their clinical training at Concordia’s campus clinic. The facility focuses on speech, language, communication, swallowing, and hearing where faculty supervise hands-on practice. Students then move to community settings based on their interests and available spots. The program starts with basic clinical practicums in the first year. Final semester allows students to complete externships outside the state. The program’s smart design puts most classes early on, leaving the last semester open just for medical and educational externships—giving it an edge over similar programs.

Admission requirements

The speech and language therapy masters program needs:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (or equivalent with needed prerequisites)
• 0 or higher cumulative GPA
• ASHA observation hours documentation
• Transportation access
• Skills to perform essential SLP functions

Recent admission data shows 86 applications received with 79 offers made. Admitted students’ GPAs ranged from 3.08 to 4.00.

Tuition and fees

The 2025 academic year charges block tuition at $14,900 per semester plus a $220 student fee package. Students paid about $45,602 total in 2021, and everyone got some financial aid. Economic Policy Institute data suggests this investment pays off—a graduate degree typically boosts average wages by 25% compared to a bachelor’s degree.

Licensure and accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) granted full accreditation to Concordia’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. The accreditation runs from March 1, 2024 through February 2029. The program met all 161 standards without any improvements needed—earning the longest possible initial accreditation. Graduates can apply for Wisconsin speech-language pathology licenses.

Student outcomes

The program shows strong results with 49 current full-time students and 25 graduates in the latest report. Concordia is one of just two private Wisconsin colleges offering a fully-accredited SLP degree. Student loyalty proves the program’s value—10 out of 12 CUW bachelor’s graduates stayed for their master’s degree recently.

Application process

Students must apply through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS). Applications need:

• Official transcripts from all colleges attended
• Personal essay
• Resume
• Three recommendation letters[262]

Spring admission applications are due February 1, 2025.

5. Marquette University (Online Hybrid Option)

The Speech-Language Pathology program at Marquette University is 90 years old and ranks 55th nationally according to U.S. News & World Report. Students achieve perfect certification exam pass rates and get exceptional clinical opportunities, making Marquette a top choice among Wisconsin’s speech pathology graduate programs.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Marquette needs 52 credit hours. Students complete this over two years, including four terms and one summer session. The curriculum teaches prevention, identification, assessment, and treatment of communication disorders throughout life. Students need to complete:

• At least 46 credit hours of coursework plus six thesis credits (thesis option)
• 52 credit hours of coursework (non-thesis option)
• Praxis examination
• Satisfactory grade in a capstone course

The program’s Bilingual English-Spanish Specialization (BIES) helps speech-language pathologists treat communication disorders in Spanish-speaking or bilingual patients. Students must show Spanish proficiency through the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) oral proficiency test.

Clinical experience

Students get extensive clinical training at Marquette. They must complete 400 clinical clock hours, with 375 direct patient contact hours (325 at graduate level) and at least 25 observation hours. The clinical practicum needs 19 credit hours, including:

• On-campus clinic experience
• Diagnostic methods training
• School setting placement
• Medical setting placement

Students work at Marquette’s Speech and Hearing Clinic, which provides gender-affirming voice therapy, aphasia classes, and social language groups. The program works with over 40 off-campus sites, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and school systems throughout Wisconsin and Chicago.

Admission requirements

Candidates must have:

• Bachelor’s degree with a major in communicative disorders or equivalent
• Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Completed prerequisite courses including anatomy and physiology of speech, phonetics, language development, and audiology

The program selects students based on strong academic credentials and relevant experience. International students must prove English proficiency.

Tuition and fees

Tuition costs $1,408 per credit hour as of 2025. The total program cost reaches $73,216 for 52 credits, making it a major investment among Wisconsin’s speech and language therapy masters programs. Students can access private scholarships and federal aid. The program awards merit-based tuition scholarships and graduate assistantships based on academic performance.

Licensure and accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) has accredited the Master’s program through 2033. The program prepares students for:

• ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP)
• Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction licensure
• Illinois State Board of Education licensure

This accreditation confirms the program meets national standards for educational quality.

Student outcomes

The program’s results speak for themselves. In the last three reporting years:

• 98% on-time program completion rate (48/49 students in 2024-2025)
• 100% Praxis exam pass rate for three consecutive years
• 100% job placement rate for graduates

These numbers explain why 85 full-time students choose Marquette for their graduate studies.

Application process

Applications are due by January 15. Submit all materials to CSDCAS (Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service), including:

• Completed online application form
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• Three letters of recommendation (at least two from faculty members)
• 1-2 page personal statement of career interests and goals

The program runs full-time only, without part-time or online options.

6. University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point

University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point welcomes new students with a 90% acceptance rate and strong financial support. The program receives 8,100 applications yearly from aspiring speech-language pathologists.

Program overview

Students need 34 graduate credit hours of academic coursework and 21 credit hours of supervised clinical practicum to earn their Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at UWSP. A 3.0 GPA must be maintained throughout the program. Students can choose between a detailed examination or thesis to end their academic journey. The program builds critical thinking skills by combining evidence-based practice with clinical work. Students develop expertise to help people with communication, cognition, and swallowing disorders.

Clinical experience

Students start their clinical training at the university’s Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic—a renowned facility serving Central Wisconsin. The training ends with a 15-20 week full-time externship during the final semester. Students can work at a hospital, clinic, or school that matches their career goals. This externship helps complete the required 400 supervised clinical practice hours needed for certification.

Admission requirements

Each year, 30 students are selected from over 200 applicants. Successful candidates usually have:

• Overall GPA of 3.7
• In-major/CSD GPA of 3.8
• GRE scores are not required

Tuition and fees

Yearly tuition costs about $24,000, and 85% of students get financial aid. Wisconsin residents pay $507.72 per credit or $4,569.48 for 9+ credits each semester.

Licensure and accreditation

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has fully accredited this program. The curriculum meets certification and licensure requirements across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories.

Student outcomes

UWSP shows excellent results: 100% on-time program completion rates for the past three years. All but one of these graduating classes achieved 100% Praxis examination pass rates (96% in 2021-22). Every graduate has found employment.

Application process

Students must complete two steps to apply: submit through CSDCAS and directly to UWSP by January 15. The application needs three recommendation letters (ideally from CSD professors or clinical supervisors), transcripts and personal statements.

7. Edgewood College

Edgewood College and Evidence In Motion (EIM) have formed a partnership to create a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program that will start in 2029-2030. The new addition to Wisconsin’s speech pathology education scene will use EIM’s hybrid and accelerated education model. Students nationwide will have access to this program.

Program overview

The new MS-SLP program embraces Edgewood’s educational values of ethical leadership, service, and truth. Students will experience a curriculum that combines clinical and capstone components to prepare them for clinical practice smoothly.

Clinical experience

Clinical training progresses through original, intermediate, and advanced level practicums. Students build their experience under supervision and take part in classroom activities while they develop portfolio entries.

Admission requirements

Students need a baccalaureate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply. The program also asks for recommendation letters and specific prerequisites.

Tuition and fees

Graduate program tuition ranges from $500 to $1,092 per credit hour for 2025-2026. Students can access financial support through scholarships, grants, and payment plans.

Licensure and accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission has accredited Edgewood College. While programs meet Wisconsin licensure requirements, students might need extra steps for licenses in other states.

Student outcomes

The college achieves a 67% graduation rate, placing it among the top 30% of similar institutions.

Application process

Students must submit official transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. Students from other countries need to prove English proficiency through TOEFL or similar tests.

Make Your Choice Today

Your professional future depends on picking the right speech pathology master’s program. Wisconsin emerges as an ideal place with seven outstanding programs. These ASHA-accredited programs showcase their excellence through impressive stats – 100% employment rates, perfect Praxis examination pass rates, and hands-on clinical experiences that prepare you for ground challenges.

Getting into Wisconsin’s graduate programs to become a speech-language pathologist takes hard work. Most programs look for students with GPAs around 3.8. This high bar leads to quality education and great career outcomes. Students get extensive clinical training at university clinics first and then move on to educational and medical settings.

Money matters vary by a lot between schools. Public universities like UW-Eau Claire cost about $733 per credit, while private schools like Marquette cost $1,400 per credit. The investment pays off well because speech language pathology jobs grow faster than average, with median salaries hitting above $80,000 yearly.

Each program takes its own approach to speech pathology education. UW-Eau Claire lets students arrange clinical experiences in their home regions. UW-River Falls uses its Twin Cities location to offer diverse placement opportunities. Concordia’s program combines compassionate care with clinical excellence. These differences help you find a program that lines up with your goals.

Wisconsin’s speech pathology programs give you options from full-time traditional formats to part-time online study. Busy professionals can access advanced education easily. Strong accreditation credentials ensure these programs prepare you not just for your original certification but for long-term success in this rewarding field.