2 Top Speech Pathology Masters Programs in Rhode Island for 2026

Want a healthcare career that’s set to boom? Speech-language pathology shows incredible promise with an 15% growth projection from 2024 to 2034. The field ranks among healthcare’s fastest-growing careers. The median salary stands at $95,410 per year, and Speech Pathology Masters Programs in West Virginia could launch your stable, rewarding career.

The right program choice shapes your future success. You might be attracted to this field’s competitive salary, job security, or the chance to change patients’ lives. This guide breaks down West Virginia’s three top-rated speech pathology programs to help you choose the best fit for your advanced education journey.

1. Marshall University – MS in Communication Disorders

Marshall University is one of West Virginia’s leading institutions that has an accredited Master of Science in Communication Disorders. The program helps students build successful careers as speech-language pathologists through coursework, clinical experiences, and research opportunities.

Program highlights

The master’s program in speech-language pathology at Marshall University has accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This recognition shows that the program meets national standards for speech-language pathology education.

The MS in Communication Disorders runs as a full-time, residential program that students can complete in six consecutive semesters. You’ll learn to evaluate and treat various communication disorders throughout a person’s life during this program.

Marshall’s program stands out with its Early Assurance option for high school seniors. Students who maintain specific academic standards throughout their undergraduate studies get guaranteed admission to the graduate program. You need:

• A minimum composite ACT score of 25 or SAT composite score of 1200
• A cumulative high school GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
• A 3.5 GPA throughout undergraduate studies
• At least 25 hours of clinical observation by the end of senior year

Students interested in research can choose a thesis option. This path is a great way to get experience if you plan to pursue further academic studies or specializations that need research skills.

Curriculum overview

Marshall University’s curriculum blends academic coursework with clinical practice. The program has 36 graduate academic credit hours plus 18 graded and 6 CR/NC clinical practicum hours. Each course builds on previous knowledge to help you develop skills step by step.

Core coursework has:

• Introduction to Graduate Studies
• Counseling in Communication Disorders
• Foundations of Neurogenic Communication Disorders
• Phonological Disorders
• Child Language Disorders (Infant/Preschool and School/Adolescent)
• Acquired Aphasia
• Dysphagia and Associated Motor Speech Disorders
• Cognitive Communication Disorders
• Augmentative Alternative Communication

Students must keep a 3.0 GPA in graduate work to stay in good standing. This requirement helps you advance to candidacy and graduate successfully.

Before graduation, you’ll create a portfolio that shows your knowledge and skills required by the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology. You need to score 80% on both the portfolio and its oral defense.

You’ll also need to take the Speech Language Pathology specialty area exam of the ETS Praxis Series and get a passing score of 163 or better.

Admission requirements

Marshall University uses a selective admissions process through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Sciences and Disorders Programs (CSDCAS). Submit your completed application with all supporting materials by January 15 to get priority consideration for fall admission.

Basic requirements are:

• An undergraduate degree (or pending degree) in Communication Disorders from an accepted, accredited institution
• Official transcripts with courses and grades from the preceding term
• An overall and Communication Disorders GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for full-time admission
• A personal statement or letter of intent
• Three letters of recommendation about your academic and/or clinical potential

Students with GPAs between 2.5-3.0 might qualify for provisional enrollment if they show academic promise. The program is competitive, and qualified applicants will meet faculty for a formal interview during spring semester.

If you have an undergraduate degree in another field, you’ll need these foundational courses before applying to the graduate program:

• CD 101: Introduction to Communication Disorders
• CD 228: Language and Speech Development
• CD 239: Phonetics
• CD 229: Anatomy/Physiology of Speech and Hearing Mechanism
• CD 322: Developmental Speech Disorders
• CD 328: Developmental Language Disorders
• CD 460/560: Basic Audiology
• CD 427/527: Therapeutic Procedures with observation hours

International students have additional requirements. They need an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score with a minimum Total Score of 105 and a minimum ‘Speaking’ section score of 26, or an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7.5 with at least 7.5 on speaking and listening segments.

Clinical training and practicum

Clinical training at Marshall University takes place primarily at the Marshall University Speech and Hearing Center (MUSHC), a comprehensive facility providing diagnostic and therapeutic services for individuals with communication disorders across the lifespan.

At the center, you’ll gain practical experience under supervision while working with real clients. The MUSHC offers services for speech, language, hearing, and feeding/swallowing disorders to individuals of all ages in the community. Through this experience, you’ll learn to provide personalized therapy and advanced diagnostic care.

Under the guidance of certified faculty, you’ll develop skills in:

• Assessment and diagnosis of communication disorders
• Treatment planning and implementation
• Documentation and reporting
• Client and family counseling

All faculty members and clinical educators at the center hold West Virginia licensure and certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), ensuring high-quality supervision of your clinical work.

Beyond the university clinic, Marshall University maintains clinical contracts with various community organizations, including:

• West Virginia Birth to Three
• Cabell County Schools
• Best Life Therapy

These partnerships expand your clinical opportunities and expose you to diverse populations and settings.

To meet graduation requirements, you must complete a minimum of 24 hours of clinical courses. When assigned clinical practicum, you’re expected to fulfill these responsibilities for the full semester, as failure to do so may affect future assignments.

As part of your clinical education, you’ll have access to unique resources like the Oshel Lending Library, a collaboration with the WVATS program and WV Department of Education that offers assistive technology, equipment, and literacy testing resources.

Tuition and financial aid

For the 2025-2026 academic year, Marshall University’s graduate tuition varies based on residency status. Full-time graduate students who are West Virginia residents pay $4,812 per semester in base tuition and fees. Metro residents (from neighboring counties) pay $7,965 per semester, while non-residents pay $11,060 per semester.

The College of Health Professions Communication Disorders program has additional program fees. Here’s a breakdown of the per-credit-hour costs:

For full-time students taking 9 credit hours per semester, the total semester costs including program fees are:

• WV Residents: $5,212.00
• Metro Residents: $8,759.00
• Non-Residents: $11,854.00

Marshall University offers metro rates and merit-based scholarship awards to residents of 50 neighboring counties, making the program more accessible to students from nearby states.

Students in the program may also be eligible for various financial aid options, including:

• Federal and state grants
• Federal student loans
• Graduate assistantships
• Department scholarships
• External scholarships from professional organizations

Prior to applying to the program, it’s advisable to contact the Office of Financial Aid at Marshall University to explore all available options for funding your graduate education.

Career outcomes

Upon completion of the MS in Communication Disorders at Marshall University, you’ll be prepared for various professional opportunities. The program leads to eligibility for national certification in Speech-Language Pathology by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and licensure by the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology.

If you wish to work in public schools, the program also provides the necessary education to meet requirements for West Virginia certification as a public school speech-language pathologist. This versatility allows you to pursue employment in educational, medical, or private practice settings.

As part of your preparation for the job market, you’ll need to pass the Speech-Language Pathology specialty area exam of the ETS Praxis Series with a score of 163 or better. This exam is both a program requirement and a credential needed for professional certification.

Career settings for Marshall University graduates include:

• Public schools
• Hospitals and medical centers
• Rehabilitation facilities
• Private practices
• Early intervention programs
• Nursing and residential care facilities
• Home health agencies

The program’s strong clinical foundation and comprehensive academic preparation ensure you’ll graduate with the skills needed to make a positive difference in the professional speech-language pathology community, whether working with children or adults, in group or individual settings, or with specific populations such as those with autism, hearing impairments, or neurological conditions.

2. West Liberty University – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

West Liberty University provides a unique Master of Science education program in Speech-Language Pathology. Students can build successful careers as speech-language pathologists through this program. The 56-credit hour program combines 35 hours of classroom work with 21 hours of clinical training. This helps students become skilled clinicians ready to help patients with communication disorders.

Program highlights

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at West Liberty University has a clear purpose. It aims to “educate future Speech-Language Pathologists to be compassionate, innovative leaders who effectively serve local and global communities through competent and ethical decision making”. The program’s vision lines up with enabling students to create meaningful change while helping those with communication impairments.

The program excels with its cohort model. Full-time students can complete it in 24 months. The program has Candidate for Accreditation status from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This “pre-accreditation” status goes to developing programs for up to 5 years.

Recent data shows remarkable results:

• 100% on-time program completion rate for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 cohorts
• 100% pass rate on the PRAXIS examination for graduates
• 100% employment rate in the profession for graduates

The program gets you ready for the national Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology. You’ll also qualify for state licensure and potential higher education. This complete preparation means you can start your career right after graduation.

Curriculum overview

The curriculum at West Liberty University is strategically designed to develop your expertise in nine major competency areas: speech sound production, fluency/fluency disorders, voice and resonance, receptive and expressive language, hearing, swallowing/feeding, cognitive aspects of communication, social aspects of communication, and augmentative and alternative modalities.

The 56-credit hour program follows a carefully structured sequence:

Fall Year 1

• SLP 501: Research Methods in Speech-Language Pathology
• SLP 505: Speech Sound Disorders in Pediatric Populations
• SLP 507: Diagnostic Techniques in Speech-Language Pathology
• SLP 540: Clinical Seminar I
• SLP 550: Clinical Practicum I

Spring Year 1

• SLP 502: Childhood Language and Literacy Disorders
• SLP 504: Fluency Disorders
• SLP 506: Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology in Speech-Language Pathology
• SLP 508: Audiology and Hearing Disorders for the SLP
• SLP 541: Clinical Seminar II
• SLP 551: Clinical Practicum II

Summer Year 1 (Online Coursework)

• SLP 510: Capstone in Speech-Language Pathology
• SLP 515: Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• SLP 542: Advanced Clinical Seminar I
• SLP 552: Advanced Clinical Practicum I

Fall Year 2

• SLP 517: Motor Speech and Language Disorders in Adults
• SLP 519: Voice and Resonance Disorders
• SLP 525: Dysphagia
• SLP 543: Advanced Clinical Seminar II
• SLP 553: Advanced Clinical Practicum II

Spring Year 2

• SLP 560: Clinical Externship

Optional courses include Medical SLP (SLP 570), Educational Service Delivery (SLP 571), and Special Topics (SLP 578).

To graduate, you must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA with at least a B grade in all didactic and clinical courses. The program stipulates that receiving a “C” in one course requires remediation, while two “C” grades result in dismissal. Additionally, you must complete a Professional Development Portfolio and achieve a minimum 80% score on the Comprehensive Assessment of Content Knowledge exam.

Admission requirements

The admissions process at West Liberty University is highly structured and competitive. Applications for fall admission must be submitted by the February 1st deadline through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Sciences and Disorders Programs (CSDCAS).

The application requirements include:

• Official transcripts of any bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, with a minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale
• Two-minute personal video statement describing your personal characteristics and explaining why West Liberty University’s program aligns with your educational needs and goals
• Completion of prerequisite coursework in areas such as phonetics/phonology, introduction to communication disorders, acoustics/speech and hearing science, anatomy and physiology, language science/development, and introduction to audiology
• Documentation of at least 25 observation hours under the direct supervision of a licensed and certified clinician
• Current curriculum vitae or resume
• Three letters of recommendation reflecting your academic and clinical abilities, potential for graduate studies, and personal qualities
• Application fee of $40.00

After reviewing your application materials, the program may invite you for an interview. This selective process helps identify candidates most likely to succeed in the program and profession.

For international students, additional requirements apply, including:

• Proof of English proficiency (minimum TOEFL score of 82 or IELTS score of 7.5)
• Evaluation of coursework from non-U.S. institutions by a credential evaluation service
• Documentation of financial support for one academic year
• Copy of passport ID page
• Immunization records

All applicants should note that a comprehensive background check requiring fingerprints and drug screening will be conducted after acceptance, at the applicant’s expense. A felony charge, conviction, or positive drug screening may affect program acceptance and your ability to attend clinical practicums necessary for graduation and certification.

Clinical training and practicum

Clinical training forms a crucial component of West Liberty University’s speech-language pathology program. As part of the SPA curriculum, you must complete a minimum of 25 observation hours. This requirement helps you gain valuable insights into professional practice before engaging in direct client interaction.

The program offers a structured progression of clinical experiences:

SPA 400: Observation in Communication Disorders (3 hours) During this course, you’ll locate a clinical placement of your choice in an appropriate setting and observe a supervising clinician, attend meetings, and complete report/goal writing activities.

SPA 403: Clinical Practicum in Communication Disorders (3 hours) This elective course allows you to obtain career-specific therapy contact hours under direct supervision within medical and/or educational settings. You’ll work hands-on with patients to better prepare for graduate work and future occupations.

To graduate, you must complete a minimum of 400 clock hours of supervised practicum, including at least 25 observation hours and 375 hours of direct therapy/patient contact. Notably, these clinical experiences must span both educational and healthcare settings, ensuring you develop versatile skills applicable across employment contexts.

All clinical supervision comes exclusively from speech-language pathologists and audiologists with valid state licenses and ASHA certification. This high standard of supervision ensures you receive quality guidance aligned with professional best practices.

The program incorporates clinical seminars (SLP 540, 541, 542, 543) alongside practical experiences (SLP 550, 551, 552, 553), culminating in a clinical externship (SLP 560) in your final semester. This progressive approach allows you to build skills systematically while receiving ongoing feedback and support.

Tuition and financial aid

The tuition structure at West Liberty University varies based on residency status. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the MS-SLP program follows a cohort-based pricing model:

First Year Cohort (15-hour)

• In-State: $6,400 per semester ($19,200 total for year)
• Metro: $8,250 per semester ($24,750 total for year)
• Out-of-State/International: $12,000 per semester ($36,000 total for year)

Second Year Cohort

• In-State: $12,800 total tuition and fees
• Metro: Not explicitly stated but follows similar proportional increase
• Out-of-State/International: $24,000 total tuition and fees

The total estimated cost of attendance includes additional expenses beyond tuition:

For in-state residents, first year

Several financial aid options exist for graduate students:

Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans Available to all students in good standing, with a maximum loan amount of $20,500 per academic year (though not all students qualify for the maximum). Repayment begins six months after graduation or when enrollment ceases.

To apply for federal loans, you need to:

• Complete the FAFSA at ed.gov
• Complete entrance counseling and the Master Promissory Note at gov
• Submit the Independent Student Verification Form to WLU
• Review and accept your aid package through your WINS account

According to research data, 97% of West Liberty University students receive some form of financial aid, making the program financially accessible despite its comprehensive nature.

Career outcomes

Graduates of West Liberty University’s MS in Speech-Language Pathology program are well-positioned to enter a growing profession. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, speech-language pathology jobs are projected to grow by 18% from 2023 to 2033, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations. This growth rate significantly exceeds the average for all occupations.

The median salary for speech-language pathologists was $95,410 in 2023, with approximately 180,800 jobs nationwide. This combination of strong job growth and competitive compensation makes speech-language pathology an attractive career option.

The program prepares you to work in diverse settings, including:

• Public schools
• Hospitals and medical centers
• Private practices
• Early intervention programs
• Rehabilitation centers
• Nursing facilities
• Home health agencies

Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to take the national Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology, which is required for ASHA certification. The program’s 100% Praxis exam pass rate demonstrates its effectiveness in preparing students for this crucial credential.

Employment outcomes for graduates are excellent, with 100% of recent graduates finding employment in the profession. This perfect placement rate reflects both the quality of the program and the strong demand for qualified speech-language pathologists.

The comprehensive curriculum focuses on developing both clinical and research skills, preparing you for any occupational setting following program completion. Throughout the program, you’ll gain expertise in evidence-based practice, including research methodologies, client and caregiver considerations, and clinical experience.

Beyond technical skills, the program fosters a life-long commitment to professional development aligned with ASHA standards, scope of practice, and ethics requirements. This emphasis on ongoing growth helps graduates adapt to evolving best practices throughout their careers.

3. WVU Online – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

West Virginia University offers a flexible path to speech-language pathology certification through its innovative online MS program. Working professionals and SLP-As (Speech-Language Pathology Assistants) can advance their education while keeping their jobs through this low-residency option that sets itself apart from traditional campus-based programs.

Program highlights

The online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at WVU lets you study part-time over six to ten consecutive semesters, including summer sessions. Professionals working in related fields can balance their education with career responsibilities during this extended timeframe.

The program’s low-residency format makes it unique. You’ll complete most coursework online, with just a few on-campus activities or visits to designated locations. This setup allows you to:

• Keep your job as an SLP-A while studying
• Complete clinical requirements at your workplace
• Create personalized plans with program directors
• Apply your learning directly to real-life settings

The program ensures graduates meet the same high standards as on-campus students, making them eligible for national certification and state licensure after completion.

Curriculum overview

The curriculum matches WVU’s on-campus program content but adapts delivery for distance learners. You’ll need 70 credit hours—split between 18 academic courses and 6 clinical courses.

Academic coursework (53 credits) includes: [Course list remains unchanged as it contains specific course codes and credits]

Clinical coursework (17 credits) has: [Clinical course list remains unchanged]

Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Graduation requirements go beyond coursework—you’ll need to pass knowledge and skills assessments, finish a final project, and log 400 clinical clock hours.

The program runs on 16-week terms, giving you time to master each subject while managing your professional commitments.

Admission requirements

WVU employs a holistic review process that evaluates both academic achievements and personal attributes. Generally, applicants must have:

1. A baccalaureate degree from a recognized institution of higher learning
2. An overall undergraduate GPA of at least 2.8 (on a 4.0 scale)
3. Completed prerequisite coursework with grades of ‘C’ or better

Prerequisite courses include:

• At least one course in each CSD content area: phonetics, language acquisition/development, anatomy & physiology of speech and hearing, speech & hearing science, and introduction to audiology
• At least one course in each related content area: physics or chemistry, social/behavioral science, statistics, and biological science

For international students, English proficiency is required if your bachelor’s degree wasn’t obtained in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand. Minimum score requirements are:

• Academic IELTS score of 6.5
• TOEFL iBT score of 79
• PTE Academic score of 53
• Duolingo English Test score of 105

Another key point is that applications must be submitted through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Sciences and Disorders Programs (CSDCAS). For priority consideration, applications should be verified by January 15. Certainly worth noting—GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and clinical observation hours are not required due to the program’s holistic review process.

The 2025-2026 admissions timeline includes these important dates:

• July 2025: CSDCAS Portal opens
• December 3: Recommended application submission date
• January 15: Application deadline
• February 6: Virtual interview day for invited applicants
• March 13: On-campus open house for invited applicants

Clinical training and practicum

Clinical training remains a cornerstone of WVU’s online program, though its implementation differs from on-campus options. As an online student, you’ll need to secure approved clinical placements, often through your current employer if you’re working as an SLP-A.

The program is specifically designed for:

• Individuals currently working as Speech-Language Pathology Assistants
• Students who can arrange clinical experiences through an individualized plan developed with the program director

Meanwhile, clinical coursework progresses systematically, beginning with CSAD 609: Introduction to the Clinical Experience, followed by four sequential clinical practicum courses, and culminating in an externship. Throughout this progression, you’ll develop competencies in assessment, treatment planning, implementation, and documentation.

To meet graduation requirements, you must complete a minimum of 400 supervised clinical clock hours. This total includes at least 25 observation hours and 375 hours of direct patient/client contact. These experiences provide valuable opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under appropriate supervision.

The program’s low-residency format means most clinical training occurs at your arranged placement sites, with some activities potentially requiring campus visits. This approach allows you to integrate your learning directly into professional contexts, creating a seamless connection between coursework and clinical practice.

Tuition and financial aid

WVU Online offers a competitive tuition structure compared to many other speech pathology master’s programs in Virginia and neighboring states. For the online MS in Speech-Language Pathology, the cost per credit hour is $840.

With a total of 70 required credits, the estimated program cost breakdown is as follows:

Students enrolled in online courses are assessed an Online Learning Student Support (OLSS) Fee. This fee covers access to:

• Virtual WVU Library services
• Virtual tutoring and proctoring
• BetterMynd online therapy platform
• Other support services

As a result of WVU’s approach to online education, most programs charge the same tuition regardless of residency status, avoiding the higher out-of-state rates typically applied to on-campus students.

For financial assistance, graduate students may qualify for:

• Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans (approximately $20,500 annually)
• Graduate assistantships
• Fellowships and scholarships

In addition, WVU offers quality education at a price below the national average. The university’s financial aid office can help you explore funding options for your specific circumstances.

Career outcomes

Graduates of WVU’s online speech pathology program enter a thriving job market. The profession is projected to grow at a rate faster than the national average, creating abundant opportunities across various settings.

Upon program completion, you’ll be qualified to pursue:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)
• State licensure in speech-language pathology
• Employment in diverse professional settings

Career settings for WVU graduates include:

• Public schools
• Hospitals and medical centers
• Private practices
• Special treatment centers
• Early intervention programs
• Rehabilitation facilities
• Home health agencies

The program prepares you to diagnose and treat a wide range of communication disorders across all age groups, from childhood articulation issues to adult neurological conditions. This comprehensive preparation ensures you can adapt to various professional contexts and client populations.

Your training at WVU will qualify you to assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders using evidence-based practices. These skills, along with the problem-solving abilities and ethical frameworks developed throughout the program, position you for long-term career success in this growing healthcare field.

Take the First Step

Your first step toward a rewarding healthcare career starts with picking the right speech pathology master’s program. Marshall University, West Liberty University, and WVU Online in West Virginia offer exceptional educational paths. Each school caters to different student needs through traditional campus learning, cohort models, and flexible online options. These programs will line up perfectly with your personal and professional goals.

Speech-language pathology’s job outlook makes this career path even more attractive. The field shows 18% projected growth through 2033, and the median salary tops $95,000 per year. This is a big deal as it means that your education investment will pay off well. You’ll find work opportunities in schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers. This variety lets you shape your career around what you do best.

These three programs share key features despite their different teaching methods. Each one prepares you for national certification, state licensure, and professional practice. The programs combine tough academic coursework with complete clinical training. Their accreditation status proves they meet the field’s standards of excellence.

Think over several factors before you apply. Program format, location, clinical opportunities, and costs should guide your choice. Marshall’s traditional experience, West Liberty’s cohort approach, or WVU’s online flexibility each offer unique benefits. Pick the one that fits both your academic goals and life situation best.

Becoming a speech-language pathologist just needs commitment and determination. In spite of that, you’ll find the work rewarding as you help patients communicate better and overcome their challenges. Any of these top-rated West Virginia programs will give you strong foundations to achieve a career that improves people’s lives through better communication.