12 Accelerated Speech Pathology Programs: Complete Guide

You’re making a smart move if you want to think over accelerated SLP programs to speed up your career in speech pathology. These intensive programs take just 12 months to complete and help you enter this rewarding field sooner than traditional paths.

This career path brings quick entry and excellent financial rewards. Speech-language pathologists earned an average annual salary of $95,410 as of May 2024. The job market continues to thrive with an impressive 18% growth rate expected between 2024 and 2034. The field will create about 13,700 new job openings each year.

Accelerated speech pathology programs give you the perfect pathway into this thriving profession. This guide explores the best options for both in-person learning and online programs to help you make an informed choice. Let’s look at these top-rated programs and find the perfect match for your career goals.

1. University of Kansas

The University of Kansas runs one of the nation’s best accelerated speech pathology programs. U.S. News and World Report ranks it #6 among public institutions. Students can earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in speech-language pathology in about five years instead of six.

Program overview

KU’s accelerated Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology runs through an intercampus model between Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center. Students get access to excellent faculty at both locations and plenty of clinical opportunities. The results speak for themselves – 98% of graduates find jobs within a year of finishing. The program meets all American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s certification standards and prepares students for their clinical fellowship year and certification.

Program length and format

Students can complete both degrees in roughly five years through this accelerated program. The first three years focus on undergraduate courses. The fourth year introduces graduate-level courses (12 hours of 700-level or above) that count toward both degrees. Graduate coursework and clinical experiences fill the fifth year. While most students study full-time, the program offers relaxed options for those who need them.

Tuition and fees

The tuition shows a big difference between Kansas residents and non-residents:

Students should also plan for extra costs like Calipso registration (one-time fee), background checks, textbooks (about $1,321 yearly), and room and board.

Clinical training

Clinical experience is the key to KU’s program. The Schiefelbusch Clinic uses a unique K-Team Model. Students work in specialized teams across nine essential areas:

• The CAT team (communication challenges related to autism, cerebral palsy, etc.)
• The EAR team (audiology services)
• The LAP/RAP team (language acquisition for children)
• The LIFE team (services for adults with acquired communication disorders)

The program uses a 3:1 service delivery model – three weeks of direct services followed by one week of indirect services.

Admission requirements

You’ll need to meet these key criteria:

• A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (both overall and in major courses)
• Completed prerequisite courses including SPLH 161, 220, 462, 463, 465, 466, 568, and 571
• 25 clock hours of directed clinical observation before starting graduate clinical practicum
• Background check (required by Joint Commission)

Ideal candidates

The program looks beyond academic excellence. Great candidates show strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and people skills. They should have diverse experiences. The admissions committee values students with clinical experience and research backgrounds who can promote their clients and profession effectively.

2. Baylor University

Baylor University shines with its accelerated Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program. The program boasts a remarkable 100% Praxis pass rate. Students receive detailed training to diagnose and treat communication disorders in this Christian-centered environment.

Program overview

Baylor’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders has earned its reputation as one of the university’s most prestigious graduate programs. The program’s rich legacy spans more than 50 years. Students complete this accelerated program in four semesters, which blends rigorous academics with Baylor’s Christian mission. Recent graduates have achieved impressive results – an 89.63% Praxis pass rate and 96.8% employment rate between 2020 and 2023.

Program length and format

Full-time students can earn their degree in 20 months (5 trimesters), while part-time students typically finish in 28 months (7 trimesters). Students must complete 45 trimester hours, pass a comprehensive examination, log 400 clinical hours (including 25 observation hours), and take the National Praxis examination. Students without a Communication Sciences and Disorders background can take leveling courses before starting graduate work.

Tuition and fees

Students should budget approximately $41,130 for the program, plus additional costs of around $19,425. High-achieving applicants can receive scholarships through the admissions process. Current students have access to departmental scholarships via Scholarship Universe.

Clinical training

Students must complete three clinical practica and one clinical internship. These requirements total eight credit hours and 400 clinical clock hours minimum. Each experience takes place in different settings like hospitals, private practices, or schools. The program structure includes:

• Practicum 1: 80 clinical hours (24 hours weekly for 13 weeks)
• Practicum 2 & 3: 90 clinical hours each (24 hours weekly for 13 weeks)
• Internship: 115 clinical hours (35-40 hours weekly for 13 weeks)

Admission requirements

Admission requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree (CSD major or completion of leveling courses)
• Prerequisite courses in biology, physics/chemistry, statistics, and social/behavioral science
• Resume/CV
• Transcripts
• Documented observation hours (if applicable)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

Ideal candidates

This program best serves students who value Christian-centered education that weaves faith into the curriculum. Successful candidates feel called to serve others as speech-language pathologists and want to develop an empathetic, patient-centered approach.

3. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida ranks among top accelerated speech pathology programs with its clinical network that extends to 200+ practicum sites throughout Florida. Students get a direct path to become skilled at speech-language pathology in schools, hospitals, and private practices.

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders program at UCF maintains full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation through 2032. Speech-language pathologists learn to work with patients of all ages who experience communication disorders. UCF’s status as a Hispanic-Serving Institution allows multicultural elements to enrich the curriculum. Students can earn specialized certificates in Autism Spectrum Disorders and Language and Literacy.

Program length and format

Qualified UCF undergraduate majors can complete their master’s degree one semester faster than the traditional program through the accelerated track. This speech pathology program needs 72 credit hours of academic and clinical coursework spread across six consecutive semesters including summers. Students have the option to transfer up to 16 credit hours of approved 6000-level courses from their undergraduate work.

Tuition and fees

Each semester comes with a $90 equipment fee. Students must also cover costs for background checks, clinic uniforms, and academic/clinical tracking systems.

Clinical training

Clinical experience serves as the program’s cornerstone at UCF’s Communication Disorders Clinic, which has been under Debra Knox’s direction since 2013. Students must complete three clinical practica at the university clinic and external rotations in schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. These experiences help students accumulate at least 400 clinical clock hours that meet ASHA certification standards.

Admission requirements

The application process requires:

• Completing both UCF’s graduate application and CSDCAS application
• Submitting three recommendation letters
• Providing a one-page statement of interest
• Including a current resume highlighting relevant experience

Students can apply for fall (January 15 deadline) or spring (October 1 deadline) admissions.

Ideal candidates

Strong applicants usually maintain a GPA between 3.6-3.8 in their last 60 credit hours. The program looks for candidates with research experience, volunteer work, leadership roles, and bilingual abilities. Selected applicants might receive faculty interview invitations during the selection process.

4. University of Rhode Island

URI offers a unique five-year accelerated program. Students can earn both a B.S. in Communicative Disorders and an M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology at the same time. This helps them save a full year of tuition and start their careers sooner.

Program overview

The accredited Master of Science program at URI prepares students to diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders. Located in the College of Health Sciences at URI’s Kingston campus, graduates get the skills needed to work in schools, hospitals, and clinics. Students learn as part of URI’s Academic Health Collaborative and work in shared teams with nursing, pharmacy, and psychology disciplines. The program’s graduates achieve near-perfect employment rates.

Program length and format

Students complete this accelerated program in five years instead of six when studying full-time. The program structure has:

• Undergraduate communicative disorders coursework through junior year
• 24 specified graduate credits during senior year (400-500 level)
• 30 additional graduate credits in the fifth year

Students who choose part-time study take 4-5 years to finish. The program needs 54 semester hours, completion of a capstone experience, and 400 clinical hours.

Tuition and fees

Part-time students pay $884 per credit if they’re residents and $1,723 if they’re non-residents. Students should budget for textbooks ($1,250 yearly) plus room and board.

Clinical training

Students get clinical experience through:

• On-campus clinic assignments beginning in the second semester
• External practicum sites during the final two semesters
• Faculty-directed outreach clinical groups if you have aphasia, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s Disease, autism spectrum disorders, and transgender individuals

These hands-on experiences help students complete their required 400 clinical hours for ASHA certification.

Admission requirements

Students need these qualifications for the accelerated program:

• URI sixth-semester standing in communicative disorders with finished major requirements
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (3.2 in major) though competitive admission needs higher scores
• Two letters of recommendation from URI communicative disorders faculty
• 19 credits of prerequisite courses for non-CMD majors

Ideal candidates

The program looks for students with academic excellence and a steadfast dedication to speech-language pathology. Strong interpersonal skills and research experience make applicants more competitive. URI undergraduates with exceptional academic performance can exclusively access this accelerated pathway.

5. University of Akron

The University of Akron helps ambitious students save time and money through their 5-year Accelerated Degree Pathway (ADP) program in speech-language pathology. Students can earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees while cutting costs considerably.

Program overview

The School of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at Akron sits within the College of Health and Human Sciences. Students become skilled clinicians who help people reach their full communication potential. This accelerated path lets qualified students start graduate courses during their undergraduate years. The smooth transition between degrees and hands-on clinical experience throughout Northeast Ohio ensures graduates develop well-rounded practical skills.

Program length and format

This innovative 5-year program needs 176 total credit hours, unlike traditional six-year paths. Qualified students complete 9 credits of graduate coursework in their third undergraduate year. Students move straight into the campus-based graduate program after finishing undergraduate requirements. This setup allows time to explore additional clinical experiences or specialized training during graduate study.

Tuition and fees

Students save money because the 9 double-counted graduate hours cost undergraduate tuition rates.

Clinical training

First-year graduate students work both on campus and with respected partners like Cleveland Clinic and Summa Health. Second-year students complete externships at hospitals, schools, rehabilitation facilities, and skilled nursing centers. These placements in Akron, Canton, and Cleveland areas let students work with communication disorders in patients of all ages.

Admission requirements

Applicants need:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA (overall and in-field)
• Bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or completed post-baccalaureate sequence
• Completed CSDCAS application with recommendation letters, resume, and essay
• Prerequisite courses satisfying ASHA Standards IV-A and IV-B
• Successful background check

Ideal candidates

The program looks for candidates with GPAs of at least 3.30 by their junior year’s second semester. The best applicants show strong academic ability in speech-language coursework and excellent people skills needed for clinical practice.

6. University of the Pacific

The University of the Pacific sits in Stockton, California. Its Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences runs top-tier accelerated speech pathology programs that blend rigorous academics with detailed clinical experiences.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at Pacific offers two accelerated paths that focus on quality clinical instruction backed by research. This accredited program meets all ASHA certification requirements, California state licensure, and California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential standards. Pacific’s graduates excel on national certification and state licensure exams, with a 98% Praxis Examination pass rate averaged over three years.

Program length and format

Students can choose between two accelerated tracks:

• A 15-month (4-semester) track designed for students who hold an undergraduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Sciences and Disorders
• A 24-month (6-semester) track created for students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields

These paths let students start their careers much earlier than traditional programs – a key benefit when considering costs.

Tuition and fees

Students pay about $53,000 in total tuition and fees. The school tailors financial aid packages based on each student’s qualifications and chosen program. Students who receive acceptance can apply for departmental scholarships through Scholarship Universe.

Clinical training

Students jump into clinical work right away:

• 15-month students handle at least two clinical cases in campus clinics during their first two semesters
• Students work two days weekly for seven months with certified SLPs in northern California public schools
• A full-time, semester-long medical externship serves as the capstone experience
• Students practice at several facilities including Pacific Speech, Hearing and Language Center, Language-Literacy Center, and RiteCare Childhood Language Center

Admission requirements

The program requires:

• A minimum 3.0 GPA from the last 60 units of study (competitive applicants average 3.73 for 15-month and 3.61 for 24-month cohorts)
• A completed CSDCAS application submitted by priority deadline (January 15) or regular deadline (February 1)
• Three recommendation letters, with one from a university faculty member
• A personal statement and video recording

Ideal candidates

This program suits students looking for a school with strong test score records in speech-language pathology for both national certification and state licensure exams. Students must also be ready to commit Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for classes, clinic, and off-site placements.

7. Biola University

Biola University combines Christian faith with comprehensive speech pathology education. Their accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s pathway appeals to students who want professional excellence and spiritual growth.

Program overview

The Communication Sciences and Disorders program teaches students to help people with communication disorders through specialized knowledge and clinical training. The program stands out with its on-campus skills lab equipped with state-of-the-art equipment like digital endoscopes and AAC devices. The program’s success speaks for itself – while national SLP graduate program acceptance rates hover between 29-42%, Biola students achieve acceptance rates between 95-100%.

Program length and format

Students can complete both degrees in just five years through the accelerated 3+2 program. Students should declare their intent during their first semester. The program structure consists of:

• Three years of undergraduate study (120 credits)
• Two years of graduate coursework (63 credits)

Students must maintain a 3.6 overall GPA and good professional relationships with faculty to continue in the accelerated program.

Tuition and fees

Every incoming undergraduate student receives some form of financial aid.

Clinical training

First-year graduate students gain experience at Biola’s on-campus Speech & Language Clinic where they serve children and adults. The clinical training features:

• Live audio/visual monitoring by licensed supervisors
• Off-site clinical placements at four local private schools
• Diagnostic clinic experience under faculty supervision

Admission requirements

The accelerated program requires:

• 6 overall GPA
• Basic Skills Requirement completion
• Faculty recommendation for professional competencies
• Christian faith commitment

Ideal candidates

This program suits students who want to blend Christian values with clinical practice. The best candidates show academic excellence and strong interpersonal skills for patient care. The university’s Southern California location gives students access to many clinical settings and diverse populations.

8. Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University’s Accelerated BS to MS in Clinical Speech-Language Pathology program combines practical experience with specialized coursework. Students can make a meaningful difference by addressing communication disorders while saving time and money on tuition.

Program overview

This fully accredited master’s program prepares students to diagnose and treat communication disorders in a variety of populations. The curriculum focuses on communication sciences, speech and hearing anatomy and physiology, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and clinical practicum. The program’s status as a Hispanic-Serving Institution enriches its multicultural focus. Students can choose to specialize in specific areas such as voice problems and adult neurogenic communication disorders.

Program length and format

Distinguished NAU Communication Sciences and Disorders undergraduates can start their graduate studies during their senior year through the Accelerated Program. The program allows students to complete 12 units of graduate coursework with two courses each in fall and spring during their final undergraduate year. Students move directly into the graduate program after finishing their bachelor’s degree and graduate in December 2025, typically completing the program in 5 semesters.

Tuition and fees

The program offers excellent financial support, with 98% of students receiving aid. Students can save substantially through undergraduate scholarships like the Lumberjack Scholars Award, which covers graduate courses taken during undergraduate studies.

Clinical training

Students work hands-on at the campus-based clinic under certified Speech-Language Pathologists’ supervision. Clinical opportunities include:

• On-campus practica with immediate supervision
• External placements throughout Arizona
• Experience with various communication disorders

Admission requirements

Successful applicants need:

• Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Communication Sciences)
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (competitive applicants typically score higher)
• Prerequisites in biological sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, and statistics
• Letter of intent explaining their interest in the program
• Strong academic records throughout sophomore and junior years

Ideal candidates

The program offers excellent support for students who need campus transportation assistance. Students with outstanding undergraduate performance in Communication Sciences and Disorders make ideal candidates. The program’s diverse student population consists of approximately 63% White, 23% Hispanic/Latino, and 14% other ethnicities.

9. Emerson College

Emerson College offers a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders completely online. This program gives students a flexible yet detailed accelerated path to becoming speech pathologists.

Program overview

Speech@Emerson, the college’s online Master of Sciences in Communication Disorders (M.S.) program, helps students prevent, assess, and treat communication disorders. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited this program. Students learn to help clients of all ages, from newborns to elderly individuals.

Program length and format

The program offers two flexible paths:

• 5-term track: Students graduate in 20 months
• 9-term track: Students finish in 36 months

Both paths require 54 applied graduate credits. Students without speech-language pathology backgrounds must take up to 18 foundational credits.

Tuition and fees

Students pay additional fees including $50 for registration each term, $50 for program materials, and immersion travel costs.

Clinical training

Students start with one virtual practicum using simulated cases before moving to four in-person community-based placements. The program includes:

• Minimum 400 supervised clinical hours
• One weekend-long immersion at Boston campus
• Placements that need 3-5 full days weekly

Admission requirements

Students must provide:

• Bachelor’s degree (any discipline)
• Three recommendation letters
• Personal statement essays
• Resume/CV
• Interview

Ideal candidates

This program works best for students who want online flexibility without sacrificing quality clinical training. The placement schedule means students cannot work full-time during certain periods. Students must live in one of 46 approved states.

10. Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University stands out with its cohort-based Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program. Students gain detailed clinical experience and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to prepare for their careers.

Program overview

The master’s program equips speech-language pathologists for rewarding careers in schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practice. The Council on Academic Accreditation has fully accredited the program through 2030. Students learn alongside nursing and occupational therapy departments to improve patient safety and outcomes. The program goes beyond standard training by teaching specialized skills in fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) and SPEAK OUT! for Parkinson’s Disease patients.

Program length and format

Students complete this fast-tracked program in 21 months through a cohort model that encourages teamwork and peer bonding. The curriculum includes 22 courses for 60 semester hours. Students follow a well-laid-out sequence that covers neurology, phonology, language disorders, and dysphagia.

Tuition and fees

The program costs $70,000 in total ($35,000 per year). Students can access these financial aid options:

• Merit-based Goodban Fellowship
• Graduate Assistantships that cover one-quarter of tuition
• Endowed scholarships for first-year students

Clinical training

Students start their clinical experiences right away and must complete 400 supervised clinical hours. Training happens in various settings:

• On-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic
• Elmhurst Hospital simulation center equipped with high-tech mannequins
• Public schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities

Admission requirements

Candidates need:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.2 GPA (overall and in CSD courses)
• Prerequisite CSD courses including Phonetics, Anatomy and Physiology, Child Language Development
• Courses in biological sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and social/behavioral sciences

Ideal candidates

The best candidates show strong academic abilities plus excellent problem-solving and people skills. The program’s 100% Praxis exam pass rate and job placement success attract students who want detailed preparation for this growing field, which expects 19% growth from 2022-2032.

11. Maryville University

Maryville University offers a flexible accelerated SLP program that provides both online and on-campus options. Students can choose individual-specific learning pathways while working toward their ASHA certification.

Program overview

Maryville’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology features a complete 57-credit-hour curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. Students learn to assess and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders in a variety of populations. The program boasts an impressive 98% career outcome rate. Graduates qualify for ASHA certification and state licensure after completing their Clinical Fellowship Year.

Program length and format

The accelerated program runs for five semesters. Students can apply by February 1st for fall admission or September 1st for spring starts. Maryville stands out by offering full flexibility with 100% online learning options and traditional campus-based education.

Tuition and fees

Clinical training

Students participate in practicum rotations and externships in both school and medical settings. Faculty supervision helps students get hands-on experience at Maryville’s Speech and Language Clinic.

Admission requirements

Requirements include:

• 0 cumulative GPA (competitive applicants: 3.0-4.0)
• Bachelor’s degree in CSD or equivalent prerequisites
• Application through CSDCAS

Ideal candidates

The program benefits students who want clinical experiences working with clients affected by strokes, brain injuries, autism, or communication disorders.

12. New York University

NYU Steinhardt’s online Speech@NYU program ranks among the top accelerated speech pathology programs online. Students can earn their degree in just six terms based on their foundation course requirements.

Program overview

Speech@NYU equips future speech-language pathologists with detailed education in prevention, assessment, and intervention methods. The program focuses on helping people with communication and swallowing disorders. ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation has fully accredited this online master’s program. Graduates qualify for professional licensure as an SLP.

Program length and format

Students can choose between two flexible paths:

• Full-time: Complete in 6-7 terms
• Part-time: Finish in 8-10 terms

Required foundation courses determined after admission shape your timeline. The Master of Science Student Seminar runs each term for both tracks.

Tuition and fees

Clinical training

Students benefit from:

• Two required clinical immersions in NYC
• Field placements near your community
• Minimum 375 direct contact hours

Admission requirements

Successful candidates need:

• 0 minimum GPA
• No GRE requirement
• Two recommendation letters
• Personal statement

Ideal candidates

The program values students who show genuine compassion and care for others’ wellbeing. Students come from diverse backgrounds, including career-changers and post-traditional learners, with ages spanning 20-68.

Choose Your Accelerated SLP Program Today

Accelerated speech pathology programs are the quickest way to enter this rewarding field. You’ll find 12 exceptional programs in this piece that will fast-track your career with complete education and clinical training. These programs cut one to two years off your study time and let you start earlier in a profession that offers excellent job prospects and financial rewards.

The accelerated programs keep the same high standards as traditional pathways. You’ll meet all ASHA certification requirements after graduation, whether you pick the University of Kansas’s intercampus model, Baylor’s Christian-centered approach, or NYU’s flexible online format.

The financial advantages need careful thought. Tuition costs vary by a lot between schools and residency status, but starting work sooner often makes up for the original investment. Many programs also provide scholarships and assistantships that help manage costs.

Clinical training is the key to every program mentioned here. You’ll collect required clinical hours at on-campus clinics, schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers while working with diverse populations and disorders.

Take time to assess your situation and career goals before applying. Program length, location, clinical chances, and cost are key factors to think over. Most programs want candidates with strong GPAs and relevant experience, so review admission requirements carefully.

Choosing an accelerated speech pathology program shows serious dedication. The reward of helping people overcome communication challenges makes this path really attractive. Speech-language pathologists have bright career prospects, with 18% job growth and nearly 14,000 new positions each year.

Ready to start? Your perfect accelerated program is waiting to turn your passion for helping others into a career where you’ll make a real difference every day.

FAQs

Q1. Are there accelerated speech pathology programs available? Yes, several universities offer accelerated speech pathology programs. These programs typically allow students to complete both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in about 5 years instead of the traditional 6 years. Some programs, like the one at the University of the Pacific, even offer a 15-month accelerated master’s option for students with non-speech pathology backgrounds.

Q2. What are the admission requirements for accelerated SLP programs? Most accelerated SLP programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0-3.6, completion of prerequisite courses in communication sciences and disorders, and strong academic performance in related coursework. Some programs may also require letters of recommendation, personal statements, and interviews as part of the application process.

Q3. How long does it take to complete an accelerated speech pathology program? The duration of accelerated speech pathology programs varies by institution. Typically, these programs can be completed in 5 years for combined bachelor’s and master’s degrees, or 15-24 months for accelerated master’s programs. This is significantly shorter than traditional pathways, which usually take 6 years or more.

Q4. What is the average cost of an accelerated speech pathology program? The cost of accelerated speech pathology programs varies widely depending on the institution and whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student. On average, you can expect to pay between $40,000 to $100,000 for the entire program. However, many universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships to help offset costs.

Q5. What career prospects can I expect after completing an accelerated SLP program? Graduates of accelerated speech pathology programs have excellent career prospects. The field is projected to grow by 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average. Speech-language pathologists can work in various settings including schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers, with an average annual salary of around $89,000 as of 2023.