7 Top Speech Pathology Master’s Programs in Colorado: Campus vs Online Options
If you’re looking at speech pathology programs in Colorado, you might be surprised to learn that only two institutions in the state offer a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology.
Your in-state options for speech pathology graduate programs are the University of Colorado at Boulder and the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. These schools also offer Doctorate programs in Audiology (AuD). The University of Northern Colorado stands out by offering an online option for your Master’s degree. Students can complete this 3-year program without attending live classes, which works great for those juggling work or family responsibilities.
These Colorado speech language pathology programs will teach you the complete clinical and educational skills you need to work in educational, medical, and private settings. After finishing their clinical fellowship and Praxis exam, graduates can get their certificate of clinical competence from ASHA. This piece will help you explore the top programs and decide whether campus or online learning matches your career goals better.
University of Colorado at Boulder – MA in Speech-Language Pathology
The University of Colorado at Boulder has one of the best speech pathology graduate programs in Colorado. The program ranks 21st in the 2024 U.S. News Report. Students who want to become speech-language pathologists can get detailed training at this beautiful Boulder campus.
Program Overview
CU Boulder’s Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology (MA-SLP) helps students build careers in medical, educational, and private practice settings. Students can finish the program with clinical internships in medical and school settings. They also need to complete a detailed examination or thesis. The program offers two paths:
- Two-Year Program: Students with an undergraduate degree in speech, language and hearing sciences can take this 24-month program. It starts with a three-week course in early August and ends two years later.
- Three-Year (Leveling) Program: Students without a background in this field can take this 36-month track. The first year focuses on prerequisite courses before students join the regular MA program.
Coursework
MA-SLP students take core seminars and clinical assignments. These help them master every aspect of speech-language pathology practice. The program also lets students pick an elective to build expertise in their areas of interest.
Students start their clinical work at the on-site Speech, Language and Hearing Center. Later, they move to off-campus locations in schools and hospitals. The program balances academic learning with hands-on experience to build strong theoretical and clinical skills.
Students must pass both parts of the comprehensive examination:
- Part I (PRAXIS Exam)
- Part II, which can be either:
- A detailed portfolio with academic and clinical work
- A Master’s thesis with oral defense
Admissions Requirements
Both domestic and international students must apply by December 15. The program is very selective, and students usually hear back in late February or early March.
You’ll need to submit:
- Online application ($60 for domestic/$80 for international students)
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.8
- Three recommendation letters (two should be from professors)
- Resume (no more than 3 pages)
- Personal statement
- Unofficial transcripts from all schools
Students must show knowledge in:
- Biological Science
- Physics or Chemistry
- Statistics
- Social/Behavioral Sciences
Students who get in must also show proof of 25 guided observation hours signed by an ASHA-certified SLP.
Online or Campus Format
CU Boulder runs the MA-SLP program mainly on campus. All the same, students can take the online Speech-Language Pathology Prerequisites (SLPP) Program to finish prerequisite courses before applying to the MA program. The online option lets students complete 8 courses (24 credits) in 4 semesters to get ready for SLP Master’s programs.
Accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits CU Boulder’s MA-SLP program. The program’s accreditation runs from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2030.
Path to Licensure
MA-SLP graduates get their Master of Arts degree and can apply for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in speech-language pathology after they:
- Complete their clinical fellowship year
- Pass the national PRAXIS examination
Colorado license requirements include:
- Passing the Praxis™ Speech-Language Pathology exam (score of 162 or higher)
- Applying through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA)
- Finishing a Clinical Fellowship Year (36 weeks of full-time, mentored practice)
- Keeping up with continuing education (30 Professional Development Hours every two years)
Students can also apply for Colorado State Licensure to work in public schools after graduation.
University of Northern Colorado – MA in Speech-Language Pathology
The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) stands out as a top choice for speech pathology programs in Colorado. Their Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program offers excellent academic, research, and clinical preparation. Students can choose between on-campus and distance learning options.
Program Overview
UNC’s speech pathology graduate program uses a clinician-researcher model that helps students become skilled at evidence-based practice (EBP). Students learn to ask clinical questions, study research, gather data, check results, and share findings through writing and presentations. The program focuses on several essential areas:
- The science of communication
- Assessment and management of developmental articulation disorders, language and literacy disorders, voice disorders, fluency disorders, and pervasive developmental disorders
- Dysphagia and neurologic disorders including aphasia and apraxia
- Augmentative and alternative communication systems
- Aural rehabilitation
This integrated approach helps build critical thinking skills that students need as speech-language pathologists.
Coursework
Students must complete about 60 hours of graduate coursework to earn their master’s degree. The program structure depends on your chosen format:
- Campus students follow a two-year, full-time cohort model
- Online students complete their studies over three years in a specific course sequence
Both options blend core courses, electives, and clinical practicum experiences. A master’s thesis isn’t required, but some students work with faculty on thesis projects each year. UNC’s well-laid-out public clinic gives students a great way to get clinical experience while learning about professional business practices.
Admissions Requirements
Getting into UNC’s Speech-Language Pathology graduate program is competitive. All applicants must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an institutionally accredited college or university
- Keep a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
- Submit applications through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS)
UNC has removed the GRE requirement. The residential program accepts applications from October 1 until February 1 for fall admission. Online program admissions happen every three years, with the next group starting Fall 2026 (applications open October 1, 2025).
Online or Campus Format
UNC sets itself apart by offering both campus-based and online MA programs in Speech-Language Pathology. This makes it a flexible choice among Colorado’s speech language pathology programs.
Campus students attend full-time and should be available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for classes, clinics, and other learning activities.
The online program works best for students who can’t attend campus-based classes due to work or family commitments. This three-year program uses web-based teaching but requires:
- A two-to-three-week campus visit during the first summer
- Ongoing work as an SLPA or equivalent under an ASHA-certified supervisor
- A full-time 12-week medical setting internship in the final summer
Accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the Colorado Department of Education have accredited both UNC’s residential and distance education MA programs. This accreditation means graduates meet high professional standards.
Path to Licensure
After completing either program, students can qualify for:
- ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (after passing the Praxis exam and finishing the clinical fellowship)
- Colorado Department of Education licensure
Colorado educational licensure needs eight weeks of internship in public schools. Students should check specific state requirements outside Colorado since they vary by location.
The program’s success speaks for itself with a 100% job placement rate for recent graduates seeking employment and a perfect pass rate on the national Praxis exam.
Metropolitan State – MS in Speech-Language Pathology
Metropolitan State University of Denver launched its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program in June 2022. The program has become a welcome addition to Colorado’s speech pathology programs, offering students a fresh alternative that emphasizes diversity and makes education more available.
Program Overview
MSU Denver’s MS-SLP program wants to create an affordable path to a career in speech-language pathology. The program focuses on increasing SLP diversity in Colorado. Students learn to become credentialed speech-language pathologists through a clinician-scientist model. They develop skills to treat patients with communication and swallowing disorders at any age.
The program stands out from other Colorado speech language pathology programs by offering an optional Spanish-English bilingual concentration. The program has helped many Spanish-speaking patients get speech-language services who couldn’t access care before.
Coursework
Students need 69 total credits to complete the standard MS-SLP program. This includes 42 credits of didactic coursework and 27 credits of clinical practica. The bilingual service provision track requires 75 total credits – 48 credits of didactic work plus 27 credits of clinical practica.
Students build theoretical knowledge while getting hands-on clinical experience. The program takes six semesters to complete. It starts in summer, and students graduate 23 months later at spring semester’s end. Every student must submit a summative portfolio that shows their knowledge and skills development throughout the program.
Admissions Requirements
MSU Denver’s speech pathology program has competitive admission standards:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in prerequisite SLHS coursework
- Application through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS)
- Two letters of recommendation (at least one should highlight professionalism/skills outside traditional classroom settings)
- Responses to several short-answer questions (250-400 words each)
The program doesn’t require GRE scores. Students must complete prerequisite courses in biological sciences, physical sciences (physics or chemistry), social/behavioral sciences, and statistics.
Students should submit applications by January 15 to start in early June. The program announces acceptance decisions by early March.
Online or Campus Format
The MS-SLP program runs as a residential, full-time graduate program. Students can’t complete their degree online, unlike some other Colorado speech language pathology programs. The Program Director must approve any changes to the standard study plan for didactic coursework and clinical practicum experiences.
Accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has granted candidacy status to MSU Denver’s Master of Science program in Speech-Language Pathology. This pre-accreditation status lasts up to five years for new programs.
Path to Licensure
MS-SLP graduates can qualify for:
- ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (after meeting published knowledge and skill standards)
- Colorado state licensure for educational and healthcare settings
The program boasts impressive results. Data shows high completion rates (90.9% in 2024-2025 and 100% in 2023-2024) and perfect PRAXIS examination pass rates in both periods.
MSU Denver also offers a certificate program for aspiring speech-language pathology assistants (SLP-As). The Colorado Department of Education recognizes this certification for school-based work.
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences – MS-SLP
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences brings a flexible alternative to traditional colorado speech pathology programs with its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP). Colorado residents looking beyond local options will find this online-focused program offers a unique approach to professional development.
Program Overview
The University of St. Augustine’s MS-SLP program runs for 20 months and students complete it in about five trimesters. Students can start in January, May, or September, which offers more flexibility than other speech pathology graduate programs in colorado. The program uses a collaborative cohort model where expert faculty-practitioners mentor students to serve clients of all ages. The program runs across multiple campuses including Austin, Dallas, San Marcos, and St. Augustine.
Coursework
Students need to complete 55-58 credit hours, with the final count depending on their elective choices. The program requires 400 clinical clock hours split between virtual and in-person practica. Students work in simulated clinical settings and learn to use state-of-the-art endoscopy equipment—something many speech pathology programs don’t offer. The university’s pro bono clinic lets students provide telehealth services to local community members.
Admissions Requirements
The program looks for candidates who meet these requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (no specific major required)
- Prerequisite courses: biology, chemistry or physics, statistics, and behavioral/social science
- Preferred minimum 3.0 GPA on prerequisites (grade trend considered)
- Two professional recommendation letters
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Statement of purpose (two double-spaced pages)
- 25 guided observation hours with an ASHA-certified SLP
Unlike many other institutions, this program doesn’t require GRE scores.
Online or Campus Format
The MS-SLP uses a hybrid learning model that blends online coursework with in-person residency experiences. Students take most classes online and visit campus for three days during four of the five trimesters. These campus visits focus on hands-on clinical skills training. Students can stay in their home locations (including Colorado) while still connecting face-to-face with peers and professors.
Accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits the Master of Science education program. The program started with candidacy status in Austin, expanded to Dallas, and earned a five-year initial accreditation—the maximum time possible for new programs.
Path to Licensure
Students who complete this program can get their Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from ASHA after passing the Praxis examination and finishing their clinical fellowship. The program shows strong results with graduates getting SLP licenses, finding jobs, and earning ASHA certification. While based outside Colorado, the program prepares students for licensure in many states including Colorado—students should check with their state board about specific requirements.
Grand Canyon University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology
Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers a STEM-designated Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that sets itself apart from traditional colorado speech pathology programs. The program teaches future speech-language pathologists to deliver compassionate and effective services to people with communication disorders.
Program Overview
GCU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology gives students a resilient foundation of theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience. Students learn to help people of all ages who face speech-language cognitive and swallowing disorders. The curriculum builds on scientifically based practices, clinical training, and critical thinking skills. Graduates become skilled professionals ready to work in a variety of settings—from education and healthcare to private practice and research.
Coursework
Students experience a blend of online academics and practical clinical work. The program includes three practicum experiences that build competence across different age groups. These help students get their required clinical clock hours for speech-language pathologist certification. Students start with part-time work in community settings under licensed clinicians. The final two practicums let them apply their knowledge in clinical practice.
Students also need to attend three-day, on-campus sessions during their first three semesters. These campus visits help students:
- Build confidence and professionalism for off-campus clinical work
- Take part in simulations and shared activities
- Practice with equipment and materials
- Learn about disorders affecting pediatric, infant, adult, and geriatric populations
Admissions Requirements
GCU’s master’s program admission details aren’t fully available in current information. The university assesses applicants based on their academic history. The undergraduate admissions process might hint at general standards, with GPA requirements that change based on previous education.
Online or Campus Format
The speech pathology master’s program runs mostly online, making it flexible for students who want alternatives to campus-based colorado speech language pathology programs. The program uses a hybrid approach—students complete coursework online but must attend campus sessions and finish three clinical practicums.
GCU’s Office of Field Experience and clinical education coordinator help students find convenient locations from hundreds of partner schools, hospitals, and clinics across the country. The university can create new partnerships if students find preferred sites outside their current network.
Accreditation
GCU has managed to keep its institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1968. This accreditation shows that GCU’s programs meet the HLC’s high academic standards. If you’re planning to become a speech-language pathologist, institutional accreditation should be a key factor when looking at speech pathology graduate programs in colorado and alternatives.
Path to Licensure
Your trip to becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist through GCU follows these steps:
- Get an undergraduate degree in a related field (like communication sciences)
- Complete the master’s in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution
- Get hands-on clinical experience through program practicums
- Pass your state licensure exam
- Start working as a licensed speech-language pathologist
Most graduates choose to get ASHA certification in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). Keep in mind that specific licensure or certification requirements might change depending on where you work.
Emerson College – Online Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology
Colorado residents who want to pursue speech pathology education beyond traditional programs can choose Emerson College’s online Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology program. This well-respected school offers a digital path to SLP certification that lets students stay in Colorado.
Program Overview
Emerson’s online MS in Speech-Language Pathology program blends academic excellence with hands-on clinical experiences. Students move through courses as a group, which creates a shared learning environment in the digital space. Graduates gain clinical expertise to help people of all ages with communication and swallowing disorders in healthcare and educational settings.
Coursework
The program takes 5-7 terms (about two years) based on whether students have completed prerequisite courses. Core content areas include:
- Anatomy and physiology of speech mechanisms
- Phonetics and speech science
- Language development and disorders
- Neurological bases of communication
- Diagnostic methods and clinical management
Clinical practica make up much of the program. Students complete supervised work in educational and medical settings to build professional skills with patients of all types.
Admissions Requirements
Students need to submit:
- Bachelor’s degree (communication sciences preferred but not required)
- Official transcripts showing prerequisite coursework completion
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
- Personal statement outlining career goals
- Resume detailing relevant experience
- Completed observation hours with certified SLPs
Online or Campus Format
The program delivers all academic content through advanced online platforms, which benefits Colorado residents greatly. Students get hands-on experience through:
- Virtual simulation laboratories
- Interactive case studies
- Local clinical placements near their homes
- Brief campus visits for intensive skill-building sessions
Accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the program. This accreditation means graduates meet national standards for professional practice.
Path to Licensure
Emerson’s online program graduates from Colorado can pursue:
- ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) after passing the Praxis examination and completing a clinical fellowship year
- Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) licensure for clinical practice
- Colorado Department of Education authorization for school-based positions
Students who can’t attend in-state speech language pathology programs will find Emerson’s online format helpful. They can prepare for Colorado licensure while keeping their current jobs and personal commitments anywhere in the state.
New York University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology
NYU Steinhardt’s online MS in Communicative Sciences and Disorders stands out as a prestigious east coast alternative to colorado speech pathology programs. Speech@NYU platform offers complete professional education to aspiring speech-language pathologists across the country.
Program Overview
The online master’s program combines evidence-based methodology with real-life research applications. Students learn to work with human communication and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages. The program features interactive online classes, real-life clinical training, and flexible coursework. Graduates can take on various roles including diagnosis, treatment, teaching, and research in communicative disorders. Students can choose between full-time and part-time study plans.
Coursework
Students must complete 48 graduate-level credits and any required foundation courses. Two clinical immersions prepare students for field placements and clinical diagnostics. During these immersions, students:
- Conduct language, hearing, cognitive, and swallowing screenings in various communities
- Get direct feedback from certified speech-language pathologists
- Join specialized workshops on topics like instrumental assessment of voice disorders and aphasia treatment
Admissions Requirements
The program needs:
- Statement of purpose
- 0 GPA or higher (recommended)
- Current resume/CV
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Three letters of recommendation (academic references preferred)
- GRE scores not required since November 2021
The program reviews applications on a rolling basis with starts in January and September.
Online or Campus Format
Online students can access NYU’s resources just like on-campus students. These include Bobst Library, Wellness Exchange, and Writing Center. Key features include:
- Flexible virtual coursework
- In-person clinical immersions
- Local field placements
- Learning from NYU’s top scholars, researchers, and clinicians
Accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits this master’s program.
Path to Licensure
We designed this program to help students get New York State licensure as speech-language pathologists. State regulations can vary by a lot. Moving to a different state during your studies might affect your placement requirements or ability to get licensed. Most state licensing boards require graduates to:
- Pass the PRAXIS examination
- Complete supervised clinical experience
- Meet state-specific requirements
Choose a Colorado SLP Master’s Today
Your choice between campus-based and online Colorado speech pathology programs will depend on your situation and career goals. Both paths offer unique benefits you should think over.
CU Boulder, UNC, and Metropolitan State’s campus-based programs give you an immersive learning environment. Students get direct access to faculty, clinical resources, and can work closely with peers. Many students do better with the structured routines these traditional settings provide. The on-site clinical facilities let you practice hands-on skills under direct supervision.
NYU, Emerson, St. Augustine, and Grand Canyon University offer online alternatives that work well for students with other commitments or location constraints. These programs combine self-paced online coursework with scheduled in-person sessions. Students can study at their own pace and complete clinical placements in their local area.
Campus programs usually take two years to complete. UNC’s online track takes three years to help working professionals balance their commitments. All but one of these programs follow ASHA accreditation standards and prepare you for certification and licensure.
Costs vary significantly between schools. Colorado residents might save money with in-state tuition at local universities. Online programs often charge the same tuition no matter where you live.
Take time to evaluate your priorities, budget, and lifestyle needs. This will help you find a speech-language pathology program that lines up with your professional goals.