6 Top-Rated SLP Masters Programs in North Carolina
Want to make $93,000 a year in a field that’s growing faster than ever? Speech pathology programs in North Carolina give you that chance, with Speech Therapists bringing home an average of $92,800 yearly.
North Carolina’s job market for speech-language pathologists looks incredibly bright, with forecasts that indicate 25% growth in the next decade. This surge makes sense given our nation’s expanding multicultural population and the rising need for skilled professionals in this field. You’ll find impressive stats at all but one of these universities that offer these degrees: 98.5% of students finish their programs, 100% pass the national Praxis exam, and 98% land jobs right after graduation.
These programs can be selective – to cite an instance, see UNC Chapel Hill’s program with its 20% acceptance rate. Yet they help students with solid financial backing. Western Carolina University supports 86% of its students with financial aid, and UNC Chapel Hill helps 60% of its students despite higher costs. Ready to jump into these career-launching options? Let’s get into the six top-rated SLP Masters Programs that will put you on track to success.
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is pioneering speech language pathology programs in North Carolina through its Master of Science in Speech and Hearing Sciences program. The program sits within the prestigious UNC School of Medicine’s Department of Allied Health Sciences and combines strong academic training with clinical experiences.
Key features
UNC Chapel Hill’s Speech-Language Pathology program ranks among the nation’s best, reaching the #12 position in U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 rankings. This achievement places it in the top 4% of SLP programs nationwide. The program has stayed in the top 15 consistently for the last four years.
Students can choose between two educational paths:
- A 60-semester-hour clinical track that prepares students for ASHA certification and state licensure
- A non-clinical track designed for international students and those pursuing careers in research or industry
Both paths show remarkable results – 98.5% of students complete the program, 100% pass the national Praxis exam, and 98% find employment shortly after graduation. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice guidelines in a multicultural context, preparing students to work with populations of all backgrounds, including underserved communities.
The clinical experience at UNC Chapel Hill follows a unique approach since the program doesn’t have an in-house clinic. Students progress through:
- Simulated cases and shadowing (first semester)
- Part-time school placements (spring)
- Full-time adult placements (summer)
- Final specialized placements based on student preference
This structure will give students at least 400 total clinical hours, with 375 hours of direct client interaction.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Top-ranked program (#12 nationally) with consistent quality
- Outstanding student outcomes (98.5% completion, 100% Praxis pass rate)
- Strong employment prospects (98% post-graduation)
- Flexible program paths (clinical and non-clinical options)
- UNC School of Medicine location provides access to medical resources
- Direct pathway to ASHA certification and NC state licensure
Cons:
- Highly competitive admission (20% acceptance rate)
- Higher cost for out-of-state students
- No in-house clinic requires different clinical experience structure
- Limited funding opportunities (only 23 of 72 accepted students received funding)
Pricing and financial aid
The program’s cost varies substantially based on residency status. Here are the 2023-24 academic year rates:
In-state students:
- Tuition: $10,552 per year
- Fees: $1,970 per year
- Total annual cost: $12,522
Out-of-state students:
- Tuition: $28,278 per year
- Fees: $1,970 per year
- Total annual cost: $30,248
Student health insurance adds either $1,396.54 (Value Plan) or $1,802.92 (Premium Plan) per semester. Students can waive this with proof of alternative coverage.
The university helps offset these costs through various financial aid options. About 60% of students receive some form of assistance. Financial support includes:
- University Merit Scholarships based on academic excellence (GPA, GRE scores, recommendation letters)
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences (DSHS) stipends based on external funding availability
- Department of Allied Health Sciences (DAHS) Scholarship Program
- The Allcott Fellowship, a one-time award for outstanding community service
- Work-study assistantships based on financial need
Students should submit their FAFSA applications starting January 1 and follow Graduate School application procedures carefully to maximize financial aid opportunities.
Best for
UNC Chapel Hill’s SLP program especially suits:
- Academically exceptional students – The program’s competitive 20% acceptance rate helps foster top academic talent
- Research-oriented individuals – The non-clinical track provides extra research experience for future academics and researchers
- Students interested in medical settings – The curriculum prepares students well for hospital-based careers
- Students passionate about cultural diversity – The program welcomes people interested in working with multicultural populations and underserved communities
- North Carolina residents – In-state students enjoy much lower tuition rates while attending a top-ranked program
As one of the prominent speech pathology programs in NC, UNC Chapel Hill sets high standards in academics, clinical training, and professional preparation. The program combines evidence-based education with clinical experiences to create graduates who excel in this growing field.
2. East Carolina University
East Carolina University (ECU) stands out among speech language pathology programs in North Carolina. The university blends easy access with excellence by offering both campus-based and distance education options. This sea-grant university in Greenville has built a respected program that meets North Carolina’s growing need for qualified SLPs.
Key features
ECU’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders comes with two educational tracks: a clinical path for future practitioners and a non-clinical option. The program takes 30-32 students for campus studies and 10-12 for distance education each year. This selective process maintains high quality and gives students customized attention.
The program ranks 65th among 283 speech-language pathology programs nationwide, putting it in the top 25% of U.S. programs. These rankings show the program’s academic strength and its success in preparing future professionals.
Students must complete 54-60 credit hours and can choose between thesis or non-thesis tracks based on their goals. The core coursework covers:
- Language disorders and learning disabilities
- Fluency disorders and articulation
- Motor speech disorders
- Brain language and aphasia
- Professional issues in speech-language pathology
Students need at least 250 clinical clock hours in diagnosis and treatment of communication disorders to meet ASHA certification requirements. Those who lack undergraduate clinical experience must complete 375 hours at graduate level, plus 25 observation hours before starting any clinical practicum.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- 94% acceptance rate, higher than most programs
- Strong financial backing (80% of students get financial aid)
- Flexible learning with campus and distance education options
- Full ASHA Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology accreditation
- Ranks in top 25% of national programs
- Small class sizes for individual attention
- Graduate assistantships available across university departments
Cons:
- Very challenging curriculum that needs much time
- Students shouldn’t work outside university while enrolled
- Final internship takes 40+ hours weekly, making outside jobs impossible
- Distance education students must stay within 75 miles of Greenville, NC
- Few spots available (especially distance education with only 10-12 yearly openings)
- Campus students finish in 5-6 semesters, distance education takes about three years
Pricing and financial aid
Tuition rates change based on where you live and how you study. Graduate students pay:
In-state students:
- $289.55 per credit hour
- About $4,749 yearly
Out-of-state students:
- $1,020.05 per credit hour
- About $17,898 yearly
The total cost runs between $35,035 and $35,570 depending on your situation. ECU helps offset these costs with substantial financial aid – 80% of students receive some form of support.
You can get financial help through:
- Graduate assistantships across university departments, designed for students who need extra funding
- Standard aid packages from ECU’s Student Financial Aid Office
Each semester, ECU releases a “Total Cost of Attendance” document. This guide shows estimates for tuition, fees, housing, books, supplies, transport, loan fees, and personal costs. Students can plan their finances better with this information.
Nine or more graduate credits make you a full-time student. The university posts payment deadlines and fee schedules each term. Students should watch these dates closely to avoid schedule cancelation or extra fees.
Best for
ECU’s speech-language pathology program works best for:
- North Carolina residents – The big difference in tuition makes this a great deal for in-state students
- Working professionals who need flexibility – Choose between campus and distance learning options
- Students looking for financial help – With 80% getting aid, ECU shows its dedication to affordable education
- Those who like smaller classes – Limited groups of 30-32 (campus) and 10-12 (distance) mean more personal attention
- Research-minded students – The thesis option gives valuable research experience for academic careers
- Students wanting solid clinical training – Required clinical hours (250-375) ensure practice-ready graduates
As one of the long-running speech pathology programs in NC, ECU mixes accessibility with quality education. The program demands serious commitment and makes outside work tough. Yet its structure, financial support, and flexible learning create a path into this rewarding field without excessive debt.
3. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) has been preparing skilled clinicians for 50 years. The university stands out among speech language pathology programs in North Carolina because it offers flexible education options and an all-encompassing approach to training. Students can choose between traditional campus-based and 100% online academic pathways based on their needs and circumstances.
Key features
The Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program ranks #2 in North Carolina and #2 nationally among the 15 Best Value Masters in Speech-Language Pathology programs. These rankings showcase the program’s steadfast dedication to excellence and student success.
Students need 66 credit hours total – 34 credits of academic coursework and 32 credits of clinical training. The program takes 5 semesters to complete full-time. Both on-campus and online options maintain similar rigorous standards with these features:
- Full accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA)
- Curriculum that meets ASHA certification requirements and state licensure standards
- Online students benefit from asynchronous coursework for greater flexibility
- Authorization to offer online education in all 50 states and Puerto Rico
Clinical training sets this program apart. First-year students complete supervised clinical experiences at the UNCG Speech and Hearing Center and various sites throughout Greensboro. Second-year students work in externships in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals (inpatient, outpatient, and acute care)
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Rehabilitation centers
- Public schools and special needs schools
- Private practices
- Early intervention programs
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Similar accreditation for both on-campus and 100% online options
- Strong reputation (#2 in North Carolina, #2 nationally for value)
- Lifespan approach that covers language, speech, swallowing, and hearing disorders
- Active community involvement through research and clinical activities
- Silver Chapter Honors for UNCG’s National Speech-Language Hearing Association chapter
- National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing Student Affiliate Chapter started in 2021
- On-campus Speech and Hearing Center provides hands-on clinical experience
- Graduates become “active contributors and change-makers”
Cons:
- Full 66-credit hour requirement exceeds some competing programs
- Out-of-state students pay higher tuition
- Full-time students must commit to five semesters
- Clinical placements depend on regional availability
- Competitive admission process
Pricing and financial aid
Residency status substantially affects tuition rates:
In-state students:
- About $8,614 per year
- Online program: $6,223 per year
Out-of-state students:
- About $23,328 per year
- Online program: $19,951 per year
The total cost at UNCG reaches $20,381 for in-state and $35,541 for out-of-state students. This includes tuition, fees, food, housing, books, supplies, and transportation.
UNCG offers extensive financial support:
- 81% of students get institutional grant aid
- 54% receive federal grant aid averaging $6,026
- 53% receive state grant aid averaging $3,022
- 54% qualify for Pell Grants averaging $5,855
Students receive $8,921 in average annual aid. This brings the average net price down to $18,201 for in-state and $32,454 for out-of-state students who receive need-based aid.
Best for
UNC Greensboro’s speech pathology program in NC works best for:
- Students seeking flexible learning options – The 100% online program with asynchronous coursework fits various lifestyles
- Value-conscious students – The #2 national value ranking means quality education at competitive prices
- Community-focused practitioners – Students develop into “change-makers” through community engagement
- Students interested in diverse clinical settings – Placements span medical, educational, and community settings
- North Carolina residents – In-state tuition offers substantial savings
- Students seeking complete training – The 66-credit curriculum covers all aspects of speech-language pathology
Graduate testimonials speak volumes: “UNCG is such an amazing school with staff and administrators truly invested in students”. Another graduate shares, “I LOVE UNCG! Attentive professors, small graduate class sizes, opportunities for assistantships and internships, and so much hands-on experience”.
UNCG’s blend of academic excellence, clinical variety, and flexible learning options makes it a top choice among speech language pathology programs in North Carolina for students pursuing this rewarding career.
4. Appalachian State University
Appalachian State University sits in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone. The university stands out among SLP programs in North Carolina because of its exceptional value and high-quality education. The school has earned recognition as the #1 best value for Speech-Language Pathology master’s degrees in North Carolina.
Key features
The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) at Appalachian State gives you the skills to work as specialists who prevent, evaluate, and manage human communication disorders. Students who complete the program get the competencies needed for American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) certification and state licensure requirements.
App State’s Communication Disorders Clinic makes it different from other speech pathology programs. This nonprofit clinic operates on campus within the Beaver College of Health Sciences’ Department of Rehabilitation Sciences. Students gain ground experience under practicing speech-language pathologists’ supervision.
The program boasts impressive educational outcomes:
- #1 ranking in North Carolina for SLP program quality
- Strong national recognition for value and educational quality
- A curriculum that blends clinical practice and research opportunities
The university also runs a special summer camp for adolescents who stutter—North Carolina’s only residential, intensive summer program of its kind. This innovative program started in summer 2023, thanks to a generous donation from alumnus Dr. Ed Rankin and his wife, Thuy Le.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- 85% acceptance rate makes it available to more students than other programs
- Strong financial support with 75% of students getting aid
- Ranks #1 for both value and quality among SLP master’s programs in NC
- Ground clinical experience through the on-campus Communication Disorders Clinic
- Students can earn ASHA certification and state licensure after graduation
- Special clinical opportunities like the stuttering therapy camp
Cons:
- Out-of-state students pay higher tuition
- Program costs have gone up over the last several years
- Boone’s smaller size might limit some external clinical opportunities
- Program completion timeframe details are scarce
- Students might need to move to Boone for full program participation
Pricing and financial aid
Your residency status affects tuition at Appalachian State. Here’s what graduate students can expect to pay in 2024-2025:
In-state residents (half-time enrollment of 6 credit hours):
- Tuition and fees: $5,954 annually
- Total cost: $23,842 (includes housing, books, transportation)
Out-of-state residents (half-time enrollment):
- Tuition and fees: $17,068 annually
- Total cost: $35,606 (includes housing, books, transportation)
Full-time graduate students (9+ credit hours) pay $4,305 per semester for NC residents and $12,185 for non-residents.
The university calculates financial need by subtracting your Student Aid Index (SAI) from the Cost of Attendance (COA). The SAI comes from your FAFSA results. Most students get help with costs – 75% receive some form of aid. This support has helped make Appalachian State the #1 value for Speech-Language Pathology master’s degrees in North Carolina.
Students can get financial help through:
- Traditional federal and state aid based on FAFSA results
- Merit-based scholarships
- Graduate assistantships
- Work-study opportunities
The university also accounts for varying student expenses like off-campus housing, transportation, and personal costs.
Best for
The speech pathology program at Appalachian State fits perfectly if you:
- Want value for money – It’s #1 for value in North Carolina
- Need an accessible program – The 85% acceptance rate makes it easier to get in
- Live in North Carolina – You’ll save money with in-state tuition
- Need financial help – 75% of students get aid
- Learn best by doing – Practice at the on-campus Communication Disorders Clinic
- Want specialized training – Like the unique stuttering therapy camp
- Love mountain settings – Study in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone
Appalachian State University gives you a balanced approach to speech language pathology in North Carolina. The program combines quality education with affordable costs. High rankings, clinical opportunities, and good acceptance rates make it attractive if you want value without sacrificing quality. The university’s steadfast dedication to financial support and first-rate education makes App State an excellent choice for future speech-language pathologists.
5. Western Carolina University
Western Carolina University (WCU) sits in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. The university’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program stands out among other speech pathology programs because of its excellent value and student outcomes.
Key features
WCU’s program ranks #2 in Best Value Communication Science Schools for a Master’s in North Carolina. The program also holds the #1 spot in Best General Communication Sciences & Disorders Master’s Degree Schools in North Carolina. Students complete 63 credit hours and achieve high Praxis pass rates.
The program offers two academic paths:
- Traditional Track: This track works best if you have a bachelor’s degree in CSD or have finished at least 4 of 6 ASHA foundational courses. Students graduate in spring after 5 semesters.
- Leveler Track: This complete track fits students with a bachelor’s degree in another field who have completed 0-2 ASHA foundational courses. Students graduate in fall after 7 semesters.
The program accepts only 30 students per cohort to ensure customized attention. Students get clinical experience at various sites including skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, private practices, and schools.
Western Carolina pros and cons
Pros:
- Great value with competitive tuition rates
- Small class size of 30 students for customized learning
- Clinical placements in various settings
- Access to scholarships, graduate assistantships, and tuition remissions
- Experience with unique rural Appalachian population
- Strong community focus with service opportunities
Cons:
- Tough admission process
- Full-time program needs serious commitment
- Only 30 spots available each year
- Out-of-state students pay more
- Location might not suit urban-minded students
- Students may need to relocate
Pricing and financial aid
Tuition costs vary based on where you live:
In-State Graduate Students:
- Tuition and fees: $5,362.04 per semester (full-time)
- MS in Communication Sciences & Disorders: $5,962.04 per semester
Out-of-State Graduate Students:
- Tuition and fees: $10,721.54 per semester (full-time)
- MS in Communication Sciences & Disorders: $11,321.54 per semester
These rates include a $1,396.54 Graduate Value Plan Health Insurance Fee. Students can waive this fee with proof of coverage.
WCU makes education affordable – 86% of students get financial aid. Financial support options include:
- Graduate assistantships for 10-20 hours weekly
- In-state and out-of-state tuition remissions
- Forgivable Education Loans for Service
- Various scholarships (apply by August 1)
- Graduate Excellence Awards worth $2,500 to $5,000 yearly
Best for
WCU’s speech language pathology program works best for:
- Value-conscious students – Ranks #2 for value in North Carolina
- Students wanting individual attention – Small groups of 30 students
- Rural healthcare fans – Work with Appalachian populations
- Students needing financial help – 86% get aid
- Career-focused learners – Strong job placement and hands-on training
- North Carolina residents – Lower in-state tuition rates
WCU’s mountain setting creates a unique environment to study speech pathology in NC. Students get quality education, diverse clinical experience, and affordable tuition rates, making it an excellent choice for future speech-language pathologists.
6. North Carolina Central University
North Carolina Central University stands out among with its specialized training and steadfast dedication to serving students from different backgrounds. NCCU, a historically black university, creates a supportive learning environment that sets it apart from other institutions.
Key features
The university’s Master of Science in speech-language pathology program runs full-time on campus with accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Students learn to provide preventative, diagnostic, and rehabilitative services to people with communication disorders.
The NCCU Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic helps students gain hands-on experience by providing services to people of all ages, including bilingual evaluations and treatment. Students who have completed prerequisites can finish the 60-credit program in 5-6 semesters, while others might need 7-8 semesters.
The program’s bilingual specialization combines focused coursework with practical training to help multilingual individuals who have communication disorders.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Expert professors and an on-site clinic that provides real-world experience
- Small teaching environment with individual attention
- Strong departmental support with balanced student/instructor ratios
- Evening classes that work well for employed students
- Respected program where 79% of students report better career outcomes
Cons:
- Funding levels are nowhere near other programs
- Reviews mention limited research facilities
- Student feedback about program quality varies
Pricing and financial aid
Students pay around $19,578 in annual tuition at NCCU. The university provides several financial aid options:
Full graduate assistantships pay $4,000 per semester, while half assistantships offer $2,000. Students need a 3.0 GPA and full-time enrollment to qualify. Graduate Tuition Awards help NC residents cover in-state tuition, and Graduate Tuition Remission reduces out-of-state rates to in-state levels.
Students can also access scholarships, federal grants, state-based aid, and loans.
Best for
NCCU’s speech pathology program works best for:
- Students who prefer smaller classes and one-on-one education
- People interested in bilingual specialization and diverse communities
- Professionals who need evening class options
- Those who value hands-on clinical experience
- Adult students looking for supportive faculty
Choose a North Carolina SLP Program Today
Your future career success depends on picking the right speech pathology program. North Carolina’s six top-rated SLP Masters Programs provide excellent paths to a profession that balances meaningful patient care with financial stability. Speech therapists earn nearly $93,000 yearly, and job market data shows 25% growth over the next decade. This makes your educational investment worthwhile.
These programs boast impressive stats – 98.5% completion rates, 100% Praxis exam pass rates, and 98% employment after graduation. Each program has its unique strengths. UNC Chapel Hill excels in research and medical settings preparation. East Carolina University gives you flexibility with both campus and distance education options. UNC Greensboro stands out by offering traditional and fully online pathways. Appalachian State University provides great value and unique clinical opportunities through their stuttering therapy camp. Western Carolina University’s small cohort sizes and rural healthcare focus make it special. North Carolina Central University excels at bilingual training and serves students of all backgrounds.
Program requirements vary quite a bit. UNC Chapel Hill has a competitive 20% acceptance rate, while Appalachian State accepts 85% of applicants. Tuition costs swing between in-state and out-of-state rates. Students can find substantial financial help at all programs, with 60-86% receiving aid based on their chosen school.
Your career goals, budget, and preferred learning style will determine the best program for you. North Carolina’s speech pathology programs cater to different interests – from research to flexible learning formats, specialized clinical work, or cultural diversity. These six programs are solid investments that combine educational excellence, strong job prospects, and meaningful career opportunities.