13 Top SLP Programs in Pennsylvania: 2025-2026 Student Guide

Want to pursue SLP programs in Pennsylvania? A career in speech-language pathology offers amazing growth potential and financial benefits. Speech-language pathologists in the Keystone State make $88,790 per year on average, or $42.69 per hour. The top performers in the field can earn up to $121,950 annually.

Pennsylvania’s job market looks bright for SLP program graduates. SLP jobs in the state should grow by 27% over the next decade. This growth rate surpasses most other careers by a lot. The national outlook seems even better, with a projected 29% growth from 2020 to 2030. Pennsylvania alone expects to create about 580 job openings each year.

These speech language pathology graduate programs in Pennsylvania stand out because of their proven success. The state has 16 ASHA-accredited schools with impressive results. To name just one example, see how some programs achieve 99-100% Praxis exam pass rates and almost perfect employment rates within a year after graduation. SLP salaries in Pennsylvania have also jumped 10% between 2019 and 2023, showing strong growth potential.

This guide looks at Pennsylvania’s 13 best-rated SLP programs to help you find the right fit for your career goals, learning preferences, and budget. You’ll find options that match your needs, whether you need online flexibility, research opportunities, or specialized training.

Best for Online Flexibility: Temple University

Temple University stands out among SLP programs in Pennsylvania. The program offers a perfect mix of online flexibility and hands-on clinical experience. Students can pursue their master’s in Speech, Language and Hearing Science through a format that combines academic excellence with practical training.

Online program features

Temple’s MA program gives you scheduling flexibility while providing detailed training. Students with a bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders can complete the degree in two years (six terms including two summer sessions). Those without this background need three years (eight terms including two summer sessions). This setup lets you plan your studies and move through the program quickly. The program welcomes students from different educational backgrounds with a 72% acceptance rate.

Clinical training

Clinical education is the life-blood of Temple’s approach to SLP education. Students get experience through supervised field placements at more than 80 clinical affiliate sites in the Philadelphia region. These sites include early intervention agencies, rehabilitation hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and schools. The university’s Speech-Language-Hearing Center provides valuable on-campus clinical experience with faculty supervision. Students need to complete 25 hours of guided observation before they start clinical practicum. This ensures they are ready to work with clients directly.

Pricing and financial aid

Temple’s SLP master’s program costs between $45,845 and $47,260. The tuition varies for Pennsylvania residents and out-of-state students. About 91% of students get some type of financial help. The university provides several support options. These include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, internships, and externships with potential stipends and tuition benefits. Students must keep a minimum 3.25 GPA to qualify for assistantships.

Best fit for students

Temple’s program suits students who want flexibility without giving up clinical excellence. The program teaches you to work with ethnically diverse populations of all ages. You’ll learn to treat various disorders including stuttering, dysphagia, hearing disorders, and language disorders. Graduates ended up working in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, early intervention programs, and private practices. The program’s mix of theory and hands-on experience works best for students who like structured flexibility in their education.

Best for Accelerated Path: Duquesne University

Duquesne University stands out among Pennsylvania’s SLP programs. The university leads the way with its innovative five-year combined degree path to certification.

Accelerated program overview

Duquesne takes pride in being the first university nationwide to guarantee both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. Students who meet academic requirements can complete both degrees through this program. The optimized structure has three years in the pre-professional phase and two years in the professional phase. Students move naturally to the graduate phase without GRE requirements or reapplication. The results speak for themselves – the program boasts a perfect 100% completion rate in the last three years.

Clinical experience

Students gain experience through six detailed semesters of clinical practice. Their clinical training starts on campus and expands to externship placements across Pittsburgh during the fifth year. The final summer semester lets students train anywhere in the country. This hands-on experience helps achieve the program’s remarkable 100% pass rate on the national ASHA examination.

Pricing and scholarships

The Speech-Language Pathology master’s program tuition costs $1,895 per credit for 2025-2026. Duquesne helps students manage this investment through several financial aid options. Graduate schools determine assistantships individually. Students can access scholarships, Unsubsidized Stafford Loans up to $20,500 yearly, Graduate PLUS Loans, and campus jobs. Many students also get help through employer tuition reimbursement programs.

Duquesne University ideal student profile

This fast-track program works best for driven students who want to enter the profession quickly. Successful candidates need a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Students excel when they balance academics with campus life. Current student Janelle Gans shows this balance perfectly. She combines her SLP degree and special education minor with active roles in Student Government Association, Best Buddies, NSSLHA, and sorority life. Alumni success stories like Melissa Farrow’s prove the program’s value. Her Duquesne education led to specialty certification in swallowing disorders, research projects, conference presentations, and her own company.

Best for Research Opportunities: University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh ranks #3 nationally among speech pathology programs in PA, according to U.S. News & World Report. This makes it a top choice for SLPs who want to pursue research.

Research strengths

Pitt’s Department of Communication Science and Disorders stands out with its advanced research laboratories where faculty members cooperate with other disciplines. Their team-based scientific work creates innovative treatments that help improve patient outcomes. Students at both undergraduate and graduate levels can join faculty research labs through paid positions or academic study opportunities. Undergraduates can get up to $1,000 through the SHRS Undergraduate Student Summer Research Award. PhD students have access to up to $7,500 from the SHRS Doctoral Student Award. Many students who gain hands-on research experience become published co-authors in peer-reviewed journals.

Clinical placements

Pitt takes a unique approach to clinical education with its community-based model. Students complete their practicum in settings of all types:

• Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
• Outpatient and private practices
• Specialized clinics (ALS, AAC, voice centers)
• Schools and early intervention services

Students start their clinical experiences right away. They progress from guided observation (25 hours minimum) to independent practice. While placements stay within the Pittsburgh region, students should be ready to travel up to one hour to reach clinical sites.

Tuition and aid

The SLP program’s flat rate for Fall 2025 is $14,300 per term for Pennsylvania residents. Students can access several financial aid options. The Carol E. Lang and Howard N. Lang Award helps residents from specific Pennsylvania counties. Academic achievers can get the Emeritus Award, while the Bernard Rousseau Student Resource Fund supports underrepresented groups. The LEND Center provides stipends to leadership trainees.

Who it’s best for

Students who love evidence-based practice and research-informed clinical work will thrive at Pitt. The program creates leaders for universities, hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Students develop strong problem-solving skills that work in any discipline within the SLP scope of practice. The program offers great opportunities especially when you have research interests in aphasia, acquired brain injuries, or augmentative communication.

Best for Affordability: PennWest University

PennWest University at Clarion ranks #3 among Best Value Speech-Language Pathology Schools in Pennsylvania and offers an economical option for students looking for speech pathology programs in PA.

Cost breakdown

Students find excellent value at Clarion University compared to other speech language pathology graduate programs. In-state students pay a total annual cost of about $28,237.16. This amount covers $9,612 for tuition, $4,425.16 for fees, plus housing and meal expenses. Out-of-state students can expect to pay $34,161.50 yearly. Pennsylvania residents pay $534 per credit while non-residents pay $801. These rates offer substantial savings compared to private institutions with similar programs.

Clinical experience

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders runs both undergraduate and graduate programs. Students in the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program need 38 credit hours of core coursework and 12 hours of externship experiences. Graduates earn three key credentials: ASHA certification, a speech-language pathology practice license, and Pennsylvania teacher certification. The program’s strong clinical focus prepares students to work effectively in many different settings.

Financial aid options

The university’s commitment to affordability shows in its numbers. 99% of new freshmen get some type of financial help. Students receive an average aid package of $6,623. New students often benefit from scholarships, with 80% receiving an average of $3,350 each. Federal grants help 91% of freshman students with average awards of $2,797. Middle-income families ($48,000-$75,000) typically receive $7,343 in assistance.

Student fit

The university welcomes students from all backgrounds with its high 99% acceptance rate. Budget-conscious learners get complete training without heavy debt burdens. Students grow professionally through campus organizations focused on speech and communication advocacy. This program suits students who want quality education at reasonable costs.

Best for Job Placement: La Salle University

La Salle University stands out among speech pathology programs in PA because of its exceptional graduate employment outcomes and detailed clinical preparation.

Job placement stats

The program’s success metrics tell a compelling story about its quality. Graduates have achieved an impressive 99% job placement rate, which beats industry averages by a lot. Students have managed to keep a perfect 100% pass rate on the Praxis exam in the last three years, while the national average hovers between 75-85%. Yes, it is worth noting that this excellence spans more than a decade, as MS graduates have scored above 98% on first-attempt Praxis tests for 12 straight years.

Clinical training

The life-blood of La Salle’s success comes from its extensive clinical network. The program has built mutually beneficial alliances with more than 250 schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation facilities across the greater Philadelphia region. Students gain experience at:

• Acute-care hospitals (pediatric and adult)
• Rehabilitation hospitals
• Specialized schools
• Elementary through high schools in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware

Students start their supervised clinical experience at La Salle’s Speech-Language-Hearing Community Clinics. They learn diagnostic skills, report writing, and counseling techniques here.

Tuition and aid

The M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology program charges $1,080 per credit hour, plus a $125 practicum fee per course. Students can access federal loans, graduate assistantships, and scholarships. Financial aid packages help reduce costs, and net prices change based on family income. Families who earn $48,001-$75,000 pay average costs of $9,990.

Ideal candidates

Students looking for strong job prospects after graduation will find value in this program. Strong applications include personal essays and three recommendation letters. The program requires international students to meet TOEFL requirements. La Salle welcomes career-changers through their Pre-SLP program, even if they lack speech-language pathology backgrounds. The program’s mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience helps graduates excel in schools, hospitals, and private practices.

Best for Pediatric Focus: West Chester University

West Chester University has one of the best speech pathology programs in PA. The program specializes in child language development and helps students who are passionate about pediatric speech therapy.

Pediatric specialization

We designed this program for future pediatric specialists. The curriculum includes essential courses like Child Language Disorders I: 0 To 5 Years (SLP 511) and Child Language Disorders II: School Age – Adolescent (SLP 512). Students also take SLP 570 (School Language/Speech/Hearing Programs) to prepare for educational settings. The program teaches prevention, identification, and intervention strategies that focus on cultural sensitivity and team collaboration.

Clinical experience

Students train at WCU’s Speech and Hearing Clinic. The facility has six sound-treated therapy rooms, two larger therapy rooms (one each for children and adults), and observation corridors. Graduate Clinical Practicum courses give students hands-on experience with 27 credit hours in settings of all types. The program’s roots go back to 1923 when West Chester Normal School started one of the country’s first speech clinics. Students now benefit from this exceptional clinical heritage.

Pricing and aid

West Chester provides great value with in-state tuition at $674 per credit and out-of-state at $944 per credit. Students can expect to pay between $42,462 (in-state) and $59,472 (out-of-state) for the two-year program. These rates are lower than nearby schools like Temple ($68,735), University of Delaware ($68,400), and Widener University ($67,536). About 59% of first-year students get need-based financial aid.

Who it’s best for

This program fits perfectly for students who want to work with children in educational settings. The program’s 100% employment rate for graduates shows strong job prospects. Students interested in bilingual speech pathology can take the Bilingual Emphasis Course Sequence to help English language learners.

Best for Rural Access: Bloomsburg University

Bloomsburg University stands out among PA speech pathology programs for students who want to serve rural communities. This institution provides significant speech-language pathology services to underserved populations from its central Pennsylvania location.

Rural outreach

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at Bloomsburg prepares graduates to work in a variety of professional settings. We focused on areas where speech therapy services are limited. Students leverage the university’s prime location to learn about rural healthcare environments where speech-language pathologists are in high demand.

Clinical training

The clinical education at Bloomsburg follows a detailed structure:

• Students begin with introductory clinical experience through on-campus coursework
• During Spring semester, they work with clients at the Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic while simultaneously gaining experience at Central Columbia School District
• Second-year students transition to full-time clinical externships, celebrated through a formal White Coat ceremony
• Final semesters include field experiences that can be completed anywhere in the country

Tuition and aid

The total program cost ranges from $32,978 to $33,414. A remarkable 89% of students receive some form of financial assistance. The program has an exceptionally high acceptance rate of 90% from 6,466 applicants. These factors make it more available than many similar programs.

Student profile

Recent graduates show a predominantly homogeneous population, with 97% identifying as white. The program maintains strong completion rates with 31 students receiving their master’s degrees in a recent academic year. Students who value practical experience in rural and underserved settings will find this program ideal, especially when you have a five-day week commitment.

Best for Bilingual SLP Training: Misericordia University

Misericordia University stands out among speech pathology programs in PA with its groundbreaking bilingual training options and flexible educational pathways.

Bilingual program

The university runs the first accredited fully online master’s SLP program in Pennsylvania. Students can attend synchronous courses and access recordings when needed. This setup works well for both full-time students and professionals advancing their careers. Students can earn both BS in Health Sciences and MS in Speech-Language Pathology degrees through an innovative 5-year program after completing all requirements. Students without communication disorders background can take prerequisite courses at affordable Expressway tuition rates.

Clinical experience

The clinical training uses a step-by-step approach that emphasizes critical thinking and evidence-based practice. Students complete their clinical practicum requirements locally or join an on-campus summer clinical residency with reduced housing costs. This thorough preparation shows remarkable results—a 100% Praxis SLP pass rate for 2024 and 94.12% pass rate from 2008-2023.

Pricing and aid

The program maintains competitive tuition rates with personalized financial support. Each student works with their assigned financial aid counselor. The university provides several aid options to keep education affordable.

Best fit

The program works best for students who value cultural sensitivity and evidence-based practice. Students graduate as critical thinkers who understand research. They’re ready to work in healthcare and educational settings of all types.

Best for Adult Neurogenic Disorders: Salus University

Salus University stands out among PA speech pathology programs by creating specialists in adult neurogenic communication disorders. The program offers dedicated coursework that focuses on these complex conditions.

Neurogenic focus

The curriculum emphasizes adult language disorders and covers traumatic brain injury, dementias, and right hemisphere injury. Students learn to use formal and informal assessment tools and intervention strategies for cognitive-linguistic disorders. Faculty member Alison Finkelstein brings over 30 years of experience treating adults with neurogenic communication and swallowing disorders. Her expertise has led to specialized treatment groups that include an Aphasia Support Group and The LOUD Crowd if you have Parkinson’s disease.

Clinical training

The Speech-Language Institute (SLI) on the Elkins Park campus hosts all clinical education. This modern facility provides complete services such as:

• Speech, voice, and fluency therapy
• Language intervention
• Swallowing and feeding treatment
• Memory and cognitive skills training

Students work with ASHA-certified licensed speech-language pathologists and get great hands-on experience.

Tuition and aid

The program costs $33,530 for the 2024-2025 academic year. You’ll need to pay additional student services fees, laboratory fees ($105/term), and technology fees ($180/term). Several financial aid options can help with these costs.

Ideal student

The program gives you a chance to work with students from optometry, audiology, physician assistant, and other health programs. This creates a point of view you won’t find in many other SLP programs.

Best for Community Engagement: Marywood University

Marywood University puts strong emphasis on community service through its speech pathology programs in PA. The university provides extensive clinical outreach and maintains high academic standards.

Community programs

Marywood’s Speech/Language and Audiology Clinic runs on active community involvement. The clinic provides diagnostic and therapeutic services to people across all age groups. The university’s Music Therapy Clinic serves people with mental and physical challenges. The Psychological Services Center provides quality mental health services at low cost and helps train students. These programs work together to deliver detailed community care.

Clinical experience

Students develop practical skills in a modern facility that features six therapy rooms, two diagnostic rooms, and advanced monitoring equipment. Each undergraduate and graduate clinician works with 1-4 clients under the guidance of ASHA-certified, PA licensed speech-language pathologists. The clinic helps 65-70 clients each semester, with ages ranging from 3 to over 70 years. This wide range of experience prepares students well for different career paths after graduation.

Pricing and aid

Graduate tuition costs $925 per credit plus a $40 per credit general fee. Students receive substantial financial support—82% of applicants receive admission, and every student gets some form of financial aid. Housing starts at $11,495 per year, and meal plans begin at $7,700.

Student fit

Marywood looks for motivated students who value both academic success and community service. The five-year program naturally progresses from undergraduate to graduate studies, making it perfect for focused students. Students excel in Marywood’s supportive environment where hands-on experience strengthens their theoretical knowledge.

Best for Private College Experience: Lebanon Valley College

Lebanon Valley College offers an intimate private education through its speech pathology programs in PA. Students move naturally from undergraduate to graduate studies in a 3+2 program structure.

Private college benefits

LVC makes student experience its life-blood through individualized education. The Communication Sciences & Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology Program provides close mentorship in a supportive environment. We focused on building analytical decision-making skills through reflective practice and evidence-based approaches. The program’s attention to detail shows in its outcomes—100% of graduates pass the Praxis Exam in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.

Clinical training

The on-campus Center for Speech, Language, and Hearing Disorders stands at the heart of your clinical experience. This free clinic serves children and adults with communication and swallowing disorders. You will review and treat patients under direct supervision of ASHA-certified speech-language pathologists. Your second year includes required school and medical placements.

Tuition and aid

The 2025-26 academic year costs $52,120 in tuition with $1,520 in fees. Financial support remains strong—100% of the 2025 incoming class received financial assistance. The college gives over $52 million in aid each year.

Who it’s best for

Students thrive here when they want a warm, personal setting with faculty connections from their first semester. The program provides guaranteed clinical placements and detailed preparation to launch your professional practice.

Best for Transfer Students: East Stroudsburg University

East Stroudsburg University stands out as a top choice for transfer students looking at speech pathology programs in PA. The university offers clear pathways and student-friendly transfer policies.

Transfer-friendly policies

Students need at least 12 attempted college credits with a 2.00 cumulative GPA to get admitted. The Communication Sciences and Disorders program sets a higher bar with a 3.20 GPA requirement. Graduate students can bring up to 6 graduate semester hours from other ASHA-accredited programs that match ESU degree requirements. Students with a 3.0 cumulative quality point average can choose CSD as their major.

Clinical training

The campus clinic comes equipped with 12 therapy rooms where families and supervisors can observe sessions. Students must complete three practicum experiences at the ESU Speech and Hearing Center plus two different off-campus externships. The strong clinical network helps students prepare thoroughly before they start their careers.

Tuition and aid

Pennsylvania residents pay $577 per credit while non-residents pay $849. Students can apply for merit-based graduate assistantships to help with costs.

Best fit

The program delivers results with 100% completion, Praxis exam pass, and employment rates. Their National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association chapter earned recognition both on campus and nationally for serving the community.

Best for Undergraduate to Graduate Pipeline: Penn State

Penn State leads the way as a top choice for students who want to pursue speech pathology programs in PA. Students can progress naturally from undergraduate to graduate studies in a well-laid-out educational journey.

Pipeline overview

The Master of Science program spans five full-time semesters and blends academic coursework with practical clinical experiences. The structured curriculum helps you become skilled at assessment, diagnosis, and treatment techniques for speech, language, voice, swallowing, and hearing disorders at every life stage. Your degree will qualify you for ASHA certification, Pennsylvania state licensure, and Pennsylvania Instructional Level I certification – a must-have for public school positions.

Clinical experience

Your clinical education starts right away and runs throughout your program. Students must complete at least 400 clock hours of supervised clinical practicum before graduating. The journey begins with simulated cases in the cutting-edge Simulation Lab. Students then move to the on-campus clinic, work with community partners, and finish with two off-campus externships. Each student’s clinical path becomes unique through these varied experiences.

Tuition and aid

The department provides funding to about 50% of each new class. Every admitted student gets automatic consideration for graduate assistantships that cover tuition, monthly stipends, and health insurance. These roles usually need 20 hours per week in research labs.

Ideal student

The program attracts students who want to build strong theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills. Students excel here when they show interest in research and value clinical ethics and teamwork across disciplines.

Choose a Pennsylvania SLP Program

Your choice among Pennsylvania’s top-rated SLP programs will depend on your career goals, priorities, and budget. These institutions shine in different ways. Temple stands out with its exceptional online flexibility. Duquesne helps you get certified faster. The University of Pittsburgh’s research opportunities are a big draw. Students looking for affordable quality education turn to Clarion University. La Salle University boasts almost perfect job placement rates.

These Pennsylvania programs have an impressive track record. Their Praxis exam pass rates reach 99-100%, and their job placement statistics are just as remarkable. Students can choose specialized tracks based on their interests – from pediatric therapy to adult neurogenic disorders or bilingual service delivery.

Pennsylvania’s speech-language pathology field is booming. Job growth is expected to substantially outpace other professions. The 27% projected increase means about 580 new jobs open up each year statewide. This ensures graduates have plenty of opportunities. The field pays well too. Average salaries are close to $89,000 yearly, and top performers earn more than $120,000. This makes the educational investment worthwhile.

These 13 programs give you options that match your style. You might want a traditional campus experience or need online flexibility. Some programs focus on research while others emphasize community work. The key is to look at location, program structure, clinical placements, and specialization options along with your budget.

These schools prepare you to work with patients of all backgrounds in various settings – from schools and hospitals to rehabilitation centers and private practices. Any program you pick from this list will prepare you well. You’ll be ready to change lives while enjoying job security and competitive pay in this rewarding field.