5 Best Speech Pathology Programs in Utah: 2026 MSLP Guide
Utah has only 4 Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) accredited MS-SLP programs, but each one offers a great educational path. These programs give aspiring speech-language pathologists distinct benefits that set them apart.
Students who want to become speech language pathologists can choose from different program structures. Some offer intensive 5-semester tracks that need 55 credit hours, while others provide well-laid-out two-year programs across six semesters with 57-58 total hours. The programs also include hybrid formats that let students finish their coursework and externships almost anywhere in the country. This flexibility helps students meet their utah slp license requirements.
The clinical opportunities these programs provide are extensive. To cite an instance, one university has partnerships with over 200 clinical sites across the nation. Students can find externship placements that match their career goals and preferred settings. These practical experiences work alongside the complete academic coursework, which combines classroom learning with thorough clinical training.
This guide walks you through Utah’s top speech pathology programs. It covers admission requirements and unique features that could make a program perfect for your educational trip, whether you’re starting your research or getting ready to apply.
1. Utah State University – MA/MS in Speech-Language Pathology
Utah State University stands at the vanguard of speech pathology education with its intensive yet rewarding Master’s program. Students get ready to work in a variety of clinical practice environments. The program takes pride in producing skilled speech-language pathologists who can tackle communication and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages.
Program overview
Utah State University offers both Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS) degrees in Speech-Language Pathology. The main difference lies in the MS degree’s research component requirement, while MA students take a detailed examination. Students might qualify for reduced tuition rates through the Western Regional Graduate Exchange program (WRGP).
The program runs for six semesters of full-time study over two calendar years. Your first semester starts in early June with an intensive summer schedule. Students need to complete 57-58 total credit hours during this time. These hours split between 32-33 credits of academic coursework and 25 credits of clinical experience.
USU’s speech-language pathology program equips you to work with people of all ages who face developmental or neurological disorders related to:
- Articulation, fluency, and voice disorders
- Language development challenges
- Swallowing difficulties
- Communication needs that need boosting
- Cognitive or social aspects of communication
Students can apply for national certification after graduating and completing a clinical fellowship year, along with Utah state licensure.
Clinical practicum opportunities
Clinical training at USU gives students hands-on experiences that are vital for developing professional skills. Students train primarily at the Speech and Language Clinic in the Sorenson Legacy Foundation Center for Clinical Excellence. This state-of-the-art interprofessional facility serves people throughout their lives.
Students participate in various educational, medical, and early intervention externships throughout Utah and beyond. Before starting clinical practicum, students must show:
- A current passed background check
- Complete and updated immunizations (T-dap, TB, Varicella, Hepatitis B, MMR)
- Current personal health insurance coverage
- CPR certification
- Verification of 25 hours of guided observation by an ASHA-CCC SLP or Audiologist
Graduate students must sign up for specific clinical courses (COMD 6100, 4100, 6200, 6300) and keep up with the department’s GPA requirements during each practicum semester. Students can complete off-campus practicums only at pre-approved sites with supervisors vetted by the externship coordinator.
Speech-language technicians working in Utah might complete the program as Outreach students if they have agreements from their school districts.
Coursework structure
The program follows a well-laid-out sequence that balances theory with practice. Students start with foundation courses like Neural Bases of Communication and Birth to Five Language Intervention in their first semester.
Later semesters include specialized subjects like Motor Speech Disorders, Adult Language Disorders, Dysphagia, and Disorders of Fluency/Stuttering. Final semesters combine professional practice coursework with intensive clinical experiences.
The final academic experience is different for MA and MS students:
- MS students typically complete a Plan B thesis project (occasionally Plan A)
- MA students follow Plan C, which ends with a detailed examination
Students take the detailed examination in their final semester after finishing academic coursework and meeting all KASA academic competencies. This 2-hour closed book proctored online examination includes multiple-choice questions from the graduate curriculum. Students need 80% to pass.
MS degree students work closely with a major professor to pick a topic and plan their thesis. A three-member supervisory committee guides their research. This path lets students learn more about a specific area while developing research and professional writing skills.
Admissions requirements
USU’s Speech-Language Pathology master’s program needs applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in Communicative Disorders or equivalent undergraduate prerequisite courses from USU or another accredited university.
ASHA certification requires coursework in statistics, biological science, physical science, and social/behavioral science. The program has a high acceptance rate of 93%, and 89% of students get financial aid.
New groups start in summer, with applications usually due by January 15th. Students need to submit:
- A completed online application with a $55 application fee
- A minimum 3.0 GPA on their last 60 semester or 90 quarter credits
- Transcripts from all college/university credits
- Three letters of recommendation
Accreditation and licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits USU’s master’s programs in speech-language pathology, both residential and distance education. This accreditation means your degree meets educational requirements for national certification and state licensure.
Graduates must pass the Praxis® Examination in Speech-Language Pathology and finish a 36-week Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) under ASHA-certified supervision. Then they can apply for full licensure through Utah’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).
The program follows Utah Speech-Language Pathology Professional and Educational Standards and prepares students for Utah licensure. Requirements vary significantly across jurisdictions. Students planning to practice outside Utah should check relevant state licensing laws and discuss additional requirements with their graduate advisor.
Unique features
USU’s speech-language pathology program costs between $32,452 and $33,216, making it one of Utah’s more affordable options.
The program offers a special Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) emphasis. This innovative training program helps students work with young children who have hearing loss and their families. Students learn specialized skills that many clinical settings value through this interdisciplinary approach.
There’s another reason the program stands out – its Outreach graduate program. This program helps address the shortage of school-based SLPs in rural or underserved areas of Utah. Current speech-language technicians can keep their jobs while earning their master’s degree, which creates a practical solution for working professionals.
The program’s location in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services ranks in the top 2% of all graduate colleges of education. This prestigious setting gives students excellent resources and recognition that can help their careers.
2. University of Utah – MS in Speech-Language Pathology
The University of Utah runs one of Utah’s best speech pathology programs. Students get excellent clinical training and learn evidence-based practices. Let’s look at what makes this program special and why it might be right for you.
Program overview
The Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders gives students two degree choices – Master of Science (MS) and Master of Arts (MA) in speech-language pathology. The main difference? MA students need proficiency in an approved foreign language, while MS students don’t. Students complete this intensive program in five semesters – about one year and nine months of full-time study with clinical training.
Students need 55 credit hours to graduate. This includes 36 hours of classroom work and 19 hours of clinical practice. The program builds expertise step by step and prepares students to work with patients in many settings.
Getting in isn’t easy. A recent cycle saw 105 admission offers out of 166 applications. Each class has about 40 students. This size lets students learn together and build professional connections.
Clinical practicum opportunities
Students start their hands-on training at the University of Utah Health’s Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic. This community clinic stays open during finals week and semester breaks. Regular practice helps students develop solid clinical skills.
New students usually work with 3-5 patients and spend 4-6 hours with clients each week. More challenging cases come as students advance through the program.
Students must log 150-175 clinical hours on campus. They get the rest of their required 375 hours through at least two externships. This mix gives students broad experience with different patients and settings.
Before starting clinical work, students need:
- University of Utah Health immunization records
- Background checks
- CPR certification
- 25 observation hours
Coursework structure
The program teaches theory and practical skills in a planned sequence. First fall semester courses include:
- Articulation & Phonology (3 credits)
- Developmental Language Disorders in Young Children (3 credits)
- Aphasia (3 credits)
- Language & Learning Disorders in School-Age Children (3 credits)
- Clinical Practicum (1 credit)
Later semesters cover more specialized topics:
- Voice Disorders and Fluency Disorders (spring)
- Cross-Cultural Competency and Counseling in CSD (summer)
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Motor Speech Disorders (second fall)
- Swallowing Disorders and Medical Management Issues (second fall)
Research-minded students can choose a thesis track with 6 thesis credits (CSD 6970). Others can pick the non-thesis option, which ends with a detailed exam covering the field.
Admissions requirements
This competitive program needs careful planning to get in. Students must apply through CSDCAS (Centralized Application Service for Communication Sciences & Disorders programs) and the University of Utah.
Applications are due January 4th – CSDCAS by 11:59 pm Eastern Time and University applications by 11:59 pm Mountain Time. Watch those time zones to avoid last-minute problems.
Your application needs:
- GRE scores
- Three recommendation letters (faculty letters preferred)
- A statement of purpose
- A 2-5 page original writing sample
- Unofficial transcripts uploaded to CSDCAS
International students who aren’t native English speakers need TOEFL scores (minimum 80 on internet-based test) or IELTS scores (at least 6.5).
The committee looks at everything – grades, recommendations, personal statement, and other factors that show you can succeed.
Accreditation and licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) has accredited this Master’s program. Current accreditation runs from 2020 to 2028, with the next review in August 2027.
This accreditation matters because it meets educational requirements for professional licenses in most states. In spite of that, states have different rules. Some want extra things like:
- Tests after graduation
- Supervised clinical work
- Fees for applications and licenses
- Background checks
- Reference checks
- Fingerprints
The program meets ASHA certification requirements, which many states use to check if applicants qualify for licenses.
Unique features
This program excels in several ways. Students can study abroad and learn how communication disorders affect different cultures.
The program has an active NSSLHA (National Student Speech Language Hearing Association) chapter. Students start building professional networks early.
Research is big here. The department gets federal funding to study:
- Augmentative/alternative communication
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Craniofacial anomalies
- Neurogenic speech and language disorders
- Voice disorders
Students who pick the thesis option can work on cutting-edge research.
The University of Utah’s Speech-Language Pathology program combines solid academics with lots of clinical practice. Graduates leave ready to help patients in many different settings.
3. Rocky Mountain University – MS in Communication Disorders
Rocky Mountain University excels among Utah’s speech pathology programs with its medical focus in the MS in Communication Disorders program. Students get specific preparation for medical settings while qualifying for all traditional speech-language pathology roles.
Program overview
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) offers a Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS MedSLP) as a residential, full-time program completed in 24 months. Students move through the curriculum together in a cohort model that creates a shared learning environment.
The program needs 66 credit hours split between academic coursework and clinical education to complete 375 practicum hours. Students spend six semesters balancing classroom learning with hands-on clinical work.
RMU’s MS MedSLP program emphasizes:
- Medical aspects of speech-language pathology
- Evidence-based practice principles
- Clinical research skills
- Interprofessional collaboration
Graduates can get their Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA and qualify for their utah slp license.
Clinical practicum opportunities
Students start their clinical education at RMU’s Center for Communication Disorders, a pro bono clinic serving vulnerable local community members. They work as student clinicians to build core skills while helping real patients.
RMU’s program shines with its nationwide externship network of over 200 clinical sites. The second year’s hybrid format lets students complete coursework and externships almost anywhere in the country. Students finish with three externships and three internships – valuable experience that prepares them for independent practice.
Clinical settings include:
- Hospitals and acute care facilities
- Rehabilitation centers
- Long-term acute care facilities
- Public and private schools
- Outpatient clinics
- Skilled nursing facilities
This range of settings helps students master multiple practice areas and work with different patient groups.
Coursework structure
RMU’s curriculum builds both basic and specialized knowledge. The academic program has these main parts:
- Core Courses (15 courses, 29 credits) – Cover basics like dysphagia, childhood language disorders, cognitive-communication disorders, and more
- Lab and Practicum Courses (6 courses, 12 credits) – Give supervised clinical experience in evaluating and treating communication and swallowing disorders
- Clinical Methodology Courses (6 courses, 11 credits) – Build clinical reasoning and intervention skills
- Capstone Courses (5 courses, 5 credits) – End with a research project that brings everything together
Evidence-based practice runs throughout the program. Students learn to make sound judgments about clinical research and put evidence-based methods into practice. The research component teaches students to develop key questions, search medical databases, evaluate evidence, and use findings in clinical work.
Admissions requirements
RMU’s program needs these qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution before starting
- 0 overall GPA (strongly recommended)
- 0 GPA in prerequisite and SLP-related courses with no grades below C
- Completed prerequisites through RMU’s Speech-Language Pathology Leveling courses or any higher education institution
The application steps are:
- Apply through Communication Science Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS)
- Submit required materials (official transcripts, resume/CV, statement of professional goals, three recommendation letters)
- Selected candidates join an interview with program introduction, group problem-solving, and faculty meetings
- Accepted students review and sign enrollment agreement and pay deposit
A recent cycle saw 154 applications with 51 admission offers for a class of 36 students.
Accreditation and licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits RMU’s MS MedSLP program. This accreditation runs 2022-2027, with review set for February 2026.
CAA accreditation shows the program meets high educational standards for professional certification. Graduates of this accredited program can:
- Apply for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (after clinical fellowship)
- Take national certification exams
- Apply for state licensure in Utah and beyond
ASHA standard compliance means graduates meet all requirements for their utah slp license.
Unique features
The sort of thing I love about RMU’s master in speech language pathology program is its medical focus. Students get ready for healthcare settings through medical models, pharmacology, bioethics training, and advanced skills for complex cases like tracheostomy and ventilator-dependent patients.
Other standout features include:
- On-site pro bono clinic offering real clinical experience early on
- Healthcare-focused Medical SLP curriculum
- Second-year hybrid format allowing nationwide externships
- Advanced training in healthcare settings and lifespan disorders
- Focus on instrumental assessment and treatment
- International perspective through study abroad options
Career-changers can take RMU’s Speech-Language Pathology Leveling courses (SLP-L) – an 18-credit online program with foundational coursework for those with non-Communication Sciences and Disorders degrees. Students who finish these courses with a 3.0+ GPA get priority interviews for the MS MedSLP program if they meet other requirements.
4. Brigham Young University – MS in Communication Disorders
Brigham Young University is known among Utah’s speech pathology programs with its faith-centered approach to speech-language pathology education. The program combines spiritual values with scientific rigor to create a unique learning environment for future speech-language pathologists.
Program overview
BYU’s Department of Communication Disorders offers a Master of Science degree that helps students address communication disorders throughout life. Students need 63 credit hours to complete this program – 37 credits of coursework, 20 credits of clinical practicum, and 6 credits of thesis work. The curriculum creates a perfect balance between academic knowledge and hands-on experience to develop both theoretical understanding and clinical skills.
The program focuses on Christlike service to improve communication and strengthen relationships while helping families in communities. The department aims to advance knowledge in science and clinical practice through research, teaching, and clinical service.
Clinical practicum opportunities
Students begin their clinical training at the on-campus Speech and Language Clinic in the Taylor Building. The first year involves a Fall/Winter/Spring clinical sequence. Students gain about 100-120 direct client contact hours during this time, which makes up roughly one-third of their required clinical experience.
The second year focuses on externship opportunities throughout the Wasatch Front area. Students accumulate the 400 clinical hours required by ASHA by graduation. Licensed speech-language pathologists who hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) and have completed supervision training supervise all clinical experiences.
Coursework structure
The curriculum has essential courses in various communication disorder areas, including:
- Research Methods
- Assessment & Diagnosis
- Early Child Language Intervention
- Swallowing Disorders
- Cognitive Communication Disorders
- Multicultural Issues in Speech-Language Pathology
- Voice and Resonance Disorders
- Fluency Disorders
Students must complete and defend a thesis project as part of their degree requirements. They also need to pass the ASHA Praxis examination in speech-language pathology before graduation to prove their readiness for professional practice.
Admissions requirements
Students can apply through the Graduate Studies portal until January 15th each year. BYU no longer asks for GRE scores.
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders/Communication Sciences and Disorders or complete equivalent “leveling-up” classes. The admissions team looks at each application as a whole, evaluating academic background, personal qualifications, volunteer and work experience, and three recommendation letters (at least two academic).
Recent data shows that out of 84 applicants, 21 enrolled – a 25% acceptance rate. Selected candidates get invitations to interview with department faculty.
Accreditation and licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited the Master’s program. This accreditation runs from 2023 through 2031, with the next review set for February 2030.
Graduates can apply for their Utah SLP license after passing the Praxis examination and finishing their Clinical Fellowship. While the program meets Utah’s educational requirements for professional licensure, requirements may vary in other states.
Unique features
The program’s religious foundation makes it special by adding values of service and compassion to the educational experience. Students must attend classes in person as there are no online or remote options.
The master’s in speech language pathology program costs between $14,428 and $15,080 total, and about 65% of students receive financial aid. The program successfully balances academic excellence with practical training to prepare students for treating various communication disorders after graduation.
5. University of St. Augustine – MS in Speech-Language Pathology
The University of St. Augustine offers a hybrid speech-language pathology program that combines online flexibility with hands-on clinical experiences. Students seeking speech pathology programs in Utah and beyond will find this blended approach practical and convenient.
Program overview
The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program blends online coursework with four in-person residency experiences. Students complete the program in just five trimesters (1 year, 8 months). The comprehensive curriculum requires 55 total credit hours. Students can choose from four campus locations: San Marcos, St. Augustine, Austin, and Dallas.
Clinical practicum opportunities
The clinical education consists of three trimesters of virtual clinical practica and two trimesters of on-site clinical experiences. Students develop practical skills in the Center for Innovative Clinical Practice through simulation activities. The program also lets students participate in a pro bono telehealth clinic that serves local communities.
Coursework structure
The five-trimester sequence includes:
- Trimester 1: Early Language Disorders, Clinical Practicum I, Speech Sound Disorders, Clinical Neuroscience (12 credits)
- Trimester 2-5: Progressive coursework including Adult Neurogenic Disorders, Dysphagia, Fluency Disorders, Voice Disorders, and Professional Issues (43 credits)
Admissions requirements
Students need four prerequisite courses: Biology, Chemistry/Physics, Statistics, and Behavioral/Social Science. The program doesn’t require GRE scores. Students without a Communication Sciences and Disorders background can complete six leveling courses online.
Accreditation and licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) granted the MS-SLP program a five-year initial accreditation in July 2022. Graduates meet all requirements to obtain their utah slp license.
Unique features
Students can enroll during three yearly intake periods (spring, summer, fall). The program features state-of-the-art endoscopy equipment and offers a certificate in cultural and linguistic diversity. Students can complete their coursework from home while gaining essential clinical skills through strategic in-person training.
Pick Your Program Today
Picking the right speech pathology program is a big step toward becoming an SLP in Utah. Each school has something unique to think about. Utah State University shines with its Listening and Spoken Language focus and budget-friendly tuition. The University of Utah gives you great research opportunities and valuable study abroad programs. On top of that, Rocky Mountain University provides specialized medical SLP training with nationwide externship connections. BYU combines faith-centered values with solid clinical preparation. The University of St. Augustine offers a flexible hybrid option if you need a different way to learn.
These programs have many things in common despite their differences. They all have full CAA accreditation, which means your education meets national standards for certification and licensure. Each program gives you a mix of complete academic coursework and hands-on clinical experience. This prepares you well for work in different settings after graduation.
Most programs want applications by January, but requirements aren’t the same everywhere. GPA minimums, prerequisite coursework, and application materials vary between schools. That’s why it’s vital to do your homework before applying. Your priorities about program length, cost, location, and special focus areas will help you make the final choice.
Look at how each program fits with your career goals and life situation. Utah has a speech pathology program that matches your needs, whether you care most about cost, specialized training, religious connection, or flexibility. Your trip starts with choosing the right place for your master’s degree. This choice will be the foundation of your speech-language pathology career.