15 Best Online Masters in Speech Pathology Programs for 2025

A career in speech pathology offers remarkable growth opportunities through online master’s programs. The field projects a 19% growth from 2022 to 2032, which substantially exceeds other professional sectors.

The United States currently employs 117,056 speech-language pathologists. New graduates can choose from about 13,200 job openings each year. Your educational investment pays off well. Speech pathology master’s program graduates earn a median annual wage of $84,140, while top performers can make over $126,680.

Online master’s SLP programs have gained popularity as they offer quality education with flexibility. Students can maintain their current responsibilities while preparing for this rewarding career. The right online SLP program creates opportunities for working professionals who want to switch careers or advance in the field.

We present the 15 best online master’s in speech pathology programs for 2025 in this piece. Our research will help you choose the educational path that matches your goals.

Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University leads the way in distance education for speech-language pathology. The online masters in speech pathology program combines strong academics with real clinical experiences. Students get ready for success in healthcare settings of all types.

Key Features

TWU’s program builds both theory knowledge and practical clinical skills. Students get:

• ASHA-accredited curriculum that focuses on evidence-based practice
• Flexible schedules with part-time or full-time study options
• Virtual clinical observations and simulations along with in-person practicums
• Direct faculty mentorship throughout their studies
• Complete preparation for the Praxis examination and state licensure requirements

The program also features specialized courses in neurogenic communication disorders, voice disorders, and dysphagia. This creates a well-rounded learning experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Strong focus on clinical reasoning and critical thinking skills
• Great student support with academic advising and tech help
• High Praxis examination pass rates among graduates
• Strong ties with clinical sites in multiple states
• Active alumni network to build professional connections

Cons:

• Students must visit campus for clinical intensives
• Admission process is tougher than some other programs
• Fewer elective choices than on-campus programs
• Some components need scheduled attendance

Pricing

TWU’s online masters SLP program bases tuition on credit hours, with different rates for in-state and out-of-state students:

Students should plan for extra costs like technology fees, clinical practicum fees, and course materials.

Best For

This program fits students who want balance between flexibility and structure. It works best if you:

• Need a part-time study option while working
• Like learning with the same group of students
• Want to work in medical speech pathology settings
• Need strong clinical training with modern technology
• Value direct faculty support and mentorship

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University brings a distinctive approach to speech pathology education with its Master of Science in Speech and Hearing Science program. The university’s rich history as a Black institution creates an educational environment that weaves diversity and cultural awareness throughout its curriculum.

Key Features

The program shines with these notable elements:

• Students can choose between traditional on-campus and distance education formats
• The online option follows an eight-semester part-time structure that starts each January of odd years
• The program holds ASHA Council of Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology accreditation since 1985
• S. News & World Report recognizes it among the Best Graduate Schools for Speech-Language Pathology for 2025
• Each cohort learns together with about 30 students per group
• The curriculum places strong emphasis on cultural diversity and inclusive education approaches

Students in TSU’s online masters SLP program must complete a six-week clinical practicum in Nashville during their second summer semester. This hands-on experience proves essential.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Students experience a strong sense of community and cultural connection
• Faculty members encourage meaningful connections with students
• A diverse student body creates an inclusive learning environment
• Clinical experiences span educational and medical settings with clear organization
• Tennessee’s pioneer distance-learning program for speech pathology

Cons:

• Financial aid processes face administrative hurdles
• Students must travel to Nashville for the six-week clinical practicum
• Switching between traditional and distance education modes has limitations
• The part-time format takes four years to complete

Pricing

The program maintains competitive rates for an online masters in speech pathology:

Students should check the TSU Bursar’s Office website for the most current tuition details.

Best For

This program fits perfectly with:

• Students who value a diverse and culturally rich learning environment
• Professionals balancing work with a structured part-time program
• People passionate about serving underrepresented communities
• Students who thrive in close-knit learning groups
• Those looking to make a real impact through community engagement

East Carolina University

East Carolina University offers a complete Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program. Students can choose between on-campus and distance education paths, which makes this program accessible to more people who want to become speech-language pathologists across the country.

Key Features

ECU’s program stands out with these exceptional qualities:

• Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
• Two distinct tracks: speech-language pathology (clinical) and communication science (research-focused)
• On-campus students complete a minimum 56-credit hour curriculum in 5-6 semesters
• Distance education students take at least 54 credits over 8-9 semesters
• Students must live 75 miles outside Greenville, NC to qualify for distance education
• Students can complete clinical experiences in their local areas
• The campus program accepts 30-32 students while distance education takes 10-12 students annually

ECU has also established strategic collaborations with Arizona State University and University of Alaska Anchorage to support students in those regions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Program formats adapt to students’ various needs
• Clinical preparation allows geographic flexibility for practicums
• The department provides graduate assistantship opportunities
• Campus and distance education formats lead to the same degree

Cons:

• The program requires full dedication; students should avoid outside employment
• Students must attend a 1-2 day on-campus orientation before fall semester begins
• Distance education remains intensive despite its extended format
• Admission standards are high with typical accepted students having 3.8+ GPA in major courses

Pricing

Distance education courses may include extra fees for proctored examinations.

Best For

This program fits perfectly for:

• Students working toward ASHA certification and state licensure
• Those who prefer either focused on-campus learning or extended distance education
• Applicants with strong academic records (3.0+ overall GPA, 3.2+ in major)
• People interested in clinical practice or research-focused careers

University of South Florida

The University of South Florida has created an online masters in speech pathology that caters to bachelor’s level professionals who work in school districts. Students benefit from a unique blend of distance learning and hands-on clinical experiences.

Key Features

USF’s speech pathology program lets students choose between two tracks:

• Full-time six-semester residential program that includes clinical rotations each semester
• Nine-semester Suncoast Consortium track designed for speech-language clinicians who work in partnering Florida school districts

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology maintains ASHA accreditation for both tracks. The program’s excellence shows in its 100% Praxis examination pass rate in the last three years. Students complete the program at an impressive rate of 99.32% (three-year average).

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Students can keep their full-time jobs while studying
• Clinical opportunities abound both on-campus and across the Tampa Bay area
• The Speech-Language Clinic features state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
• Students can access various funding options through assistantships and scholarships

Cons:

• Suncoast track requires you to work in a participating Florida school district
• Distance courses come with extra technology fees
• You need specific hardware like high-speed internet and recording equipment
• Suncoast students must complete summer externships

Pricing

USF’s tuition rates rank among the most affordable in the country.

Best For

The program suits you if you:

• Want to advance your career while working as a speech-language clinician
• Plan to work in school-based settings
• Need a balanced mix of academic studies and clinical experience
• Like learning with a supportive group of peers
• Want an affordable degree from a respected institution

University of Akron

The University of Akron partners with the University of Cincinnati to deliver an online master’s in speech pathology. Students can complete their education from home and arrange clinical experiences in their local area.

Key Features

The University of Akron’s online speech pathology program stands out with these features:

• Fully online curriculum shared between University of Akron and University of Cincinnati faculty
• Program starts in January and takes 2 years and 8 months to complete
• 74 credit hours required to graduate
• Clinical placements within 50 miles of your hometown
• Five clinical practicum experiences spread over six semesters
• 100% pass rate on the Praxis national examination
• 100% job placement rate for graduates actively seeking employment
• Ranked #5 among “most affordable online speech-pathology master’s degrees”
• Ranked #7 among “best speech-pathology online master’s programs”

The program has coursework that covers augmentative communication, normal language development, and multicultural considerations for speech-language pathologists.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Clinical placements close to home
• Perfect Praxis exam pass rates and job placement statistics
• Students accepted from all states
• Complete clinical training in different disorders and age groups
• High national rankings for affordability and quality

Cons:

• Full-time work not possible during clinicals
• Clinical schedules must align with supervisor availability
• Higher cost than some competing online programs
• Must be available for clinical placements during semesters 3-8
• Admission requires minimum 3.0 GPA

Pricing

Students should budget for additional technology fees and clinical practicum materials.

Best For

This program works well if you:

• Want a fully online program without campus visits
• Need clinical placements in your community
• Value high exam pass rates and job placement success
• Seek a nationally recognized program
• Prefer learning with a cohort

You should have a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or completed post-baccalaureate prerequisites in the field.

James Madison University

JMU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology ranks #1 among online speech pathology programs according to Forbes Advisor in 2024. Students get both academic excellence and flexibility with this distance learning program.

Key Features

JMU’s online program stands out because it offers:

• A cohort structure spanning 3 years (9 semesters) with small groups of 25-30 students
• Full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
• A perfect Praxis national examination pass rate since 2013
• An on-campus orientation before classes begin
• A six-week on-campus clinical practicum after year one
• Detailed clinical experiences in multiple settings
• A 45-credit hour graduation requirement

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Some of the lowest tuition rates among online SLP programs
• More than 15 years of online teaching expertise since 2006
• Top rankings among national programs show program quality
• Excellent academic advising and help finding clinical placements

Cons:

• Students can’t work full-time during clinical placements
• Clinical requirements need schedule adjustments
• Travel needed for required on-campus sessions
• Set cohort schedule limits course timing options

Pricing

Best For

Career-changers and non-traditional students who want a well-laid-out path into speech-language pathology will find this program ideal. Students who value learning with peers, customized faculty support, and proven success in certification prep will thrive here.

Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University offers a reliable online master’s in speech pathology through its Master of Science in Communication Disorders program. The program started in 1975 and prepares speech pathologists to work in healthcare environments of all types including hospitals, clinics, and schools.

Key Features

Western Kentucky University’s program offers:

• Similar requirements for both residential and distance learning formats
• 60 credit hours curriculum for both thesis and non-thesis options
• Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
• Required 6-week summer internship (“bootcamp”) in Bowling Green
• 400 clinical hours requirement for graduation
• Evening online classes (5:00pm-10:00pm central time) for distance learners

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Flexible format that works for both local and distant students
• Evening classes designed for working professionals
• Detailed clinical training for disorders of all types
• Eligibility for ASHA certification upon completion

Cons:

• The program discourages full-time work
• Summer internship requires travel to Bowling Green
• Students without speech pathology background need prerequisites
• Students must find their own clinical placements

Pricing

Best For

The program balances academic rigor with flexibility effectively. Students find it especially valuable when they can manage the summer internship and evening class schedule. The detailed curriculum prepares students for professional certification, whatever their location.

University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado has fostered excellence in speech pathology education for more than 50 years through its Master of Arts program. Students can choose between on-campus and online formats.

Key Features

The program excels with these unique qualities:

• Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
• Perfect 100% job placement rate among graduates actively seeking employment
• Flawless 100% pass rate on the national Praxis examination
• Strong emphasis on evidence-based practice using a clinician-researcher model
• Hands-on experience at the UNC Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Clinic
• Two-year full-time on-campus option or three-year online format

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Students from 15 states can pay in-state tuition through Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) approval
• Students receive extensive clinical training that prepares them to work in a variety of settings
• Graduates qualify for Certificate of Clinical Competence

Cons:

• Online students must be hired as SLP Assistants or equivalent
• Online students need to visit campus for 2-3 weeks during their first summer
• Students must complete a 12-week medical setting internship in the final summer

Pricing

Best For

School-based speech assistants who want certification and professionals who need flexible education without relocating will find this online masters SLP program especially valuable.

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers a nationally recognized Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Students can choose between two formats that align with their educational goals.

Key Features

• Flexible options with residential (2-year) and online (3-year part-time) programs
• Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) accreditation extends through February 2025
• Complete certification requirements with 54 credit hours curriculum for ASHA
• Students gain experience at the on-campus clinic and 90+ affiliated sites
• Online students attend a 5-day summer residency each year
• Students achieved 100% Praxis pass rate in four of the last five years

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Online tuition stays flat at $725 per credit, whatever your residency status
• Graduates secure employment within one year
• Students can earn additional telepractice certificate and AAC specialization

Cons:

• Admission standards demand high academic performance with average GPAs of 3.94 (residential) and 3.88 (online)
• Online program requires summer residency attendance
• Online students pay $135 technology fee each semester

Pricing

Best For

Working professionals can advance their careers without relocating through this program that delivers strong clinical training via local placements.

California State University Northridge

California State University Northridge offers an online speech pathology master’s program that combines academic excellence with vital clinical externships. Students complete this program in 41 months and gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Key Features

• Master of Science in Communicative Disorders needs 63 credits to graduate
• Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology provides accreditation
• Students learn to assess and treat speech, language, hearing, and swallowing disorders
• Students must submit two separate applications to the department and university
• Students without speech pathology background can join the Pre-SLP program each spring

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Graduates earn median salary of $79,688, ranking in top 3% nationally
• Students learn in a vibrant, diverse community
• Students receive detailed clinical training through externship opportunities
• Program meets state licensure and ASHA certification requirements

Cons:

• Clinical experiences require campus visits
• Admission process is competitive with strict deadlines
• Students need specific prerequisite coursework (minimum 30 units)
• Course scheduling offers minimal flexibility

Pricing

Students pay a $70 application fee and $47 graduation application fee.

Best For

The program suits students who want detailed training in disorders of all types. Students can balance online academics with hands-on clinical experience. This program creates excellent career opportunities in educational, medical, and private practice settings.

Emerson College

Emerson College’s online Master of Sciences in Communication Disorders program builds on its 143-year-old legacy in speech as a founding discipline. The program prepares students to help people with communication disorders throughout their lives.

Key Features

• Two flexible tracks: complete in 20 months (5-term) or 36 months (9-term)
• Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
• Weekend-long immersion experience at Boston campus
• 400 supervised clinical practice hours requirement
• Same curriculum as the on-campus program
• No GRE requirements

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ranked among top graduate programs nationwide
• Dedicated placement specialists connect students with clinical sites through national partner network
• Speech-Language Pathology ranked #3 best job in healthcare with $80,000 median salary
• Evening classes fit clinical schedules perfectly

Cons:

• Public universities offer lower tuition costs
• Immersion components require campus visits
• Federal loans are the main financial aid option
• Required visits come with high Boston living costs

Pricing

Tuition for 2025-2026 is $1,495 per credit. Students invest approximately $80,730 for the 54-credit program, which increases to $107,640 with all six foundational courses (18 credits). Additional costs include a $50 registration fee per term, $50 program materials fee, and $125 for Calipso clinical tracking software.

Best For

This prestigious program suits students who want comprehensive clinical training with hands-on experience. Emerson’s extensive placement network helps students gain practical skills while working with patients of all types. The program works well for those who need to balance their studies with clinical work.

New York University (Steinhardt)

Students who want Ivy League prestige often choose NYU Steinhardt’s online MS in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. The program helps you get professional licensure through strong academic work and clinical training.

Key Features

• 48 graduate-level credits plus foundation courses if needed (2-14 extra credits)
• ASHA Council on Academic Accreditation certification
• Two NYC campus visits required for clinical diagnostics preparation
• Bilingual Extension Track for students who work with multilingual children
• Placement specialists help you find the right clinical sites

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Learn from the same scholars and researchers as campus students
• Full access to NYU resources like Bobst Library and Writing Center
• Scholarship options for SLPs who want to make a difference in communities

Cons:

• Tuition costs more than most public universities
• You’ll need to pay for NYC trips and stays during immersions
• Program limited to US citizens and permanent residents

Pricing

Best For

This program fits students who value learning from prestigious faculty and want a detailed curriculum that covers biological, neurological, and cultural aspects of communication disorders. The high investment reflects the program’s quality and reputation.

Baylor University

Baylor University’s online Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program blends academic excellence with a rich 50-year legacy. Students who complete this ASHA-accredited program will be really prepared for professional certification in speech-language pathology.

Key Features

• 45 graduate credit curriculum plus 18 undergraduate credits for students who need leveling coursework
• Accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
• Students can start in January, May, or September
• Detailed preparation for ASHA certification and state licensure
• Faith-integrated curriculum that focuses on empathetic, patient-centered care

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Strong 89.63% Praxis pass rate (2020-2023)
• Outstanding 96.8% employment rate among graduates
• High-achieving applicants can receive scholarships
• Students can complete clinical experiences near their location

Cons:

• Tuition costs more than many public universities
• Students pay extra for technology, Calipso, Master Clinician, and other program applications
• Students need background checks and medical clearance
• Program takes at least 20 months to complete

Pricing

Best For

Students who want a prestigious, faith-based speech pathology education with flexible online learning and detailed clinical preparation.

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences combines online learning with practical clinical training in its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program. Students can complete flexible online coursework and gain hands-on experience through on-campus residencies.

Key Features

• Online curriculum with four three-day campus residencies spread across five trimesters
• Students complete the program in about 1 year, 8 months
• Admission process doesn’t require GRE scores
• Students can start in spring, summer, or fall
• The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology accredits the program
• Students work with advanced endoscopy equipment
• Program includes a certificate in cultural and linguistic diversity

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Students can choose from campuses in San Marcos, Austin, Dallas, and St. Augustine
• Clinical practicums blend virtual and in-person learning
• Students can access Pro Bono Clinic through telehealth
• Students without prerequisites can take affordable leveling courses

Cons:

• Clinical experiences might require travel or relocation
• School settings may need additional state certification
• Students must have recording equipment and meet tech requirements
• Program requires detailed background checks and drug screening

Pricing

Students can receive scholarships up to $13,000, distributed across trimesters.

Best For

This program works well for students who want to balance online flexibility with hands-on clinical training. Students who need multiple yearly entry points instead of annual admissions will find this program particularly suitable.

Sacred Heart University

Sacred Heart University offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that combines practical training with academic studies. Students gain clinical experience from their first semester.

Key Features

• Students complete the full-time program in two years through fall/spring/late spring trimesters
• Clinical training begins in the third week
• Students learn and practice clinical skills together as a group
• Graduates can obtain Connecticut educator’s certificate
• Students must complete 375 clock hours of supervised clinical practicum
• Clinical training happens in a variety of settings like public schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers
• The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology accredits the program

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Faculty members support students throughout their academic and clinical training
• Students prepare for externships by third semester through early clinical exposure
• Students learn with physical therapy and occupational therapy peers
• Graduates find jobs in healthcare settings of all types

Cons:

• Clinical practicum requirements might restrict work options
• Tuition costs more than public universities
• Students must move to Fairfield, Connecticut for campus activities
• Admission standards require at least 3.0 GPA

Pricing

Each trimester costs $13,900, bringing the total program cost to $41,700. Extra fees include:

• Course fee: $400 (with courses SLP-501 & SLP-602)
• Graduate student fee: $80 per semester

Best For

This program suits students who want hands-on experience right away and value close faculty mentorship. Students receive thorough training in a variety of communication disorders. The program works well for those planning to teach in Connecticut schools since they can get their educator’s certificate.

Choose an Online SLP Master’s Today

Picking the right online master’s in speech pathology program is a big step toward a rewarding career with great growth potential. This piece has shown you programs with different structures, specializations, and price points that fit various educational needs and career goals.

These 15 programs excel because of their accreditation, proven track records, and detailed clinical training options. Best of all, they help you get professional certification while letting you manage your current commitments.

Speech pathology offers some compelling benefits. The field is set to grow 19% through 2032, and median annual salaries are over $84,000 – this is a big deal as it means that your education will pay off well. Job prospects are excellent too, with many programs showing 100% placement rates.

You should think over several key factors when picking your program. The program’s structure needs to work with your schedule and learning style. Some programs let you finish faster while others give working professionals more time. Clinical requirements vary by a lot between programs, so look into those carefully. You’ll also want to assess how tuition costs stack up against the program’s reputation and results.

Note that costs vary widely among these options. Public schools like Tennessee State University cost $15,158 total, while private ones like NYU Steinhardt run up to $109,056. But many programs are available with scholarships and financial aid worth checking out.

Becoming a speech-language pathologist takes commitment, but these online programs make that experience easier than ever. Your final choice depends on your situation, career goals, and budget. Whatever program you pick, a master’s in speech pathology leads to a career where you’ll make real differences in people’s lives every day.5