Speech pathology focuses on communication disorders in children and adults. A
master's in speech pathology prepares students for careers as speech-language pathologists, speech therapists, and language specialists. Graduates may work in schools, private clinics, hospitals, or research facilities.
Speech pathologists evaluate communication disorders and manage treatment plans for patients. They work with physicians,
nurses, social workers, and physical therapists to provide optimal services to individuals with developmental delays, swallowing problems, and other communication issues.
A career in speech pathology requires patience, compassion, and expertise. Speech pathologists may work with a variety of clients or specialize in a specific age group. They need a deep understanding of both the physical and psychological aspects of human communication. The best speech pathology master's programs enable learners to develop these important career-focused skills.
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Speech Pathology Frequently Asked Questions
What is speech pathology?
Speech pathology refers to the study of human communication disorders. Pathologists focus on both the physical and psychological aspects of communication.
How long does it take to earn a master's in speech pathology?
Learners typically earn a master's in speech pathology degree in two years. Some programs may offer accelerated options for working students.
What can I do with a master's in speech pathology?
A master's in speech pathology prepares learners for careers in speech-language pathology, occupational or physical therapy, and specialized nursing.
Can I study speech pathology online?
Several master's in speech pathology programs offer online options. These programs may feature accelerated curriculum.
Best Master's in Speech Pathology Degrees 2022
The following list highlights the best master's in speech pathology degrees. These programs offer learners various options for pursuing graduate coursework in this growing field. The featured schools host both online and in-person instruction. The rankings offer information about courses, specializations, and affordability.
#1 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
University of Florida
- Gainesville, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The graduate programs at the University of Florida help professionals move into new careers or advance in their current field. The accredited master's program in communication sciences and disorders provides advanced training through its curriculum taught by experts. Like on-campus students, distance learners work with advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff. The online programs maintain a high academic standard by connecting students and faculty in a virtual classroom.
Since the school is accredited, it can issue federal financial aid. In addition to this online speech pathology program, the University of Florida offers 41 other master's degrees.
University of Florida Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 24,310
Number of Online Master's Options: 42
Tuition for Graduate Students: $10,770 in-state; $27,335 out-of-state
Amount of Aid Awarded Per Learner: $10,673
Average Net Price With Aid: $10,457
The University of Florida has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
University of Washington
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Seattle, the University of Washington is a leader in online learning. In the speech-language pathology program, graduate students learn through a rigorous curriculum taught by experts. Nontraditional learners can use test scores to bolster their application. The school offers advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff for online learners. The virtual classroom setting lets learners interact with faculty and peers.
Nontraditional learners receive an affordable education at the school. The institution can provide federal financial aid as an accredited institution. In addition to this online speech-language pathology program, the University of Washington offers nine other master's degrees.
University of Washington Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 3,931
Distance Learning Master's Degrees: 10
Tuition for Grad Students: $18,198 in-state; $32,439 out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,354
Average Price After Financial Aid: $10,692
The University of Washington has received accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of South Florida delivers respected, accessible programs for graduate learners. With 34 distance programs, the public institution provides academic programs in both in-person and convenient online formats. The school offers a top-ranked master's degree in speech language for graduate degree-seekers. The online speech pathology program features flexible scheduling and enrollment options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy students balancing academics with personal obligations.
Learners in the speech pathology master's program gain specialized knowledge during advanced classes. Master's students complete elective classes and gain practical experience during internships. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically require 1-2 years to complete their master's program. Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $8,350 for in-state students and $19,048 for graduate students residing outside of Florida. Degree-seekers at the school can expect to pay $907 per credit for their degree. Enrollees at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. At the school, 93% of students obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
Indiana University Bloomington
- Bloomington, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Indiana University Bloomington's academic offerings include respected, accessible online graduate programs. The public institution delivers 30 online programs, including 10 master's programs for distance students. The school offers a top-ranked master's degree in speech-language pathology for graduate degree-seekers. The online speech pathology program is ideal for students with busy schedules.
The graduate-level curriculum features specialized speech pathology classes and foundational core coursework. Master's students can participate in experiential learning opportunities to apply skills and knowledge from program coursework. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete. Admissions advisors provide prospective learners with program-specific application details.
Students at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The institution charges average graduate tuition rates of $9,501 for in-state students, while nonresidents pay an average of $31,932. Many enrollees use financial aid to fund their master's studies. The school reports that 84% of students receive financial aid.
Percent Online Enrollment
19%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
California State University, Long Beach
- Long Beach, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Long Beach delivers academic programs online and on campus. Online students can enroll in the master's in speech-language pathology program from the institution.
Rigorous coursework, faculty mentorship, and career advising help enrollees prepare for speech pathology careers. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online speech pathology program's scheduling flexibility. Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's degree-seekers to complete.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans. To fund their education, 30% of enrollees take out loans. According to the institution's data, 81% of its learners pay for their degree using some form of financial aid.
California State University, Long Beach Facts:
Total Programs: 180
Number of Online Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 70
Number of Online Students: 11,514
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can enroll at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to pursue respected master's degrees in many fields, including speech pathology. With a variety of online offerings, the public institution educates 3,721 distance students. Online programs' scheduling flexibility is ideal for learners balancing academics with personal and professional obligations.
While enrolled in the master's program in speech in hearing sciences, degree-seekers complete a rigorous curriculum comprising core and specialized coursework. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select courses based on their professional goals. While pursuing the master's degree, online learners develop industry-specific knowledge and complete flexible coursework. The speech pathology master's degree can qualify graduates for promotions to leadership positions. Students and alumni can benefit from the institution's career services.
Graduate-level learners can access support services including career advising, online tutoring, and financial aid counseling. Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. Enrollees often apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Online master's programs at the school cost an average of $1,767 per credit.
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Wisconsin-Madison ranks among the top online master's programs for speech pathology. While many of the institution's students pursue their degree on campus, 8,064 students attend online classes. Learners with personal or professional obligations often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
Degree-seekers enrolled in the master's in speech-language pathology program develop transferable skills and gain field-specific knowledge. Faculty mentors assist graduate students as they tailor the program curriculum to their interests and career aspirations. Learners in the online program benefit from flexible scheduling options and career-specific training. Graduates of the master's program often secure high-paying leadership roles in the speech pathology field. The institution's career services and alumni network can help master's students locate and secure professional opportunities.
Learners in the school's master's programs can access career advising and financial aid counseling. Graduate students at the accredited institution can take out federal loans to cover costs. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
Percent Online Enrollment
18%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With a main campus in Miami, Florida International University delivers graduate programs in various fields. The public institution offers an online master's in speech-language pathology, which is ideal for busy learners. Professionals currently employed in the speech pathology field often qualify for career advancement after graduation.
While completing their master's program, graduate students work with experienced faculty advisors. Enrollees develop specialized knowledge in the field and soft skills that apply to many professional roles. Master's students also gain leadership skills necessary to oversee teams in speech pathology settings.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. Degree-seekers meet with financial aid counselors to discuss their funding options.
Florida International University Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 96
Total Online Programs: 67
Number of Online Students: 39,863
Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,912
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $21,393
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners pursuing the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's affordable graduate programs can complete requirements in a convenient online format. The public institution enrolls students in 33 online programs, including 30 online master's programs. Graduate degree-seekers can pursue an MA in speech and hearing science. The online speech pathology program is ideal for students with busy schedules.
Learners in the master's program take core courses and advanced speech pathology classes. Students prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time. Prospective applicants can contact an admissions advisor for exact application deadlines and requirements.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $14,997 for in-state students and $28,404 for out-of-state learners. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Of the school's students, 64% obtain financial aid to fund their studies.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Top Master’s In Speech Pathology Degrees
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Based in Orlando, the University of Central Florida educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. The school delivers 26 master's programs in a distance learning format.
The institution's online master's program in communication sciences and disorders benefits distance degree-seekers seeking career advancement in speech pathology. After earning the master's degree in speech pathology, graduates can launch a new career in the field. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate students.
The online program makes affordability a priority. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. Learners often apply for fellowships to fund their graduate education.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 92%
Students Receiving Loans: 35%
Total Master's Programs: 75
Total Online Master's Programs: 75
Awards Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Career and Salary Outlook for Speech Pathology Master's Graduates
Jobs for speech pathology professionals continue to grow much faster than average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 25% growth in speech pathology careers from 2019-2029. The demand for speech pathologists increases as advancements in medicine allow practitioners to better understand communication disorders.
Speech pathologists who specialize in children or older adults may earn more than those without specializations. Students in speech pathology master's programs may also specialize in speech therapy, fluency disorders, or audiology. The field features several industry certifications in child language, fluency, and swallowing disorders. Speech pathologists who pursue these certifications may include board certified specialist in their title.
Speech pathologists perform many duties, which may include diagnostic testing, medical evaluation, research, and therapeutic treatment. Pathologists work with patients, collaborate with other medical professionals, and provide guidance to family members and educators. After several years in the field, some speech pathologists seek career advancement. This enables pathologists to work as audiologists, physicians, and psychologists. These fields often require doctoral degrees.
Career Salary Potential
| Career |
Lowest 10% |
Median Annual Salary |
Highest 10% |
| Speech-Language Pathologists |
Less than $49,840 |
$79,120 |
More than $121,260 |
Source: BLS
Accreditation for Speech Pathology
Aspiring speech pathologists should look for programs at accredited schools. Accreditation ensures that a school meets instructional standards. Institutions hold either national or regional accreditation. A school gains regional accreditation by undergoing a regular, in-depth review process by external organizations.
Most master's in speech pathology programs seek accreditation by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's Council on Academic Accreditation (ASHA-CAA). Many states require speech pathologists to attend a school accredited by the ASHA-CAA for licensure and certification. The organization maintains professional standards for speech pathology and related fields.
Courses in a Speech Pathology Program
Speech pathology programs include both core and specialized coursework. Enrollees study speech anatomy, language development, and vocal pathology. Most programs combine traditional classes with clinical experiences.
A master's in speech pathology degree typically takes two years to complete. Learners concentrate on developing expert-level understanding of communication disorders and treatment methods. Courses that focus on children or older adults allow enrollees to pursue desirable specializations. Other specialized courses may include fluency disorders, swallowing physiology, and craniofacial anomalies.
Like other health-related degrees, speech pathology master's programs require clinical training. Students gain important hands-on skills through supervised practica and clinical methods courses. Many programs also feature externships that place students in local clinics and hospitals. The list below highlights three common speech pathology graduate courses.
Hearing Disorders
This course covers speech-related auditory issues. Students explore the symptoms and treatment for hearing disorders. Courses may include a clinical component or practical assessment. Since speech pathologists often work with hearing-impaired individuals, this class serves as an essential component of their training.Language Development and Assessment
A core requirement for many master's in speech pathology programs, this course explains how language develops in humans from childhood to adulthood. The course trains students to identify the various stages of language development and introduces them to assessment methods.Clinical Speech Anatomy
This class teaches enrollees about the anatomy of human speech. Students learn to accurately identify the body parts that influence human speech, such as parts of the tongue and vocal chords. Courses often contain a clinical component that allows students to practice the skills they learn in the classroom.
Scholarships for Speech Pathology
Speech pathology students may qualify for scholarships to help pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses. Many graduate programs also maintain institutional scholarships for new and current speech pathology students. Learners in master's in speech pathology programs may also benefit from state grants and federal financial aid. The following list features three scholarships for students pursuing speech pathology.
Scholarships for Speech Pathology
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Scholarship |
$500 |
Voice Aerobics sponsors this annual scholarship for speech pathology graduate students. Applicants must attend an ASHA-accredited master's in speech pathology program. Application requirements include completing an online form with short-answer questions. |
ASHFoundation Graduate Scholarship |
$5,000 |
Students who attend an ASHA-accredited graduate program in speech pathology may apply. Applicants must submit transcripts, an essay, an online form, and three recommendation letters. |
AMBUCS Therapist Scholarship |
Up to $6,000 |
AMBUCS sponsors several annual scholarships for students pursuing graduate degrees in speech pathology and related fields. Application requirements include a completed FAFSA, proof of enrollment, a personal statement, and U.S. citizenship. |
How Much Does a Master's in Speech Pathology Cost?
The cost of pursuing a master's in speech pathology degree varies by school and location. A degree at a private university often costs more than the same degree at a public institution. Additionally, many schools require enrollees to pay fees that cover campus activities or technologies.
Some schools offer more affordable online programs that enable students to cut costs by studying from home. Online learners may also continue full-time work while they complete their degrees. The cost of online degrees sometimes includes distance-learning fees.
Like other healthcare degrees, speech pathology master's programs may require students to purchase insurance to cover clinical liabilities. Students may also need to factor in the cost of the exams needed for certification and licensure in their respective states. Some graduates may also want to acquire specialized certifications that require additional funds.
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