Best Online Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Programs of 2024

Speech-language pathology (SLP) professionals work in healthcare facilities, schools, and private practices to help children and adults with communication disorders. Before obtaining licensure and practicing, speech-language pathologists must earn a master’s degree. Online programs make the SLP field more attainable, requiring only minimal on-campus clinical and internship hours. 

This guide gathers the best online speech pathology master’s degrees. It also provides an overview of each program’s length, tuition, and specializations, among others.

Best Online SLP Programs of 2024

The right SLP program lays the foundation for a successful career in the field. Below is a list of the top online SLP master’s degrees that offer a combination of academic rigor, flexibility, and support to prepare students for licensure and professional practice.

1. Emerson College

Emerson College's online Master of Science in Communication Disorders program is known for its strong clinical focus and comprehensive curriculum. The program is designed to be completed in 20 to 36 months, depending on the student's pace. With a blend of asynchronous coursework and live sessions, it offers flexibility while maintaining a high standard of academic excellence.

• Program Length: 20-36 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: General SLP
• Cost: $1,388 per credit
• Required Credits: 46-50
• Accreditation: Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA)

2. New York University (NYU) Steinhardt

NYU Steinhardt's online Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders presents a comprehensive speech-language pathology education. The program can be completed in as few as six semesters and emphasizes clinical practice. NYU’s global reputation and extensive alumni network add value to this program.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Bilingual Extension, General SLP
• Cost: $96,000 total tuition
• Required Credits: 48
• Accreditation: CAA

3. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire offers an online Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a focus on evidence-based practices. The program has part-time study options and requires minimal on-campus residencies. It is known for its affordable tuition and strong online education support.

• Program Length: 3 years (part-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: General SLP
• Cost: $675 per credit
• Required Credits: 54
• Accreditation: CAA

4. Baylor University

Baylor University's online Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a full-time program centering on clinical excellence and ethical practice. The program can be completed in 20 months and includes synchronous and asynchronous learning components. Baylor’s Christian-based education adds a unique perspective to the curriculum.

• Program Length: 20 months
• Tracks/Concentrations: General SLP
• Cost: $1,800 per credit
• Required Credits: 45 credits
• Accreditation: CAA

5. University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a hybrid Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, combining online coursework with on-campus clinical experiences. The program has a flexible schedule but can accommodate occasional campus visits. It is particularly noted for its strong focus on rural healthcare and diverse populations.

• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: General SLP
• Cost: $715 per credit
• Required Credits: 60
• Accreditation: CAA

6. James Madison University

James Madison University’s online SLP program delivers asynchronous and synchronous learning to accommodate different learning styles. The curriculum is focused on clinical skills, supported by a strong theoretical foundation. You’ll also benefit from a required in-person clinical practicum.

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Generalist SLP
• Cost: $800 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 44 
• Accreditation: CAA

7. California State University, Northridge

CSUN’s online SLP master’s program is known for its accessibility and flexibility. The program highlights cultural and linguistic diversity in SLP practice, preparing you to serve various communities. It includes clinical hours to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation.

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Multicultural focus
• Cost: $825 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 63
• Accreditation: CAA

8. Florida State University

Florida State University offers an online SLP program with an emphasis on research and clinical training. The program integrates evidence-based practice into all aspects of the curriculum to fully prepare you for your professional roles. FSU also provides students with a plethora of clinical practicum opportunities.

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Generalist SLP
• Cost: $479 per credit hour (in-state), $1,110 per credit hour (out-of-state)
• Required Credits: 60 
• Accreditation: CAA

9. University of South Carolina

The University of South Carolina’s online SLP program is perfect if you’re a licensed SLP assistant or a bachelor’s in communication sciences graduate. The program offers flexibility with part-time and full-time options, alongside a focus on rural and underserved populations. Clinical experiences are integrated throughout the program.

• Program Length: 3 years (part-time)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Generalist SLP
• Cost: $572 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 36
• Accreditation: CAA

10. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers a fully online SLP master’s program that combines academic coursework with hands-on clinical training. The program pivots innovation and research, preparing you for leadership roles in the field. ASU’s program is also known for its interdisciplinary approach, incorporating psychology, education, and health sciences.

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Bilingual SLP, Generalist SLP
• Cost: $698 per credit hour
• Required Credits: 60
• Accreditation: CAA

How Much SLP Programs Cost

The cost of SLP learning varies and changes depending on the institution. The 2021-22 academic year documented that the tuition and fees for graduate studies, including cheap SLP online masters programs, amount to $20,513 yearly. This is a fair amount considering it includes everything they need for learning. SLP online masters programs often provide flexible options for students, making them a popular choice for those balancing work and family commitments. 

Additionally, these programs typically offer the same comprehensive curriculum as traditional programs, ensuring students receive the necessary training to excel in their careers. But it doesn’t just stop there. Since many SLP degrees take approximately three to four years to complete, this cost translates to around $62,000 for a full master’s in speech pathology.

For financial help recourse, the FAFSA provides scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Schools and nonprofits also present these opportunities.

How Much SLPs Earn

Salaries vary based on experience, workplace, and geographic location. Last year, the SLP's average annual income was $89,290. The lowest 10% of SLP specialists earned less than $57,910, while the highest took home more than $129,930.

The two top industries for SLP are nursing and residential care facilities and hospitals. Here, field experts were paid $105,030 and $100,130, respectively, in May 2023.

Job Outlook for Speech-Language Pathologists

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that about 13,200 vacancies for speech-language pathologists are predicted per year, on average, from 2022 to 2032, Many of these vacancies are anticipated to result from SLP employees’ transfer to other vocations or retirement. The baby boom population is also growing older, which means that there will be more occurrences of speech- or language-related problems, like strokes or dementia.

How to Choose an SLP Program

Choosing the right SLP program is a crucial step toward a rewarding career in helping individuals deal with language learning or communication disorders. With numerous options available, it's important to consider: 

• Accreditation and Program Reputation: An SLP program must be accredited by the CAA in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. A program with a strong reputation and high pass rates on the Praxis exam indicates a solid education and better job prospects.
• State Licensure Requirements: Ensure the program meets the licensure requirements for the state where students intend to practice. Licensure requirements vary significantly by state.
• Clinical Practicum Opportunities: Look for programs that offer diverse and comprehensive clinical practicum experiences. These opportunities develop hands-on skills and comply with the clinical hours required for certification and licensure.
• Faculty Expertise and Support: The qualifications and expertise of the faculty members are also good deciding factors. A supportive faculty with experience in online teaching and a specific area of interest can enhance your learning and professional development.
• Flexibility and Format: Some programs offer asynchronous classes that allow you to complete coursework at your own pace. Others offer synchronous classes to maintain student engagement even in an online program setup.