Best Speech Pathology Programs
A bachelor’s in speech pathology is necessary to start a speech pathologist career. Discover what this training includes and what opportunities it brings.
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Speech pathologists diagnose and treat communication disorders in people of all ages. In a bachelor’s in speech pathology program, degree-seekers study the causes and effects of these disorders and treatment methods. These programs also develop the foundation for graduate-level studies, research, and practice.
Graduates with this degree may pursue various healthcare degrees and careers, including a master’s in speech pathology and the profession in the field afterward. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 29% growth in this field, nearly four times the projected growth rate of 8% for all occupations. Speech pathologists also earned median annual wages more than $30,000 higher than the median annual wage of $45,760 for all occupations.
A bachelor’s in speech pathology typically features about 120 credits and four years of training. Online schools may provide more flexible study options, including fast-paced training. By better accommodating working professionals, online learning can also impact the true program cost, which accounts for any lost income.
Learn about the best bachelor’s in speech pathology programs and the postgraduate paths you can take by earning this degree.
Our Top Pick
Brigham Young University – Provo, Utah
Why It’s #1: While many schools stand out for various reasons, Brigham Young University (BYU) holds high positions in many of our ranking categories. For example, the school boasts one of the higher graduation rates among all speech pathology schools (78%), plus one of the lowest undergraduate tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. The school also offers its students financial aid options. Not only do 71% of BYU students receive financial aid, only 14% of students receive loans, meaning scholarships and grants make up much of their financial support.
Best Accredited Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Brigham Young University-Provo
Provo, UT4 yearCampus
$5,790
$5,790
67%
12%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Latter-day Saint | $331
Non-Latter-day Saint | $662
Credits to Graduate
112 total (58 in the major)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
BYU's bachelor's in communication disorders explores the leading factors that impact communication in humans. The program looks at the various communication disorders and treatment management methods. Core courses include speech anatomy, clinical phonetics, and speech sound disorders.
In the final semester, students complete a professional practices capstone course. Learners also have access to the school's speech and language clinic for practical training and observation. To declare this major, applicants must complete prerequisites in statistics, anatomy, acoustics, and introduction to speech-language pathology.
$7,290
$7,290
90%
34,318
Private
Yes
$5,790
$5,790
Provo, UT4 yearCampus
$5,790
$5,790
67%
12%
$7,290
$7,290
90%
34,318
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Latter-day Saint | $331
Non-Latter-day Saint | $662
Credits to Graduate
112 total (58 in the major)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
BYU's bachelor's in communication disorders explores the leading factors that impact communication in humans. The program looks at the various communication disorders and treatment management methods. Core courses include speech anatomy, clinical phonetics, and speech sound disorders.
In the final semester, students complete a professional practices capstone course. Learners also have access to the school's speech and language clinic for practical training and observation. To declare this major, applicants must complete prerequisites in statistics, anatomy, acoustics, and introduction to speech-language pathology.
Northeastern University
Boston, MA4 yearCampus
$52,420
$52,420
18%
10%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,847
Out of State | $1,847
Credits to Graduate
128 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
Northeastern's bachelor's in speech-language pathology and audiology equips students with the skills necessary for careers in communication sciences and language disorders. The training also prepares learners for graduate-level studies. In the later semesters, students encounter courses in aural rehabilitation, language disorders across the lifespan, and early intervention.
In addition to classwork, students engage in practical training exercises in Northeastern's Speech-Language and Hearing Center. For admission, prospective students need at least a high school or GED diploma.
$24,793
$24,793
99%
22,207
Private
Yes
$52,420
$52,420
Boston, MA4 yearCampus
$52,420
$52,420
18%
10%
$24,793
$24,793
99%
22,207
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,847
Out of State | $1,847
Credits to Graduate
128 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
Northeastern's bachelor's in speech-language pathology and audiology equips students with the skills necessary for careers in communication sciences and language disorders. The training also prepares learners for graduate-level studies. In the later semesters, students encounter courses in aural rehabilitation, language disorders across the lifespan, and early intervention.
In addition to classwork, students engage in practical training exercises in Northeastern's Speech-Language and Hearing Center. For admission, prospective students need at least a high school or GED diploma.
Boston University
Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$54,720
$54,720
19%
10%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $61,050
Out of State | $61,050
Credits to Graduate
128 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
BU's bachelor's in speech, language, and hearing sciences prepares students for advanced research and clinical settings in communication sciences. Core courses cover training in language acquisition, speech science, and phonological disorders. Students also complete integrative practical training, such as an internship and lab experiences.
A major component of the program emphasizes pre-professional studies, including disorder evaluation and treatment. For admission, prospective students need a high school or GED diploma.
$54,720
$54,720
94%
33,720
Private
Yes
$54,720
$54,720
Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$54,720
$54,720
19%
10%
$54,720
$54,720
94%
33,720
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $61,050
Out of State | $61,050
Credits to Graduate
128 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
BU's bachelor's in speech, language, and hearing sciences prepares students for advanced research and clinical settings in communication sciences. Core courses cover training in language acquisition, speech science, and phonological disorders. Students also complete integrative practical training, such as an internship and lab experiences.
A major component of the program emphasizes pre-professional studies, including disorder evaluation and treatment. For admission, prospective students need a high school or GED diploma.
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL4 yearOnline
$3,358
$15,000
32%
N/A
Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $129
Out of State | $552
Credits to Graduate
120 credits total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
UF's bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders examines the various communication disorders and clinical treatment methods. Core courses include neural basis of communication, audiometry and hearing disorders, and audiologic rehabilitation. Learners also complete clinical observations.
For admission, first-year applicants need a high school or GED diploma and a minimum 2.5 GPA. For access to the major, students must complete all general education prerequisites and maintain a 2.0 GPA.
N/A
N/A
63%
3,926
Public
Yes
$3,358
$15,000
Gainesville, FL4 yearOnline
$3,358
$15,000
32%
N/A
N/A
N/A
63%
3,926
Public
Yes
Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $129
Out of State | $552
Credits to Graduate
120 credits total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
UF's bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders examines the various communication disorders and clinical treatment methods. Core courses include neural basis of communication, audiometry and hearing disorders, and audiologic rehabilitation. Learners also complete clinical observations.
For admission, first-year applicants need a high school or GED diploma and a minimum 2.5 GPA. For access to the major, students must complete all general education prerequisites and maintain a 2.0 GPA.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$9,273
$36,333
54%
18%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $10,722
Out of State | $39,354
Credits to Graduate
120 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech–Language–Hearing Association
UW's bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders provides students with a foundation necessary for graduate-level training and professional licensure. The program features courses in speech acoustics and perception, physiology of speech production, and normal aspects of hearing.
Students can take the program with either the education or letters and sciences departments, with small differences in the requirements for each program. For admission to the school, applicants need a high school or GED diploma. For entry into the major, they need to complete all general education prerequisites, including a foreign language component.
$10,728
$24,054
95%
44,257
Public
Yes
$9,273
$36,333
Madison, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$9,273
$36,333
54%
18%
$10,728
$24,054
95%
44,257
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $10,722
Out of State | $39,354
Credits to Graduate
120 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech–Language–Hearing Association
UW's bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders provides students with a foundation necessary for graduate-level training and professional licensure. The program features courses in speech acoustics and perception, physiology of speech production, and normal aspects of hearing.
Students can take the program with either the education or letters and sciences departments, with small differences in the requirements for each program. For admission to the school, applicants need a high school or GED diploma. For entry into the major, they need to complete all general education prerequisites, including a foreign language component.
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,478
$19,810
44%
59%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $212.28
Out of State | $748.89
Credits to Graduate
120 total (63-64 in the major)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
UCF's bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders features courses in language development, physiological bases of speech, and multicultural aspects of communication disorders and differences. In this program, students learn to think critically about communication development and differences. Learners also study how to make ethical treatment and analysis decisions.
UCF also offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's program in communication sciences and disorders. For admission, applicants need a high school or GED diploma, plus SAT or ACT scores.
$6,916
$25,759
91%
69,402
Public
Yes
$4,478
$19,810
Orlando, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$4,478
$19,810
44%
59%
$6,916
$25,759
91%
69,402
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $212.28
Out of State | $748.89
Credits to Graduate
120 total (63-64 in the major)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
UCF's bachelor's in communication sciences and disorders features courses in language development, physiological bases of speech, and multicultural aspects of communication disorders and differences. In this program, students learn to think critically about communication development and differences. Learners also study how to make ethical treatment and analysis decisions.
UCF also offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's program in communication sciences and disorders. For admission, applicants need a high school or GED diploma, plus SAT or ACT scores.
George Washington University
Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online
$54,453
$54,453
41%
22%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,995
Out of State | $1,995
Credits to Graduate
120 total (44 for the major and concentration)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
GW's bachelor's in speech, language, and hearing science trains students in communication processes and development. The program features three concentrations, including communication sciences and disorders, and language across cultures and the lifespan. The final concentration is the neuroscience of language and communication.
The core curriculum for all specializations includes courses in foundations in human communication, research methods, and language structure and meaning. First-year applicants need a high school or GED diploma for admission to the school. Those applying to the major must have completed all general education prerequisites.
$31,770
$31,770
92%
27,814
Private
Yes
$54,453
$54,453
Washington, DC4 yearCampus + Online
$54,453
$54,453
41%
22%
$31,770
$31,770
92%
27,814
Private
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,995
Out of State | $1,995
Credits to Graduate
120 total (44 for the major and concentration)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
GW's bachelor's in speech, language, and hearing science trains students in communication processes and development. The program features three concentrations, including communication sciences and disorders, and language across cultures and the lifespan. The final concentration is the neuroscience of language and communication.
The core curriculum for all specializations includes courses in foundations in human communication, research methods, and language structure and meaning. First-year applicants need a high school or GED diploma for admission to the school. Those applying to the major must have completed all general education prerequisites.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$14,188
$33,127
59%
39%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $17,138-$22,324
Out of State | $35,110-$42,796
Credits to Graduate
128 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
U of I's bachelor's in speech and hearing science offers concentrations in audiology, cultural-linguistic diversity, and the neuroscience of communication. Another concentration is speech-language pathology. The core curriculum includes courses in anatomical and physiological speech mechanism, development of spoken language, and interpreting clinical research.
The training provides learners with the theoretical and clinical preparation necessary to enter a master's program after graduation. For admission, prospective students need a high school or GED diploma, plus strong grades.
$14,997
$28,404
93%
51,605
Public
Yes
$14,188
$33,127
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$14,188
$33,127
59%
39%
$14,997
$28,404
93%
51,605
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $17,138-$22,324
Out of State | $35,110-$42,796
Credits to Graduate
128 total
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | N/A
U of I's bachelor's in speech and hearing science offers concentrations in audiology, cultural-linguistic diversity, and the neuroscience of communication. Another concentration is speech-language pathology. The core curriculum includes courses in anatomical and physiological speech mechanism, development of spoken language, and interpreting clinical research.
The training provides learners with the theoretical and clinical preparation necessary to enter a master's program after graduation. For admission, prospective students need a high school or GED diploma, plus strong grades.
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
34%
50%
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $8,174
Out of State | $8,174
Credits to Graduate
120 total (up to 68 in the major)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
SDSU's bachelor's in speech, language, and hearing sciences prepares students for professional training and practice in the communicative disorders field. Core training includes courses in principles of audiology, phonological acquisition and disorders, and communication processes and aging.
Students can access the school's speech, language, and hearing clinic facilities. For school admissions, prospective students need a high school or GED diploma. To enter the major, applicants need prerequisites in communication sciences, psychology, and statistics, plus a minimum 2.75 GPA.
$7,176
$16,680
89%
35,544
Public
Yes
$5,742
$17,622
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$5,742
$17,622
34%
50%
$7,176
$16,680
89%
35,544
Public
Yes
On-Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Tuition per Year
In State | $8,174
Out of State | $8,174
Credits to Graduate
120 total (up to 68 in the major)
Program Information
Degree-Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
SDSU's bachelor's in speech, language, and hearing sciences prepares students for professional training and practice in the communicative disorders field. Core training includes courses in principles of audiology, phonological acquisition and disorders, and communication processes and aging.
Students can access the school's speech, language, and hearing clinic facilities. For school admissions, prospective students need a high school or GED diploma. To enter the major, applicants need prerequisites in communication sciences, psychology, and statistics, plus a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Top Three Benefits of a Speech Pathology Degree
Foundation for further training and development
According to the BLS, speech pathologists need a master’s degree and state licensure to practice in the field. While a bachelor’s in speech pathology can lead to various healthcare careers after graduation, the training primarily lays the groundwork for the required advanced training and professional practice.
Access to various work environments
Speech pathologists work in many environments and healthcare settings. Examples include physician’s offices, hospitals, residential care facilities, and schools.
Strong salary potential
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for speech pathologists was $79,060 in May 2021. This is higher than the median annual salaries for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations during that same period.
What Can I Expect From a Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology Program?
A bachelor’s in speech pathology typically focuses on developing professional fundamentals in students. Learners study the science of speech acquisition, development, and disorders. They learn to identify communication issues and provide treatment.
In addition to the speech pathology major, undergraduate students must complete general education courses to satisfy the requirements of their bachelor’s degree. Depending on the school and program, students may choose between a BA or a BS. These programs usually differ in their electives, though BS programs may feature more clinical training.
Some programs offer concentrations, which alter the focus of the training in the later courses. Possible specializations may include audiology, language or linguistics, and neuroscience of communication.
| Average Bachelor’s Degree Tuition Cost | Public Institution: $9,349 Private Institution: $32,769 |
|---|---|
| Length | 4 years |
| Credits | 120 |
| Program Tracks | Bachelor of arts (BA), bachelor of science (BS) |
| Example Concentrations |
|
| Example Courses |
|
What Programs Are Similar to Speech Pathology?
What Are the Admission Requirements?
Each school and program has its own admission requirements, but prospective students need a high school or GED diploma at a minimum for entry. They may also need to post minimum GPAs or scores on their college entrance exams.
Other requirements include letters of recommendation and college application essays, which provide insightful information about the applicant and can sway an admission decision. To choose the right college, prospective students should consider what application requirements are needed and how their submissions measure up.
How Do I Pay for a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Pathology?
What Can I Do With This Degree?
Graduates with a bachelor’s in speech pathology can use their science and human development knowledge to access healthcare assistant and aide careers. In their job hunt, they might also pursue administrative positions in healthcare settings, a sector that offers a growing number of opportunities.
For example, the BLS projects 18% growth for medical assistant occupations between 2020 and 2030, more than twice the projected growth rate of 8% for all occupations. The median annual salary for these professionals was $37,190 in May 2021.
The primary aim for most graduates is to continue their training in a master’s program, which may grant them access to speech-language pathologist roles. The BLS projects 29% growth in this field, and these workers made a median annual salary of over $79,000 in May 2021.
| Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2021) |
|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | $37,190 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $101,340 |
| Social and Community Services Manager | $74,000 |
| Health Education Specialist | $48,860 |
| Personal Care Aide | $29,430 |
Speech Pathology Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Speech Pathology Licensing and Certification
While professionals with a bachelor’s in speech pathology do not have access to postgraduate credentials in their field, it can still help to understand the differences between certificates, certifications, and licenses. Generally, schools offer certificate training programs to students, and governing organizations offer industry certifications to qualified professionals. Governments offer licenses to professionals who qualify for practice.
In the speech pathology field, professionals need a master’s degree and state licensure or registration to practice. Master’s graduates can also pursue a certificate of clinical competence.
Should I Get a Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology Online?
Before choosing a college, prospective students should decide between online and on-campus studies. Earning a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology online has many benefits, including opening the door to more programs nationwide. Another component to an online degree’s value is the scheduling flexibility offered, allowing learners to study during the hours that work best for them.
Online vs. On-Campus Degrees
On-Campus Pros
Access to on-campus resources and support services- In-person social interaction and networking
- Hands-on learning
- Classroom learning environment with fewer distractions
- Extracurricular clubs and activities
On-Campus Cons
May be more expensive than online programs- Set class times with less flexibility
- Time/money commuting
Online Pros
- Flexibility to learn on your schedule
- Learn from anywhere
- Network with people around the world
- Save time/money on commuting
- May be more affordable than on-campus programs
- Access to online tutoring and career services
Online Cons
- Requires more self-discipline
- Not all programs are available online
- More technical requirements
- Potential social isolation and loneliness
How to Choose an Online Degree Program
Frequently Asked Questions About Speech Pathology Programs
Yes. A bachelor’s in speech pathology opens a path to a very rewarding career. For aspiring speech pathologists, a bachelor’s degree is the first step to speech pathology licensure and professional practice, which requires a master’s degree.
In this field, professionals benefit from better-than-average projected growth and salary potentials, as per the BLS. They also get to help people understand and manage communication disorders.
Feature Image: FatCamera / E+ / Getty Images
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