Best Doctorate in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Programs

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A doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology is a gateway to a career as a speech-language pathologist or teaching at the postsecondary level. Students develop clinical expertise in speech-language pathology while gaining a graduate-level understanding of areas such as education and public health.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees for graduate programs in 2019-20 was $19,792 per year. Additional college costs like technology fees can add to the overall cost.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
On average, a doctoral program takes 4-6 years to complete, but some online programs shorten this timeline. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for speech-language pathologists is strong, with jobs projected to grow 29% between 2020 and 2030. Salaries are also strong, with a median pay of $79,060 as of 2021.
With strong salaries, moderate tuition, and the opportunity to take classes part time, it’s worth investigating whether a doctoral program makes financial sense for you.
Learn more about our picks for the best doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology programs below.
Best Accredited Doctorate in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
Public School Programs
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Browse programs Discover matches Request info
Adelphi University
Garden City, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
TBD
Credits to Graduate
86
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Adelphi University's doctor of audiology program provides a strong scientific and theoretical background for students interested in clinical leadership positions. Upon graduation, students are prepared to seek licensure from the American Speech-Language-Hearing association as well as state licensure in audiology.
Prospective students must submit two letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and official transcripts. Some students may also be required to complete an interview with faculty. Adelphi is currently a test-optional institution.
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covered full tuition
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Boston University's Ph.D. in speech, language, and hearing sciences is a five-year, fully funded program that tailors the degree to each student's needs. Courses cross-listed from Boston College, Brandeis, and Tufts are available in addition to BU courses.
The program is designed to prepare academic researchers in speech-language pathology, including those with prior clinical certification. Applicants must submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $819
Credits to Graduate
51
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Loma Linda University offers a part-time, hybrid speech-language pathology program for working pathologists in the field. The program aims to increase depth of knowledge and offers clinical research experience.
Applicants must already hold a master's degree or the equivalent with six months of professional practice. They must also hold licensure, a certificate of clinical competence, and a minimum 3.33 GPA. In addition, they must provide transcripts, three letters of reference, and a personal statement outlining their research interests.
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
36-48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
New York University offers a research-focused Ph.D. in communicative sciences and disorders. The curriculum focuses on teaching the foundations of communication and education in research. Students can tailor the degree and specialize in their interest area. Most students go on to pursue academic positions.
Students complete two major research papers in addition to their dissertation. Applicants must submit a resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and copies of any transcripts.
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564
Courses to Graduate
16
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The Northwestern University doctor of speech-language pathology program is designed for working professionals looking to deepen their expertise. Using a hybrid format with minimal time on campus required, students learn advanced clinical practice, business and practice management, and leadership skills.
Opportunities exist for students to specialize, with customizable options for different clinical focus areas and culminating projects. Options include business, clinical investigation, process improvement, and teaching and learning. Applicants must hold ASHA certification and have worked for at least three years.
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,261
Credits to Graduate
53
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Nova Southeastern University's doctor of speech-language pathology helps working professionals deepen their speech-language pathology expertise. The hybrid model requires only occasional on-campus activities and a one-week summer institute. Students take most coursework online.
Applicants need transcripts with a minimum 3.2 GPA, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. They also need a certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology.
Pacific University
Forest Grove, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564
Credits to Graduate
121
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Pacific University's doctor of audiology program is an accelerated 3-year program which uses a block model to cycle students through three clinical internship rotations. The third year of this program involves an externship placement where students receive hands-on training at one of many participating facilities across the country.
Prospective students are encouraged to hold a bachelor's degree in communication sciences disorders or another physical sciences subject. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. GRE scores are optional, but qualified applicants will be selected to participate in an interview with faculty.
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
83
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Syracuse University offers a Ph.D. in speech-language pathology. Coursework includes both subject-specific courses and more general courses in research design and statistics. The program emphasizes research experience and features faculty-guided experiments. In year three, students begin a dissertation. They complete the program in 4-5 years.
Candidates need a bachelor's degree and must supply three letters of recommendation. In addition, they must secure a faculty mentor at Syracuse University.
Teachers College at Columbia University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
75
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The Ph.D. in communication sciences and disorders at Teachers College at Columbia University offers an opportunity to build expertise in the field. With a focus on translational research and cross-language work, students are encouraged to see their research within the context of larger communities and its potential impact.
Students must submit an online application that includes a statement of purpose and resume. They must also provide GRE general or MAT scores, transcripts, and an academic writing sample.
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $2,215
Credits to Graduate
72
Program Information
Program Accreditation | American Speech-Language Hearing Association, Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
Vanderbilt University's hearing and speech sciences Ph.D. program is a research-based program which aims to prepare students for research and teaching careers. Typically, students enroll in 24 credit hours per year for two years before submitting a dissertation proposal. Then, learners spend the rest of the program completing the degree.
Students typically publish these dissertation projects and present them at major conferences. Applicants must submit transcripts and a personal statement. Students can also submit optional GRE scores.
Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private |Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
Variable based on experience
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Washington University in St. Louis offers a custom-tailored Ph.D. in hearing and speech science program designed to suit students' prior experience and research interests. It is administered jointly between the graduate school audiology and communication sciences department, and the school of medicine.
After coursework, students prepare and defend a dissertation. Applicants are required to submit all transcripts and three letters of recommendation. They are also encouraged to reach out to the program for full application details.
Private School Programs
These rankings were compiled by our
BestColleges Ranking Team
and include
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Browse programs Discover matches Request info
Adelphi University
Garden City, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
TBD
Credits to Graduate
86
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Adelphi University's doctor of audiology program provides a strong scientific and theoretical background for students interested in clinical leadership positions. Upon graduation, students are prepared to seek licensure from the American Speech-Language-Hearing association as well as state licensure in audiology.
Prospective students must submit two letters of recommendation, a personal essay, and official transcripts. Some students may also be required to complete an interview with faculty. Adelphi is currently a test-optional institution.
Boston University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covered full tuition
Credits to Graduate
48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Boston University's Ph.D. in speech, language, and hearing sciences is a five-year, fully funded program that tailors the degree to each student's needs. Courses cross-listed from Boston College, Brandeis, and Tufts are available in addition to BU courses.
The program is designed to prepare academic researchers in speech-language pathology, including those with prior clinical certification. Applicants must submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $819
Credits to Graduate
51
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Loma Linda University offers a part-time, hybrid speech-language pathology program for working pathologists in the field. The program aims to increase depth of knowledge and offers clinical research experience.
Applicants must already hold a master's degree or the equivalent with six months of professional practice. They must also hold licensure, a certificate of clinical competence, and a minimum 3.33 GPA. In addition, they must provide transcripts, three letters of reference, and a personal statement outlining their research interests.
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
36-48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
New York University offers a research-focused Ph.D. in communicative sciences and disorders. The curriculum focuses on teaching the foundations of communication and education in research. Students can tailor the degree and specialize in their interest area. Most students go on to pursue academic positions.
Students complete two major research papers in addition to their dissertation. Applicants must submit a resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and copies of any transcripts.
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564
Courses to Graduate
16
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The Northwestern University doctor of speech-language pathology program is designed for working professionals looking to deepen their expertise. Using a hybrid format with minimal time on campus required, students learn advanced clinical practice, business and practice management, and leadership skills.
Opportunities exist for students to specialize, with customizable options for different clinical focus areas and culminating projects. Options include business, clinical investigation, process improvement, and teaching and learning. Applicants must hold ASHA certification and have worked for at least three years.
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,261
Credits to Graduate
53
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Nova Southeastern University's doctor of speech-language pathology helps working professionals deepen their speech-language pathology expertise. The hybrid model requires only occasional on-campus activities and a one-week summer institute. Students take most coursework online.
Applicants need transcripts with a minimum 3.2 GPA, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. They also need a certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology.
Pacific University
Forest Grove, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564
Credits to Graduate
121
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Pacific University's doctor of audiology program is an accelerated 3-year program which uses a block model to cycle students through three clinical internship rotations. The third year of this program involves an externship placement where students receive hands-on training at one of many participating facilities across the country.
Prospective students are encouraged to hold a bachelor's degree in communication sciences disorders or another physical sciences subject. Applicants must submit official transcripts, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. GRE scores are optional, but qualified applicants will be selected to participate in an interview with faculty.
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
83
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Syracuse University offers a Ph.D. in speech-language pathology. Coursework includes both subject-specific courses and more general courses in research design and statistics. The program emphasizes research experience and features faculty-guided experiments. In year three, students begin a dissertation. They complete the program in 4-5 years.
Candidates need a bachelor's degree and must supply three letters of recommendation. In addition, they must secure a faculty mentor at Syracuse University.
Teachers College at Columbia University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
75
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
The Ph.D. in communication sciences and disorders at Teachers College at Columbia University offers an opportunity to build expertise in the field. With a focus on translational research and cross-language work, students are encouraged to see their research within the context of larger communities and its potential impact.
Students must submit an online application that includes a statement of purpose and resume. They must also provide GRE general or MAT scores, transcripts, and an academic writing sample.
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $2,215
Credits to Graduate
72
Program Information
Program Accreditation | American Speech-Language Hearing Association, Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology
Vanderbilt University's hearing and speech sciences Ph.D. program is a research-based program which aims to prepare students for research and teaching careers. Typically, students enroll in 24 credit hours per year for two years before submitting a dissertation proposal. Then, learners spend the rest of the program completing the degree.
Students typically publish these dissertation projects and present them at major conferences. Applicants must submit transcripts and a personal statement. Students can also submit optional GRE scores.
Washington University in St Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
On Campus | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
Private |Stipend covers full tuition
Credits to Graduate
Variable based on experience
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Washington University in St. Louis offers a custom-tailored Ph.D. in hearing and speech science program designed to suit students' prior experience and research interests. It is administered jointly between the graduate school audiology and communication sciences department, and the school of medicine.
After coursework, students prepare and defend a dissertation. Applicants are required to submit all transcripts and three letters of recommendation. They are also encouraged to reach out to the program for full application details.
Popular Online Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
How We Rank Schools
Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Doctorate in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified 56 schools that qualify for our ranking, listed in alphabetical order. The programs in our list are based on the following criteria.
- Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
- Each school must offer a doctoral degree program in the given subject.
- Each school must submit an annual report to the National Center for Education Statistics.
The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Programs
Is a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology worth it?
Whether a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology is worth it depends on your situation. For those who hold only a bachelor's or master's degree and hope to pursue a career in teaching or research, a Ph.D. is absolutely worth it. A Ph.D. is the primary path to enter into academia.
For those currently working as a speech-language pathologist, the question is more ambiguous. Potential applicants should investigate what the potential costs will be, how much their salary would increase, and what time commitment they can afford to dedicate to their studies.
What can I do with a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology?
A Ph.D. in audiology and speech-language pathology prepares you for a career as a teacher and researcher. Most graduates go into academia, conducting and publishing independent research while training the next generation of audiologists and speech-language pathologists. A handful, but not many, also practice as speech-language clinicians.
With a non-Ph.D. doctorate in speech-language pathology, you can pursue an advanced career as a clinician in the field. Doctorate coursework prepares you for more complex cases, managing a therapy office, and applying your knowledge to broader fields, like public health and education.
How long does it take to get a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology?
A Ph.D. in audiology and speech-language pathology takes about 4-6 years of full-time work, depending on prior experience. The first part of the program is devoted to classroom study. During this phase, you may earn a master's degree if you don't already have one. During the next segment, you work on conducting an independent experiment and presenting and defending your findings in a dissertation.
If you already have a master's degree in the field, it may only take you 1-2 years to earn your doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology. Completion times vary based on enrollment status.
How much money can I make with a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology?
Most professionals with a Ph.D. in speech-language pathology pursue careers as a tenure-track professor. According to Payscale, as of July 2022, the average salary for a tenure-track professor was $74,620. However, alternate revenue streams also exist, such as with publishing, fellowships, and private-sector research.
Those with a non-Ph.D. doctorate typically work as a speech-language pathologist. According to the BLS, the median salary for a speech-language pathologist was $79,060 as of 2021. However, speech-language pathologists with a doctorate often command a higher salary.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology?
Tenure-track professors and speech-language pathologists make some of the highest salaries with a doctorate in audiology and speech-language pathology. Additional potential well-paying jobs include audiologist. According to Payscale data, as of July 2022, these workers made an average annual salary of $70,600.
A speech-language pathologist with a doctoral degree can earn a much higher salary than the average for all U.S. jobs of $45,760. According to BLS, the highest paid speech-language pathologists can earn over $125,560 annually as of 2021.
Job growth in the speech-language pathology field is also strong, with the BLS projecting 29% job growth between 2020 and 2030. This is much faster than the average job growth rate of 8% for all occupations.
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