Doctorate in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Interested in audiology and speech-language pathology academia or research? Check out the best audiology and speech-language pathology doctoral programs.

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Updated December 18, 2024

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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.

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.

In this Article

Accredited Doctorate in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Public School Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.

Adelphi University

Garden City, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

74%

Acceptance Rate

21%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$38,470

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,470

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

7,991

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,920

Adelphi University

Garden City, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,920

Acceptance Rate

74%

Online Enrollment

21%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$38,470

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,470

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

7,991

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
TBD

Credits to Graduate
86

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Boston University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

19%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

33,720

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Boston University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Acceptance Rate

19%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

33,720

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covered full tuition

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, CA4 yearCampus + Online

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

27%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,680

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,680

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,462

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,880

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, CA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,880

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

27%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,680

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,680

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,462

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $819

Credits to Graduate
51

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

New York University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

16%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,684

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,684

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

52,885

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,408

New York University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,408

Acceptance Rate

16%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,684

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,684

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

52,885

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
36-48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, IL4 yearCampus + Online

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$56,232

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,232

Retention Rate

98%

Students Enrolled

22,448

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,067

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,067

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$56,232

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,232

Retention Rate

98%

Students Enrolled

22,448

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564

Courses to Graduate
16

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL4 yearCampus + Online

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

80%

Acceptance Rate

45%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,150

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,150

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

20,576

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,665

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,665

Acceptance Rate

80%

Online Enrollment

45%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,150

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,150

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

20,576

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,261

Credits to Graduate
53

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, OR4 yearCampus + Online

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

87%

Acceptance Rate

18%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$45,344

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$45,344

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

3,832

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,768

Pacific University

Forest Grove, OR4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,768

Acceptance Rate

87%

Online Enrollment

18%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$45,344

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$45,344

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

3,832

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

44%

Acceptance Rate

15%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,616

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,616

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

22,850

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,880

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,880

Acceptance Rate

44%

Online Enrollment

15%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,616

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,616

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

22,850

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
83

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

14%

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,489

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$40,800

Teachers College at Columbia University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$40,800

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

14%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,489

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
75

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, TN4 yearCampus + Online

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,800

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

13,131

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$48,624

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$48,624

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,800

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

13,131

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

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

Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

14%

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

16,191

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Acceptance Rate

14%

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

16,191

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

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

Private School Programs

How We Rank Schools

Adelphi University

Garden City, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

74%

Acceptance Rate

21%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
TBD

Credits to Graduate
86

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$38,470

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,470

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

7,991

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,920

Adelphi University

Garden City, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$41,920

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,920

Acceptance Rate

74%

Online Enrollment

21%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$38,470

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,470

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

7,991

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
TBD

Credits to Graduate
86

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Boston University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

19%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covered full tuition

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

33,720

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Boston University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Acceptance Rate

19%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,720

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,720

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

33,720

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covered full tuition

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, CA4 yearCampus + Online

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

27%

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $819

Credits to Graduate
51

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,680

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,680

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,462

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,880

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, CA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$26,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,880

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

27%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,680

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,680

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,462

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $819

Credits to Graduate
51

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

New York University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

16%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
36-48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,684

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,684

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

52,885

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,408

New York University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$33,408

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$33,408

Acceptance Rate

16%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,684

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,684

Retention Rate

94%

Students Enrolled

52,885

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
36-48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, IL4 yearCampus + Online

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564

Courses to Graduate
16

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$56,232

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,232

Retention Rate

98%

Students Enrolled

22,448

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,067

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$56,067

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,067

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$56,232

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$56,232

Retention Rate

98%

Students Enrolled

22,448

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564

Courses to Graduate
16

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL4 yearCampus + Online

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

80%

Acceptance Rate

45%

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,261

Credits to Graduate
53

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,150

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,150

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

20,576

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,665

Nova Southeastern University

Fort Lauderdale, FL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,665

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,665

Acceptance Rate

80%

Online Enrollment

45%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,150

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,150

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

20,576

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | $1,261

Credits to Graduate
53

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, OR4 yearCampus + Online

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

87%

Acceptance Rate

18%

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$45,344

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$45,344

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

3,832

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,768

Pacific University

Forest Grove, OR4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$32,768

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,768

Acceptance Rate

87%

Online Enrollment

18%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$45,344

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$45,344

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

3,832

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Course
Private | $5,564

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

44%

Acceptance Rate

15%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
83

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

Candidates need a bachelor's degree and must supply three letters of recommendation. In addition, they must secure a faculty mentor at Syracuse University.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,616

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,616

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

22,850

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,880

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$38,880

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$38,880

Acceptance Rate

44%

Online Enrollment

15%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,616

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,616

Retention Rate

92%

Students Enrolled

22,850

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
83

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

14%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
75

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,489

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$40,800

Teachers College at Columbia University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$40,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$40,800

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

14%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

4,489

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
Private | Stipend covers full tuition

Credits to Graduate
75

Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A

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, TN4 yearCampus + Online

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

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

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,800

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

13,131

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$48,624

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$48,624

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$48,624

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$50,800

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$50,800

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

13,131

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

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

Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

14%

Acceptance Rate

Online Enrollment

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

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

16,191

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Washington University in St Louis

Saint Louis, MO4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Acceptance Rate

14%

Online Enrollment

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$54,250

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$54,250

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

16,191

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

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

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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.

Feature Image: ljubaphoto / E+ / Getty Images