Best Master’s in Audiology and Speech Pathology Programs

Have you ever considered getting a masters in audiology and speech pathology? Check out our guide for best programs, careers, and salary information.

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Updated December 18, 2024

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A master’s program in audiology and speech pathology can prepare students to become certified speech-language pathologists or go on to doctoral programs. Students complete coursework, clinical practicums, and research projects to learn more about how to treat speech and language disorders.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), graduate school cost an average of $19,792 in yearly tuition during the 2019-2020 academic year. Those looking to cut down on these costs might be interested in an online audiology and speech pathology program. By choosing an accredited online college, it may be possible to save money and earn a degree on your own schedule.

A master’s program in audiology and speech pathology typically takes 2-3 years to complete and consists of a 30-60 credit hour curriculum. The time commitment and the possibility of student debt may have prospective students wondering if they should go to graduate school.

However, a healthcare degree can be valuable, particularly a degree in speech pathology and audiology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), speech-language pathologists earned a median annual salary of $79,060 in May 2021. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow 29% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average growth rate across all occupations.

Graduates in this field are likely to have access to jobs that offer higher-than-average salaries and opportunities for growth. Check out the programs we’ve identified as the best for a master’s in audiology and speech pathology.

Our Top Pick

Northwestern University – Evanston, Illinois

Why It’s #1: Northwestern University is the number one ranked school on our 2022 Best Master’s in Audiology and Speech Pathology programs list. This institution has a high graduation rate of 94%, and a low student-to-professor ratio of 6-to-1, so students have the opportunity for a personalized experience. Although Northwestern charges higher-than-average tuition, 64% of students receive aid each year. With an admission rate of 9%, this institution is highly competitive.

Best Accredited Master’s in Audiology and Speech Pathology Programs

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

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

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.

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

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $17,964
Out of State | $17,964

Credits to Graduate
30 (minimum)

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Northwestern University has one of the best-known master's in speech, language, and learning in the world. Students in this renowned MS program learn from established professors, make use of a state-of-the-art clinic, and learn a progressive curriculum.

Evidence-based courses focus on preparing students to make scientific decisions, develop leadership skills, and engage in speech pathology dialogue.

Applicants do not need to have a bachelor's in the communication sciences and disorders field, although some core classes are recommended.

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

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Quarter
In State | $17,964
Out of State | $17,964

Credits to Graduate
30 (minimum)

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Evidence-based courses focus on preparing students to make scientific decisions, develop leadership skills, and engage in speech pathology dialogue.

Applicants do not need to have a bachelor's in the communication sciences and disorders field, although some core classes are recommended.

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 Academic Year
In State | $44,586
Out of State | $44,586

Credits to Graduate
30 (minimum)

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The Vanderbilt University School of Medicine houses the hearing and speech sciences graduate program. It is one of the largest programs at Vanderbilt, and the largest non-M.D. program in the school of medicine. The program offers two degree paths: a master of science in speech-language pathology (M.S.-SLP) and a master's in education of the Deaf (MDE).

Students have the opportunity to complete their clinical hours at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, one of the most well-respected healthcare facilities in the country. Applicants must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and GRE test 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 Academic Year
In State | $44,586
Out of State | $44,586

Credits to Graduate
30 (minimum)

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online

$10,552

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$28,278

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

23%

Acceptance Rate

12%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $587
Out of State | $1,602

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The master's in speech and hearing sciences program at UNC Chapel Hill focuses on interdisciplinary studies, a global mindset, and leadership skills. The program satisfies all the requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

During the program, students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on a research topic of their choice at impressive clinical and internship sites.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,019

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,198

Retention Rate

96%

Students Enrolled

29,877

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,552

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,278

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,552

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,278

Acceptance Rate

23%

Online Enrollment

12%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,019

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,198

Retention Rate

96%

Students Enrolled

29,877

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $587
Out of State | $1,602

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

During the program, students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on a research topic of their choice at impressive clinical and internship sites.

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online

$10,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$27,335

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

37%

Acceptance Rate

46%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $531
Out of State | $1,255

Credits to Graduate
63

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The master of arts program in communication sciences and disorders at the University of Florida qualifies students for a speech pathology certification in five full-time semesters.

The coursework focuses on evidence-based, culturally sensitive clinical work, however, students have time to develop their research skills in classes of 25-30 students. There is an optional thesis track where students cultivate their own research with the guidance of a mentor. The average employment rate three years post-graduation is nearly 98%.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,477

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$25,694

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

52,407

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,335

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,335

Acceptance Rate

37%

Online Enrollment

46%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,477

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$25,694

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

52,407

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $531
Out of State | $1,255

Credits to Graduate
63

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The master of arts program in communication sciences and disorders at the University of Florida qualifies students for a speech pathology certification in five full-time semesters.

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

Online and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,020
Out of State | $2,020

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

NYU's master's program in speech-language pathology is a mostly online program designed for flexibility and speech-language pathology certification. The coursework is all evidence-based and prioritizes person-centered care.

Before beginning clinical work, participants are required to attend two on-campus immersions to prepare for the experience through workshops, clinics, and feedback from mentors. Once this is completed a mentor is assigned to help students find a local placement to complete their required 375 clinic hours.

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

Online and Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,020
Out of State | $2,020

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Brigham Young University-Provo

Provo, UT4 yearCampus

$7,290

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$7,290

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

67%

Acceptance Rate

12%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $3,966 (Latter-day Saint); $7,932 (Non-Latter-day Saint)
Out of State | $3,966 (Latter-day Saint); $7,932 (Non-Latter-day Saint)

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

A master's degree in communication disorders from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, meets all requirements for students to earn the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. The program focuses equally on coursework, a clinical practicum, and a thesis. Of the 48 required credits, 37 are coursework, five are clinical practicum, and six are thesis.

Students with all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply, but they may be required to take extra core classes if they have not already been completed. GRE scores are required as part of the application.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$5,790

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$5,790

Retention Rate

90%

Students Enrolled

34,318

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$7,290

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,290

Brigham Young University-Provo

Provo, UT4 yearCampus

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$7,290

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,290

Acceptance Rate

67%

Online Enrollment

12%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$5,790

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$5,790

Retention Rate

90%

Students Enrolled

34,318

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Semester
In State | $3,966 (Latter-day Saint); $7,932 (Non-Latter-day Saint)
Out of State | $3,966 (Latter-day Saint); $7,932 (Non-Latter-day Saint)

Credits to Graduate
48

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA4 yearCampus + Online

$16,578

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$27,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

24%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $17,800
Out of State | $28,380

Credits to Graduate
69

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The master of education program in communication sciences and disorders at UVA is a full-time program split between academic classes and clinical training. Clinical training is completed at the Sheila Johnson Center, an on-site clinic open to Virginia residents seeking diagnosis and treatment of speech issues.

The program features tracks for those who have a background in communication disorders and those who do not. Those who have already completed the core classes upon entering the program will be able to finish two semesters early.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,970

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$47,833

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

25,012

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,578

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,770

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$16,578

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,770

Acceptance Rate

24%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,970

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$47,833

Retention Rate

97%

Students Enrolled

25,012

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $17,800
Out of State | $28,380

Credits to Graduate
69

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Northeastern University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus

$24,793

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$24,793

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

18%

Acceptance Rate

10%

Online Enrollment

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $52,420
Out of State | $52,420

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The MS program in speech-language pathology at Northeastern combines rigorous academics with clinical research to help students learn to solve complex service delivery issues. Participants work closely with faculty on evidence-based research in labs and learn innovative techniques to improve speech.

Faculty are internationally recognized and all are active in the speech pathology field. Graduates of this program are eligible for state licensure and the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence after completing their clinical fellowship year.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$52,420

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$52,420

Retention Rate

99%

Students Enrolled

22,207

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$24,793

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$24,793

Northeastern University

Boston, MA4 yearCampus

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$24,793

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$24,793

Acceptance Rate

18%

Online Enrollment

10%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$52,420

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$52,420

Retention Rate

99%

Students Enrolled

22,207

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Academic Year
In State | $52,420
Out of State | $52,420

Credits to Graduate
60

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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 Academic Year
In State | $61,050
Out of State | $61,050

Credits to Graduate
67

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The MS program in speech-language pathology at BU accepts students from all academic disciplines. Learners gain broad clinical experience on and off campus and earn their degrees in two years.

Students who participate in coursework and clinical hours will qualify for Massachusetts state licensure and American Speech–Language–Hearing Association certification. The program boasts a 100% passing rate on the National Certification Board Examination and a 100% employment rate within six months of graduation.

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 Academic Year
In State | $61,050
Out of State | $61,050

Credits to Graduate
67

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

The MS program in speech-language pathology at BU accepts students from all academic disciplines. Learners gain broad clinical experience on and off campus and earn their degrees in two years.

#10

Yeshiva University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

$34,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$34,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

55%

Acceptance Rate

12%

Online Enrollment

Online, Hybrid, or On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,590
Out of State | $1,590

Credits to Graduate
55

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

A MS program in speech-language pathology at Yeshiva University specializes in the medical aspects of speech language pathology and offers students flexible options. Enrollees can choose to complete their studies online or on campus and part time or full time.

The Jewish university focuses on diverse clinic experiences, and students have the opportunity to serve clients of all ages and backgrounds. In their coursework, students use cutting-edge technology and develop the skills to counsel patients experiencing challenging conditions.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$42,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$42,200

Retention Rate

91%

Students Enrolled

5,357

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$34,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,800

Yeshiva University

New York, NY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$34,800

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,800

Acceptance Rate

55%

Online Enrollment

12%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$42,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$42,200

Retention Rate

91%

Students Enrolled

5,357

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Online, Hybrid, or On Campus | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,590
Out of State | $1,590

Credits to Graduate
55

Program Information
Program Accreditation | Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

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Top Three Benefits of an Audiology and Speech Pathology Degree

—
Audiology and speech pathology can be a good fit for people who have a knack for working 1-on-1 with clients.

Graduates pursue many different types of careers at schools, nonprofits, and hospitals. All graduates have the opportunity to work with diverse client populations with different abilities.

—
Audiology and speech pathologists generally earn higher-than-average salaries.

According to the BLS, speech-language pathologists earned a median annual salary of $79,060 in May 2021. The top 10% of these professionals earned more than $125,560 during the same period.

—
The field of audiology and speech pathology is growing.

The BLS projects a 29% increase in positions for speech-language pathologists between 2020 and 2030, or the addition of about 45,400 new jobs.

What Can I Expect From a Master’s in Audiology and Speech Pathology Program?

When preparing for graduate school, it is important to consider the requirements of the program and your own academic and professional goals. A master’s in audiology and speech pathology program typically requires students to complete 30-60 credits of classes in linguistic and cognitive development and communication disorders. In addition, students must complete required fieldwork and practicums.

Speech-language pathologists must be comfortable working with clients of all abilities and ages, have an inclusive mindset, and care about health and research.

Check Out The Student’s Guide to College Planning

Program Snapshot
Average Graduate Degree Tuition Cost	Public Institution: $12,410 Private Institution: $26,597
Length	2-3 years
Credits	30-60
Program Tracks	Master of arts (MA), master of science (MS), master of education (M.Ed.)
Example Concentrations	Autism Fluency Neurogenic, voice, and swallowing Hearing
Example Courses	Linguistic and Cognitive Development Neurogenic Communication Disorders Fluency Disorders Disorders of Voice and Resonance Dysphagia

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What Are the Admission Requirements?

Admission requirements may make students question how to prepare for graduate school. Although requirements vary, many programs ask applicants for the same basic information. For example, prospective students almost always need to have a bachelor’s degree.

Some programs may be selective about coursework and require applicants to have majored in certain subjects or completed certain courses in communicative disorders. Other programs accept applicants from any academic background.

Institutions almost always ask potential enrollees to submit admission essays and resumes. Some schools require students to submit GRE scores and possess a certain GPA or higher.

Explore Our Graduate Admissions Guide

How Do I Pay for a Master’s Degree in Audiology and Speech Pathology?

Financial Aid Guide for Graduate Students

The Students Guide to College Loans

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Online Students

What Can I Do With This Degree?

A person holding a degree in speech-language pathology can expect to make approximately $79,060 a year. According to the BLS, there were 158,100 jobs for these professionals in 2020, and by 2030, there are projected to be 45,400 more job openings. Speech-language pathology is one of the fastest-growing careers that require a master’s. The BLS reports a 29% job growth rate for these professionals between 2020 and 2030, a much higher growth rate than the average 8% across occupations during the same period. Most speech pathologists work in schools or hospitals and hold titles such as speech-language pathologist, rehabilitation director, pathology assistant, and pediatric pathologist.

Popular Audiology and Speech Pathology Careers
Career	Average Annual Salary (July 2022)
Speech-Language Pathologist	$63,580
Rehabilitation Director	$89,750
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant	$42,160
Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist	$63,130
Speech-Language Pathology Supervisor	$73,210

Source: Payscale

Learn More About Audiology and Speech Pathology Careers

Audiology and Speech Pathology Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers.

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Audiology and Speech Pathology Licensing and Certification

Many people who complete master’s programs pursue degrees to obtain a certification or license in that area of expertise. The majority of master’s in audiology and speech students seek speech-language pathology (SLP) certification after graduation. SLP certification is a requirement for the majority of professionals in this field.

After students complete their programs and fellowships, they can apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) through ASHA.

Should I Get a Master’s in Audiology and Speech Pathology Online?

Many prospective students wonder if getting a master’s online is worth it. Going to an online college can be a great way to cut costs, work around a busy schedule, or choose a program in a different city.

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

CostComparing the Costs of Online vs. On-Campus Programs

Program FormatSynchronous Learning vs. Asynchronous Learning

AccreditationHow Does Online College Accreditation Work?

Student SupportYour Guide to Online Student Services and Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions About Audiology and Speech Pathology Programs

Is a master’s in audiology and speech pathology worth it?

Prospective students who wonder about the worth of a master’s degree should know that it requires an investment of 2-3 years and tens of thousands of dollars. However, for many students, a master’s in audiology and speech pathology is worth it.

According to the BLS, speech-language pathologists earned an above-average median salary of $79,060 in May 2021. The organization also projects increased demand for these professionals between 2020 and 2030, indicating opportunities for professional growth and increased job security.

Students can also consider pursuing their degrees online to cut costs and keep working while attending school. Online degree programs can be worth it because of the flexibility, reduced costs, and accessibility.

What can I do with a master’s in audiology and speech pathology?

Master’s in audiology and speech pathology degree-holders usually go on to become certified speech pathologists. They often have titles like speech pathologist, language pathologist, and speech therapist. With years of experience, these professionals can assume directorial and managerial positions, overseeing teams of speech therapists.

Regardless of their titles, most speech pathologists’ responsibilities include diagnosing, treating, and counseling patients who have speech and language disorders. Reporting progress and new findings to the speech therapy community can also be an important aspect of the job, depending on a person’s position. They usually work in schools or health facilities, like hospitals, clinics, or assisted living facilities.

What continuing education is available for audiology and speech pathology graduates?

Although a master’s degree can qualify a graduate for speech pathology jobs, some graduates choose to continue their education and pursue a doctorate in the field. Doctorates can qualify speech pathologists for career advancements and higher salaries.

Speech pathologists with doctoral degrees may become administrators, master clinicians, supervisors, or professors. A doctorate in this area of study is not required in order to have a successful career, so potential candidates should consider whether or not this higher degree will be worth the personal investment.

How much money can I make with a master’s in audiology and speech pathology?

A person with a master’s in audiology and speech pathology can expect to make $79,060 a year, according to the BLS. However, with additional years of experience and more education, these workers can earn over six figures per year.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master’s in audiology and speech pathology?

The highest-paying jobs for professionals with master’s degrees in audiology and speech pathology are generally managerial or directorial positions.

Speech pathologists can also earn more money in certain fields. Home health services and private enterprises typically pay high wages. In general, working in medical facilities, such as hospitals and clinics also yields higher salaries. Depending on a professional’s level of experience and education, they can earn between $70,000 and $120,000 per year.

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