7 Online Graduate Programs in Speech-Language Pathology

When it comes to starting a career as a speech-language pathologist, the university you choose can make all the difference. These programs aren’t just about obtaining a degree; they’re about preparing you to excel in the complex and rewarding field of speech pathology. In this article, we’ll delve into seven distinguished institutions from all over the United States offering online graduate programs in speech-language pathology.

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire prepares students for Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology certification or licensure in speech and language pathology through the Department of Public Instruction. The program prepares students to pass the Praxis with flying colors before graduation. The program is a total of 54 credits. 

Additional Information to Keep in Mind:

  • Applicants to the program should have a minimum 2.75 GPA.
  • Completion takes at least three years to complete on a part-time schedule.
  • Additionally, other required coursework includes two externships at the end of the program.

Texas Woman’s University

The Texas Woman’s University offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for certification and licensure in speech and language pathology. 

Students enrolled in the MS in Speech-Language Pathology program have the opportunity to fulfill their practicum requirement at the Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic or The Stroke Center in Dallas. Notably, the online program is taught by the same distinguished faculty members who instruct on-campus, ensuring that distance learners receive an education of the highest quality.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind:

  • Faculty research areas include technology and deafness, inclusion of deaf children in classrooms, and early detection and intervention for hearing loss.
  • Students without a communication disorders background can take pre-degree courses in language development, phonetics, school-age language, and audiology.
  • The Department of Communication and Oral Health provides four generous scholarships for MS in Speech and Language Disorders program applicants.

University of Akron

The University of Akron collaborates with the University of Cincinnati to offer an MA in speech-language pathology. When starting in the spring, the average time for a student to complete the 74-credit program is 32 months. 

For students looking for more flexibility, the University of Akron also offers their programs at a part-time level. This means you’ll be able to better balance your career and personal life while continuing your education.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind: 

  • University of Akron is a public university.
  • There is a $45 USD application fee.
  • Clinical Issues in Children Speech is a notable major at Akron.

James Madison University

James Madison University is located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. This public university offers several online programs, including a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. The curriculum for the program is 45 credits long, including a five-part speech-based practicum in which students gain clinical experience in the field. To finalize their education experience, students can choose between a thesis or a written comprehensive examination.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind: 

  • The average graduation rate of students at James Madison University is 83%.
  • A minimum of a 3.25 GPA in your undergrad studies is required for acceptance.
  • There is an application fee of $65 USD.

Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green offers a 60-credit online master’s degree program in speech pathology. Students can complete their 400 hours of fieldwork through either an externship or a six-week summer internship. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind:

  • WKU’s speech pathology master’s program is ASHA-accredited.
  • There is an application fee of $65 USD.
  • This graduate program is flexible and can be worked around your 9-5.

California State University Northridge

The Master of Science in Communicative Disorders program at California State University-Northridge prepares students for licensure and employment in private and public schools and clinics. The program combines clinical experiences with online instruction, with courses such as Interviewing and Counseling in Communicative Disorders, Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology, Pediatric Audiology, and Voice and Voice Disorders. Students must pass a written exam on speech-language pathology and submit a thesis to complete the program.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind:

  • Over 41 months, MS students will take a total of 21 courses for a total of 36 credits.
  • To apply for admission, applicants should have a bachelor’s degree and have taken classes in communicative disorders. 
  • This graduate program is flexible and meant for working professionals.

East Carolina University

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a comprehensive three-year program that encompasses 60 credits. This program is designed to equip students with the expertise required to qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). During their first year in the program, students will take courses such as Language Disorders, Brain, Language, and Aphasia, and Research Design.

Additional Information to Keep in Mind:

  • The program includes over 400 hours of internship experience in the student’s region or at the on-campus clinic.
  • The MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders program at ECU only accepts 10-12 new students per year. 
  • Admission requirements include three letters of recommendation, an essay on career goals, and 21 credit hours in communication sciences.

Final Thoughts

Remember to take your time before making any final decisions about which school to attend. You can further your education and career by weighing the pros and cons of each of these 7 online speech-language pathology programs. Being online offers a lot of advantages, but it is still going to be a challenge. That’s because this coursework is difficult no matter if you are in-person or long-distance.

Each of these institutions offers many opportunities to prepare students for a fulfilling and impactful career in speech-language pathology. They ensure that students are ready to make a profound difference in the lives of those they serve.