Affordable Speech Pathology Degree Programs
Considering a future in Speech Pathology? Concerned about the high costs of education? Our list of SLP degree programs can assist you in making a well informed decision without straining your finances too much! We know that finding quality education with training at a reasonable price is vital for many aspiring students like you—whether you’re looking at undergraduate or graduate options; our compilation ensures that you get the best value for your education investment. Discover this resource that will assist you in exploring cost effective opportunities to pursue your interest in enhancing effective communication for others without adding unnecessary financial pressure on yourself! Delve into these avenues and begin your pathway towards a rewarding career in Speech Language Pathology today.
Cheapest Accredited SLP Degree Programs
Looking for a budget way to kickstart your journey into speech language pathology? Check out our curated list of the cost effective degree programs that strike the right balance between quality education and affordable tuition/fees! We’ve handpicked these options with a focus on keeping costs down while ensuring you receive notch clinical training and academic excellence to propel your career forward without putting a strain on your finances or compromising quality. For additional information on how we rank degree programs, visit our Ranking Methodology page.

CUNY Hunter College
New York, NY - Public 4-Year - hunter.cuny.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Campus Based - Visit Website
CUNY Hunter College's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is a rigorous, full-time program designed to equip students with the skills needed for professional practice in various clinical settings. The 68-credit curriculum, completed over six semesters, focuses on advanced assessment and treatment techniques for communication disorders. Notably, the program offers an affordable tuition rate, making it a cost-effective choice among New York's top institutions. Graduates are well-prepared for ASHA certification, state licensure, and teaching credentials in speech and language disabilities. The program requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and the GRE General Test for admission. Highlights include a locked course sequence, clinical externship opportunities, and flexible class schedules with day and evening options. 'Requires GRE'
- Full-time, locked course sequence
- 68 total credits required
- Up to 6 semesters of study
- $11K annual tuition
- 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
- GRE General Test required
- 15 prerequisite credits
- Summer pre-coursework available
- February 1st fall application deadline
- ASHA certification pathway
- State licensure preparation
- Teaching certification option
- Day and evening classes
- Clinical externship included
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - Public 4-Year - fhsu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Fort Hays State University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is an ASHA-accredited, on-campus program that equips students for clinical certification and professional licensure. It features a robust curriculum blending research, academic coursework, and extensive clinical practicums across diverse settings. Noted for its affordability and strong student outcomes, the program emphasizes preparation for the 2020 SLP standards. Admission necessitates pre-requisite coursework, with no GRE requirement, making it accessible. The program stands out for its comprehensive clinical education opportunities, including aural rehabilitation and externships in educational and medical environments, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the field.
- Accredited by ASHA.
- On-campus program.
- Prepares for clinical certification.
- Includes research, academic, clinical courses.
- High student outcome data.
- Affordable cost.
- Requires pre-requisite coursework.
- Offers diverse clinical practicums.
- Recognized for program excellence.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Focus on diverse clinical settings.
- Step-by-step application process.
- Clinical education opportunities.
- Professional licensure preparation.
- Detailed curriculum available online.
- Research hours required.
- Includes elective courses.
- Offers aural rehabilitation experience.
- Educational and medical externships.
- Addresses 2020 SLP standards.
University of Akron Main Campus
Akron, OH - Public 4-Year - uakron.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Akron Main Campus provides a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, accredited by ASHA, blending traditional on-campus and distance learning options. This program is designed for Ohio licensure, offering comprehensive training and flexibility for students across the nation. Highlights include a collaborative distance learning option with the University of Cincinnati, ensuring students receive quality education without geographical constraints. The program emphasizes meeting professional standards through rigorous training and practical experiences.
- Traditional on-campus program.
- Collaborative distance learning option.
- Accredited by ASHA.
- Leads to Ohio licensure.
- Meets professional standards.
- Comprehensive training.
- Flexibility for students nationwide.
- Unified program with UC.
- 22 students accepted per university.
- Curriculum guides available.
- Specialization training programs.
- Accreditation status detailed.
- Student outcome data provided.
- Contact info for program queries.
- Resources for graduate students.
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Concentration: Augmentative-Alternative Communication (AAC) - Campus Based - Visit Website
Specializing in Augmentative-Alternative Communication (AAC), the Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Akron Main Campus equips students with advanced skills in diagnosing and treating communication disorders. The program offers hands-on practica, interprofessional collaboration, and a focus on technology in service delivery. Competitive admissions and specialized training prepare graduates for licensure and ASHA certification, with financial aid options available for eligible students.
- Master's in Speech-Language Pathology
- Specialized tracks available
- Hands-on practica and internships
- Prepares for licensure and ASHA certification
- Emphasis on evidence-based practices
- Interprofessional collaboration focus
- Use of technology in service delivery
- Competitive admission process
- Applications accepted once per year
- Financial assistance may be available
- Comprehensive training in communication disorders
- Specialization in AAC
- Specialization in Neurogenic Disorders
- Advanced coursework and clinical experiences
- Focus on telepractice and hybrid models
- Opportunities for field-based experiences
- Training in early hearing detection and intervention
- Courses in auditory-verbal therapy
- Externships in school-based settings
- Development of advanced knowledge and skills
- Certificates of completion for specializations
- Limited enrollment in certificate programs
- Contact coordinators for more information
- History of successful grant-funded training
- Preparation for medical and educational settings
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Concentration: Neurogenic Disorders of Communication and Swallowing - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on Neurogenic Disorders of Communication and Swallowing, the University of Akron's Master's in Speech-Language Pathology offers a dynamic curriculum for aspiring healthcare professionals. The program combines intensive coursework with practical experiences, available through both traditional and distance learning formats. Specializations enhance marketability, preparing students for ASHA certification and diverse clinical settings with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practices.
- Master's in Speech-Language Pathology
- Traditional and Distance Learning options
- 5-semester graduate program
- ASHA certification preparation
- Multiple specialization tracks available
- On-campus and off-campus practica
- Interprofessional training opportunities
- Competitive admission process
- Clinical experiences in various settings
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Akron's online Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology, in collaboration with the University of Cincinnati, offers a flexible, no-residency program for students nationwide. This eight-semester online program includes clinical placements near students' hometowns, catering to working professionals. Asynchronous course delivery and financial aid options make it a top choice for those seeking advanced training in speech pathology without the need for campus attendance.
- Fully online distance learning program
- 8 semester consecutive program
- No Ohio residency required
- Clinical placements near hometown
- Starts January annually
- Asynchronous course delivery
- No campus attendance needed
- Five total clinical placements
- School and medical externships
- Financial aid available
Saint Xavier University
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - sxu.edu
Master's - M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology
Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Xavier University's M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology program stands out for its comprehensive approach to preparing students for a successful career in speech-language pathology. This ASHA-accredited program offers a robust curriculum that includes 51 credit hours of study, blending theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. Students benefit from unique opportunities such as the on-campus Ludden Speech Clinic and a medical simulation lab, enhancing their learning experience. The program boasts a 100% Praxis exam pass rate and a 100% employment rate for graduates, underscoring its effectiveness. With options for bilingual certification and thesis research, it caters to a wide range of professional interests. The tuition is competitively priced at $995 per credit hour, making it an accessible option for many. Highlights include a 2-year completion timeline, 400 hours of clinical experience, and multiple clinical placement settings, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for licensure and diverse healthcare environments.
- 2-Year Master's Program
- 51 Total Credit Hours
- Fall Start: August 25, 2025
- Priority Application: January 15
- Tuition: $995/Credit Hour
- 400 Hours Clinical Experience
- ASHA Accredited Program
- 100% Praxis Exam Pass Rate
- On-Campus Ludden Speech Clinic
- Medical Simulation Lab
- Bilingual Certification Option
- Thesis Research Opportunity
- Multiple Clinical Placement Settings
California State University-Long Beach
Long Beach, CA - Public 4-Year - csulb.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Campus Based - Visit Website
California State University-Long Beach's Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology is a rigorous 5-semester program that equips students for professional practice. It combines academic coursework with extensive clinical practicum and internships across school and medical environments, ensuring graduates meet ASHA certification and California licensure requirements. The curriculum is deeply rooted in evidence-based practice and cultural competence, offering students hands-on experience with diverse populations. With options for financial aid and scholarships, the program is designed for those aiming to excel in speech-language pathology through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. 'Requires GRE'.
- 5-semester program.
- Includes school and medical internships.
- Qualifies for ASHA certification.
- California licensure eligible.
- Emphasizes cultural competence.
- Evidence-based practice focus.
- 400 direct clinical contact hours.
- Cohort-based learning model.
- In-person graduate courses.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships opportunities.
- Tuition details online.
- Hands-on experience.
- Diverse population training.
- Accredited by ASHA.
- Prepares for professional roles.
- Comprehensive education.
- Academic and practical blend.
- Graduate assistant openings.
- State grants for CA residents.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LA - Public 4-Year - louisiana.edu
Master's - Speech Pathology & Audiology (Communicative Disorders M.S.)
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Master's in Speech Language Pathology stands out as Louisiana's top-ranked program and holds a national rank of #78 by U.S. News & World Report for 2024. Accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, it equips students for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. The program distinguishes itself with a curriculum that bridges theory and clinical practice, facilitated by close academic and clinical faculty collaboration. Students engage in a two-course research sequence and capstone seminar, preparing them for licensure, particularly in Louisiana, through a comprehensive exploration of the field's essentials. 'Requires GRE'
- Fully accredited by CAA
- Prepares for ASHA certification
- Emphasis on clinical practice
- Collaboration between faculty
- Two-course research sequence
- Capstone seminar included
- Prepares for Louisiana licensure
- National ranking #78
- Focus on clinical research
- Summer group projects
- Diverse clinical settings
- Academic and clinical integration
- Poster competition for research
- Personal attention to students
- International student friendly
- Career opportunities highlighted
- Scholarships and financial aid
- Assistantships available
- Curriculum drives clinical practices
- Action Research methodology
- Small group debates
- Evidence-based practice focus
- Professional world preparation
- Increasing application numbers
Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, MN - Public 4-Year - stcloudstate.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Campus Based - Visit Website
Saint Cloud State University's Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program is designed for aspiring speech-language pathologists, offering a rigorous curriculum accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation. With a 100% Praxis exam pass rate, the program ensures graduates meet Minnesota licensure requirements. It features a two-phase structure tailored to students' academic backgrounds, including extensive clinical practicum experiences. Admission is competitive, requiring a strong GPA, professional recommendations, and an interview, with applications due by January 15 for fall entry. Financial aid and graduate assistantships are available, supporting students through full-time, on-campus study focused on KASA documentation and ASHA certification preparation.
- Accredited by CAA.
- 100% Praxis exam pass rate.
- Eligible for Minnesota licensure.
- Two-phase program structure.
- January 15 application deadline.
- Full-time study required.
- On-campus delivery.
- Prepares for diverse career settings.
- Includes clinical practicum.
- Competitive admission process.
- Financial aid available.
- Graduate assistantships offered.
- Focus on KASA documentation.
- Admission once per year.
- Interviews part of admission.
- Phase I: 33 credits minimum.
- Phase II: 49 credits minimum.
- Adviser assigned upon admission.
- Program approval required.
- ASHA certification preparation.
- State licensure guidance.
- Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic.
- Remote interview option.
- No spring or summer admission.
- Focus on speech-language pathology.
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO - Public 4-Year - ucmo.edu
Master's - Master of Science Degree Program in Communication Disorders
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Missouri's Master of Science in Communication Disorders stands out for its exceptional 99% program completion and 100% employment rates, showcasing its commitment to student success. Accredited since 1977, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum blending academic rigor with extensive clinical practice, including specialized training in autism communication, swallowing disorders, and AAC. Students engage in problem-based learning and interprofessional collaboration, supported by faculty with deep clinical expertise. With a 3.0 GPA requirement, applications are due February 1 for summer and March 1 for fall. Financial aid and scholarships are available, alongside state-of-the-art facilities like voice and swallowing labs.
- 99% program completion rate.
- 100% employment rate for graduates.
- Continuous accreditation since 1977.
- Hands-on clinical experiences.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Opportunities for research.
- Interprofessional education experiences.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Applications due February 1 for summer.
- Applications due March 1 for fall.
- Scholarships and financial aid available.
- 99% pass rate on Praxis exam.
- Onsite and offsite clinical practicum.
- Supportive learning environment.
- Courses include problem-based learning.
- Adult and pediatric swallowing disorders.
- Autism communication across lifespan.
- Faculty with clinical competence.
- Best Speech-Language Pathology program.
- Graduate research encouraged.
- Interprofessional collaboration.
- Early childhood preschool services.
- Voice and swallowing laboratory.
- AAC and feeding clinics.
- Parkinson's disease therapy programs.
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
Master's - Speech-Language Pathology M.A. - Online Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Northern Colorado's online Master's in Speech-Language Pathology offers a dynamic pathway to becoming a skilled speech-language pathologist. Accredited by ASHA and CDE, this program emphasizes hands-on clinical experience with 14 practicum hours, preparing students for diverse settings like schools and hospitals. It covers a broad spectrum of communication disorders, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for certification and licensure. With a focus on flexibility, this 34-credit hour program is ideal for working professionals aiming to advance their careers in speech-language pathology. Highlights include internship opportunities and a curriculum designed to meet ASHA certification standards.
- Fully online master's program
- ASHA and CDE accredited
- Extensive clinical practicum
- 14 clinical practicum hours
- Internship opportunities available
- ASHA certification preparation
- Public school & medical settings
- Covers diverse communication disorders
- 34 core credit hours required
- Research course options
Master's - Speech-Language Pathology M.A. - Online Program
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Designed for future speech-language pathologists, the University of Northern Colorado's hybrid Master of Arts program blends online learning with a two-week summer campus visit. Spanning three years and 61-69 credit hours, it prepares students for ASHA certification and Colorado licensure. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and a 3.0 GPA, with no GRE needed, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. At $688 per credit hour, the program offers financial aid options, ensuring affordability. Clinical practicum and internship opportunities are integral, providing real-world experience in public schools and other settings. This program stands out for its cohort-based structure and flat tuition rate.
- 61-69 credit hours.
- 3-year program duration.
- Primarily online format.
- Two-week summer campus visit.
- $688 per credit hour.
- Accredited by ASHA.
- Prepares for ASHA certification.
- Eligibility for Colorado licensure.
- Bachelor's degree required.
- 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Prerequisite courses available online.
- No GRE required.
- Financial aid available.
- Starts Fall term 2027.
- Cohort-based program.
- Clinical practicum included.
- Internship in public schools.
- Career opportunities in various settings.
- International students eligible.
- Transfer credit accepted.
- Flat tuition rate for all students.
- No added student fees.
- Student Health Insurance Plan available.
- English proficiency required for international students.
- State licensure eligibility varies.
Calvin University
Grand Rapids, MI - Private 4-year - calvin.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Calvin University's online Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology is tailored for future speech-language pathologists, offering a blend of clinical experience and academic rigor within a Christian context. With no GRE/GMAT requirement, the program boasts a 100% PRAXIS exam pass rate, preparing students for ASHA certification. Spanning 2-3 years at $940 per credit, it requires 72 credit hours and allows up to 6 transfer credits. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and a career-focused approach, supported by financial aid options. Admission is competitive, requiring a bachelor's degree in a related field, a 3.0 GPA, and three recommendation letters.
- 2-3 years program length
- $940 per credit cost
- 72 credit hours required
- No GRE/GMAT required
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- 100% PRAXIS exam pass rate
- Online program format
- Clinical hours included
- Christian faith framework
- Competitive admissions
- Bachelor's degree required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Three recommendation letters
- CSDCAS application required
- Priority admission by Jan 15
- Rolling admission till May 15
- Financial aid available
- ASHA certification preparation
- Experiential learning focus
- Faculty mentorship
- Diverse faculty backgrounds
- Peer-reviewed research faculty
- Hands-on application emphasis
- Flexible online learning
- Career-focused curriculum
Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
Campus Based - Visit Website
The campus-based Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at Calvin University integrates faith with professional training, equipping students to address communication disorders effectively. This program features a flexible 2-3 year completion track, with tuition at $940 per credit and no GRE/GMAT required. Graduates achieve a 100% pass rate on the PRAXIS exam, entering a field with a median salary of $89,290. The curriculum includes clinical hours and is taught by diverse faculty experts. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, and must submit a CSDCAS application, with priority admission by January 15.
- Online Master's program
- 2-3 year completion track
- $940 per credit
- No GRE/GMAT required
- 100% PRAXIS pass rate
- Transfer up to 6 credits
- Fall semester start
- Priority admission Jan 15
- Rolling admission May 15
- CSDCAS application required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Three recommendation letters
- Clinical hours included
- Christian faith framework
- Diverse faculty experts
SLP Degree Tuition & Cost Overview
The cost of Speech Language Pathology programs can differ greatly based on the level of degree and the kind of college or university you choose to attend. For instance, bachelors programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders may run from $10K to $30K per year at public schools. Whereas the costs at private institutions might be notably higher in comparison to public ones. For master’s degrees in SLP tuition and fees can range from $20K to over $50K annually depending on how prestigious and well equipped the school is! Doctorate degrees in speech pathology and specialized certifications typically involve higher costs due to the in depth clinical training and research chances they offer. However, these doctorate programs frequently have teaching assistantships and funding to help offset their higher costs.
Online SLP programs provide an option for individuals seeking to handle these costs efficiently. Opting for an online format can often lead to reduced tuition fees in comparison to conventional on campus programs. Moreover, online students can cut down on transportation expenses and at times even accommodation costs when studying from their homes. Numerous online programs have been intricately crafted to uphold academic excellence and clinical benchmarks as their, on campus equivalents. While some online programs may involve face to face meetings or practical training sessions, for hands on experience requirements, these are typically arranged to minimize extra expenses incurred by students.
In the end finding the balance between quality and affordability is crucial. Make sure to consider all the costs involved in attending a program such as hidden fees and miscellaneous expenses. Take the time to look into financial assistance options and scholarships that might be available to you so that you can select a speech-language pathology program that not fulfills your educational requirements but also fits your financial objectives.
Related Articles

Speech Pathologist vs Speech Therapist: What’s the Difference?
If you have ever been researching speech-language pathology careers and come across the words ‘speech pathologist’ and ‘speech therapist’, you might wonder if they are

What is the Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact?
If you are interested in pursuing a career in SLP and have been researching licensing requirements or are simply interested in learning more about SLP

What is the Praxis Exam for Speech Language Pathology?
If you are pursuing the position of a speech-language pathologist, then you may have heard of the Praxis exam from your professors, classmates, or even