Last Updated
April 14, 2025Written By
Benjamin Thompson, M.S., CCC‑SLPSeveral colleges in Colorado offer Speech-Language Pathology degree programs which are accredited and well-suited to the clinical and research environments of the state. The University of Colorado at Boulder is especially noted for its research emphasis along with its nationally ranked master’s and Ph.D. programs in communication disorders. The program offers a very challenging course of study which is suitable for students who are planning to work as clinicians or to attend school for further advanced study. The University of Northern Colorado offers a flexible path with an online hybrid master’s option to support working professionals. It has a long-standing reputation for excellent clinical training particularly in school settings.
Metropolitan State University of Denver stands out with its accelerated master’s program which enables students to finish their studies within 18 months. This program is also very affordable and provides practical experience in a vibrant urban setting. The universities in Colorado are great for those who want a traditional on-campus learning experience as well as a modern online SLP learning experience. The diverse populations of Colorado provide real-world clinical opportunities and the scenic locations and progressive communities make it a rewarding place to study. You will be able to find an undergraduate foundation, a master’s to become certified Speech Pathologist, or a research-focused Ph.D. at Colorado, regardless of whether you are looking for, you will find a quality education paired with practicality and affordability.
Looking for the best speech-language pathology programs in Colorado? peechpathology.org ranks top speech pathology degrees to help you choose the best one for you. Our list highlights programs known for quality, research, and clinical training. We focus on what matters to students and professionals in Colorado. Learn how we rank schools at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Greeley, CO - Public 4-Year - unco.edu
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 practicum, preparing students to address a wide range of communication disorders. With 34 core credit hours and research course options, it's designed for those aiming to work in public schools, medical settings, or private practice. Highlights include extensive clinical hours and internship opportunities, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for ASHA certification and state licensure. Ideal for working professionals, this fully online program combines flexibility with comprehensive training in speech-language pathology.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Aspiring speech-language pathologists can pursue their Master of Arts at the University of Northern Colorado through a hybrid program that blends online coursework with a two-week summer campus visit. This 3-year, 61-69 credit hour program is ASHA-accredited and prepares students for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence and Colorado licensure. Notable for its no GRE requirement and flat tuition rate, it offers financial aid and accepts transfer credits. The curriculum includes clinical practicum and internships in public schools, catering to both domestic and international students. With a focus on diverse career settings, this program is tailored for those seeking a balance between academic rigor and practical experience.
Boulder, CO - Public 4-Year - colorado.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Colorado Boulder's Master in Arts – Speech-language pathology (MA-SLP) program is a campus-based, accredited program (2022-2030) designed to equip students with the skills needed for professional roles in healthcare and education. It offers advanced clinical training in diverse settings, including schools and hospitals in the Boulder and Denver metro areas, focusing on communication disorders and research. Highlights include preparation for professional credentials, state licensure, and a medical and educational focus. The program is military-friendly and emphasizes hands-on experience in various clinical settings. No GRE Required.
Concentration: School Speech-Language Pathologist (ages 0-21) - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focused on preparing school speech-language pathologists for ages 0-21, the University of Colorado Boulder's Master in Arts – Speech-language pathology (MA-SLP) concentration combines theoretical knowledge with clinical education. This accredited program, valid until 6/30/30, prepares students for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) and professional roles in schools, hospitals, and private practices. It offers access to clinical opportunities in Boulder and Denver, with a curriculum designed for diverse work settings. The program is military-friendly and provides a comprehensive graduate student handbook. No GRE Required.
Denver, CO - Public 4-Year - msudenver.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Metropolitan State University of Denver's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology stands out for its commitment to preparing students for clinical excellence through a 23-month, full-time, in-person program. Located in the heart of downtown Denver, this program emphasizes interprofessional education, cultural competence, and evidence-based practice, offering a bilingual specialization option. With a small cohort size of 24 students, it ensures personalized attention and hands-on clinical experience in advanced facilities. The program is ASHA accredited and eligible for the Western Regional Graduate Program, making it a competitive choice for aspiring speech-language pathologists. 'Requires GRE' for admission, alongside a minimum 3.0 GPA, with application deadlines set for January 15.
Students will learn about communication disorders while they complete their Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. This degree prepares them for entry-level positions like Speech-Language Pathology Assistant or Audiology Assistant. The admission process typically includes a high school diploma or GED certificate and acceptable ACT or SAT test results. A bachelor’s degree can be sufficient for entry level positions and is a good option if you are unsure if you want to go to graduate school in the future.
At institutions such as the University of Colorado Boulder or Metropolitan State University of Denver, students receive training for clinical licensure and advanced practice in Speech-Language Pathology through their master’s degrees. Admission requirements typically specify a communication disorders or related bachelor’s degree along with recommendation letters and satisfactory GPA and completion of specified prerequisite courses.
With a SLP master’s degree, the job possibilities expand to include practicing as a certified Speech Pathologist in schools, hospitals or private clinics. Other roles that graduates may step into include leadership, research and supervision of support staff. Colorado presents many students with both diversity and recognized programs to learn from faculty and gain real clinical experience. Regardless of whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree Colorado offers the perfect environment to build a fulfilling career in this field.
Colorado students can obtain doctorate degrees in Speech Pathology as a PhD in research-oriented programs or as a clinical doctorate known as SLPD. The University of Colorado Boulder offers the PhD for individuals who wish to work in research and teaching or clinical theory advancement. Applicants can expect degree requirements that include a master’s degree in speech and language pathology, strong recommendation letters, minimum GPA, and some degree programs may still require a GRE score. Completing a PhD, creates job opportunities to work as a university professor, clinical research or a policy advisor in healthcare.
As a current example, the SLPD is the preferred pathway for practicing clinicians who want to expand their practical skills and leadership abilities. This degree is specifically for master’s and certification holders in speech pathology who want to advance their clinical practice skills. The admissions standards consist of a documented clinical history, previous professional experience, recommendation letters and evidence of a desire for advanced clinical management. After completing an SLPD program, graduates work as clinical directors, or advanced practice clinicians and specialized practitioners in hospitals, rehabilitation centers and private clinics.
The state of Colorado, like most states, requires Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP) to be licensed in order to work directly with patients. Licensure is managed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). DORA will review applications to ensure that the applying Speech Pathologist meets the requirements. First, the applicant must have at least a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or equivalent relevant field from an accredited university. Accreditation is managed by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
After graduation, the aspiring SLP will do a 400-hour clinical fellowship under the supervision of a licensed SLP. The final big portion of the licensure application is to pass a relevant national exam or obtain a certificate of clinical competency from ASHA. The most common national exam that potential candidates take is the Praxis. Once you have your test scores or certification, you can pay the fee and apply for licensure.
Colorado enables students to pursue innovative accelerated options to achieve a Speech-Language Pathology career sooner. Now available are integrated bachelor’s and master’s programs at some schools which allow students to begin graduate coursework in their last year. By choosing this streamlined path, students can cut their total enrollment through rigorous academic and clinical requirements.
Selecting the traditional path means you will earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in before moving directly into a separate two-year master’s program but these combined tracks enable you to enter the workforce sooner. Speech pathology master’s programs in Colorado, designed for students holding a related bachelor’s degree, provide intensive coursework together with clinical placements to ensure a faster learning experience.
Online SLP degrees and hybrid formats which were previously limited now serve as flexible learning options for balance between work and study commitments. These formats provide accelerated scheduling with concentrated clinical experiences while maintaining quality education. Accelerated SLP programs in Colorado provide measured tuition reductions plus rapid career start for students to benefit from. Created to serve ambitious students, these fastest speech-language pathology programs deliver high-quality training in reduced time and maintain critical hands-on experience.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| University of Colorado Boulder |
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| University of Northern Colorado |
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| Metropolitan State University of Denver |
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Colorado residents can attend several Speech-Language Pathology schools which offer an affordable SLP education. Students can find suitable cost-effective options at bachelor’s levels at the University of Northern Colorado and Metropolitan State University of Denver. Resident students pay in-state tuition rates which usually range between $8,000 and $10,000 per year at these institutions. This helps students build a good speech pathology academic background without having to pay a lot of money.
In graduate education, Colorado SLP master’s programs are quite affordable as well. Metropolitan State University of Denver offers an accelerated speech pathology master’s program that is designed to be both efficient and affordable. The graduate tuition in Colorado also differs based on the institution but most of the programs keep their fees reasonably low through funding from the state and financial assistance, with some programs charging as little as $8,600 per year for a full-time schedule. These reasonably priced options enable you to concentrate on gathering the required clinical experience for certification without exceeding your financial means. With Colorado, you can find good value-led paths from your bachelor’s prep to your master’s level preparation in Speech-Language Pathology.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| University of Northern Colorado |
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| Metropolitan State University of Denver |
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| University of Colorado Boulder |
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Our mission is to empower future speech-language pathologists by providing the most accurate, up-to-date, and accessible information available. Our team is dedicated to guiding individuals through the journey of becoming an SLP—whether you’re just exploring the field or actively pursuing a degree. We specialize in delivering reliable insights on state-by-state availability, affordability, and the fastest paths to certification and licensure. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions based on real data, trusted resources, and the evolving needs of the profession. With a strong commitment to educational clarity and career transparency, we’re here to support and simplify your path toward a rewarding future in speech-language pathology.
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