Last Updated
April 14, 2025Written By
Elizabeth Monroe, M.S., CCC‑SLPThere are many Speech Pathology programs available in Florida, from Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders to Master’s, Ph.D., and even a clinical doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology. Some of the best public schools to attend are University of Florida, University of South Florida and Florida State University which offer cheap yet quality programs. For those who need flexibility, some of the universities, including NSU and FSU, offer online speech pathology programs or part time classes that can help you balance between study and work. Florida’s programs often have an accelerated SLP path which means that you can get your degree faster without having to sacrifice quality.
Florida is also great because of the high focus on bilingual and multicultural training, particularly in schools based in cities like Miami. This is important in order to prepare for the needs of local populations and will help to make you more valuable to your future employers. When you graduate from a Florida university, you will have fulfilled the state’s licensure requirements which include clinical supervision, clinical fellowship, the Praxis exam. All in all, if you are looking for quality, flexibility, and cultural experience, Florida is an ideal place to get your SLP education.
Looking for the best SLP programs in Florida? peechpathology.org ranks top speech-language 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 Florida. Learn how we rank schools at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - fsu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's undergraduate program in Communication Science and Disorders provides a strong foundation for graduate study in speech-language pathology or audiology. This 42-credit program covers human communication, anatomy, language development, and clinical intervention strategies. Aligned with ASHA standards, the curriculum prepares students for diverse career paths and the projected 18% job growth in the field. Requires ACT/SAT.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's online, hybrid Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders (CSD) addresses the nationwide shortage of speech-language pathologists. This part-time program blends online coursework with in-person clinical practicums at various sites across Florida, allowing students to gain practical experience while accommodating busy schedules. The 61-credit curriculum covers diagnostics, treatment of communication disorders, and prepares graduates for careers in diverse settings.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Ph.D. in Communication Science and Disorders prepares future leaders in research, teaching, and clinical practice. This on-campus program in Tallahassee emphasizes applied clinical research, with specializations in areas like developmental disabilities, neurological communication disorders, and speech fluency across the lifespan. Applicants need a master's degree, a 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores.
Concentration: Developmental Disabilities - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida State University's Ph.D. program in Communication Science and Disorders offers a concentration in Developmental Disabilities. This program prepares professionals for leadership in research, academics, and clinical settings. Students explore areas like school-age language and literacy, autism, and early intervention, with a focus on applied clinical research to address complex communication challenges. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required, and GRE scores are recommended.
Concentration: Neurologically-based Communication and Cognitive Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Ph.D. in Communication Science and Disorders at Florida State University, specializing in Neurologically-based Communication and Cognitive Disorders, prepares students for leadership in research and academic roles. This on-campus program emphasizes applied clinical research, requiring a master's, a 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores. Students gain experience in teaching and research, focusing on communication processes and specialized areas within neurological disorders.
Gainesville, FL - Public 4-Year - ufl.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a 5-semester, on-campus program. Students gain hands-on clinical experience in speech-language pathology, focusing on evidence-based interventions. Boasting a 98.9% completion rate and a 100% Praxis exam pass rate, graduates are well-prepared for careers in the field. Small class sizes (25-30 students) allow for individual attention and mentorship. Clinical practicum sites and research opportunities enhance the learning experience.
Concentration: Communication and Swallowing Sciences and Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Florida's Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science, concentrating in Communication and Swallowing Sciences and Disorders, is an interdisciplinary program for research-oriented professionals. This program delves into the scientific exploration of speech, language, and swallowing disorders. Students hone advanced research skills and methodologies, working alongside leading faculty. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on research and prepares graduates for academic or clinical research careers.
Concentration: Communication and Swallowing Sciences and Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Florida's Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Science with a Concentration in Communication and Swallowing Sciences and Disorders offers an interdisciplinary research-focused program. It develops advanced skills in teaching, research, and leadership specifically related to communication and swallowing disorders. The program provides training in research methods, statistics, and specialized coursework. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, clinical research, and healthcare innovation.
Fort Lauderdale, FL - Private 4-year - nova.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language and Communication Disorders at Nova Southeastern University provides a solid foundation for students eyeing a career in speech-language pathology. This campus-based program combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences, preparing students for roles as speech-language pathology assistants or for further graduate studies. With a curriculum addressing speech, hearing, and language disorders across diverse populations, graduates enter a field with a 25% job growth projection through 2029. The program offers hands-on learning at the on-site Speech Language Clinic and includes both face-to-face and online course options. Requires ACT/SAT.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Nova Southeastern University offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology designed for those aiming to address communication challenges in various settings. This hybrid program, requiring 54 credits, blends online and residential learning, allowing completion in 8-12 terms. It stands out with a 97% on-time completion rate and high Praxis exam pass rates, requiring no GRE for admission. Students benefit from 400 supervised clinical hours across three placement options, preparing them for successful careers in this high-demand field. The program is CAA accredited and offers a 20% tuition discount for alumni, with multiple start dates each year.
Jacksonville, FL - Private 4-year - ju.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Jacksonville University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program offers both full-time, in-person (5 semesters) and flexible, part-time, online (8 semesters) formats. This 60-credit hour program, accredited by ASHA, boasts a 99% employment rate and a median salary of $89,290 for graduates. Students gain hands-on clinical experience and learn from experienced faculty, preparing them for diverse healthcare settings. Applications open for 2025, with a final deadline of February 1st. GRE scores are optional, but 3 recommendation letters and TOEFL scores (for international students) are required.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Jacksonville University's online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program offers flexibility for aspiring speech-language pathologists. This ASHA-accredited program allows students to choose between a full-time, 5-semester track and a part-time, 8-semester track. The curriculum covers 60 credit hours and includes synchronous online classes and clinical placements in the final semesters. Graduates benefit from a 99% employment rate and a median salary of $89,290. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and prepares graduates for various career settings.
Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Florida's Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology is a 6-semester, full-time program designed to equip students with the necessary skills for ASHA certification. Offering two tracks, Residential and Suncoast, the program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation clinics. A minimum GPA of 3.2 and prerequisite courses are required. The curriculum includes mandatory neuroanatomy coursework and prepares students for certification and licensure in speech-language pathology. Highlights include multiple clinical site placements and comprehensive training both on and off-campus.
Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of South Florida, the Master of Science in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences provides a rigorous 6-semester residential program focused on preparing students for ASHA certification. With a requirement of a 3.2 GPA and prerequisite coursework, the program offers extensive clinical practicum opportunities in the Tampa Bay area, including hospitals and schools. Designed for full-time students, it emphasizes diverse clinical experiences and prepares graduates for state licensure and national certification in speech-language pathology.
Miami, FL - Public 4-Year - fiu.edu
Concentration: Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CLD) - Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida International University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a concentration in Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CLD) is a 6-semester, full-time program that blends a bilingual curriculum with intensive clinical training. Students engage in four semesters of clinical rotations, gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. The program, accredited and requiring 61 credit hours, admits 50 students annually with an application deadline of January 22. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in speech-language pathology, having completed the Praxis Examination, a requirement for degree completion. Highlights include a focus on CLD, extensive clinical experience, and a comprehensive curriculum designed to address communication disorders across populations. Requires Praxis.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Florida International University offers a dynamic, 6-semester program designed to prepare students for careers in diagnosing and treating communication disorders. With a bilingual curriculum and 61 credit hours, the program includes four semesters of clinical rotations in various settings, ensuring graduates are ready for the demands of the healthcare field. Annually admitting 50 students, the program emphasizes hands-on learning and professional development, with an application deadline of January 22. Accredited and requiring the Praxis exam, this program is ideal for those seeking to make a difference in speech-language pathology. Requires Praxis.
Orlando, FL - Public 4-Year - ucf.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Central Florida offers a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders, a campus-based program that stands out for its comprehensive approach to speech-language pathology. This full-time, two-year program is tailored for aspiring professionals eager to impact diverse communication settings positively. It boasts ASHA accreditation, a 100% Praxis exam pass rate, and a 96% employment rate within a year of graduation. Students benefit from extensive clinical practicum opportunities across over 200 sites, preparing them for certification and beyond. With no GRE required and an average admitted GPA of 3.6-3.8, it's designed for those dedicated to addressing communication challenges across all ages. Highlights include multiple admission tracks and a six-semester completion timeline.
Boca Raton, FL - Public 4-Year - fau.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Florida Atlantic University offers a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology that stands out for its comprehensive approach to preparing students for careers in communication disorders. This rigorous program is designed to meet ASHA certification standards, providing students with extensive clinical training in a variety of settings. Unique to this program is the opportunity for hands-on experience with both pediatric and adult populations, ensuring graduates are versatile in their skills. Located on the Boca Raton campus, the program not only meets Florida state requirements but also emphasizes multiple practicum experiences for a well-rounded education. 'Requires GRE' is a highlight for prospective students.
Miami, FL - Private 4-year - albizu.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Albizu University-Miami offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, blending hybrid learning to prepare students for diverse clinical settings. This ASHA-accredited program spans two years, requiring 60 credits, and integrates both residential and online coursework to foster expertise in diagnosing and treating communication disorders. Unique for its no GRE requirement, the program emphasizes practical experience through clinical practica, aiming for a 3.0 GPA minimum for admission. Prospective students must undergo an interview, highlighting the program's commitment to cultivating skilled professionals ready for schools, hospitals, and private practices. 'No GRE Required' stands out, making it accessible for aspiring speech-language pathologists.
Tampa, FL - Private 4-year - ut.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Tampa offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, a program designed for those aiming to become leaders in the field. Through a unique collaboration with Gannon University, students engage in a rigorous two-year curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice. The program emphasizes evidence-based approaches to diagnose and treat communication disorders, preparing graduates for diverse professional environments. A bachelor's degree in Allied Health, a 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite courses are required for admission. Highlights include comprehensive clinical training, a focus on multicultural competence, and preparation for national certification. 'Requires GRE' for admission.
The choice between a bachelor’s in Speech-Language Pathology and master’s degree in Florida depends on your career objectives as well as your preferred start date for professional work. A bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a good starting point. The typical requirements for this degree include a high school diploma along with good academic performance and possibly several prerequisite classes. This degree can lead to work as a speech-language pathology assistant, teaching aide or early intervention specialist. Those who choose these roles are perfect for educational or clinical work situations where you can pay less in tuition yet dedicate less time to your studies. Earnings for these positions remain relatively low when compared with those of licensed speech-language pathologists.
A master’s degree in speech pathology is required for anyone who wants to obtain licensure as a speech-language pathologist. Master’s program admissions generally require you to present a good undergraduate GPA while requiring letters of recommendation and occasionally GRE scores or extra courses in phonetics or anatomy. Public universities in Florida provide more reasonably priced in-state tuition rates despite the fact that private institutions tend to charge higher fees. Master’s graduates obtain greater flexibility regarding their clinical and private practice choices and achieve better salary ranges. If you need a quick professional start then a bachelor’s is a good choice but for more duties and better compensation you should aim for a master’s.
The PhD and SLPD are the two primary SLP doctorate degrees that people seek in speech-language pathology. The PhD is really for those planning on teaching at a university or doing research because it is a research oriented degree. Admission to a PhD program usually requires a master’s degree, good GPA, reference letters, and sometimes GRE scores. This particular track can take anywhere from three to five years to finish and leads to the careers of research scientists, university professors, clinical researchers and the like.
The SLPD is a clinical doctorate for experienced clinicians who want to build on their expertise and leadership skills, while the PhD is for those who want to be academics or university teachers. The SLPD admissions usually require a master’s degree in speech pathology, as well as several years of professional experience and strong recommendations. Some universities such as Nova Southeastern University offer the SLPD in a hybrid model, which means that students can pursue the degree while working and it can be completed within two to three years.
Even though both programs are quite expensive, the SLPD may provide more choices for the payment and the possibility to study part-time. Career earnings also vary; PhD graduates will have higher salaries in academic and research institutions while SLPD holders will have a higher salary in clinical leadership and management. Both degrees are a way of obtaining a higher level of expertise but in different areas.
All practicing Speech pathologists in Florida must become licensed through the Florida Board of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology. First, you must hold a master’s degree or higher in SLP from a program accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation. Your graduate program must provide a minimum of 300 hours of supervised clinical practice and no less than 200 of those hours must be dedicated to speech pathology clinical experience. After graduation, you will be required to undertake a professional experience program called clinical fellowship. The clinical fellowship is delivered full time over nine months or part time over 18 months and provides an essential development opportunity for independent clinical skills.
After you have completed your clinical fellowship you need to pass the Praxis examination in Speech-Language Pathology. This last examination is a competency based one and is required both for state licensure and national certification purposes. After all the requirements are met with the submission of application and fee and pass the background check you will be issued your license. These requirements ensure that you are best equipped to offer quality care. The accredited education followed by supervised clinical experience and rigorous testing in Florida ensures that licensed professionals are ready to work with a diverse population as a structured path.
Through various options in Florida, you can quickly work toward becoming a speech-language pathologist. Most institutions organize their courses to suit your needs which enable you to graduate early. Accelerated SLP master’s programs let you obtain your degree in approximately 20 months as opposed to standard 24 months. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences delivers intensive learning through online classroom materials along with on-campus clinical practice. Those seeking a rapid entry into their profession but maintaining high standards might find this option particularly appealing.
Several Florida universities offer quick pathways to a Communication Sciences and Disorders bachelor’s degree on the undergraduate level. Students who use 2+2 transfer agreements with community colleges to finish their degree more quickly and at a lower cost. Certain institutions provide the opportunity to pursue combined speech pathology bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Graduates of undergraduate studies can transition directly into advanced courses at increased efficiency and with reduced professional disruption.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
University of Florida
|
|
|
| Florida International University |
|
|
| University of Central Florida |
|
|
There are several options for covering the cost in Florida for those wishing to pursue a career in Speech-Language Pathology. The best value is usually provided by public universities, particularly for residents. The University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, and Florida International University are some of the Florida schools that offer a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at a relatively low tuition of $8,000 to $12,000 per year. Students also save money in other ways, such as by starting at a community college and then transferring to a 4 year school.
Among the public institutions, FIU, FSU, UCF, and USF are some of the cheapest for seeking a master’s in SLP. For example, the master’s program at FIU comes in at a relatively low cost for in-state students at about $43,700, much cheaper than the private schools that can cost $60,000 or more.
The PhD or the SLPD, which have a higher overall tuition due to the longer study time, often provide research or assistantship opportunities to help offset the costs at speech pathology doctoral programs. So long as you are trying to keep your expenses down, you will find that in-state public programs are a great way to get a quality education at a relatively affordable price at both the undergraduate and master’s levels.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Nova Southeastern University |
|
|
| Florida State University |
|
|
University of Florida
|
|
|
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
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
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
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.
PLEASE NOTE: The contents of this website is for informational purposes only. All trademarks are the property of their respective trademark holders.