Last Updated
April 14, 2025Written By
Benjamin Thompson, M.S., CCC‑SLPSome of the best Speech-Language Pathology programs are in Massachusetts, ranging from the prestigious private institutions like Boston University and Emerson College to more affordable public universities such as the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Worcester State University, and Bridgewater State University. They are accredited by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), so students graduate ready for licensure in Massachusetts. Prospective students can also look at online SLP degrees or hybrid master’s degrees, including Emerson’s very popular virtual program.
One good reason to study as a SLP in Massachusetts is the strong job prospects. Home to well-known hospitals, research facilities and excellent public schools the state provides consistent, well paid speech pathology employment. In fact, Massachusetts speech pathologists earn higher than the national average, with an annual salary of $95,000 and above. This premium is due to the strong demand in the medical and educational sectors especially in the Greater Boston area. Also, there are many clinical fellowship (CF) opportunities within the state’s vast healthcare system to enhance one’s professional experience early on. In all, selecting an SLP program in Massachusetts provides students with a premier education, rich clinical practice, and the possibility of a high paying job in a healthy market.
Speechpathology.org brings you the top speech-language pathology programs in Massachusetts based on what students care about most: strong academics, real-world experience, and reputation. Discover leading speech-language pathology programs in Massachusetts and learn how we choose them at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Cambridge, MA - Private 4-year - harvard.edu
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Harvard University's Speech-Language Pathology Track is a campus-based program designed for students aiming for ASHA certification. With a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology, the program offers 13 CSD courses and 400 hours of supervised clinical practice, primarily in the second and third years. A standout feature is its collaboration with the MGH Institute of Health Professions, ensuring a well-rounded education. The program, which requires a one-time fee of about $10,000, is known for its competitive admissions, focusing on academic excellence and a dedication to communication sciences. Graduates are well-prepared for a career in speech-language pathology, supported by Harvard's prestigious reputation. Requires GRE.
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology program at Harvard University, with a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology, provides a unique opportunity for students interested in the science behind speech and hearing. This campus-based program in Cambridge, MA, combines a rigorous core curriculum with specialized research, preparing students for ASHA certification. Emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach, it includes lab rotations to help students identify their research interests, culminating in a dissertation. The program typically takes 5.5 years to complete, offering a deep dive into speech-language pathology through both academic study and clinical training. Requires GRE.
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University's Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, located in Boston, MA, is a four-year, campus-based program designed to equip students with a solid foundation in both speech-language pathology and audiology. Unique for its co-op opportunity, the program integrates academic rigor with practical, hands-on experience at the Behrakis Speech-Language and Hearing Center. This approach not only prepares students for immediate entry into the field but also for advanced graduate studies. The curriculum is tailored to meet licensure requirements, offering flexibility with combined majors. Admission is based on Northeastern's undergraduate criteria, emphasizing a pathway to professional success. Requires ACT/SAT.
Amherst, MA - Public 4-Year - umass.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Massachusetts-Amherst's Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program is a comprehensive, on-campus course designed to equip students with the necessary skills and clinical experience for a successful career in speech-language pathology. Over two years, students engage in 15 advanced courses and complete 400 hours of supervised clinical practice, meeting the requirements for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) and Massachusetts licensure. Unique to this program is the opportunity to earn a graduate certificate in multiculturalism in communication disorders, enhancing students' ability to serve diverse populations. With a focus on hands-on learning, the program does not offer an online option and has a strict application deadline of January 15, 2025. Highlights include eligibility for a Teacher Specialist License and extensive clinical experience across various settings.
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - bu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Boston University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology offers a rigorous, ASHA-accredited curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in treating communication disorders. This two-year program emphasizes evidence-based practices, blending theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practicum experiences in healthcare and educational settings. Students gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing speech, language, and swallowing disorders, tailored to diverse populations. With a focus on individualized learning plans and a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, graduates are well-equipped for certification and licensure. The program's comprehensive approach ensures readiness for impactful careers in various professional environments.
Wenham, MA - Private 4-year - gordon.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Gordon College's Communication Sciences and Disorders program stands out for its faith-based, interdisciplinary approach, preparing students for impactful careers as speech-language pathologists or audiologists. It uniquely combines arts and sciences, offering a comprehensive foundation for diagnosing and treating speech, language, and hearing disorders across all age groups. The program emphasizes experiential learning through community-based observation and clinical practice, ensuring students meet state licensure prerequisites. With a liberal arts education at its core, it fosters a deep understanding of communicative needs, guided by dedicated professors. This program is ideal for those seeking to make a difference in diverse settings, from educational to healthcare environments.
Bridgewater, MA - Public 4-Year - bridgew.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Bridgewater State University offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, designed for those aiming to excel in the field of speech-language pathology. This program stands out for its comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for national certification and state licensure. With a curriculum accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation, it covers advanced communication sciences and hands-on training in diagnosing and treating speech, language, and swallowing disorders. Ideal for students seeking to impact healthcare and educational settings, the program emphasizes diverse populations. Highlights include its accreditation, preparation for certification, and inclusion of clinical coursework. Requires GRE.
Worcester, MA - Public 4-Year - worcester.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Worcester State University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology delivers comprehensive training for aspiring clinicians across diverse professional environments. The rigorous, CAA-accredited program prepares students through extensive academic coursework and immersive clinical experiences, requiring 55 semester hours and 375 live clinical hours. Students benefit from flexible course loads, with full-time and part-time options enabling degree completion in two to three years. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competency, and professional development, strategically positioning graduates for certification and licensure. Advanced learning features include master's thesis opportunities, research exploration in communication disorders, and comprehensive professional preparation through afternoon and evening courses.
Weston, MA - Private 4-year - regiscollege.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Regis College's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology offers a comprehensive hybrid program that equips students with advanced clinical skills across diverse healthcare and educational settings. The curriculum emphasizes comprehensive training in critical areas such as child language disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and augmentative communication techniques. With 56 total credit hours, students benefit from flexible full-time and part-time enrollment options, ensuring accessibility for working professionals. The program integrates extensive professional preparation, including research methods, voice and motor speech disorder training, and practical externship experiences. Graduates emerge well-prepared for professional licensure and versatile career opportunities in speech pathology, with a strong foundation in clinical assessment, intervention strategies, and interdisciplinary communication approaches.
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - northeastern.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at Northeastern University provides a solid foundation in communication sciences, enriched with clinical observation opportunities at the on-campus Speech-Language and Hearing Center. This four-year program is tailored for students aiming for graduate studies or immediate professional roles in the field. It features a co-op experience, combined major options, and access to the PlusOne Master's pathway. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address communication disorders in various settings. Requires ACT/SAT for admission, highlighting its comprehensive approach to undergraduate education in speech-language pathology and audiology.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northeastern University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology stands out with its PlusOne pathway, designed for students eager to fast-track their education. This program integrates undergraduate and graduate studies, allowing completion in a condensed timeframe. Emphasizing clinical training, students master diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for a variety of communication disorders. The curriculum is a blend of academic rigor and practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the field. Highlights include the PlusOne BS/MS option, a January 15 application deadline, and a requirement for a 3.0 GPA minimum, with a recommended GPA of 3.35 or higher. The program is full-time, on-campus, and includes a clinical practicum.
Boston, MA - Private 4-year - mghihp.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
MGH Institute of Health Professions offers a comprehensive Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology that transforms students into skilled communication specialists. The two-year program provides intensive training across educational and healthcare domains, featuring multiple specialized concentration options including Adult Neurogenic Communication Disorders and Medical Speech Pathology. Students benefit from extensive clinical experiences through the MGH Institute Speech, Language and Literacy Center and diverse New England placements. The curriculum balances academic rigor with practical application, preparing graduates for versatile professional roles. With opportunities for research, thesis projects, and additional certifications like Early Intervention Specialist, students receive holistic professional preparation.
Concentration: Adult Neurogenic Communication Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
MGH Institute's Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology with Adult Neurogenic Communication Disorders concentration offers specialized training for aspiring speech-language professionals. This focused two-year program provides comprehensive understanding of communication disorders, emphasizing neurological communication challenges. Students engage in intensive in-house practica and diverse New England clinical placements, gaining hands-on expertise in diagnosing and treating complex communication impairments. The curriculum integrates advanced neurological assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, and research methodologies. Graduates emerge prepared for specialized roles in medical settings, rehabilitation centers, and clinical research environments.
It may be useful to compare a bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language pathology and master’s degree in SLP in Massachusetts to determine which track is best for you. The four-year Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) bachelor’s degrees provided by schools like UMass Amherst, Bridgewater State, or Worcester State prepares students with speech science, audiology and language development knowledge. Admissions requirements are also fairly standard and include a high school diploma, around 2.7 to 3.0 minimum GPA, and in some cases, standardized test scores. You can only do things like be a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA), work in allied health support, or prepare to apply to a master’s program with a bachelor’s by itself.
On the other hand, a master’s in speech pathology is the minimum certification for practice in Massachusetts and allows practitioners to work in hospitals, schools or private clinics. Admissions criteria are also fairly similar and often include a CSD or related bachelor’s degree (prerequisites if your degree is outside the field), competitive GPA of 3.0 or higher, letters of recommendation, and in some cases, GRE scores. Costs can vary a lot as well; public schools in-state can be fairly cheap (for example, less than $15,000 per year), while private institutions can be more than $40,000 a year. Nevertheless, licensed Massachusetts Speech pathologists earn about $95,000 annually, which is reasonable given that the job is fairly secure in well-funded healthcare and educational settings. If there is no bachelor’s SLP major offered near you, students can major in a similar field and take the necessary prerequisite courses to enter a graduate program.
When searching for doctorate SLP degrees in Massachusetts, the professional compares PhD in Communication Disorders or Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences with Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD). A PhD is ideal for people who want to work as academics, researchers or at high level management positions. The admission criteria of these programs are also to have a master’s degree in speech-language pathology or a related field, satisfactory GRE scores, 3.5+ GPA, and research interests like those of Boston University or UMass Amherst. Many graduates end up being university faculty members, research scientists, or directors of clinical programs, and tuition can be supplemented by stipends or scholarships, particularly for students who work as teaching or research assistants.
An SLPD, including those provided by MGH Institute of Health Professions, is more targeted towards advanced clinical practice and leadership, which is more appealing to the experienced speech pathologists who want to enhance their clinical skills but do not want to undergo the rigorous research component of a PhD. Admission is usually simpler and may require a master’s degree in SLP, state licensure, and one or two years of clinical experience. Tuition is less standardized and may not be fully covered, but some employers pay part of the tuition fee. SLPD graduates can progress to senior clinician, clinical director, or consultant positions, which often come with higher remuneration. If either of the two paths is not offered at certain Massachusetts universities, students may decide to enroll in a good online or out-of-state university that meets the licensure needs.
If you have decided that helping others find their voice is your calling, Massachusetts has a structured but rewarding way to become a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). You will first complete a master’s degree from a CAA accredited program. Next, you will spend at least 400 clinical hours in the field, 375 hours of which will be direct patient contact and 25 hours of supervised observation during internship. Then, you’ll need to pass your PRAXIS exam.
In Massachusetts, you’ll need to clear a comprehensive exam like the CLST if you want to work in public schools and possibly undergo an interview or conference presentation. Once you’ve checked those boxes, you’re almost there! You’ll need to submit a formal application and pay the licensure fee. After that, you’re set to fly solo and provide speech-language services independently across the state of Massachusetts.
Once you graduate, you’ll tackle the Praxis exam, aiming for a passing score around 162. After that, you’ll embark on a 36-week Clinical Fellowship (CF), working under a seasoned SLP mentor who can offer the guidance, support, and real-world know-how textbooks can’t fully capture.
When you finish your CF and apply to the Massachusetts Board of Registration, you’ll step into your role as a fully licensed Speech Language Pathologist professional. From then on, every two years, you’ll need 20 hours of continuing education—think of it as your chance to keep learning about the latest speech pathology treatment techniques and research. If you decide to serve in public schools, you’ll likely need an additional educator license. It’s a lot of work, but the reward is a career dedicated to elevating communication, one voice at a time.
If you are interested in becoming a speech-language pathologist and want to do so in the shortest amount of time, there are a few creative options available in Massachusetts. The general duration of a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders is four years, but some schools, like Worcester State, have a 4+1 or 5-year combined SLP bachelor’s/master’s tracks that will allow you to move right into advanced coursework to speed things up. This can cut as much as a year off of your total time in school.
When it comes to master’s programs and what you’ll need to become a licensed speech pathologist, most are two years if you are attending school full time. However, Speech@Emerson from Emerson College has an accelerated schedule that can be done in as few as 20 months, which is great if you want to get into clinical practice sooner.
Beyond that, folks aiming for doctoral-level expertise can opt for PhD or SLPD degrees. Although these typically span several years, a few Massachusetts institutions have “fast-track” or integrated MS/PhD pathways (Boston University is one example), where you begin doctoral studies right after or even alongside your master’s coursework. This can condense your total time in school and get you out into the world as a top-tier expert faster. It’s a challenging but exciting journey for those who crave both clinical mastery and research or leadership roles.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| Harvard University |
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| Boston University |
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| University of Massachusetts-Amherst |
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If saving money on your Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) education is high on your list of priorities, then Massachusetts has you covered. Some places that are good for an undergraduate degree include Worcester State University or Bridgewater State University, which have relatively lower tuition fees than private institutions and offer in-state students rates between $10,000 and $15,000 per year. This can be a real budget saver if you are just starting out in the field.
At the master’s level, which is required for speech pathology licensure, public universities such as UMass Amherst or Worcester State are also fairly priced. Out-of-state students will pay more, but it will usually be less than private college tuition that can climb above $40,000 per year. If you are looking towards a doctoral path, some PhD programs (e.g. at UMass Amherst) may have stipends or assistantships that cover some or all of the tuition, making advanced study not so bad after all. The SLPD degrees, which are mainly for practicing clinicians, are not usually funded.
If you decide to attend a more expensive private institution, there are still scholarships, fellowships, or work study options that can help ease the cost. One should also note that being a SLP is a well paying profession in Massachusetts due to high demand in the market.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Worcester State University |
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| Bridgewater State University |
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| Gordon College |
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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
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 are interested in pursuing a career in SLP and have been researching licensing requirements or are simply interested in learning more about SLP
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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