Last Updated
April 14, 2025Written By
Benjamin Thompson, M.S., CCC‑SLPArizona is a great place to study Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) because it has many top-class universities, a rapidly developing market for healthcare and education, and many ways to get experience with people. Most of the speech pathology programs here provide training in a bilingual and multicultural environment which is very important in a state with such a large number of Spanish speaking population and Native American populations. All the universities in Arizona have good clinical training with strong ties to the top facilities of the state for those who want to work in schools, hospitals or private clinics. Arizona State University (ASU), University of Arizona (UA), and Northern Arizona University (NAU) provide great bachelors programs. NAU and ASU also have online programs available for you in case you need flexibility. ASU, UA, and NAU have CAA accredited programs for SLP master’s degrees that prepare students for licensure. NAU has a part time program for clinical professionals. ASU and UA are research heavy universities for Ph.D. in SLP. Arizona does not have an SLP-D program, but for clinical experts, online speech-language pathology solutions from other states are available. No matter if you are beginning with a bachelor’s level, obtaining a master’s for licensure as an SLP or seeking a doctorate, there are accredited programs in Arizona that meet your financial, time and learning needs.
Looking for the best speech pathology programs in Arizona? 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 Arizona. Learn how we rank schools at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Flagstaff, AZ - Public 4-Year - nau.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Arizona University's Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Speech-Language Pathology equips graduates for diverse career settings. The program offers flexible, in-person tracks accommodating various backgrounds and career stages. A 94% Praxis exam pass rate demonstrates the program's effectiveness. Graduates are prepared to serve individuals of all ages in schools, clinics, and hospitals. The program fosters an inclusive learning environment with student-centered training.
Concentration: Full-Time Regular track - Campus Based - Visit Website
The MS in Clinical Speech-Language Pathology at Northern Arizona University offers multiple flexible tracks to accommodate diverse student backgrounds, including working professionals. The program boasts a 94% Praxis exam pass rate, reflecting its rigorous training. Students gain practical experience in various settings, from schools to hospitals, equipping them to support patients of all ages. The program's flexible structure allows students to balance their education with other commitments.
Concentration: Full-Time Leveler track - Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Arizona University's MS in Clinical Speech-Language Pathology program offers various tracks for diverse student backgrounds, including recent graduates and working professionals. With a 94% Praxis exam pass rate, the program's student-centered approach prepares graduates for roles in healthcare and educational settings. Students gain experience working with patients of all ages in schools, clinics, and hospitals. Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, the program provides flexible full-time and part-time options.
Tempe, AZ - Public 4-Year - asu.edu
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Arizona State University's Master of Science in Communication Disorders with a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology is a CAA-accredited, campus-based program designed for students aiming for professional excellence. This residential program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience at the ASU Speech and Hearing Clinic. Graduates are well-prepared for certification and licensure, ready to tackle challenges in diverse healthcare and educational settings. Highlights include CAA accreditation, preparation for professional certification, and support for state licensure requirements. 'Requires GRE' for admission, ensuring a cohort of dedicated and qualified students.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Communication Disorders MS program at Arizona State University provides a robust foundation for aspiring speech-language pathologists. Accredited by the CAA, this program emphasizes a balance of practical skills and academic knowledge, preparing students for certification and licensure. With a focus on campus-based learning, students benefit from direct engagement with faculty and peers. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, aligning with ASU's graduate standards. The program stands out for its CAA accreditation, focus on practical skills, and preparation for certification. 'Requires GRE' for entry, catering to students committed to advancing their careers in communication disorders.
Glendale, AZ - Private 4-year - midwestern.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Midwestern University-Glendale's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology stands out for its comprehensive 21-month program, offering both Traditional and Leveling tracks to suit students from various academic backgrounds. With a stellar 100% Praxis exam pass rate, the program ensures graduates are well-equipped for successful careers. Students benefit from hands-on clinical experiences, including interprofessional training and advanced practicum opportunities at the on-campus Speech Language Institute. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and offering a student-faculty ratio of 7:1 or less for personalized mentorship. This program is ideal for those seeking a dynamic career in speech-language pathology, with a strong emphasis on transforming communication challenges.
When considering whether to get a Bachelor’s in Speech-Language Pathology or a Master’s in SPL, your career goals are the deciding factor. To become a licensed speech-language pathologist, you will need a master’s degree. The first step towards your career starts with a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology but provides entry into other communication sciences fields. SLP students benefit from studying in Arizona because of its numerous top-ranked universities and expanding demand for skilled professionals in schools, hospitals and clinics. Midwestern universities including Arizona State University (ASU), University of Arizona (UA), and Northern Arizona University (NAU) offer four-year bachelor’s degrees which prepare students for graduate school or Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) entry-level positions. Admission to these programs requires general university admission alongside strong science and communication coursework.
You need a master’s degree for both SLP licensure and positions such as Medical Speech-Language Pathologists, School Speech Pathologists and private practice. CAA accreditation is available for master’s programs at ASU, UA and NAU. These graduate-level programs last roughly two years for students who hold a Communication Sciences bachelor’s degree and complete required speech, science and psychology courses. Most Arizona SLP Master’s degrees don’t require the GRE anymore. Students seeking an early start in their careers should begin with a bachelor’s degree to qualify for SLPA jobs. Speech disorder diagnosis and treatment requires a master’s degree over a bachelor’s degree. Both paths have solid training available from Arizona programs.
The University of Arizona and Arizona State University offer highly respected PhD programs in Speech-Language Pathology. These programs typically take 4-5 years and are expected to require a master’s degree or in some cases a bachelor’s with research experience, strong academic records and alignment with faculty mentors. Funding, tuition waivers and stipends provided by the university in return for research or teaching assistantships to almost all phd students. There is one major difference between the SLPD and the PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): while both are doctorates, the SLPD is a clinical doctorate and the PhD is a research doctorate. Arizona does not currently offer an SLPD program, but several online programs exist at other universities. Most require a master’s degree in speech pathology, CCC-SLP certification, and work experience. If you want to advance the field through teaching and research, then Ph.D. is the way to go. If you want to increase your clinical skills or you want to get into management then SLPD is the right choice. Great PhD programs can be found in Arizona and the state’s SLPs can enroll in online SLPD programs to build their careers.
To work as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in Arizona you must be licensed in the state and have a national certification. Having both the licensure and certification ensures that you have the education, training and experience you need to safely and effectively treat those you work with. The process to get licensed in Arizona is similar to the process to become nationally certified. First you need to graduate with a master’s degree in Speech Pathology from a CAA accredited university. Your master’s degree should have 400 clinical hours, 25 of which are observation hours and 375 which are direct contact hours where you interact with the clients. After you graduate, you will need to complete an additional 1,260 clinical hours under the supervision of a licensed SLP. Once you have completed your hand-on training, you will take the Praxis. If you receive a score of 162 or higher, you are eligible to apply to the Arizona Department of Health Services for your licensure. Many speech pathologists in Arizona also apply to be Certified Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). It isn’t necessary to practice in Arizona but it increases your job opportunities and salary.
If you need to become a speech-language pathologist as soon as possible, several universities offer the opportunity to graduate quickly. The time it takes depends on the degree level you’re pursuing. Four years is normal for a Speech Pathology or Communication Sciences and Disorders bachelor’s degrees; some institutions provide an accelerated SLP degree path. Northern Arizona University (NAU) and Arizona State University (ASU) provide both online and classroom-based bachelor’s programs that can be finished sooner through summer enrollment or by transferring credits. A two-year full-time commitment is standard for most master’s degrees; NAU provides part-time licensure eligible courses. Master’s programs from ASU, UA, and NAU meet CAA accreditation standards. NAU and ASU provide combined bachelor’s-to-master’s degrees that enable students to take their graduate courses in their last year of undergrad and graduate school in less time. At Ph.D. level, graduation requires four to five years of study but ASU and UA provide research assistant positions which help students complete their studies faster. Although Arizona does not currently have an SLPD (clinical doctorate), online options exist for those who work as professionals and need to advance quickly.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| Northern Arizona University |
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| Arizona State University Campus Immersion |
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| Midwestern University-Glendale |
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The in-state public universities represent the affordable speech pathology degree options for students seeking tuition rates. The tuition rates differ by enrollment level but selecting an in-state opportunity or a tuition reduction plan such as WRGP tuition discounts will significantly lower your expenses. For students looking to get a Bachelor’s in Speech-Language Pathology, Arizona State University (ASU), the University of Arizona (UA), and Northern Arizona University (NAU) provide the cheapest options. In-state students will pay $11,000 and $15,000 annually; while out-of-state students will pay $25,000 – $34,00 per year. The online learning platforms at NAU and ASU may operate under different payment arrangements. The same schools provide CAA accredited master’s level programs as the top affordable options in the area. The annual tuition rates for in-state students range between $11,000 and $15,000 but out-of-state students should prepare to pay as high as $34,000. Western state students must check eligibility for WRGP tuition reductions because they may receive significant fee reductions. The University of Arizona and Arizona State University provide research-oriented Ph.D. programs in SLP which provide tuition waivers and assistantships along with stipends thus reducing the program costs. Since Arizona does not have an SLPD (clinical doctorate) option yet, SLPs looking for this program should direct their search elsewhere for online tuition-affordable options.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Northern Arizona University |
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| Arizona State University Campus Immersion |
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| Midwestern University-Glendale |
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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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