Last Updated
April 14, 2025Written By
Alexandra Turner, M.A., CCC‑SLPSeveral institutions in Virginia are ASHA accredited Speech-Language Pathology programs and are different in their approaches. JMU in Harrisonburg provides a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, which provides rich hands-on training experience through its on-campus clinic. Radford University has a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, with a special emphasis on the needs of the rural population. The coastal region is also covered by ODU in Norfolk, which offers a Master of Science in Speech Pathology. UVA in Charlottesville has a Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, which is especially noted for its interdisciplinary focus.
The job market is one of the most attractive aspects of Virginia, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of SLP jobs to increase by 18% from 2023-2033, consistent with the national rates. The mean annual speech pathologist salary in Virginia is estimated to be $85,000 which is quite close to the national median salary of $89,290. The combination of large cities and counties, including Richmond and the Shenandoah Valley, offers a wide range of job options, including in schools and healthcare, where SLP shortages in rural areas are a major focus — a feature that is not always evident in other states.
Looking for the best speech pathology programs in Virginia? 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 Virginia. Learn how we rank schools at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Charlottesville, VA - Public 4-Year - virginia.edu
Concentration: Speech Communication Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Virginia-Main Campus offers a Ph.D. in Speech Communication Disorders, focusing on preparing scholars and researchers for advanced careers in speech-language pathology. This campus-based program is tailored for individuals with a master's degree, emphasizing advanced research methodologies and clinical expertise over 3-4 years. Students must complete 78 credits, including research apprenticeships, a teaching internship, and a dissertation. The program is ideal for those holding the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence, with a strong emphasis on independent research under faculty guidance. Highlights include personalized research focus, funding opportunities, and comprehensive exams. 'No GRE Required' for applicants demonstrating exceptional academic and research potential.
Harrisonburg, VA - Public 4-Year - jmu.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
James Madison University offers a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology through a hybrid program that combines online and on-campus learning. This program is designed for those aiming to become leaders in the field of communication disorders, offering a curriculum that covers diagnosis, treatment, and management. With a 100% Praxis exam pass rate and employment rate, graduates are well-prepared for certification and careers in various settings. The program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation, ensuring high standards of education and training. Highlights include a 5-semester full-time schedule, extensive clinical experiences, and compatibility with ASHA certification requirements.
Winchester, VA - Private 4-year - su.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Shenandoah University's on-campus Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) is a 60-credit program focused on diagnosing and treating communication disorders across the lifespan. Students gain 400 hours of practical experience through diverse clinical placements in settings like schools, healthcare facilities, and private practices. The curriculum prepares graduates for national certification and entry into this high-demand field.
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Shenandoah University's hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) is a 60-credit program combining online flexibility with in-person training. Students complete 400 clinical practicum hours, preparing them for the PRAXIS exam and careers in diverse settings. The program emphasizes interprofessional learning and covers a wide range of communication disorders. It is a candidate for CAA accreditation and offers multiple clinical placement options.
Radford, VA - Public 4-Year - radford.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Radford University offers an undergraduate program in Communication Sciences and Disorders, laying the groundwork for careers in speech-language pathology. This Bachelor of Arts program focuses on scientific and quantitative reasoning, with 43 credits of specialized coursework. Admission to the major requires a minimum 2.80 GPA, preparing students for advanced studies or professional roles in various settings. 'Requires ACT/SAT' for undergraduate admission.
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Radford University's Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a concentration in Speech-Language Pathology is designed for students aiming to excel in healthcare. Offering both two-year and three-year tracks, this ASHA-accredited program ensures extensive clinical training through 190 externship sites. With a perfect Praxis exam pass rate and employment outcomes, graduates are well-equipped for the field's expected 19% growth by 2032. Highlights include graduate assistantships, a 3.0 GPA requirement, and a February 1st application deadline. 'Requires Praxis' for certification.
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Communication Sciences and Disorders program at Radford University, focusing on Speech-Language Pathology, is ASHA-accredited and prepares students for professional practice. It offers Master of Arts and Science degrees, emphasizing innovative collaborations and a supportive environment. Admission is competitive, with detailed requirements in the Graduate Catalog. Graduates are prepared for national certification and state licensure. 'Requires Praxis' for professional practice.
Norfolk, VA - Public 4-Year - odu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Old Dominion University's Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology provides a comprehensive undergraduate foundation for aspiring communication science professionals. The program meticulously explores both normal and disordered communication processes, equipping students with critical analytical and assessment skills. Structured to facilitate advanced academic progression, students receive extensive research opportunities and hands-on practicum experiences. Designed for future graduate study, the curriculum emphasizes theoretical knowledge and practical application across communication disorder domains. Admission requires a 2.50 GPA and completion of foundational coursework, ensuring students are well-prepared for subsequent advanced academic pursuits.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Old Dominion University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology offers an intensive two-year residential program designed to cultivate advanced communication disorder professionals. Accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation, the curriculum provides comprehensive training through extensive clinical experiences. Students engage in on-campus practica and complete two off-campus externships across varied healthcare and educational settings. The program strategically prepares graduates for national certification and state licensure, emphasizing practical skills development. With a competitive admissions process requiring a 2.80 undergraduate GPA and three recommendation letters, students benefit from a rigorous academic environment that prioritizes professional readiness.
Hampton, VA - Private 4-year - hamptonu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hampton University's undergraduate Communicative Sciences and Disorders program provides a robust foundational pathway for students aspiring to advanced speech-language professional careers. The meticulously designed curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experiences, emphasizing diagnostic and treatment methodologies. Students engage in comprehensive training supervised by ASHA-certified faculty, completing 50 clinical experience hours that expose them to diverse communication disorder interventions. The program strategically prepares students for graduate studies by offering in-depth exposure to speech-language pathology principles, comprehensive patient interaction techniques, and a holistic understanding of communication health challenges.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Hampton University's M.A. in Communicative Sciences and Disorders represents an exceptional graduate training program designed to cultivate advanced speech-language pathology professionals. Distinguished by its ASHA accreditation, the curriculum delivers comprehensive training in communication disorder diagnostics and intervention strategies. Students benefit from extensive clinical experiences through on-campus and community partnerships, enabling hands-on skill development across diverse patient populations. The program's multicultural communication focus and collaborative learning environment prepare graduates to make significant contributions in healthcare and educational settings. Robust clinical training through partnerships with over 50 practicum agencies ensures students develop sophisticated professional competencies.
Farmville, VA - Public 4-Year - longwood.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Longwood University offers a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, laying the groundwork for careers in speech-language pathology. This program covers the prevention, identification, and treatment of communication disorders across all age groups. An accelerated Master's track allows students to take graduate-level courses in their senior year, potentially reducing the time to earn a master's degree by one year. With a focus on practical skills, the program prepares graduates for various settings, including schools and healthcare facilities. Admission to the graduate program requires a 3.5 GPA, and students have the option to complement their studies with minors. Requires ACT/SAT.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Longwood University's Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders is designed for aspiring speech-language pathologists seeking a comprehensive education. This 52-credit program, accredited by ASHA, combines rigorous coursework with diverse clinical experiences in educational and medical settings. Students are prepared for ASHA certification, with a curriculum emphasizing evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. The program reports a 90% employment rate within six months of graduation, with full-time students typically completing their studies in 5-6 semesters. Clinical placements include both pediatric and adult populations, offering broad exposure to communication disorders. The program also provides thesis and professional portfolio options for tailored learning paths.
The two most common degrees that students get in the Speech Pathology field are a bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) or Communication Sciences and Disorders or a master’s in SLP. The bachelor’s degree provides the foundation for those looking to practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant or to continue their education. Bachelor’s programs include classes like anatomy and physiology, phonetics, speech science, and audiology.
The SLP master’s degree builds on the foundation of the bachelor’s degree with more advanced coursework and clinical experiences. Admission to these programs can be competitive and applicants will need to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, GRE scores, letters of recommendations and a personal statement. Individual program requirements may vary, so it is important to make sure you check the requirements before applying. Completing a master’s degree opens the door to becoming a licensed SLP, which allows you to practice independently in a variety of settings.
Two Virginia universities that are affiliated with doctorate degrees in Speech Language Pathology or similar divisions are James Madison University (JMU) and the University of Virginia (UVA). JMU’s PhD program in Educational Policy, Research and Evaluation is affiliated with the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, and concentrates on research and scholarly writing. Advanced research in speech, language and hearing is learned at JMU; students often work on the research of faculty members and in specific areas of the discipline.
The University of Virginia’s Curry School of Education offers a PhD in Education with a focus on Communication Disorders and Sciences. Students in this track are exposed to demanding classes in language development, speech science, and research methods, in the process of being prepared for academic and research careers to contribute new knowledge to speech-language pathology. As with most PhD programs, UVA has a strong emphasis on research, and students are expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and write a dissertation under the supervision of their advisors.
At this moment, there is no separate clinical doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology SLPD that is available in Virginia, so students interested in an advanced clinical focus often have to search for such programs outside the state or pursue fellowships and speech pathology certificates after the master’s degree. Those interested in doctoral study in Virginia should check the particular university’s entrance requirements, scholarships, and the areas of interest of the faculty at JMU or UVA as these two institutions differ strongly in their approaches.
In Virginia, an SLP must be licensed by the Virginia Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The Board has set some minimum requirements that include a master’s or doctoral degree from an ASHA accredited institution, completion of a clinical fellowship year supervised by a licensed SLC (CFY), passing the PRAXIS exam and no history of disciplinary actions. The application fee is $100 and the licensure fee is $50, for a total of $150.
For those in training, a provisional license is available for up to 24 months, which may be renewed once, if the person is supervised by a licensed SLP. SLPAs must have a bachelor’s degree, courses in communication disorders, completion of an SLPA certificate program that includes clinical training hours, and practice under the supervision of a licensed SLP. The registration fee is $50; renewals are good for 2 years and require 20 continuing education hours and a $25 fee, according to the Virginia Board.
Many SLPs pursue ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) which is available to those who complete an accredited graduate program, the PRAXIS exam of speech pathology, and a clinical fellowship. In the case of SLPAs, ASHA provides the C-SLPA certification, which is based on a degree, supervised hours, and an exam, to increase professional standing.
In Virginia, the process of accelerating the time to become a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) involves identifying the programs that can help achieve this goal. Several institutions offer such options that can help reduce the time to completion of the degrees needed.
Longwood University offers an accelerated stream that permits students to take graduate level courses in their last year of undergraduate studies. This pathway enables students to finish both their SLP bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a shortened time frame. To be eligible, students will apply during their junior year and must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5, have four letters of recommendation (at least two from Longwood CSD faculty), and have participated in at least one CSD extracurricular activity.
The University of Virginia has a Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders that can be completed in five semesters if the student has a communication sciences background. For students who do not have previous coursework in the field, the program is lengthened to seven semesters. This structure enables the students to choose the mode of learning as per their academic background.
James Madison University (JMU) provides an online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology for nontraditional students and career changers. This program continues for three years and is offered online to suit the busy schedules of the students. Although it is not an accelerated SLP program in the usual sense, the online delivery enables students to schedule their studies to suit their lifestyles.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| University of Virginia-Main Campus |
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| Longwood University |
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| James Madison University |
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Assessing the availability of affordable Speech-Language Pathology programs requires the consideration of both the nearby options in Virginia and the reasonably priced online programs across the United States. In Virginia, James Madison University (JMU) provides an online Master of Science in SLP at the cost of about $25,245 all told for in-state students, perfect for career switchers who appreciate the ability to work at their own pace. Longwood University offers online preparatory courses in SLP at $285 per hour for Virginia residents, which can be useful for students who need the building blocks of a master’s degree program.
The traditional, on-campus Master of Science in SLP offered by Old Dominion University (ODU) has a tuition fee of $620 per credit hour for Virginia residents and offers rich clinical practice. The University of Virginia (UVA) has a residential Master of Education in Communication Sciences and Disorders which is $18,990 per academic year for in-state students, to prepare students for licensure and certification. The speech pathology program at Radford University is also offered; however, the tuition details are not readily available and can only be obtained by contacting the institution directly.
Therefore, in terms of pricing, in-state tuition is usually cheaper, and it is wise to become a resident of Virginia. Using financial aid, scholarships and assistantships is important to help bring down the costs even further. In general, it is recommended that prospective students compare the prices of tuition, the type of program, clinical practice, and their career plans to determine the most appropriate and cost-effective SLP program.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Old Dominion University |
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| Radford University |
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| James Madison University |
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