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If you want to become a licensed speech therapist or speech pathologist, you should consider one of the best online speech pathology masters programs with no GRE scores required! You may not have taken the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), or you haven’t passed it despite multiple tries, or your GRE scores may have lapsed. But keep in mind that these master’s degree programs have competitive admissions processes and, thus, you should impress with your academic and professional credentials.
These online speech pathology programs don’t require GRE scores for many reasons. The topics covered and skills required in the GRE don’t apply to the discipline, and according to studies, GRE scores aren’t good predictors of success in master’s degree programs. There’s also the fact that individuals can retake the GRE multiple times and get higher scores.
Note that aspiring speech-language pathologists can also pursue a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders. In either case, graduates of both graduate Speech-Language Pathology and communication sciences and disorders programs must secure a state-issued license for practice-related purposes.
The licensing requirements for Speech-Language Pathology practitioners vary between states, but earning a master’s degree, completing the supervised clinical experience, and passing a certification exam are common.
The Lowdown
Every aspiring speech language pathologist must earn a Master’s in Speech Language Pathology or a Master’s in Communication Sciences Disorders from an accredited program. The curriculum and clinical experiences in these master’s degree programs prepare students for the challenging yet rewarding work in Speech Language Pathology in diverse settings, from schools, clinics and hospitals to private practice. The job opportunities and salaries that come with being a licensed speech language pathologist or speech therapist are among the best, too.
Methodology
The online Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology and communication and sciences disorders programs featured here meet the following criteria:
- Features comprehensive online or hybrid coursework for professional education that highlights the trends and up-to-date methods and techniques to help students tackle the challenges of the Speech-Language Pathology profession,
- Delivers interactive online classes while the in-person clinical experiences meet ASHA standards,
- Obtained accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) in Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, meaning it complies with the rigorous standards in coursework and clinical training,
- The college or university itself has regional accreditation,
- Taught by experts in the industry, including licensed Speech Pathologists imparting their expertise on future professionals,
- Offers financial assistance in the form of federal aid and scholarships for qualified master’s degree students
- Recognized by the Speech Pathology industry and esteemed among professional groups,
Explore our Methodology to find out how we rank the country’s outstanding online master’s degree programs.
Online Speech Pathology Masters Programs That Require No GRE Scores
New York University
Hybrid Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology
The master’s in speech pathology program at NYU prepares students for successful speech-language pathology practice with its emphasis on evidence-based practice in addressing communication and swallowing disorders.
- Students complete 48 credits to earn a master’s degree in speech-language pathology
- The seven foundation courses are offered online, thus, allowing students to maintain a good work-life balance
- Students undergo 375 hours of direct clinical experience
What Makes This Program Unique:
The online speech-language pathology program provides students with excellent student support services, including a dedicated placement specialist. Students who want to earn the speech-language pathology degree must undergo a five-part series of on-campus clinical experiences. Part-time and full-time enrolment options are offered with time-to-completion for full-time students at 6-7 terms.
Did You Know?
Students in the speech pathology online program can access on-campus resources and services, including career services, writing services, and one-on-one coaching.
Baylor University
Hybrid Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Baylor University’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders prepares students for patient-centered care of diverse populations with speech, language, and hearing disorders.
- Students complete 45 credits to earn the master’s degree, and it includes didactic coursework and clinical experiences.
- Time-to-completion varies from five to 11 trimesters.
- Courses focus on principles and practices of communication sciences as these apply to speech-language pathology.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The ideal candidates for the speech-language pathology program are service-oriented professionals who are enthusiastic about combining the communication sciences field with Christian values. Students benefit from the emphasis on research skills and real-world competencies.
Did You Know?
The competitive speech pathology online program selects students based on their academic performance and potential and their professional aspirations. Application requirements include a personal essay and letters of recommendation; TOEFL/IELTS scores are required for international students.
Emerson College
Hybrid Master of Sciences in Communication Disorders
Emerson College’s online MS in Communication Disorders program trains students in appropriate care for patients with speech, language, and swallowing disorders.
- Students choose from two tracks – the 5-term track with a 20-month time-to-completion and the 9-term track with a 36-month time-to-degree
- Time-to-completion may be longer for students who have to complete foundational courses
- Admission to the communication disorders online program is competitive.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The on-campus and online speech-language pathology programs at Emerson have the same curriculum and quality of instruction. Students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for the delivery of patient-centered and family-focused care. This is achieved via intensive coursework as well as on-campus immersions, patient contact hours, and clinical observation hours.
Did You Know?
Students in the speech pathology online program can access excellent student support services, including a dedicated admissions counselor, faculty advisor, and financial aid counselor.
Nova Southeastern University
Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at Nova Southeastern University prepares students for successful careers in the field, whether as employed professionals or in private practice.
- Time-to-completion of the speech pathology online program is eight terms.
- Full-time employment until the fourth term is possible.
- Students complete 54 credits to earn a master’s degree.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The intensive coursework in the speech-language pathology program challenges students to do their best; a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or communication science is recommended. The courses include diagnosis of language and speech disorders, augmentative and alternative communication, and autism spectrum disorders. The culminating requirement of the speech pathology program is a capstone course.
Did You Know?
Applicants choose from three start dates. The admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and 25 hours of guided clinical observation.
St. Ambrose University
Hybrid Master of Speech-Language Pathology
Students in the speech-language pathology program at St. Ambrose University work with other graduate students in occupational therapy, social work, and occupational therapy programs in the Interprofessional Healthcare Clinic. Their hands-on experiences include providing patient-centered care to diverse populations.
- Students also gain hands-on learning experiences in the Learning Lab.
- Study-abroad opportunities are available.
- The culminating requirement is a graduate research project.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The speech pathology online program is the only one offered by a private university in Iowa. Students start their clinical rotations in their first semester, followed by two internships. Their education also includes sound/visual phonics training.
Did You Know?
Students in the speech pathology program have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in the St. Ambrose Rite Care Clinic, a no-cost clinic for children and adults with communication disorders. Services offered include speech-language pathology assessments and treatments.
California State University – Northridge
Hybrid Master of Science in Communicative Disorders
California State University offers an exceptional Master of Science in Communicative Disorders program that trains ambitious individuals in speech-language pathology. Students learn as a cohort that maximizes their learning and networking opportunities.
- Time-to-completion is three years or ten semesters, with all didactic coursework offered in an online format.
- Clinical experiences are conducted in community sites near the student’s place of residence or work.
- The program of study consists of 63-semester units.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The intensive courses in the Speech-Language Pathology online program provide students with comprehensive coverage of the field. The science-centric courses include research in communication disorders, language, and hearing, neurophysiology and neuroanatomy of speech, and interviewing and counseling in communicative disorders. Students complete three pediatric and one adult clinical practicum experiences or externships.
Did You Know?
The MS in Communicative Disorders program was awarded the University Professional & Continuing Education Association’s Outstanding Program Award.
Florida State University
Hybrid Master of Science in Communication Science & Disorders
Busy individuals who want to become communication disorders specialists may want to consider the Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders programs at FSU.
- This is a 61-credit program designed to address the shortage of speech-language pathologists in Florida.
- The 40-credit academic coursework includes topics in developmental communication disorders, articulation, phonological disorders, and voice disorders.
- The 16-credit clinical practicum courses include an advanced clinical practicum, a laboratory for adult and child speech-language pathology diagnostics, and an internship.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The speech-language pathology online program continues to be a success in producing competent and compassionate speech-language pathologists in Florida and in other states. The combination of an extensive academic curriculum and diverse clinical placements contributes to the student’s well-rounded education.
Did You Know?
This is among the more competitive speech-language pathology programs with applications required to complete prerequisite courses in communication science and disorders, among others.
Idaho State University
Hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology at Idaho State University is intended for individuals who are unable to attend on-campus programs. Even students in rural areas are welcome.
- The part-time program has a three-year time-to-completion.
- Students complete 60-63 credits to be awarded the speech-language pathology master’s degree.
- Students of the speech pathology program can choose between a capstone and a thesis.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The speech pathology online program has a similar program of study as its on-campus counterpart – the exception is the 100% online coursework. Students must also complete two on-campus clinical practicums and an 8-week community externship.
Did You Know?
The master’s degree program is part of the Western Regional Graduate Program that allows out-of-state students from 15 states in the region to earn a degree from ISU at in-state tuition rates.
James Madison University
Hybrid Master of Science Speech-Language Pathology
The James Madison University Master Science in Speech-Language Pathology online program is aligned with its residential counterpart. Both programs have the same curriculum, learning outcomes, and graduate outcomes, and graduates are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in dealing with communication and swallowing disorders.
- Students complete the degree in about three years by taking 2-3 courses every semester.
- The program has a cohort model, and thus, courses must be taken in sequence.
- This is a 45-credit program that features courses in the diagnosis and management of speech, language, and hearing disorders.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The online speech-language pathology program welcomes students with and without a background in the field. Note that adult learners must adjust to the rigorous academic load and thus, full-time external employment may not be possible.
Did You Know?
Prospective students of the speech pathology online program must complete prerequisite courses before being considered for admission.
Texas Woman’s University
Hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Check out the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Texas Woman’s University for its world-class quality of instruction, affordable tuition, and emphasis on career preparation.
- The 61-credit hour program can be completed in two years or 6-7 semesters.
- Small class sizes result in more personalized attention from experienced faculty members.
- Students learn about the diagnosis, management, and prevention of speech, language, and hearing disorders among children and adults. The speech pathology online program features asynchronous course delivery.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The speech-language pathology program has two tracks – the Schools-focused Track, with clinical experiences conducted in schools, and the Healthcare-focused Track, where clinical experiences are completed in healthcare settings.
Did You Know?
Students can earn post-baccalaureate certificates while in the master’s degree program and, thus, increase their skill sets in communication and hearing disorders. These certificates are the Certificate in Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Certificate in Multicultural and Diversity Studies.
University of Akron
Hybrid Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
The University of Akron, in partnership with the University of Cincinnati, offers an exceptional master’s degree in speech-language pathology program. Students benefit from comprehensive professional education and extensive clinical training.
- The faculty members of the online program also teach the on-campus program.
- Students can choose clinical placements in or near their place of residence or work.
- Time-to-completion is two years and eight months.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The rigorous coursework in the online speech pathology program equips students with vital knowledge and skills in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of speech, language, and hearing disorders. Students also learn research methods in communicative disorders that can be integrated into their public or private practice.
Did You Know?
With a 100% pass rate on the Praxis exam and a 100% job placement rate for its graduates, this is truly among the best speech pathology online programs!
University of South Carolina
Hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
The University of South Carolina Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program offers busy individuals the opportunity to earn a graduate degree as part-time students.
- The time-to-completion of the master’s in speech pathology program varies between three and four years, depending on whether a student has a relevant bachelor’s degree or not.
- Students enroll in 6-7 credit hours per semester, but the final internship requires 12 hours.
- Courses include phonetics, normal language development, and articulation disorders.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students develop their real-world skills in speech-language pathology at the Montgomery Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic and in their choice of clinical placements. USC has more than 700 externship partnerships across the state and country, from healthcare settings and schools to private practice clinics.
Did You Know?
Students in the speech pathology online program are eligible for graduate stipends and can apply for financial aid aside from being able to maintain full-time employment.
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Through the College of Rehabilitative Sciences, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences offers its MS in Speech-Language Pathology online program to individuals interested in the field. Academic coursework is completed online, while the clinical experiences are in-person requirements.
- Students learn evidence-based practices through interactive online classes in speech sound, adult neurogenic, and language disorders, among other topics.
- Time-to-completion is five trimesters or one year and eight months.
- Students complete five semesters of virtual and on-site clinical experiences
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students in the master’s in speech pathology program benefit from the training on the use of state-of-the-art endoscopy equipment as well as earn a certificate in cultural and linguistic diversity.
Did You Know?
Applicants without a speech-language pathology background can take six leveling courses in preparation for admission into the program.
University of Northern Colorado
Hybrid Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
The master’s in speech pathology online program at the University of Northern Colorado uses web-based technologies in the conduct of its academic coursework and clinical training seminars.
- This is a three-year program that combines online classes and on-campus class meetings during certain times of the academic year.
- Students complete their clinical practicum courses at their place of employment, where they work as speech-language pathology assistants.
- This is a cohort-based program with sequential coursework.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students learn better with the clinician-researcher model used in the speech-language pathology program. The emphasis is on the development of evidence-based practice, thus, the requirement for students to be employed as speech-language pathology assistants or equivalent.
Did You Know?
Students engage in research, from data collection to outcome evaluation, in various forms throughout their stay in the speech pathology program.
Western Kentucky University
Hybrid Master of Science in Communication Disorders
Graduates of the Master of Science in Communication Disorders online program at Western Kentucky University are qualified for state licensure and national certification.
- The program consists of 60 credits of coursework and clinical training experiences.
- Students complete a 6-week summer internship.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students participate in synchronous classes in the speech-language pathology program. The on-campus summer internship is followed by clinical externships in the community and other sites.
Did You Know?
Jobs as speech-language pathology assistant or equivalent may be considered in compliance with externship requirements.
Master’s Degree and Certification Standards Toward Speech Pathology Professional Practice
As an aspiring licensed speech pathologist, you will spend at least two years in a master’s degree program. While the curriculum for every speech-language pathology and communication sciences and disorders graduate program varies, the coursework includes age-specific speech disorders, communication and hearing disorders, and swallowing disorders.
Due to the specialized coursework, applicants may be required to possess a bachelor’s degree in either speech-language pathology or communication sciences and disorders. Applicants are also required to complete prerequisite courses in biological science, communication science, and hearing science, among others.
Online Master’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders and speech pathology programs also require in-person supervised clinical experiences in accordance with the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) standards. Students in speech pathology online programs must complete at least 375 hours of supervised clinical experience and 25 hours of observation to meet certification standards.
Licensed speech-language pathologists may also earn the ASHA – Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology or CCC-SLP. Teaching certification is required for speech-language pathologists who work in elementary and secondary schools. Specialty certifications are also popular among speech-language pathologists, with the American Board of Child Language and Language Disorders, the American Board of Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders, and the American Board of Fluency and Fluency Disorders being the certification agencies.
As a licensed speech pathologist, you may also consider earning certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). These aren’t offered in online speech pathology programs – check out the Red Cross or the American Heart Association instead.
Note, too, that as a licensed speech pathologist, you will be required to engage in continuing education. Check out speech-language pathology programs that offer CEU courses or units.
The best online speech pathology programs and communication sciences and disorders programs are accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA).
What to Expect from Earning an Online Speech Pathology Master’s Degree
The challenges that come with earning a master’s degree in speech-language pathology or communication sciences and disorders are well worth it! The salary, job opportunities, and job outlook for licensed speech-language pathologists are among the best.
Salary
While your salary as a speech-language pathologist will vary based on your work experience, place of employment, and geographical location, among other factors, the median annual wage in your occupation is $79,060 (May 2021). The highest 10% earners enjoyed annual incomes of $125,500 plus, and it’s something to aspire for.
Speech pathologists work in a wide range of industries, too, including nursing and residential care facilities, public and private hospitals, offices of speech therapists, physical and occupational therapists, audiologists, and educational services like schools.
Full-time work is shared among speech pathologists, but part-time work is also available.
Job Opportunities
The demand for your services as a speech-language pathologist will likely be steady, if not on the rise, due to several factors. With the baby boomer population advancing in age, the incidence of health conditions that cause speech, hearing, and language disorders will increase – and you can be there to provide treatment and management options.
There’s also increased awareness of the treatability of speech, hearing, and language disorders among children and teens. The need for specialist speech-language pathologists will be evident, such as in children with an autism spectrum disorder. The services of speech pathologists will also be needed in the treatment of communication disorders among trauma victims and premature infants, among other at-risk cohorts.
Job Stability and Outlook
Speech Language Pathologists’ occupational outlook is among the highest. The projected job growth is 21% for the 2021-2031 period. This translates to about 14,000 job openings every year, on average.
Performance
Speech-language pathologists typically perform the following duties:
- Diagnose the speech, hearing, and language disorders of their clients
- Identify the unique treatment goals for each client
- Create and implement the client’s individualized treatment and management plan
- Counsel and educate clients and their families and caregivers about their condition and management plans
- Keep records of their client’s progress
Speech-language pathologists work with other professionals, too, such as physicians and surgeons, occupational and physical therapists, and social workers, for the benefit of their clients. Their job may also involve working with the general at-risk population or specializing in a particular age group or in specific communication and swallowing disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Master’s thesis required in Speech Pathology programs?
It depends on the speech-language pathology program – most require a thesis, while many also allow students to choose an option between a thesis or a capstone project.
What’s the next step for Speech Pathology graduates?
You can consider a doctorate in a speech-pathology program that trains professional speech-language pathologists for their chosen specialization.
Summary Points
- The best master’s in speech pathology online programs without GRE scores provide students with the post-baccalaureate education and training to become licensed speech-language pathologists or speech therapists.
- These speech pathology programs have a selective admission process and an even more rigorous academic curriculum and clinical experiences. Part-time and full-time programs are available.
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