Most Affordable Online Master’s of Speech Pathology Programs

CHEAPEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Published: May 19, 2023

Which are the most affordable online speech pathology master’s degrees in the US? We help you find the best master’s degree program at a price you can afford.

Key Takeaways

It is possible to find a high quality online master’s degree program in speech pathology that is still affordable.
The demand for speech-language pathologists is expected to grow faster than the national average of jobs.
Many online speech pathology programs still require students to complete at least a portion of their education on-campus.

Best Online Master's in Speech Language Pathology Degree Programs

University of South Florida
California State University, Northridge
University of Akron
East Carolina University
Tennessee State University
University of Northern Colorado
Western Kentucky University
James Madison University
Texas Woman's University
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire

Western Kentucky University 98%
Texas Woman's University 96%
East Carolina University 94%
University of Northern Colorado 91%
California State University, Northridge 88%
James Madison University 86%
University of Akron 85%
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 77%
University of South Florida 49%

California State University, Northridge 28 to 1
University of South Florida 22 to 1
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 21 to 1
East Carolina University 19 to 1
Western Kentucky University 19 to 1
Texas Woman's University 19 to 1
James Madison University 17 to 1
University of Northern Colorado 16 to 1
University of Akron 16 to 1
Tennessee State University 12 to 1

University of Akron $11,880
Western Kentucky University $10,992
University of Northern Colorado $8,127
James Madison University $7,460
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire $7,361
Tennessee State University $7,128
California State University, Northridge $5,742
Texas Woman's University $5,616
University of South Florida $4,559
East Carolina University $4,452

Western Kentucky University $12,140
University of Northern Colorado $11,192
James Madison University $11,184
University of Akron $10,610
Tennessee State University $9,524
University of South Florida $8,350
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire $8,027
California State University, Northridge $7,176
Texas Woman's University $5,112
East Carolina University $4,749

University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
Texas Woman's University
James Madison University
Western Kentucky University
University of Northern Colorado
Tennessee State University
East Carolina University
University of Akron
California State University, Northridge
University of South Florida

University of South Florida 49%
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 77%
University of Akron 85%
James Madison University 86%
California State University, Northridge 88%
University of Northern Colorado 91%
East Carolina University 94%
Texas Woman's University 96%
Western Kentucky University 98%

Tennessee State University 12 to 1
University of Northern Colorado 16 to 1
University of Akron 16 to 1
James Madison University 17 to 1
East Carolina University 19 to 1
Western Kentucky University 19 to 1
Texas Woman's University 19 to 1
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 21 to 1
University of South Florida 22 to 1
California State University, Northridge 28 to 1

East Carolina University $4,452
University of South Florida $4,559
Texas Woman's University $5,616
California State University, Northridge $5,742
Tennessee State University $7,128
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire $7,361
James Madison University $7,460
University of Northern Colorado $8,127
Western Kentucky University $10,992
University of Akron $11,880

East Carolina University $4,749
Texas Woman's University $5,112
California State University, Northridge $7,176
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire $8,027
University of South Florida $8,350
Tennessee State University $9,524
University of Akron $10,610
James Madison University $11,184
University of Northern Colorado $11,192
Western Kentucky University $12,140

Table of Contents

When the average population is asked what they know about speech-language pathologists (SLP), the common answer is, “Professionals who teach people, especially kids, how to pronounce words correctly.”

While this is true, the job of SLPs involves more than just teaching kids how to enunciate words. The brain, voice box (larynx), mouth, and even the lungs are all parts of the communication system that SLPs address.

Within the medical industry, speech-language pathologists work in acute and rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient clinics, skilled nursing institutions, and home health care.

With an expected 21% job growth from 2021 to 2031 and an average annual salary of $79,060, it’s no wonder why careers in speech-language pathology (SLP) are gaining in popularity. However, it is important to note that a career in speech-language pathology does require a graduate-level degree.

The average cost of a master’s degree costs $62,650. The rising costs of a master’s degree can be a barrier to a career in speech language pathology. Fortunately, a number of colleges and universities offer online speech pathology programs at the master’s degree level, which are cheaper than traditional brick-and-mortar programs.

To help students pursue their dreams of becoming a speech language pathologist, we’ve compiled a list of the ten most affordable online speech pathology degree programs. We will also cover the admission requirements, total number of credit hours, average per credit hour cost, and featured courses to give readers a better view of the program and evaluate which institution/curriculum best suits their interests.

The 10 Most Affordable Online Speech Pathology Masters Degree Programs

Becoming a speech and language pathology expert is no walk in the park. You will need both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. Your bachelor’s degree should be in one of the following:

Speech-language pathology
Biology
Communication sciences and disorders
Behavioral and social science

Your master’s degree should be in either Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Sciences and Disorders.

Key Point: It is important to note that many speech language pathologists who are looking to advance their careers continue on with their education to earn a doctorate degree program.

Before enrolling in a graduate degree program, check with the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The CAA accredits qualified master’s in SLP programs, including online programs. Graduates of CAA-accredited online master’s in speech-language pathology programs should be eligible for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP).

How to Select the Best Affordable Online Master’s of Speech Pathology Program

There’s no one-size-fits-all in education. Cost is just one of the factors students must consider when choosing the best online speech pathology program.

Even the cheapest online SLP programs might not be in your best interests.

And while the list of the most affordable online SLP programs ensures a high caliber of education, you still need to consider the other factors in determining which online program best suits your interests and needs.

Other factors to consider include:

Emphases Available

Not all online master’s degree programs in speech and language pathology are equal. While some focus on specific topics and demographics, other online speech-language pathology programs allow students to choose between tracks.

In selecting the best online master’s in speech pathology, it’s crucial to consider programs that align with your future professional goals.

For example, if you want to focus on a degree that allows you to work in elementary and secondary schools, you might want to enroll in the school-focused track at Texas Woman’s University.

If you want to increase your competitiveness in applying for a position in an audiology and speech center, consider master’s degrees that focus on communicative disorders.

Financial Aid Opportunities

With the rising cost of college-level education, it’s essential to continually research and round up each school’s cost and financial aid opportunities.

The online speech pathology programs listed are some of the most affordable master’s in speech pathology degrees in the country, but they don’t offer the same financial aid opportunities. Some schools offer government and federal student loans, grants, and scholarships, while others provide external funding sources.

The best way to find out what opportunities are available is by contacting the school’s Financial Aid office.

With the aid of scholarships and other financial aid opportunities, excluding loans, almost any institution can become one of the most affordable universities!

Method of Instruction

Online master’s in speech pathology degrees are not always 100% online. Most online master’s degrees require students to complete hands-on learning requirements like internships, clinical placements, and practicums. Students should therefore determine whether the school’s requirements would fit their circumstances.

Luckily, several online schools allow students to complete their experiential learning requirements in or near their local areas of residence. Some online schools, however, require online students to travel to the campus.

In addition to the face-to-face requirement, you should also consider the class delivery. Online courses can either be asynchronous or synchronous.

The asynchronous class format does not require students to complete assignments on the same day they are assigned. Instead, this format allows students to accomplish tasks by the deadline, such as the end of the week.

Furthermore, asynchronous classes do not require their student to be in the same classroom simultaneously with the professor and other students. The schedules of the students are not synchronized.

The synchronous online master’s in speech language pathology program, on the other hand, requires students to meet with their lecturer and their peers at specific times. Such programs can still be delivered entirely online. However, they have tighter time constraints and more closely resemble the group learning experiences of in-person classes.

Enrollment Options

Deciding whether you want to enroll full-time or part-time is another major factor. The same course materials are covered in both full-time and part-time online speech pathology master’s programs. Both require students to complete around 60 credit hours and internship rotations to qualify for state licensure.

The primary distinction between full-time and part-time enrollment is the time required to finish the degrees and how many classes are taken simultaneously.

Full-time options allow you to graduate in two to 2.5 years, while part-time degrees may take three to six years.

If you have a job to keep, choose an online degree that allows students to enroll part-time. However, we must remind you that most online master’s in speech pathology, part-time or not, do not advise students to keep a full-time job.

Student Support Services

As an online student, you don’t have the opportunity or privilege to walk around the campus to locate student support services. When choosing an online degree program, make sure that the school offers these services for their online students. Some essential student support services include job placement and internship opportunities, academic advising, and mentoring/alumni engagement.

Career and Job Growth for Speech-Language Master’s Degree Graduates

Speech pathologists are medical specialists who evaluate, identify, and treat conditions affecting cognition, voice, language, fluency, and communication. They can work in healthcare facilities, schools, doctors’ offices, nursing homes, speech and language centers, and even patients’ homes. Some SLPs choose to operate independently as a consultant or on a contract basis delivering services in various healthcare institutions.

Some SLPs pursue a specialty within the field, such as dealing with a particular age group or disorder. Master’s in speech-language graduates can also advance their careers and become managers, supervisors, or mentors for other speech pathologists in a healthcare setting.

Some speech therapists use their education to work in a field related to speech language pathology, such as audiology, counseling, special education, disability law, or hospital administration.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that the job growth for SLPs is expected to grow faster than the national average. This anticipated increase is in part due to the baby-boom population growing older, whose odds of acquiring speech, language, and swallowing problems rise with age. In regards to pediatric work, a better understanding of speech abnormalities, especially in children, may increase career prospects for speech pathologists who wish to work with the younger population.

In addition to working in physical locations, SLPs are now experiencing an increasing demand for “Telehealth,” a more recent therapeutic approach that, depending on the kind of therapy required, has consistently shown to be effective. Many SLPs do not offer teletherapy, despite many patients wanting it. This means that now is the best time to become one of the pioneers in telehealth.

Is a master’s in speech pathology worth it?

Pursuing a master’s degree, online or on campus, is a huge investment. It requires dedication and financial commitment. While some appreciate the affordability and flexibility online degree programs offer, some prefer the format of live lectures.

The ASHA recognizes the legitimacy of studying speech pathology online, and prospective students can access the ASHA’s list of authorized institutions by searching for “distance education.”

If you dream of becoming a speech pathologist, a master’s degree is worth it since it’s required for SLP licensure.

Moreover, the expected job growth rate in the field would lead many to strongly agree that a master’s degree in speech language pathology is definitely worth it.

However, many SLPs in school settings express greater dissatisfaction with their employment. They often feel a lack of employer support. Based on this factor, if a high level of job satisfaction and employer support are important to you, you may want to consider a position in a healthcare setting.

Additionally, some employers require SLPs to meet strict metrics for billable productivity, leaving inadequate time for other work-related duties that the employer cannot bill.

Many SLPs travel from client to client. This might not be suitable for people who prefer stability and their own workspace.

Most Affordable Online Master’s of Speech Pathology Programs

Key Takeaways

Best Online Master's in Speech Language Pathology Degree Programs

The 10 Most Affordable Online Speech Pathology Masters Degree Programs

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

University of Akron’s Online Degrees

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders

East Carolina University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Western Kentucky University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech & Hearing Science

Tennessee State University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

James Madison University’s Online Degrees

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science Communicative Disorders

California State University, Northridge’s Online Degrees

How to Select the Best Affordable Online Master’s of Speech Pathology Program

Emphases Available

Financial Aid Opportunities

Method of Instruction

Enrollment Options

Student Support Services

Career and Job Growth for Speech-Language Master’s Degree Graduates

Is a master’s in speech pathology worth it?