Most Affordable Online Master’s of Speech Pathology Programs

Badge for CHEAPEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Published: May 19, 2023
Updated: Nov 27, 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 Akron
East Carolina University
Western Kentucky University
Tennessee State University
James Madison University
University of Northern Colorado
Texas Woman's University
University of South Florida
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
California State University, Northridge

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

Western Kentucky University 97%
Texas Woman's University 94%
East Carolina University 92%
California State University, Northridge 91%
University of Akron 83%
University of Northern Colorado 79%
James Madison University 78%
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 77%
University of South Florida 44%

California State University, Northridge 24 to 1
University of South Florida 22 to 1
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 19 to 1
East Carolina University 18 to 1
Western Kentucky University 18 to 1
James Madison University 17 to 1
Texas Woman's University 16 to 1
University of Akron 16 to 1
University of Northern Colorado 14 to 1
Tennessee State University 14 to 1

Western Kentucky University $11,112
University of Akron $10,097
University of Northern Colorado $8,180
James Madison University $7,684
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 $11,628
James Madison University $11,520
Tennessee State University $9,524
University of South Florida $8,350
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire $8,188
University of Akron $7,958
California State University, Northridge $7,176
Texas Woman's University $5,112
East Carolina University $4,749

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

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

University of South Florida 44%
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 77%
James Madison University 78%
University of Northern Colorado 79%
University of Akron 83%
California State University, Northridge 91%
East Carolina University 92%
Texas Woman's University 94%
Western Kentucky University 97%

University of Northern Colorado 14 to 1
Tennessee State University 14 to 1
Texas Woman's University 16 to 1
University of Akron 16 to 1
James Madison University 17 to 1
East Carolina University 18 to 1
Western Kentucky University 18 to 1
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire 19 to 1
University of South Florida 22 to 1
California State University, Northridge 24 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 $7,684
University of Northern Colorado $8,180
University of Akron $10,097
Western Kentucky University $11,112

East Carolina University $4,749
Texas Woman's University $5,112
California State University, Northridge $7,176
University of Akron $7,958
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire $8,188
University of South Florida $8,350
Tennessee State University $9,524
James Madison University $11,520
University of Northern Colorado $11,628
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).

Career Outlook for Students with Speech Pathology Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Speech-language Pathology/Pathologist

Degree Level: Master's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $10,946
Avg. Expenses*: $16,962
Avg. Starting Salary*: $56,394
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $60,892
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 6 years
Job Growth: 19.18%
Number of Jobs: 434,200
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	19.10%	$87,995
Audiologists	10.42%	$84,568
Speech-Language Pathologists	19.31%	$81,280

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%	Median	Top 10%
$54,343	$87,646	$131,027

Promising Job Markets

State	Cost of Living	Avg. Salary
#2 Arkansas	16% higher than average	$113,421
#3 Utah	4% higher than average	$108,244
#4 Texas	10% higher than average	$96,555
#5 Ohio	14% higher than average	$90,727
#6 Nevada	5% higher than average	$109,561
#7 New Mexico	7% higher than average	$97,309
#8 Mississippi	18% higher than average	$85,434
#9 Michigan	15% higher than average	$87,634
#10 Washington	7% higher than average	$109,888
#11 Georgia	13% higher than average	$89,155
#12 Tennessee	14% higher than average	$86,404
#13 New York	5% higher than average	$104,905
#14 North Carolina	11% higher than average	$86,627
#15 Oregon	11% higher than average	$107,413
#16 Iowa	9% higher than average	$86,407
#17 Missouri	16% higher than average	$79,908
#18 Indiana	11% higher than average	$82,380
#19 Kentucky	14% higher than average	$77,484
#20 Arizona	5% higher than average	$85,263
#21 Minnesota	4% higher than average	$85,416
#22 Oklahoma	13% higher than average	$77,376
#23 Virginia	5% higher than average	$84,778
#24 New Hampshire	13% higher than average	$99,824
#25 West Virginia	11% higher than average	$78,362
#26 Massachusetts	24% higher than average	$108,680
#27 Florida	6% higher than average	$82,620
#28 Nebraska	6% higher than average	$82,168
#29 Pennsylvania	5% higher than average	$82,806
#30 New Jersey	13% higher than average	$98,405
#31 Idaho	7% higher than average	$79,981
#32 California	26% higher than average	$106,575
#33 Montana	3% higher than average	$81,762
#34 Wisconsin	7% higher than average	$78,790
#35 South Carolina	8% higher than average	$75,929
#36 North Dakota	average	$81,965
#37 Colorado	3% higher than average	$84,202
#38 Alabama	13% higher than average	$70,500
#39 Illinois	7% higher than average	$74,633
#40 Wyoming	2% higher than average	$78,535
#41 Kansas	9% higher than average	$72,701
#42 Connecticut	18% higher than average	$93,886
#43 Louisiana	9% higher than average	$71,795
#44 Delaware	2% higher than average	$81,090
#45 Rhode Island	20% higher than average	$92,131
#46 South Dakota	7% higher than average	$71,277
#47 District of Columbia	49% higher than average	$113,483
#48 Maryland	18% higher than average	$88,970
#49 Maine	9% higher than average	$77,885
#50 Alaska	23% higher than average	$84,226
#51 Vermont	13% higher than average	$62,760
#52 Hawaii	40% higher than average	$72,494

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary	$87,995
Audiologists	$84,568
Speech-Language Pathologists	$81,280

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

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.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here

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

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at University of Akron

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

University of Akron’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at East Carolina University

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders

East Carolina University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at Western Kentucky University

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Western Kentucky University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at Tennessee State University

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech & Hearing Science

Tennessee State University’s Online Degrees

Degree Concentrations

Degree Concentrations

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at James Madison University

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

James Madison University’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at University of Northern Colorado

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at Texas Woman's University

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at University of South Florida

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders

Career Outlook for Speech Pathology degree at California State University, Northridge

Most Influential Alumni

Master of Science Communicative Disorders

California State University, Northridge’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Students with Speech Pathology Degree

Speech-language Pathology/Pathologist

Degree Level: Master's

Career Salaries

Average Career Salaries

Promising Job Markets

Top Industries

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?