Online Speech-Language Pathology UndergraduatePrograms
Online speech-language pathology bachelor's programs are designed to provide a solid educational foundation to pursue graduate studies in the field or apply for entry-level speech-language pathologist positions. In some cases, you can begin working as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) in a clinic or similar healthcare setting with simply an associate degree. An online SLP certificate — which typically requires 24 credits and may also include clinical training hours — can also prepare you to work under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist.
A bachelor's in speech pathology is ideal if your goal is to pursue graduate studies in the field to become a speech-language pathologist. However, degrees in areas such as psychology, linguistics, and language development can also be used as the foundation for becoming an SLP. In general, full-time students can complete an online speech therapy degree in four years, usually at their own pace within the program.
Admission Requirements
Online speech pathology bachelor's programs have certain prerequisites for admission. Applicants will need a high school diploma or GED and, in many cases, high scores from entrance exams, like the ACT or SAT. When submitting their online applications, prospective college students may be asked for high school transcripts, one or more letters of recommendation, a resume of jobs and extracurricular activities, and a personal statement or essay.
Some programs may require students to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA through their first two years of general education before being admitted to speech therapy study at the baccalaureate level. Additionally, because degrees in speech therapy are pre-professional and prepare students for further study, students may need to maintain a 3.0 GPA to graduate.
Speech-Language Pathology Courses
An online speech pathology undergraduate program covers topics in liberal arts and sciences, as well as those related to speech, language, and hearing. Programs typically require 120 course hours, about 30 of which typically focus on language development, speech and language disorders, anatomy, physiology, and diagnostic procedures. Most programs also require supervised clinical placements, where students observe professional speech pathologists conducting diagnostic and treatment sessions. For online students, these can usually be arranged at facilities nearby.
Introduction to Linguistics
The study of linguistics covers topics including what language is, how humans use language, how children learn languages, and more. Students learn about basic linguistic terminology, principles, and subfields, including phonetics, morphology, syntax, and semantics.
Introduction to Speech Sound Disorders
This course focuses on identifying, understanding, and treating speech sound disorders. Students learn about phonological processes, differential diagnosis, and language development while gaining exposure to the causes and characteristics of speech sound disorders, as well as methods for diagnosing and treating these disorders.
Communication and Language Disorders in Children
Faculty teaching this class expose students to topics surrounding language development and communication in children. Students learn about theories and legislation regarding language development and communication. They also begin to develop practical skills, including how to communicate with parents about possible language development delays, assess a child's language skills, and recommend appropriate intervention methods.
Language Development
In order to succeed as an SLP, students need to first gain an understanding of how language skills typically develop. This course is designed to help students understand how children learn to speak, major speech and language milestones, and theories of language development.
Multicultural Aspects of Communication Disorders
Cultural and language-specific factors can affect how communication disorders present. In this course, students develop a greater understanding of how a multicultural environment affects speech-language pathology. Students will also learn how foreign dialects, language differences, and cultural diversity can affect language learning.
What Can I Do With a Speech-Language PathologyDegree?
With a bachelor's degree in speech-language pathology, you can pursue a range of jobs. A common path is to become a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA). These workers support SLPs and gain potentially valuable exposure to the field while developing a professional network of contacts. The National Council of State Boards of Examiners details the state requirements for becoming an SLPA. You will need an advanced degree to become an SLP, speech-language researcher, or professor.
For more information on careers in the field, check out our Speech-Language Pathology Career Guide.
Further Education
In addition to online speech pathology programs at the associate and bachelor's levels, there are master's degrees and doctorates in speech-language pathology. You can also earn a certificate in speech-language pathology. However, those interested in becoming licensed speech-language pathologists will need at least a master's degree in the field.
Master's Degrees
Faculty design SLP master's degrees for one purpose: to train the next generation of SLPs. Master's degrees in speech-language pathology contain more advanced coursework in communication science, speech and hearing assessment, and providing therapy across cultural divides. You can also tailor your career based on the patient populations, disorders, or work settings that interest you.
SLP master's programs typically include 36 credits of coursework and take around two years of full-time study to complete. Each program also includes a lengthy clinical placement, during which you assist a working SLP at a speech-language treatment facility. You're required to complete a clinical assignment to graduate, and your documentation of these work hours will help you earn a license to practice. You may be eligible for scholarships or financial aid in the form of student loans.
Doctoral Degrees
Doctoral degree programs are less common and come in two varieties:
- Clinical doctorates prepare you for a role as an advanced practitioner by requiring more research on a focused specialization than a master's program. Such programs have no standardized title, though "Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology" is common.
- PhD programs are for students who want to become professors of speech-language pathology. If you go this route, you'll write a dissertation based on an original research project.
Most doctoral programs require a master's degree in speech-language pathology to apply. Faculty, therefore, assume your familiarity with the field and instead focus on advanced research methodology, cutting-edge issues in speech and language, and organizational leadership.
Careers in Speech-Language Pathology
A bachelor's in speech pathology qualifies you for entry-level roles and some non-SLP careers. Graduates with an online bachelor's degree in speech therapy can work as SLPAs, rehabilitation support staff, or caregivers. They can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and nursing homes.
Below are some jobs you can get with an undergraduate speech pathology degree:
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Annual Median Salary: $61,520
Job Growth Rate:25%
SLPAs are responsible for assisting SLPs in assessing and treating language disorders. SLPAs fall under the category of occupational therapy assistants and aids in the BLS, which is where the data points above are collected from. It should be noted that a 25% projected job growth is more than three times the U.S. average across all occupations.
Interpreter
Annual Median Salary: $49,110
Job Growth Rate:20%
Interpreters work to translate information from one language to another. They may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, courtrooms, and hospitals, translating for both individuals and groups. The job growth expected for this occupation is significantly higher than the national average.
English as a Second Language Teacher
Annual Median Salary: $59,720
Job Growth Rate:-6%
ESL teachers help children and adults learn English as a second language. They focus on reading, writing, and verbal communication in English skills. It may be important to consider that this role is expecting a decline in job growth over the next decade. Still, despite a decline of 6%, approximately 4,700 job openings are projected each year through 2030.
Licensure and Certifications
Speech-language pathology professionals must be certified or licensed, depending on their state's requirements. These usually involve earning an advanced degree, completing a specified number of clinical hours, and passing an exam. In California, for example, applicants need at least a master's degree in SLP from an accredited institution, 300 supervised clinical practicum hours, 36 additional weeks of full-time professional experience, and they need to pass a state board exam.
While a graduate degree and state licensure are required to work as a speech pathologist, specialized certifications can also benefit professionals with bachelor's degrees. Certification tells potential employers and clients that a practitioner has the professional training and experience to provide quality care. Some certifications also require practitioners to continue their education, ensuring they are up to date on best practices and scientific research in their field.
Below are two certifications you can get with an online bachelor's in speech pathology:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association C-SLPA certification
You can become a certified SLPA after getting an online bachelor's, associate degree, or certificate in a related speech therapy area from an accredited institution. Individuals may also apply if they have a minimum of a two-year degree with relevant coursework in communication disorders or language development. They must pay a one-time fee, submit their application materials, and pass the Assistants Certification Exam.
Those who don't meet the C-SLPA criteria can still become certified audiology assistants. Applicants must have either a bachelor's degree, high school diploma, GED, or a military job series certificate in audiology. Practical hour requirements for certification vary based on the applicant's educational qualifications.
Is a Bachelor's in Speech Pathology Worth It?
Most prospective college students wonder whether it's worth investing time and money into higher education. While you may be interested in speech-language pathology as a field, it's important to consider a variety of factors before enrolling in an online bachelor's program. You should carefully evaluate your personal commitments, financial circumstances, and career goals, as well as the prospect of pursuing an online degree.
Online programs typically allow students to learn at their own pace, so a distance learning format may be a suitable alternative to an in-person degree if you work or have family commitments. However, for students who value the opportunity to engage regularly with their peers, the online format may prove alienating.
You may also want to consider this list of additional pros and cons before deciding to enroll in an online bachelor's in speech pathology:
Potential Advantages
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Job prospects for SLPAs are expected to increase 4-7%This means that there is a good chance you'll find employment in this field after graduating.
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Speech pathologist salaries tend to be higher than the national average, with SLPs earning $79,060 per year.
Potential Drawbacks
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A bachelor's degree in speech-language pathology is insufficient if you hope to become a practicing speech-language pathologist. If your goal is to diagnose and treat communication disorders, you will need a master's degree, which will require an additional investment of time and money.
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Learning online may limit opportunities to network with faculty and potential employers.
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You may be required to obtain additional licensures and certifications in order to work as an SLPA.
How to Choose a Speech Pathology Program
When considering your educational options, some factors will matter more to you than others. It's up to you to weigh the various criteria, but we've included some questions here that may help you choose a program to fit your needs.
Are the school and program accredited?
Accreditation is a complicated subject, but several considerations should help narrow your range of choices for a speech-language pathology degree. ASHA has demonstrated a preference for this form of accreditation, and it's required for licensure in some states.
What's the cost of attendance?
Cost is hugely important to most enrollees. Tuition is the largest portion of expenses, but you also need to account for fees, books, and supplies. On-campus students also have to consider either room and board or commuting costs, although this is a major factor that distance learners can disregard.
How well do alumni succeed?
Accreditation is the first indicator of a college's quality, but it can help to know whether graduates of a particular program find jobs that pay relatively well. Many schools highlight their job placement rates, and you can often find them on the school's website. You can also consult student reviews, which may give some insight into how alumni have fared in the job market.
Would I prefer an online or in-person degree?
You might consider online if you want to attend a distant school but don't want to disrupt your life too much or if the flexibility of asynchronous learning appeals to you. On the other hand, campus learning might offer the traditional college experience that many students crave.
What else matters to me?
The possibilities are endless. You may qualify for a considerable discount because a close relative works at a college, or you may have heard good reports about a school's accommodations for disabilities. In general, it's a good idea to research the quality of each school's services, such as the financial aid office, library, and tutoring opportunities.
FAQs About Online Bachelor's Degrees in Speech-Language Pathology
What Is the Difference Between a Speech Therapist and a Speech Pathologist?
There's technically no such thing as a speech therapist or speech pathologist because the healthcare industry uses the term "speech-language pathologist." However, non-experts use both terms interchangeably, and they all refer to the same occupation.
What Education Is Required to Be a Speech Therapist?
You must have a master's degree in speech-language pathology before you can legally practice as an SLP. In addition, your graduate program must hold accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation, and you will probably need a state license or credential.
Is a BA or BS Better for Speech Pathology?
If you choose to major in speech pathology, you can either get an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) or an online Bachelor of Science (BS). Though both SLP programs teach students about communication sciences disorders and give them experience in clinical practice, there are different electives students can take in each. Despite the overlap in core coursework, a science-oriented BS may offer a slight advantage over a liberal arts-oriented BA if your goal is to pursue graduate studies in speech-language pathology.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Speech Pathologist?
It will probably take you at least eight years to become a speech pathologist. Administrators design bachelor's degrees to last four years and SLP master's programs to last three years with a full-time schedule. You then need to complete a supervised clinical fellowship for about nine months before taking the licensure exam and waiting for your results.
Bottom Line
For students looking to pursue meaningful careers helping people to develop language and communication skills, a major in speech pathology could be a good start. While students interested in becoming speech-language pathologists will need a master's degree in speech pathology and additional certifications, students can begin to prepare for their career with a bachelor's degree in this field.
FAQs
What is the best undergraduate degree for speech pathology? ›
An undergraduate degree in CSD is the most common pathway into audiology and speech-language pathology graduate programs. Although there are more than 270 CSD undergraduate programs in the United States, not all institutions have an undergraduate major in CSD, so be sure to check the institution's program offerings.
What are the easiest SLP grad schools to get into? ›- Eastern Kentucky University. ...
- Truman State University. ...
- Marywood University. ...
- University of Southern California. ...
- Abilene Christian University. ...
- University of Mary. ...
- Loyola University Maryland. ...
- George Washington University. Acceptance Rate:
More than half of SLPs work in educational settings3 such as Pre-K–12 public and private schools, colleges, and universities. SLPs who work in schools play an important role in helping children and families utilize special education services.
Is a BA or BS better for speech pathology? ›The B.S. and B.A. programs are identical at the core and will require roughly the same number of credits, usually with only a few credits in difference. The same foundational courses in speech-language pathology, biology, communication disorders and clinical practice courses are also needed.
Is a degree in speech pathology worth it? ›Yes, speech pathology is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates 25% job growth for speech-language pathologists over the next ten years, which is much faster than average job growth. This type of work also has nationwide demand.
What is the future of speech-language pathology? ›Employment of speech-language pathologists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 14,000 openings for speech-language pathologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
What type of speech pathologist makes the most money? ›Per the BLS, those who work in nursing and residential care facilities earn the highest average wages, while those working in educational facilities, such as schools, earn the lowest average wages: Nursing and residential care facilities: $95,010 per year. Hospitals: $87,110 per year. Private practice: $83,250 per year.
Is SLP grad school hard to get into? ›Speech-language pathology graduate programs tend to be highly competitive, typically admitting relatively few students in each cohort. With this in mind, it's a good idea to apply to multiple programs to improve your chances of being admitted to at least one.
What is a competitive GPA for SLP grad school? ›What GPA do you need to get into grad school for speech pathology? There are no requirements for a certain GPA. It varies from program to program, but a GPA of 3.0 or higher should be acceptable.
What percent of people get into SLP grad school? ›Most SLP grad school programs are pretty hard to get into. ASHA says that these programs have an average acceptance rate of 39%.
Is it hard to find a job as an SLP? ›
No, it is not hard to find speech pathologist jobs.
According to The Better Business Bureau, speech pathologists are in demand, and the need for trained speech pathologists is only expected to grow over the next decade.
- What is an SLP and How Do I Become One? ...
- Average SLP Salary. ...
- Negotiate Your SLP Pay. ...
- Job Hop Every 1-3 years if in Healthcare. ...
- Relocate to a Higher Demand Area that Pays Higher. ...
- Take Travel Speech Therapy Contracts. ...
- Open a Private Practice or Independently Contract.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), speech-language pathologists had a median annual salary of $80,480 in 2020 compared to occupational therapists, whose median salary was $86,280 at that same time. Salaries for the top 10% of earners in both fields are more than $122,000.
What is the burnout rate for speech pathologists? ›1. Workload. Workload was rated as a strong burnout trigger (a score of 7-10 on the rating scale) by 60.2% of SLPs. The average rating was 6.6.
Is speech pathology a happy career? ›It is truly a rewarding field. Working with patients through their journey and helping them achieve their goals is a huge benefit of being an SLP. It helps with job satisfaction and enjoyment in the field.
Is speech pathology a stressful job? ›Speech pathologists may also experience stressful working conditions, professional devaluation, occupational overload, poor management and other situations that can have a significant impact on psychological and emotional well-being.
Is speech pathology better than occupational therapy? ›So, if you are interested in helping people improve their ability to communicate, speech pathology careers may be of interest to you. If you are more interested in helping others develop the skills needed to complete physical tasks, occupational therapy may be the best fit.
What are the cons of being a speech pathologist? ›- Extensive schooling. One common con of becoming a speech therapist is the extensive education necessary for entering the field. ...
- Time-consuming. ...
- Paperwork. ...
- Licensing. ...
- High pressure. ...
- Conduct issues. ...
- Minimal coworker interactions.
What are the Drawbacks of Speech Therapy? There are concerns of a practical nature which must be considered. Speech therapy is time-consuming for both the parent and child. It's not enough to have a therapy session; the lessons from the session must be carried out throughout the week, at home and in the community.
How many hours do speech pathologists work a day? ›Medical speech-language pathologists typically work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and rehabilitation facilities. They typically work 40 hours per week during normal business hours.
Why is there a shortage of SLPs? ›
Yes, there is a shortage of speech-language pathologists.
This shortage is largely due to the limited number of openings in graduate programs and the increased need for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) as their scope of practice widens; the autism rate grows, and the population ages.
In hospitals, for instance, audiologists made $86,940, while speech pathologists actually win out slightly at an average of $87,110. You might also be interested in seeing what speech pathologist salaries by state look like, since there can be big geographic differences in pay.
Are SLPs in high demand? ›The demand for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) is rising, with projected job growth at 21% through 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do bilingual SLPs make more money? ›Do bilingual SLPs make more money? You can see that the honest answer to this question is no. Most licensed SLPs get paid approximately the same, regardless of their certifications and skills. However, some bilingual SLPs are easily finding ways to increase their income that fit into their current schedule.
What is the average SLP caseload in schools? ›90% of the SLPs employed full time or part time were clinical service providers. 78% of clinical service providers used a caseload approach to determine the number of students they served. Median (actual) caseload size was 48 students.
Do SLPs get white coats? ›It depends on the clients, and where they work. If someone works in a hospital or clinic with adult patients, they might well white coats, to help reflect their professional status.
Can you work while in SLP grad school? ›Typically programs will advise against it; however, students have done it. Some programs offer Graduate Assistantships that will pay you to work on campus. Some Graduate Assistantships also provide tuition-waivers or scholarships.
What is considered a good GRE score for speech pathology? ›Yes, 340 is considered a good GRE score for SLP school. A GRE score above 295 (verbal reasoning scores of 148 – 170, quantitative reasoning scores of 148 – 170, and analytical writing scores of 3.5) is considered a good GRE score for Speech-Language Pathology graduate program schools.
How do you stand out for SLP grad school? ›If you want to be an SLP, keep up your GPA (especially in those all-important CSD-related prerequisites), prepare thoroughly for the GRE, get to know professors who will write informative recommendations, and make sure your personal statement is cogent, well-written and error-free.
What score do you need to pass the SLP praxis? ›Speech-Language Pathology Certification
Note: The Praxis Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) test scores are reported on a 100–200 score scale in one-point increments. The test code for the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology test is 5331. The required score for ASHA and the state boards of examiners is 162.
How many graduate schools should I apply to SLP? ›
How many programs should students apply to? I don't think anyone can answer that question. CSDCAS data tells us that students interested in audiology apply to 3.89 programs on average, and those interested in speech-language pathology apply to an average of 4.32 programs.
What is passing percentage for SLP praxis? ›The SLP Praxis passing score is 162 on a 100-200 point scale.
How can school SLP make extra money? ›...
Great Additional Income Streams for SLPs
- Private Practice. ...
- Speech Therapy-Related. ...
- Real Estate Investing. ...
- MLM Programs. ...
- Stock Market.
...
1. California.
As a school SLP, your job is hard. But let me tell you, it's so rewarding. The volume of lives you have the opportunity to change is amazing. If you have a caseload average of 50 and you work for 20 years, that's 1,000 lives you impact.
Where is the best place to be an SLP? ›- Early Intervention, Preschool, K–12 Schools. ...
- Colleges and Universities. ...
- Hospitals. ...
- Residential Health Care Facilities. ...
- Nonresidential Health Care Facilities. ...
- Public Health Departments.
Martin noted that some medical offices will also allow a business casual approach, but sometimes SLPs wear scrubs if they are working on feeding therapy or anything that might get messy.
Do you have to interview for SLP grad school? ›As part of your admissions process to SLP graduate programs, you'll likely need to go through an interview process.
How do SLP negotiate salary? ›- Ask for more than you're aiming for. It's wise to ask for a bit higher than what you're aiming for. ...
- Don't give a range. ...
- Focus on your value. ...
- Justify your ask.
“Communication is just such a key part of everyday life.” The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 21.3% employment growth for speech-language pathologists between 2021 and 2031. In that period, an estimated 34,000 jobs should open up.
Do Slps or nurses make more money? ›
Advanced practice nurses tend to earn more than speech-language pathologists, as indicated by BLS data. For example, nurse practitioners overall averaged $56.75 per hour, with 50 percent of these professionals reporting salaries ranging between $99,540 and $129,350 per year.
What state pays speech pathologists the most? ›- #1 Complete an assessment. Do an assessment and see how they are progressing. ...
- #3 Consider a new SLP. Swap Therapists if this is possible. ...
- #6 Get inspiration from social media. ...
- #7 Learn and implement something new! ...
- #8 Ask a teacher. ...
- #9 Talk to parents. ...
- #10 Take a break.
I found it to be a degree with a lot of difficult content and therefore very time intensive. However, if you put in the effort and manage your time efficiently you will find it to be an enjoyably challenging degree. Will: Not too difficult.
What are the best minors for speech pathology majors? ›For those who wish to do so, popular minors for SLP include Disability Studies, Psychology, Human Development & Family Studies, and Spanish. Students can take more than one minor, but should not over-stretch themselves with minors.
Is speech pathology a prestigious career? ›Speech-language pathology continues to be ranked one of the best careers by US News and World Report. Every year, they cite that SLP is a great career to enter because of job availability and growth. Yes, there are many job openings across the US available for SLPs.
What degree do you need to be a speech pathologist in California? ›A speech pathology license in California requires the applicant to have a master's degree with completion of 60 credit hours. Supervised clinical practice and supervised professional experience are also required.
What are the disadvantages of being a speech pathologist? ›- Extensive schooling. One common con of becoming a speech therapist is the extensive education necessary for entering the field. ...
- Time-consuming. ...
- Paperwork. ...
- Licensing. ...
- High pressure. ...
- Conduct issues. ...
- Minimal coworker interactions.
High levels of emotional exhaustion were observed in 60% of speech pathologists, whose stress levels were second only to those of occupational therapists.
What ages do speech pathologists work with? ›Speech and language pathology is specialized therapy that helps children develop or improve their speech, language, memory and attention, feeding and swallowing. At CHOC, we provide therapy services for children from birth through 21 years of age.
Is speech pathology a growing field? ›
The demand for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) is rising, with projected job growth at 21% through 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How do I choose a Speech Pathology grad school? ›- Set Your Criteria. To begin, you need to know what is important to you. ...
- Rank Those Criteria. ...
- ASHA EdFind. ...
- Narrow it Down Through Research. ...
- Reach out and talk to people. ...
- Think about cost. ...
- Rank The Schools.
It is 100% possible to make $100K as an SLP. Long answer: Those opportunities are few and far between and something that you shouldn't count on when entering the field. However, if you are willing to step outside of the box, there are ways to make $100K or more in this field.
Who makes more money nurse or speech pathologist? ›Advanced practice nurses tend to earn more than speech-language pathologists, as indicated by BLS data. For example, nurse practitioners overall averaged $56.75 per hour, with 50 percent of these professionals reporting salaries ranging between $99,540 and $129,350 per year.