Best Speech Pathology Programs

Speech pathologists diagnose and treat communication disorders in people of all ages. In a bachelor’s in speech pathology program, degree-seekers study the causes and effects of these disorders and treatment methods. These programs also develop the foundation for graduate-level studies, research, and practice.

Graduates with this degree may pursue various healthcare degrees and careers, including a master’s in speech pathology and the profession in the field afterward. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 29% growth in this field, nearly four times the projected growth rate of 8% for all occupations. Speech pathologists also earned median annual wages more than $30,000 higher than the median annual wage of $45,760 for all occupations.

A bachelor’s in speech pathology typically features about 120 credits and four years of training. Online schools may provide more flexible study options, including fast-paced training. By better accommodating working professionals, online learning can also impact the true program cost, which accounts for any lost income.

Learn about the best bachelor’s in speech pathology programs and the postgraduate paths you can take by earning this degree.

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of programs to produce our annual Best Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified 157 schools that qualify for our ranking list based on the following criteria.

To ensure the accuracy and quality of our final ranked list, the ranking team reviewed each qualifying school to ensure it met the criteria for our ranking, and then applied our proprietary ranking methodology to identify the best schools offering this program in the nation. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring academic factors (60%) and affordability (40%).

The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.

A bachelor’s in speech pathology typically focuses on developing professional fundamentals in students. Learners study the science of speech acquisition, development, and disorders. They learn to identify communication issues and provide treatment.

In addition to the speech pathology major, undergraduate students must complete general education courses to satisfy the requirements of their bachelor’s degree. Depending on the school and program, students may choose between a BA or a BS. These programs usually differ in their electives, though BS programs may feature more clinical training.

Some programs offer concentrations, which alter the focus of the training in the later courses. Possible specializations may include audiology, language or linguistics, and neuroscience of communication.

Check Out The Student’s Guide to College Planning

Each school and program has its own admission requirements, but prospective students need a high school or GED diploma at a minimum for entry. They may also need to post minimum GPAs or scores on their college entrance exams.

Other requirements include letters of recommendation and college application essays, which provide insightful information about the applicant and can sway an admission decision. To choose the right college, prospective students should consider what application requirements are needed and how their submissions measure up.

Explore Our Undergraduate Application Guide

Graduates with a bachelor’s in speech pathology can use their science and human development knowledge to access healthcare assistant and aide careers. In their job hunt, they might also pursue administrative positions in healthcare settings, a sector that offers a growing number of opportunities.

For example, the BLS projects 18% growth for medical assistant occupations between 2020 and 2030, more than twice the projected growth rate of 8% for all occupations. The median annual salary for these professionals was $37,190 in May 2021.

The primary aim for most graduates is to continue their training in a master’s program, which may grant them access to speech-language pathologist roles. The BLS projects 29% growth in this field, and these workers made a median annual salary of over $79,000 in May 2021.

Learn More About Speech Pathology Careers

While professionals with a bachelor’s in speech pathology do not have access to postgraduate credentials in their field, it can still help to understand the differences between certificates, certifications, and licenses. Generally, schools offer certificate training programs to students, and governing organizations offer industry certifications to qualified professionals. Governments offer licenses to professionals who qualify for practice.

In the speech pathology field, professionals need a master’s degree and state licensure or registration to practice. Master’s graduates can also pursue a certificate of clinical competence.

Feature Image: FatCamera / E+ / Getty Images