MS in Speech-Language Pathology Degree

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Degree Level

Master's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Healthcare

Program

MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Current Education Level

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Empower Communication and Help Transform Lives

Grand Canyon University offers the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) for those who are passionate about helping various populations tackle a multitude of speech-language cognitive and swallowing disorders in children and adults. This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders. Through the teaching of scientifically based practices, clinical curricula and critical thinking skills, students will work to become well-rounded speech-language pathology professionals.

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Offered By

College of Nursing and Health Care Professions

Class Settings

Online

Tuition Rate

Online: $750 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 60

Online: 16 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission.

Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.

Why GCU

Enhance Your Expertise in Speech Therapy at GCU

Our MS SLP program provides in-depth knowledge and advanced clinical skills that can equip you with relevant research and evidence-based practices. Through hands-on experiences and clinical practicums, you can refine your assessment and intervention techniques as you address a wide range of speech and language disorders.

Earn Your Speech-Language Pathology Degree Online

Pursuing your speech-language pathology degree online at GCU can offer a flexible and accessible pathway toward achieving your professional goals. With a focus on interactive learning, the online platform at GCU facilitates engagement with faculty and peers, fostering a collaborative environment. Furthermore, GCU's array of online resources and specialized support services are designed to facilitate a smooth academic journey, aiming to equip you for a career path in speech-language pathology. While all courses are completed online, you will need to attend on-campus experiences and three clinical practicums.

On-Campus Experiences and Practicums

In addition to the online coursework, each of the first three semesters will include a three-day, on-campus experience that can help you develop the confidence and professionalism for your off-campus clinical placements. These experiences will involve simulations, collaboration and hands-on practice with equipment and materials. They are designed to teach you about various delays and disorders in the pediatric, infant, adult and geriatric populations. Please note that all students in the master’s program are required to travel to Phoenix to be on campus for these three in-person intensive experiences.

Master’s degree in speech-language pathology students will also complete three practicum experiences to help develop competence across the lifespan. Through these practicums, you can earn the clinical clock hours required for certification as a speech-language pathologist.

Your first practicum will be a part-time experience in a community setting, where you will apply clinical knowledge and concepts learned in your courses under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Your final two practicum experiences will allow you to apply what you’ve learned to clinical practice as you work to increase your competence in assessment, intervention, critical thinking, communication and decision-making. These placements will allow you to experience full-time practice as an SLP as you work with other professional team members, patients and families while using evidence-based practices.

GCU’s Office of Field Experience and clinical education coordinator will assist you in securing placements that are convenient to your location, selecting from the hundreds of schools, hospitals and clinics across the country that have agreed to provide clinical education to our students. If you are interested in a site we do not already partner with, we can help you establish a new agreement.

Coursework

Speech-Language Pathology Course Topics

While completing your master’s in speech-language pathology program, you will be taught a variety of course topics that can help prepare you to pursue a career in this field.

Course topics include:

Clinical and research methods
Articulation and phonology
Dysphagia across the lifespan
Developmental language disorders
Cognitive-communication disorders
Aphasia and neurogenic disorders
Motor speech disorders
Augmentative and alternative communication
Ethics, professional issues, cultural considerations
Autism/neurodiversity

Careers

Career Paths for Graduates With an MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Graduates of an MS in Speech-Language Pathology will have the opportunity to become equipped with a robust foundation of theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience. They can prepare to become competent in different roles across various settings. Whether you aspire to work in education, healthcare, private practice or research, the comprehensive curriculum and practical training provided by GCU can provide you with the education you need. Speech-language pathologists provide crucial therapeutic interventions for individuals with speech, language, cognitive and swallowing challenges.

With this comprehensive, in-depth program, you can pursue a career as a speech-language pathologist working with individuals with communication disorders. It is relevant to acknowledge that many aspiring SLPs choose to obtain ASHA certification in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) to work as certified speech-language pathologists.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Depending on where you are seeking employment, state licensure or certification requirements may vary.

$89,290

Median annual salary of speech-language pathologists according to U.S. Bureau of Statistics^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Accreditation

Pursue Your Master’s From an Accredited University

GCU is an institutionally accredited university that offers quality programs that meet high academic standards established by the Higher Learning Commission. Since 1968, GCU has been accredited by the HLC, graduating knowledgeable students who have been taught materials designed to support its mission. To learn more, visit our accreditation page.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re considering pursuing a graduate speech-language pathology degree, our frequently asked questions can provide you with more insight into this field and earning your SLP degree.

What does MS SLP stand for?

Is speech-language pathology a good career?

Due to the transformative nature of SLP work, many of these professionals are able to witness and be a part of life-changing work with their patients, which you may find to be rewarding.

This is also an occupation that is experiencing much faster than average growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for speech-language pathologists to increase by about 18% from 2023 to 2033, accounting for an estimated increase of 33,300 jobs in the field.^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Is speech-language pathology hard?

While the field of speech-language pathology requires dedication and a strong academic foundation, it is important to recognize that the challenges it presents are integral to the potentially rewarding nature of the profession. The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at our university is designed to provide a comprehensive and supportive learning environment. You can engage in a blend of theoretical coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, helping you develop a well-rounded skill set. The complexity of communication disorders requires critical thinking and adaptability, but our faculty is committed to providing guidance and mentorship. With a robust curriculum and practical education opportunities, our program can prepare you to address practical challenges in the field. While the journey may have its moments of intensity, the ultimate goal is to equip you with the expertise and confidence needed to make a significant impact in the lives of those with communication disorders.

How much do speech-language pathologists make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, speech-language pathologists had a median annual salary of $89,290 in May 2023.^{(See disclaimer 2 )}Salary for this occupation may also vary depending on the industry in which you work. The BLS collected data from four different industries and their respective salaries for speech-language pathologists, listing those who work in nursing and residential care facilities as earning the highest salaries.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

How do you become a speech-language pathologist?

The first step to becoming a speech-language pathologist is to earn an undergraduate degree in a related field, such as communication sciences or a similar major. You will then need to complete a graduate degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited institution. Your master’s program will include hands-on clinical and practicum experience along with your coursework where you will work to gain essential skills and knowledge you need to obtain licensure. After you complete your master’s, you will need to pass an examination to obtain state licensure so you can begin work as a licensed speech-language pathologist.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

Major60 credits

Degree Requirements60 credits

Core Courses

SLP-500

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces learners to the clinical process, including cyclical elements of identification, assessment, and intervention applied to disabilities, delays, and disorders across the life span. Legislative, advocacy, ethics, and reimbursement issues that affect the practice of speech-language pathology are discussed. The course examines the use of research to support evidence-based practices and introduce consumer skills. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS SLP graduate program.

SLP-510

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course includes an advanced study of the nature, assessment, and treatment of speech disorders in children. Topics include normal aspects of articulation and phonological development, the causes of speech-sound disorders, and phonological assessment practices and intervention strategies that are developmentally appropriate for children. This course includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS SLP graduate program. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS SLP graduate program.

SLP-520

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, learners explore normal and disordered swallowing in adults and children. The course provides learners with the foundational understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of all stages of swallowing. Learners acquire knowledge in assessment and intervention methods across the life span. This course includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS SLP graduate program.

SLP-530

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, learners explore the variety of delays and disorders seen in the school-age population, including an understanding of language, learning, and literacy. Theoretical perspectives and evidence-based approaches to assessment and intervention are examined. This course includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. This course includes a required 3-day, on-campus experience. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS SLP graduate program. Co-Requisite: SLP-530CE.

SLP-530CE

0 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, learners participate in simulations and hands-on experiences related to the variety of delays and disorders seen in the pediatric population. Theoretical perspectives and hands-on experiences related to evidence-based practice approaches to assessment and intervention are conducted in a safe environment. This course highlights professionalism and service delivery in preparation for practicum placement. The on-campus experience includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. Prerequisite: Admission to the MS-SLP graduate program. Co-Requisite: SLP-530.

SLP-540

4 Total Credits

SLP-550

4 Total Credits

SLP-560

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on the etiology and neuropathology of dysarthria and apraxia of speech in adults and children with corresponding diagnostic and management options. Learners also explore the characteristics, evaluation, and treatment of children with cleft lip, cleft palate, and other craniofacial disorders, highlighting the interdependence of speech, language, hearing, and swallowing. Prerequisites: SLP-530 and SLP-530CE.

SLP-570

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on the nature, assessment, and treatment of language disorders in infants and children from birth through 5 years of age. Learners explore evaluation techniques and treatment strategies for improving the receptive and expressive language abilities for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children. Learners examine family-focused service delivery models within interdisciplinary treatment. Learners build affective counseling skills as fundamental to relationship-based therapy. This course includes a required 3-day, on-campus experience. Prerequisites: SLP-530 and SLP-530CE. Co-Requisite: SLP-570CE.

SLP-570CE

0 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, learners participate in simulations and hands-on experiences related to the variety of delays and disorders seen in the infant population. Theoretical perspectives and hands-on experiences related to evidence-based practice approaches to assessment and intervention are conducted in a safe environment. This course highlights professionalism and service delivery in preparation for practicum placement. The on-campus experience includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. Prerequisites: SLP-530 and SLP-530CE. Co-Requisite: SLP-570.

SLP-600

3 Total Credits

SLP-610

5 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, learners explore advanced theory and techniques for the diagnosis and remediation of voice and resonance disorders across the life span. Learners examine advanced theories and techniques of diagnosis and treatment of fluency and stuttering across the life span. This course includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. Learners develop skills in clinical assessment and intervention and critical thinking and decision-making. Learners acquire skills in determining goals and objectives, planning for clinical sessions, and utilizing evidence-based practice. In addition, learners develop communication skills with interprofessional team members, patients, and families along with providing counseling and managing behavior with consideration for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of care. This course includes the first clinical practicum experience. Practicum/field experience hours: 65. Prerequisites: SLP-570 and 570CE. Co-Requisite: SLP-610CE.

SLP-610CE

0 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, learners participate in simulations and hands-on experiences related to the variety of delays and disorders seen in the adult and geriatric populations. Theoretical perspectives and hands-on experiences related to evidence-based practice approaches to assessment and intervention are conducted in a safe environment. This course highlights professionalism and service delivery in preparation for practicum placement. The on-campus experience includes integration of multicultural and multilingual aspects of evaluation, intervention, and counseling. Prerequisites: SLP-570 and SLP-570CE. Co-Requisite: SLP-610.

SLP-620

3 Total Credits

SLP-630

3 Total Credits

SLP-650

7 Total Credits

Course Description

The purpose of the second clinical practicum is to provide learners with the opportunity to synthesize and apply knowledge and skills from academic coursework into their clinical practice. Learners develop skills in clinical assessment and intervention and critical thinking and decision-making. Learners acquire skills in determining goals and objectives, planning for clinical sessions, and utilizing evidence-based practice. In addition, learners develop communication skills with interprofessional team members, patients, and families along with providing counseling and managing behavior with consideration for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of care. Practicum/field experience hours: 140. Prerequisites: SLP-610 and SLP-610CE.

SLP-660

7 Total Credits

Course Description

The purpose of this third and final clinical practicum is to provide learners with the opportunity to synthesize and apply knowledge and skills from cumulative academic coursework into their clinical practice. Learners develop skills in clinical assessment and intervention and critical thinking and decision-making. Learners acquire skills in determining goals and objectives, planning for clinical sessions, and utilizing evidence-based practice. In addition, learners develop communication skills with interprofessional team members, patients, and families along with providing counseling and managing behavior with consideration for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of care. Practicum/field experience hours: 140. Prerequisite: SLP-650.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Inspire Communication and Connection

If you’re passionate about helping various populations overcome communication difficulties, a master’s in speech-language pathology may be an ideal choice for your career goals. Fill out the form on this page to learn more and get started at GCU.

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U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023, Sept. 6). How To Become a Speech-Language Pathologist Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Nov. 27, 2023.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Speech-Language Pathologists, as of May 2023, retrieved March 5, 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as speech-language pathologists, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Speech-Language Pathologists, retrieved March 5, 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Speech-Language Pathologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Nov. 13, 2023.