Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Degree
What Is a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP)?
A Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS in SLP) is a graduate degree that prepares aspiring speech-language pathologists to work with children and adults with speech, language, cognitive and swallowing disorders. Our MS in Speech-Language Pathology emphasizes scientifically based practices, clinical curricula and critical thinking skills. You can develop the knowledge and skills needed to provide compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders.
Online: $760 per credit [More Info]
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 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.
What To Expect in an Online SLP Master’s Program
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program provides advanced knowledge and clinical training in the assessment and treatment of speech and language disorders. Our intuitive online learning platform provides convenient learning while keeping you engaged and connected with faculty and other students. Through hands-on clinical practicums, you can refine your assessment and intervention techniques while learning to apply relevant research and evidence-based practices.
What Is the Online SLP Master’s Program Experience Like?
Earn Your MS in SLP Through Online Coursework
This online MS in Speech-Language Pathology combines online coursework with required in-person learning experiences. All courses in the speech-language pathology degree are completed online, while students also attend on-campus experiences and complete three clinical practicums. The online learning platform allows students to engage with faculty and peers in a collaborative environment and provides access to online resources and specialized support services throughout the program.
Study Speech-Language Pathology at an Accredited University
GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Access Student Support Throughout Your SLP Master’s Program
As you progress through your SLP master’s program, you will have access to student resources to support your academic and clinical experiences. The College of Nursing and Health Care Professions provides student resources, support and educational opportunities, such as the Office of Field Experience. This office helps students in programs with required practicums navigate the clinical placement process, including understanding field experience expectations, completing practicum requirements and confirming that selected sites meet program standards.
What Will I Study in an SLP Master’s Program?
While completing your master’s in speech-language pathology program, you will build advanced knowledge and practical skills to help you understand, assess and address communication and swallowing disorders. Your coursework can help prepare you to apply evidence-based practices and pursue a career in the field.
What Course Topics Are Covered in an SLP Master’s Program?
In our Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program, you will study topics related to speech, language, communication and swallowing across the lifespan. Coursework covers clinical and research methods as well as speech-language pathology topics such as articulation and phonology, dysphagia, developmental language disorders, cognitive-communication disorders and augmentative and alternative communication.
Course topics include:
Clinical and research methods
Explore research methods and clinical concepts relevant to the study and practice of speech-language pathology.
Articulation and phonology
Study articulation and phonology as they relate to speech sound production and communication.
Developmental language disorders
Study developmental language disorders and their relationship to language and communication.
Cognitive-communication disorders
Explore disorders that affect cognitive processes involved in communication.
Aphasia and neurogenic disorders
Examine aphasia and other communication disorders associated with neurological conditions.
Augmentative and alternative communication
Explore augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and its role in supporting individuals with communication needs.
Does the Online SLP Master's Program Require On-Campus Experiences and Practicums?
Yes, our online MS in Speech-Language Pathology includes both on-campus experiences and practicums.
The Office of Field Experience and clinical education coordinator assist with securing practicum placements, including opportunities with participating schools, hospitals and clinics across the country. GCU can also work to establish an agreement with a new clinical site when appropriate.
In-person aspects of the MS in SLP include:
This program includes three required three-day, on-campus experiences in Phoenix, with one held during each of the first three semesters.
You will complete three clinical practicums under the supervision of a licensed clinician. The first is a part-time, community-based practicum, while the final two provide full-time clinical experiences.
What Can You Do With an MS in Speech-Language Pathology?
An MS in Speech-Language Pathology can prepare you to pursue a career as a speech-language pathologist, working with individuals who have speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders. Depending on your qualifications and career goals, you may work in settings such as education, offices of other healthcare professionals, hospitals, nursing and residential care.(See disclaimer 1)
Many aspiring speech-language pathologists pursue the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP).(See disclaimer 2) Certification and licensure requirements vary, so you should review the requirements for the state in which you intend to practice.
Potential MS SLP career paths include:
Speech-language pathologist
Assess and provide intervention for individuals with speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders. Speech-language pathologists may work with children and adults across healthcare, educational and other professional settings.
Postsecondary health specialties teacher
Teach health-related subjects at the postsecondary level. Education, certification and employment requirements for postsecondary teaching positions vary by institution and role.
Median annual salary of speech-language pathologists as of May 2025(See disclaimer 3)
Projected job growth for speech-language pathologists from 2025 to 2035(See disclaimer 4)
SLP Master's Online Tuition and Financial Options
The cost of an online SLP master’s program can depend on factors such as tuition rates, required credits and applicable fees. When planning for your Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, review our current tuition information and explore available financial options to better understand the potential cost of your graduate education.
Ways To Save
Your education is an important financial investment, and there are several ways to help manage costs while earning your degree. GCU’s university counselors are available to help you explore available options and provide personalized guidance on your estimated cost of attendance.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine eligibility for federal grants and student loans. Since some aid is awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis, GCU recommends submitting the FAFSA as early as possible after Oct. 1 to maximize funding opportunities.
If you’ve earned college credits from another institution, you may be able to complete your degree sooner at GCU by transferring those credits. Submit the Lopes Unofficial Credit Evaluation form, then connect with a university counselor who can provide you with personalized guidance.
You may be able to reduce your college costs by applying for GCU’s on-campus or online student scholarships. We invite you to explore available institutional scholarships and determine which opportunities you may be eligible for. GCU also encourages students to seek out third‑party scholarships and grants.
Explore Your Financial Options
Connect with a university counselor to learn more about tuition, cost-planning resources and available options.
Online SLP Master’s Degree FAQs
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.
How do I become an SLP?
Is a master's in SLP worth it?
Where can speech-language pathologists work?
What’s the difference between speech-language pathology and occupational therapy?
What skills can you strengthen in an SLP master’s program?
Do online SLP master’s programs require clinical practicums?
What Are the Admission Requirements for GCU's SLP Master’s Program?
Master’s applicants may qualify for admission to GCU with an undergraduate degree from an approved, accredited college or program and by meeting either the minimum GPA requirement or minimum GMAT or GRE exam score requirements. Admission criteria may vary by degree or program. Please review the requirements for your chosen program.
You can apply to a degree program at GCU in just three simple steps. Your university counselor is standing by to assist you with any questions about the application process.
It starts with selecting the program that aligns with your goals from one of GCU's 380+ academic programs — from undergraduate degrees to post-master’s certificate programs to doctoral degrees.
Pick your program
Explore our on-campus, online or evening cohort options under the Degree Programs page to find the right program for you.
Complete our online application
Your university counselor will direct you to the online application. Fill in all required information and submit the form.
Submit supporting documents
Submit your official transcripts and any relevant test scores, and confirm with your university counselor that all forms for your desired program are submitted.
Program Curriculum
Core Courses
Read More About SLP and Related Careers
Explore related career and education resources to learn more about communication-focused fields, linguistics, autism and careers that can make a difference.
Build your knowledge and clinical skills through online coursework, hands-on clinical practicums and required on-campus experiences. Take the next step toward your career goals with GCU’s MS in Speech-Language Pathology.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2026, Aug. 27). Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved September 2026.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2026, Aug. 27). How To Become a Speech-Language Pathologist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved September 2026.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Speech-Language Pathologists, as of May 2025, retrieved September 2026. 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.
- Data shown is effective August 2026, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Speech-Language Pathologists, retrieved September 2026.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2026, Aug. 27). Speech-Language Pathologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved September 2026.
Approved and verified accurate by the Speech-Language Pathology Program Lead of the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions on Sept. 30, 2026.