Compare costs, outcomes, and ROI for every accredited SLP master's program in the state.
Arkansas has just five CAA-accredited speech pathology masters degree programs, spread across campuses in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Conway, Searcy, and Jonesboro. That small number sharpens every decision: the difference between the lowest in-state graduate tuition (around $7,300 at Arkansas State University) and the highest (over $14,500 at Harding University) adds up fast across five or six semesters of full-time coursework.
All five programs satisfy the academic requirements for CCC-SLP certification and Arkansas state licensure, but they differ meaningfully in cohort size, clinical placement networks, cost structure, and admissions expectations. With the BLS projecting 15 percent job growth for SLPs through 2034 and Arkansas's low cost of living stretching entry-level salaries further, the state remains a practical place to train and practice. The constraint worth watching is seat availability: small cohorts mean competitive admissions even at programs with higher overall acceptance rates.
Arkansas is home to five CAA-accredited speech-language pathology master's programs, each offering a distinct mix of clinical training, affordability, and campus culture. Below, we rank them based on institutional outcomes, tuition value, and program-level details so you can zero in on the best fit for your goals. Note that graduation rates shown are institution-wide figures, not specific to SLP programs, and program-level earnings data is not yet available for these schools, so we include institution-wide median earnings and debt as reference points for gauging overall return on investment.
Little Rock, AR
Best for: Clinically driven students seeking medical settings
UAMS stands apart as Arkansas's only academic medical center offering an SLP master's program, giving students clinical training embedded within a hospital system from day one. Ranked 104th nationally by U.S. News & World Report for speech-language pathology in 2026, the program admits a tight cohort of 24 students each fall and carries the lowest median graduate debt of any school on this list at $14,000. With institution-wide median earnings of $73,827 at ten years, UAMS graduates across all health disciplines show strong long-term earning power.
Fayetteville, AR · ~$18,000/yr (est.)
Best for: Research-oriented students at a flagship university
The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville pairs its CAA-accredited M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders with the resources of a large R1 research university. The program offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks across five semesters, giving students flexibility to align coursework with career or research interests. An institution-wide graduation rate of 70.5% is the highest among public universities on this list, and graduates meet all academic and clinical requirements for ASHA certification.
Conway, AR · $15,000 – $20,000/yr
Best for: Budget-conscious students wanting hands-on clinical training
The University of Central Arkansas delivers one of Arkansas's most affordable SLP master's programs, with in-state tuition of roughly $7,446 per year and a net price around $16,511. Its six-semester, 54-credit-hour curriculum requires 400 total clinical hours, split between the on-campus Speech-Language-Hearing Center and community partner sites. A 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio supports close mentorship, and applications are submitted through CSDCAS with a January 15 deadline.
Searcy, AR · ~$22,000/yr (est.)
Harding University is the only private institution in Arkansas offering a CAA-eligible SLP master's program, bringing a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an emphasis on ethical leadership and interprofessional collaboration. The five-semester campus program in Searcy covers pediatric through adult populations, and financial aid options including graduate assistantships and scholarships help offset the $14,572 tuition. The institution-wide graduation rate of 68.8% and 86% retention rate reflect strong student support.
Jonesboro, AR · $8,000 – $15,000/yr
Arkansas State University in Jonesboro offers the most affordable entry point for in-state students, with tuition around $7,322 per year and a net price of approximately $12,366. The Master of Communication Disorders requires at least 49 semester hours and emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural responsiveness, and clinical training across multiple disorder areas. A February 15 application deadline and GRE minimum of 285 composite keep the process straightforward.
Understanding the true cost of your SLP master's program goes beyond published tuition rates. The table below compares annual in-state tuition, out-of-state tuition, and the institution-wide average net price after financial aid for all four accredited programs in Arkansas. Arkansas State University offers the lowest in-state tuition at $7,322 per year, while the University of Arkansas has the widest gap between in-state and out-of-state rates, a difference of more than $18,400. Keep in mind that the net price figures shown are institution-wide averages that reflect aid across all programs and student types. They are not guaranteed quotes for your specific situation. We strongly recommend contacting each school's financial aid office directly for program-specific cost estimates, especially if you qualify for graduate assistantships, scholarships, or employer tuition benefits.
| School | In-State Tuition (Annual) | Out-of-State Tuition (Annual) | Average Net Price (After Aid) | School Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | $7,322 | $13,028 | $12,366 | Public |
| University of Central Arkansas | $7,446 | $12,985 | $16,511 | Public |
| University of Arkansas | $12,470 | $30,892 | $18,209 | Public |
| Harding University | $14,572 | $14,572 | $22,130 | Private |
Program-level earnings data (such as one-year and four-year post-graduation median earnings) are not yet available for Arkansas SLP master's programs. However, institution-wide median earnings at ten years after enrollment and median graduate debt provide a useful proxy for comparing long-term value. The chart below shows how each school's graduates fare on earnings versus borrowing, giving you a quick sense of return on investment.
Becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist in Arkansas follows a clear sequence of academic, clinical, and licensing milestones. The Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA) oversees the process, and each step builds on the one before it. Here is what the full pathway looks like.
Start with a bachelor's degree in speech pathology or a closely related field such as communication sciences and disorders (CSD). While Arkansas does not mandate a specific undergraduate major for admission to a master's program, completing a CSD bachelor's gives you the prerequisite coursework most graduate programs expect. Plan to maintain a competitive GPA, as master's programs in the state are selective.
ABESPA requires a master's or doctoral degree in communicative disorders from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA).3 Your graduate program will include supervised clinical practicum hours, typically totaling at least 400 hours of direct clinical contact (with a minimum of 25 observation hours). These hours are earned across a variety of settings and client populations.
You must pass the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology with a minimum score of 162.4 Many candidates take the exam during or shortly after their final semester of graduate coursework.
Arkansas requires a supervised clinical fellowship (CFY) lasting a minimum of 36 weeks of full-time experience.5 During the fellowship, you must accumulate at least 36 hours of direct supervision from a licensed, ASHA-certified SLP. Your supervising SLP will document your progress and submit verification to ABESPA upon completion. Note that ABESPA offers a provisional license with a 30-day grace period to help bridge the gap between graduation and the start of your fellowship.5
Once you have completed all requirements, submit your application to ABESPA. As of the most recent published fee schedule, the application fee is notably low at $5, though you should verify the current amount directly with the board, as fees may be updated.1 Licensure renews annually, and you are required to complete 10 continuing education hours per renewal cycle to maintain your license.2 For a broader look at how these requirements compare to other states, see the SLP license requirements by state guide.
If you are not ready to commit to a master's degree, Arkansas also licenses speech-language pathologist assistants. The requirements include a bachelor's degree in speech-language pathology or completion of an approved SLPA training program (which can be as short as an associate degree).1 You must also complete a minimum of 100 fieldwork hours under supervision. The SLPA application fee is also $5 as of the last published schedule.1 SLPAs in Arkansas work under the direct supervision of a licensed SLP and typically earn in the range of $45,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on setting and experience. Keep in mind that the SLPA scope of practice is more limited: SLPAs assist with therapy implementation but do not independently evaluate, diagnose, or develop treatment plans.
If you plan to work in an Arkansas public school, you will need an additional credential beyond your ABESPA license. The Arkansas Department of Education (DESE) requires an Ancillary License for SLPs working in school settings. This process involves a criminal background check and completion of required trainings through the Arkansas IDEAS Portal.4 The DESE license is separate from your clinical license, so be prepared to manage both sets of requirements if a school-based career is your goal.
Whether you are pursuing the full SLP licensure track or considering an SLPA role, Arkansas keeps its licensing fees and processes relatively straightforward. The most important thing is to stay in close contact with ABESPA throughout each step, as requirements and timelines can shift. For the most current fee schedules and application forms, check the ABESPA pages on the Arkansas Department of Health website.
From your first undergraduate course to a full Arkansas SLP license, the credentialing path follows a clear sequence. Each step builds on the last, so planning ahead can save you time and stress. For a deeper walkthrough, see the detailed licensure guide in the section above.
Getting into an SLP master's program in Arkansas starts with understanding what each school expects. While admissions requirements share some common threads, the details can vary from year to year, so verifying directly with each program is essential.
Both UAMS and UCA typically require a minimum undergraduate GPA for admission to their SLP master's programs, though the exact threshold can differ. Most programs look for a cumulative GPA of around 3.0 or higher, with some placing additional emphasis on your GPA in prerequisite coursework. Common SLP prerequisites include courses in anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, language development, audiology, and statistics. If your undergraduate degree is not in communication sciences and disorders, you may need to complete leveling or prerequisite courses before beginning graduate-level work.
Visit the official UAMS and UCA SLP program websites for the most current GPA minimums, prerequisite lists, and any changes for the upcoming admissions cycle. These pages are the most reliable sources and are typically updated well before application deadlines.
GRE policies in Arkansas have shifted in recent years. Some SLP programs across the country, including certain Arkansas programs, have moved to a GRE-optional model. However, these policies can change from one admissions cycle to the next. Before assuming the GRE is not required, review the current admissions page for each program you are considering or contact the department directly. Even when a program is GRE-optional, a strong score can sometimes strengthen your application, particularly if other parts of your profile are borderline. For a deeper look at competitive applications, our guide on how to get into SLP grad school covers strategies that apply across states.
Most accredited SLP master's programs use CSDCAS (the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service) as part of their admissions process. CSDCAS allows you to submit one application that is sent to multiple programs, but each school may have supplemental materials or specific instructions layered on top of the centralized application.
For a broader view of program requirements and any state-specific nuances, consult ASHA's EdFind tool, which aggregates key admissions details for accredited programs nationwide. The Arkansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association is another helpful resource for understanding local expectations and connecting with current students or faculty who can answer questions about the admissions process.
Admissions criteria can shift between cycles, so treat any published requirement as a starting point and always confirm details directly with the programs you plan to apply to.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for speech-language pathologists will grow by 15 percent from 2024 to 2034, roughly three times faster than the average for all occupations. That surge in demand is especially significant in rural states like Arkansas, where SLP shortages already make it difficult for schools and healthcare facilities to fill open positions.
Arkansas offers a competitive earning environment for speech-language pathologists, especially once you factor in the state's relatively low cost of living. Whether you are weighing program options or mapping out your post-graduation career, understanding the speech language pathologist salary landscape helps you plan with confidence.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the statewide median annual wage for speech-language pathologists in Arkansas was approximately $79,120 as of the most recent detailed percentile data available (May 2019).1 Here is how wages spread across experience and work-setting tiers:
More recent BLS data from May 2023 shows that the mean annual wage for SLPs in Arkansas has climbed to $84,060, with a mean hourly rate of $40.42.2 Total statewide employment stood at roughly 2,230 professionals, signaling steady demand across schools, hospitals, and private clinics.2
Salaries can vary considerably depending on where you practice in Arkansas. The two metro areas with published 2023 BLS data illustrate this clearly:
Wage data for the Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers and Fort Smith metro areas is not always published separately by BLS when sample sizes are small. If you are targeting northwest Arkansas or the River Valley region, it is worth checking with local employers directly, as demand in these growing areas can push compensation above statewide averages.
This is one of the most common questions prospective students ask. In Arkansas, the two fields pay very similarly. Based on available BLS data, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists earn mean annual wages within a few thousand dollars of each other statewide. The practical difference is minimal, and your earning trajectory in either field will depend more on setting (hospitals and skilled nursing facilities tend to pay higher than schools), years of experience, and whether you pursue specialty certifications. If you are choosing between the two, let your clinical interests guide you rather than a marginal pay gap. Earning your CCC-SLP, for example, can influence long-term compensation: learn more about the ccc-slp salary impact.
New graduates should expect to start closer to the 10th or 25th percentile range, which in Arkansas translates to roughly $50,000 to $62,000 per year. Program-level earnings data reported shortly after graduation typically reflect these entry-level figures and should not alarm you. Within a few years of clinical practice, most SLPs see meaningful wage growth. The statewide median of around $79,000 to $84,000 represents a mid-career benchmark, while experienced clinicians in high-demand settings can reach $99,000 to $121,000 at the upper percentiles.
This trajectory is important context when evaluating the return on your educational investment. Early post-graduation earnings are just the starting point, not the ceiling. Arkansas's combination of growing healthcare infrastructure, rising school-based demand, and a cost of living well below the national average means your salary stretches further here than comparable pay would in many other states.
The bottom line: Arkansas SLPs enjoy solid compensation with room to grow, and the state's 2,230-strong workforce suggests a healthy, active job market that continues to expand.
If you are hoping to earn your master's in speech-language pathology without relocating, it is important to understand your options clearly. All five ranked Arkansas SLP programs, including the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, the University of Arkansas, the University of Central Arkansas, Harding University, and Arkansas State University, are structured as campus-based programs. None currently offer a fully online or hybrid master's track in speech-language pathology. That means Arkansas residents who need distance-friendly coursework will likely need to look beyond state borders.
The good news is that the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA) does not restrict licensure to graduates of in-state programs. If you complete a CAA-accredited master's program, whether on campus or through a distance format at an out-of-state institution, you are eligible to apply for Arkansas licensure. Arkansas is a member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), which means students can enroll in online programs from SARA-participating schools in other states without running into state-authorization barriers.
Still, completing a distance program requires you to be proactive. Before enrolling, confirm that the program can arrange supervised clinical placements in Arkansas or that you have a plan for fulfilling practicum hours locally. Not every out-of-state online program maintains clinical partnerships in Arkansas, so ask the admissions team directly about placement support in your area. Students considering neighboring states may want to review speech pathology programs in alabama or slp programs in tennessee to compare nearby options.
As of 2025, Arkansas has enacted legislation to join the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC). This compact, once fully operational, will allow licensed SLPs to practice across member states, including via telepractice, without obtaining a separate license in each state. For Arkansas clinicians interested in providing teletherapy services to clients in other compact states, or for out-of-state SLPs hoping to serve Arkansas clients remotely, the ASLP-IC is a significant development. Keep an eye on the compact commission's website and ABESPA announcements for updates on implementation timelines and participating states.
Before committing to an online SLP program from another state, work through this checklist:
While the absence of in-state online options may feel limiting, Arkansas students have a growing number of well-regarded distance programs nationwide to choose from. The key is doing your homework on clinical placements and accreditation before you apply.
Choosing a speech pathology program and navigating licensure in Arkansas can raise a lot of questions. Below are answers to the most common ones we hear from prospective students, covering everything from admissions and salaries to online options and the SLPA pathway.
