Last Updated
April 16, 2025Written By
Cynthia Harris, M.S., CCC‑SLPMany excellent Speech-Language Pathology programs are available in Illinois. Some of the state’s schools, including Northwestern University, Illinois State University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, have good clinical practices and provide students with practical experience in different environments. For new graduates, Illinois has a healthy job market, particularly for Chicago’s vast medical facilities and public schools. On average, some professionals SLP salaries are between $70,000 and $85,000 and have the potential to earn more in specialization or management positions. Some of the state’s public universities, including Eastern Illinois University or Northern Illinois University, are relatively inexpensive, which is always a great thing for someone who wants to keep student loans to a minimum.
The clinical experiences in Illinois are also diverse due to the presence of urban environments in Chicago and other cities as well as rural areas in the southern and central parts of the state, allowing you to work with different patient populations. Most of the programs here will get you ready for the state’s licensing requirements like the Professional Educator License if you decide to practice in schools. If you are looking for a diverse clinical experience, reasonable tuition, and job prospects, then Illinois can be a great choice for speech pathologists.
Choosing the right SLP program in Illinois just got easier. Our rankings focus on what truly matters—outcomes, clinical training, and academic quality. speechpathology.org helps SLP students in Illinois compare the best schools. Find out how we rank them at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Evanston, IL - Private 4-year - northwestern.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwestern University's Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Learning is a campus-based program that welcomes students from both CSD and non-CSD backgrounds, offering flexible prerequisite options including online courses. This two-year program provides comprehensive clinical training across medical, school, and intervention settings, with 25 observation hours required. The ASHA-aligned curriculum emphasizes practical skills through hands-on experiences and instruction from Northwestern faculty. As a master's level program, it requires an entrance exam for admission. Military-friendly policies enhance accessibility for diverse student populations.
Online Learning - Visit Website
Northwestern University's online Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Learning accommodates diverse academic backgrounds with flexible prerequisite pathways and online course options. This two-year program includes 25 observation hours and clinical experiences across multiple settings, preparing graduates for speech pathology careers. The ASHA-aligned curriculum offers varied course completion methods and a flexible admissions process. As a master's level program, an entrance exam is required for admission. The military-friendly designation supports accessibility for service members pursuing advanced education in communication sciences.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwestern University's Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology is a hybrid part-time campus program designed for working clinicians seeking advanced expertise without relocation. The curriculum emphasizes leadership, policy, and evidence-based practice with customizable clinical specialization. This program prepares graduates for healthcare leadership roles through innovative coursework and mentored development within a vibrant academic community. As a doctorate level program, it requires an entrance exam for admission. The military-friendly approach makes advanced clinical education accessible to practicing professionals balancing career commitments.
Champaign, IL - Public 4-Year - illinois.edu
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Speech-Language Pathology concentration within the Speech & Hearing Science program offers undergraduates comprehensive training in communication sciences and disorders. This 128-credit hour curriculum blends theoretical coursework with practical experiences, covering neuroscience, communication processes, and clinical interventions. Students gain foundational skills through senior-level prepracticum experiences and multiple research opportunities, preparing them for graduate study and professional certification. The program focuses on helping individuals with communication challenges across different life stages. As a bachelor's level program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's Master of Arts in Speech & Hearing Science is a comprehensive program preparing students for clinical excellence in medical and educational settings. This 60-credit hour program offers extensive clinical practica and meets ASHA certification requirements. With flexible tracks including clinical and non-clinical options, students gain advanced skills in diverse communication disorders while emphasizing professional ethics. The program requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and starts in fall semesters, accommodating both terminal degree seekers and those pursuing doctoral studies. An entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
Concentration: Clinical - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing specifically on clinical practice, this Master of Arts in Speech and Hearing Science at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides 60 graduate hours of training in speech-language pathology, audiology, and communication sciences. Students complete clinical practicum experiences while learning evidence-based practices and culturally responsive care. The program meets ASHA and Illinois state certification requirements, covering speech sound production, fluency, voice disorders, and augmentative communication. With thesis and non-thesis options available, admissions require a bachelor's degree and minimum 3.0 GPA. An entrance exam is required for this master's level program.
Chicago, IL - Private 4-year - depaul.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
DePaul University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is a hybrid program that prepares students to diagnose and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders across all ages. It emphasizes clinical experience with 400 supervised hours and covers a broad spectrum of disorders. Graduates meet requirements for ASHA certification, Illinois State Licensure, and a Professional Educator License. The program focuses on critical thinking and prepares students for diverse settings like schools and hospitals. No entrance exam is required, as it is not mentioned in the provided data.
Concentration: Bilingual English-Spanish Specialization Certificate (BESSC) - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
DePaul University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a Bilingual English-Spanish Specialization Certificate (BESSC) is a hybrid program focusing on bilingual skills for serving diverse populations. It emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competence, and clinical training in underserved communities. Students gain comprehensive skills in communication and swallowing disorders, with opportunities in schools, hospitals, and clinics. The program is ASHA-recognized and mission-driven. No entrance exam is required, as it is not mentioned in the provided data.
Romeoville, IL - Private 4-year - lewisu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology provides comprehensive on-campus training aligned with ASHA certification standards. This rigorous program develops advanced clinical skills through coursework and practical experiences, preparing students to address diverse communication disorders across various patient populations. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, multiple prerequisites, interviews, and CSDCAS application, but no entrance exam is mentioned. The program emphasizes scientific knowledge and clinical expertise for healthcare careers, catering to ambitious professionals seeking meaningful impact in speech-language pathology.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Lewis University's innovative distance learning Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology launches in January 2026 as a flexible three-year online program. Featuring evening classes with synchronous and asynchronous formats, students complete two courses per eight-week session while collaborating nationwide. The curriculum includes comprehensive clinical experiences working with all age groups and prepares graduates for ASHA certification. With affordable tuition and faculty mentorship, this program admits 30-40 students per cohort through applications accepted July 2024-June 2025, with no entrance exam requirement mentioned.
Charleston, IL - Public 4-Year - eiu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's Communication Disorders and Sciences bachelor's program provides a 120-semester-hour pre-professional pathway, emphasizing clinical experience in the university's Speech Clinic and faculty-mentored research. The structured curriculum prepares students for competitive graduate programs with small group teaching, study abroad options, and comprehensive shadowing. As a bachelor's level program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission, focusing on foundational skills for aspiring speech-language pathologists and audiologists.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Illinois University's Master of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences offers a rigorous 39-semester-hour curriculum with extensive clinical training through mentored experiences, 14-week medical and educational internships, and case-based instruction. Students gain hands-on experience with 100+ clients under faculty supervision, leading to a 100% employment rate within three months and exceptional Praxis exam performance. This master's program requires an entrance exam, specifically the Praxis, for professional certification preparation.
Rock Island, IL - Private 4-year - augustana.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Augustana College's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is a rigorous 84-credit campus program requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA and 42 credits completed at the institution. Accredited and preparing students for ASHA certification, it integrates clinical experiences, research, and service learning to develop advanced skills in ethical leadership and compassionate care. With individualized faculty mentoring, graduates are equipped to address communication challenges effectively. As a master's level program, it may require an entrance exam unless otherwise specified.
Macomb, IL - Public 4-Year - wiu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Illinois University's Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology provides hands-on clinical training at its on-campus clinic, serving over 800 clients yearly. The program achieves a 100% Praxis II pass rate and near-immediate employment for graduates, supported by experienced faculty and available scholarships. Located in Macomb, IL, it offers a comprehensive curriculum blending theory and practice for aspiring speech pathologists. This bachelor's program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Illinois University's Master of Science in Speech Pathology is CAA-accredited and requires 39 semester hours plus clinical training. Students gain extensive experience at the on-campus clinic and diverse off-campus sites, preparing for ASHA certification and Illinois licensure. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and offers graduate assistantships, with a high exam success rate and strong job placement. Admission requires prerequisite coursework and dual applications to WIU Graduate Studies and CSDCAS, with a January 15 deadline. An entrance exam is required for this master's program.
Palos Heights, IL - Private 4-year - trnty.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Trinity Christian College offers a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, providing a comprehensive undergraduate foundation for addressing communication disorders in children and adults. Located near Chicago, the program emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care from a Christian perspective, preparing students for advanced degrees or roles in healthcare and education. As a bachelor's program, it requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam. Highlights include flexible career pathways and preparation for graduate studies, fostering skills for meaningful careers in speech therapy and clinical support.
Edwardsville, IL - Public 4-Year - siue.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville's Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology program provides a scientific foundation in communication disorders, covering speech and hearing science, assessment, and treatment methods. Students benefit from hands-on learning in state-of-the-art facilities and are encouraged to pursue minors in fields like psychology or health science for enhanced career readiness. The program fosters professional growth through active involvement in organizations such as NSSLHA and community engagement. As a bachelor's-level program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams, prioritizing practical experience and academic enrichment for graduate school preparation.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology delivers a rigorous, accredited curriculum preparing students for diverse clinical settings. The program emphasizes extensive hands-on experience through on-campus and external practicums in medical and educational environments. Notable outcomes include a 100% PRAXIS exam pass rate and strong employment prospects. Completion typically spans 5-6 semesters, supported by active student organizations and networking opportunities. This graduate program does not require an entrance exam, focusing instead on comprehensive clinical training and professional development.
Elmhurst, IL - Private 4-year - elmhurst.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Elmhurst University's M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a rigorous two-year campus program preparing students for speech-language pathology careers. With comprehensive training across schools, hospitals, and clinics, it emphasizes advanced clinical skills through simulation, interprofessional education, and hands-on opportunities. The $70,000 tuition program includes multicultural and multilingual emphases, ASHA certification preparation, and state licensure support, requiring no entrance exam.
Concentration: Multicultural/Multilingual Emphasis - Campus Based - Visit Website
Elmhurst University's M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a Multicultural/Multilingual Emphasis is a 21-month campus program focused on diverse speech-language pathology. It offers cohort-based learning, simulation center training, and clinical placements in varied settings. Accredited by ASHA, the $70,000 tuition program provides financial assistance and specialized training for certification and licensure, with no entrance exam required.
Illinois students who are comparing SLP bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees typically focus on admissions, program costs, and career options. The admission requirement for a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology, which is provided by schools such as Northern Illinois University and Eastern Illinois University, is a high school diploma and good academic performance. This undergraduate degree provides a preliminary study of speech science, audiology and communication disorders. Some may choose to work as speech-language pathology assistants, enter the healthcare support field, or advance to a master’s program.
Master of Speech-Language Pathology programs at Illinois State University, or the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, may set some prerequisites; a CSD bachelor’s degree, 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores are not uncommon. Graduate programs are more expensive than the undergraduate programs but lead to licensure as an SLP and a rewarding salary of between $70,000 and $85,000 in Illinois, working in schools, clinics, and hospitals. Many excellent Speech Pathology programs are available in Illinois. Some of the state’s schools, including Northwestern University, Illinois State University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, have good clinical practices and provide students with practical experience in different environments.
For new graduates, Illinois has a healthy job market, particularly for Chicago’s vast medical facilities and public schools. On average, professionals receive wages between $70,000 and $85,000 and have the potential to earn more in specialization or management positions. Some of the state’s public universities, including Eastern Illinois University or Northern Illinois University, are relatively inexpensive, which is always a great thing for someone who wants to keep student loans to a minimum. The clinical sites in Illinois are also diverse — from the urban centers of Chicago to the rural areas, which provide students with diverse, hands-on learning. If you can’t find a bachelor’s or master’s program that fits your schedule, there are some schools that offer bridging or leveling courses before entering a master’s track. In general, Illinois offers a wide range of opportunities for the future speech pathologists at both the bachelor and master’s levels.
In Illinois, there are two primary SLP doctorate programs for those who want to become speech-language pathologists: The research-focused PhD and the clinically oriented SLPD (or CScD). A PhD in speech pathology is for those who wish to do advanced research, develop academic programs, or teach at the university level. Northwestern University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign among other schools typically require applicants to hold a master’s degree in SLP or a related field, have a good academic record and research interests that fit well with the faculty’s interests. The SLPD, offered as a Doctor of Clinical Science by Rush University, is for clinicians who wish to enhance their leadership, clinical expertise, or management skills. Admission is typically based on a master’s degree in speech pathology, CCC-SLP certification, and appropriate work history.
Prices are different and private universities are more expensive than public universities and some PhD candidates receive support from grants or assistantships. Many PhD graduates end up in academic or research positions and have the potential to earn six-figure salaries after several years. Some SLPD graduates may earn more than master’s level clinicians, especially in hospital administration or other selective fields. If you cannot find an in-state SLPD that fits your schedule, try online or out-of-state programs that have similar clinical and leadership tracks.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is the state regulator of SLP licensure. To practice, you must hold a master’s degree from a Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology accredited program in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology or its equivalent, and log at least 400 clinical hours. Then, you have to take the Praxis speech pathology exam and finish a Clinical Fellowship (CF) of 36 weeks full time or its part time equivalent.
After that, you can apply for state licensure. To practice in schools, you also need a Professional Educator License with SLP endorsement from the Illinois State Board of Education. The license is good for two years and needs updating with continuing education (CE) hours to remain valid. Illinois has recently set 20 contact hours of CE for each renewal cycle, but it does not hurt to check on the present rules. ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) is not a requirement to practice in Illinois, but many employers consider it so. If you hold the CCC-SLP, you must also meet ASHA’s CE requirements for the certificate to remain valid.
Even in Illinois, the fastest SLP pathways involve strong academic and clinical training, so it is important to know what each degree entails. Four years of full-time study is the typical bachelor’s program in Communication Sciences and Disorders, offered by institutions like Illinois State University or Eastern Illinois University. That is the standard entry if you are new to the field. Depending on your existing background, you may need to do additional leveling courses to be able to enter a master’s course, which will extend the time.
Most accredited master’s programs in Illinois are two years if you have the prerequisites. There are some schools that have summer starts or accelerated learning that can condense the coursework into a shorter time, but you will still have to complete 400 hours of clinical experience that must be supervised before graduating. Such combined bachelor’s-to-master’s programs in speech pathology are not common in this state, but some institutions may have early admission options for high achieving undergraduates.
The time for doctoral programs is longer, with PhD tracks in speech-language pathology being four to six years after the master’s, and clinical doctorates (SLPD) being two to three years. Thus, each step is interconnected, and thus, the key to finishing as quickly as possible is to make sure that one has the right prerequisites, as well as a good academic schedule from the beginning.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| Northwestern University |
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| Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville |
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| Western Illinois University |
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For those looking to become speech-language pathologists, Illinois has many affordable degrees, especially if you are attending public universities. Many state schools such as Eastern Illinois University or Northern Illinois University have relatively cheap tuition fees for residents of the state which is usually between $8,000 to $13,000 excluding other charges like accommodation and other fees. Most in-state students at places like Illinois State University or Western Illinois University pay relatively little per credit hour and the total cost of the speech pathology program is often $30,000 or less. However, the private master’s programs can be much higher than that. It is therefore important to try to find out if there are any scholarships or graduate assistantships that are available to help lessen the burden of the charges, and thus when choosing a program, it is important to consider this. In the case of PhD, a number of Illinois universities have funded positions with stipends for a large number of research focused students, which will greatly reduce tuition fees. However, a clinical doctorate (SLPD) may offer fewer funding options, but it provides advanced practice expertise that can increase the returns. No matter what you decide to do, it is very important to compare not only the tuition costs, but also other fees, textbooks costs and the living expenses. Thus, there are several economical SLP degrees in Illinois if you know how to prepare for them.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Saint Xavier University |
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| Governors State University |
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| Elmhurst University |
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