Last Updated
April 14, 2025Written By
Elizabeth Monroe M.S., CCC‑SLPFinding the best Speech Pathology programs in Alabama can be a difficult task, but we are here to help you find the program that is best for you. The state provides excellent options that include both undergraduate and graduate degrees which feature strong clinical training, affordable tuition and high licensure pass rates. The University of Alabama, Auburn University, and the University of South Alabama are all top tier programs that include hands on learning. Some smaller schools with great instruction include Montevallo, Alabama A&M and Samford University. The affordable tuition rates make Alabama an attractive destination for Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) studies.
The cost of living and in-state tuition are both more favorable in Alabama compared to many other states with the cost of living 12% lower than the national average. This situation leads to both reduced debt and greater financial freedom among students. The SLP programs in Alabama produce near-perfect Praxis pass rates so that their graduates are ready for licensure and their careers.
Speechpathology.org brings you the top SLP programs in Alabama based on what students care about most: strong academics, real-world experience, and reputation. Discover leading speech-language pathology programs in Alabama and learn how we choose them at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.
Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is a six-semester campus program that prepares students for ASHA clinical certification. With a 100% Praxis exam pass rate, the program emphasizes extensive clinical training through on-campus and affiliated sites. Students develop expertise in evaluating and treating various communication disorders, including language, articulation, fluency, voice, swallowing, and neurological conditions. The program requires an entrance exam (Praxis) for certification and offers competitive graduate assistantships. Applications are due December 15 with a $75 fee, and the CAA-accredited curriculum ensures readiness for careers in diverse settings like schools, hospitals, and clinics.
Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a Speech-Language Pathology concentration is Alabama's only such program, offering a research-intensive, residential pathway. Students engage in advanced research labs and interprofessional collaboration, with mentorship for academic and clinical leadership roles. The program requires an entrance exam (GRE) and typically takes 3-6 years to complete, supported by competitive funding. Focused on original research, it prepares graduates for scholarly careers through rigorous training in experimental design and statistical analysis, emphasizing individualized guidance in a campus-based environment.
Concentration: Audiology - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders with an Audiology concentration provides specialized research training in a four-year, residential program. As Alabama's sole PhD CSD offering, it features interprofessional research opportunities and advanced laboratories under expert faculty mentorship. The program requires an entrance exam (GRE) and offers competitive funding, with a dual AuD/PhD track option. Students gain skills in scientific writing and methodologies, preparing for leadership in academia, research, and clinical audiology, all within a military-friendly campus setting in Mobile.
Concentration: Communication Sciences and Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama's PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders allows specialization in speech-language pathology, audiology, or communication sciences, blending academic and research training. This residential program requires an entrance exam (GRE), a graduate degree, a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and letters of recommendation. Full-time students can complete it in about four years with competitive funding. Emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and individualized mentorship, it cultivates scholars for research and teaching careers through advanced pedagogy and original scholarship activities in a campus environment.
Montevallo, AL - Public 4-Year - montevallo.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Montevallo's Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is an on-campus undergraduate program that builds strong writing, communication, and critical thinking skills for careers or graduate studies. Students gain hands-on experience in the on-site Speech and Language Clinic, observing therapy and diagnostics, with a classroom-to-clinic approach. Admission to the junior class is competitive, and as speech-language pathology is a top-ranked field, this degree opens doors to growing healthcare opportunities. This program requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Montevallo's Master's in Speech-Language Pathology is a two-year campus program with a small cohort of 25 students, ensuring personalized faculty mentorship. It combines rigorous academic coursework with extensive clinical training through an on-site Speech and Language Clinic and off-campus practicums in adult and pediatric settings. Accredited by ASHA, the program offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, focusing on critical thinking and professional competencies for careers in clinics, hospitals, schools, and nursing facilities. This program requires an entrance exam for admission.
Birmingham, AL - Private 4-year - samford.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Samford University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology features an innovative five-year combined BS/MS fast-track program that allows exceptional students to complete both degrees efficiently. Admission requires a 3.8 GPA and a 29+ ACT Superscore, with a priority deadline of December 1st. The program emphasizes a low student-to-teacher ratio, mentorship from experienced faculty, and interprofessional healthcare learning. Students begin graduate coursework in the summer after their junior year, engaging in a rigorous, updated curriculum and service learning opportunities to prepare for careers in communication sciences. No graduate entrance exam is mentioned as required.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Samford University offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with both traditional and fast-track options, blending faith-based academic coursework with clinical placements. The five-year fast-track pathway enables students to start graduate coursework after their junior year, focusing on developing compassionate professionals for communication healthcare. The program includes mentorship from peers and faculty, a career-focused curriculum, and opportunities to address diverse communication challenges. No graduate entrance exam is specified as required, providing flexibility for career advancement in speech pathology.
Montgomery, AL - Private 4-year - faulkner.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Faulkner University's Master of Arts and Sciences in Speech Language Pathology (MSLP) is a fully accredited program that prepares students for national certification and state licensure through 66 credits and 400+ supervised clinical hours. Offered in on-ground and online formats with a competitive $750 per credit tuition, it integrates a Christian worldview to foster compassionate clinicians serving diverse populations. The program requires an entrance exam, such as the GRE, for admission. Graduates are equipped to address communication and swallowing disorders across various age groups, with flexible learning options supporting completion in five semesters full-time.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Faulkner University's Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology provides rigorous training for aspiring speech-language pathologists, accredited by ASHA and emphasizing evidence-based practice. Students complete 66 credit hours and gain over 400 supervised clinical hours in pediatric to geriatric settings, with on-ground and online options available. At $750 per credit, the program incorporates a Christian worldview and requires an entrance exam like the GRE for admission. It boasts high completion and Praxis exam pass rates, preparing graduates for certification and licensure to make meaningful impacts in patient care.
Tuscaloosa, AL - Public 4-Year - ua.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Alabama's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is an ASHA-accredited program that prepares students for state licensure through comprehensive academic training and diverse clinical experiences. Students develop advanced skills in speech, language, and hearing assessment while gaining insights into communication disorders across all age groups. The program emphasizes multicultural communication and offers robust research opportunities alongside practical training at both on-campus and off-campus clinical facilities. An entrance exam is required for admission to this master's level program.
Normal, AL - Public 4-Year - aamu.edu
Campus Based - Visit Website
Alabama A&M University's Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders offers a pathway for students interested in speech-language pathology, covering disorders from phonological issues to swallowing difficulties. The program blends academic coursework with clinical training in the on-campus AAMU Speech and Hearing Clinic and externships, typically lasting two to three years. As a bachelor's program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams for admission and prepares students for advanced studies or careers in various settings, supported by ASHA-certified supervision.
Campus Based - Visit Website
Alabama A&M University's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences & Disorders is an ASHA-accredited program that prepares students for diverse clinical settings through comprehensive academic and clinical training. Spanning two to three years, students complete at least 400 clinical hours in campus clinics and external placements, gaining hands-on experience with communication disorders across all age groups. This master's program requires an entrance exam for admission, equipping graduates with essential skills in assessment, treatment, and management.
Montgomery, AL - Public 4-Year - aum.edu
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University at Montgomery offers a hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that blends online coursework with in-person clinical components. This program requires a GRE score of 290 for admission and includes 400 clinical contact hours across diverse settings. With CAA Candidate Accreditation, it prepares graduates for licensure and certification, emphasizing evidence-based practice. The curriculum covers assessment and treatment of communication disorders, supported by a two-week on-site orientation and leveling courses for foundational knowledge. No specific concentration is highlighted, focusing on comprehensive speech-language pathology training.
It is useful to understand the differences in career objectives and educational pathways when comparing a Bachelor or Master of Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) degree in Alabama. An SLP bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders or Speech and Hearing Sciences is a great starting point. It provides the basic knowledge of how speech and language develop as well as an overview of different disorders. You can work as a speech-language pathology assistant or in other related positions with a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s is required to become a licensed speech pathologist. The admission requirements to a bachelor’s program in Alabama include: high school diploma or equivalent, good science and language course grades, and possibly ACT scores.
A master’s degree in SLP is required for the licensed speech-language pathologist. Master’s programs, for example, at the University of Alabama or Auburn University, require a prior bachelor’s degree, a good cumulative GPA (3.0 or higher), reference letters, and a personal statement. Many of them require the applicants to have volunteer or observation hours in clinical settings. Some of the state universities in Alabama offer highly regarded master’s programs with practical clinical training and very strong licensure exam passing rates. The state’s affordable tuition compared to many other states makes it a good choice for those seeking advanced speech pathology education.
Those looking to further their education even more can get a Doctorate in Speech Pathology. In Alabama, there are 2 doctoral programs: Ph.D. and SLPD (Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology). The Ph.D. is research-oriented and appropriate for those planning academic, research or policy careers. This degree is intended to enable you to perform innovative research studies, to teach at university level or to lead studies that will determine the future of speech pathology. Most institutions, including the University of South Alabama require the following admission requirements: an accredited SLP Master’s degree or a related degree, strong GPA (3.5 or higher), letters of recommendation, research statement of purpose. The typical career paths for graduates of this program include university teaching speech research labs and health and education leadership positions.
The SLPD is clinical based rather than research based like the Ph.D. It aims to prepare students for advanced clinical practice or leadership. There are fewer SLPD programs in Alabama than Ph.D. programs, but they are still available for those looking to pursue these paths. If you want to improve your clinical skills or have a management position, this is the perfect time to apply. The following can apply to enter the SLPD: a master’s degree in speech language pathology, clinical experience, focus on professional practice. The graduates of this program work as clinical directors, highly specialized clinicians in healthcare organizations or as coordinators of speech pathology programs. Although both degrees are valuable, your decision depends on whether you want to emphasize research or advanced clinical practice.
The Alabama Board of Examiners in Speech Pathology and Audiology (ABESPA) are responsible for Speech Pathology licensure in the state of Alabama. To get an Alabama SLP License, you must first obtain a master’s or doctoral degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program. The program must provide no less than 400 hours of clinical practice under supervision where you will learn to identify and manage speech and language disorders in practical settings. After you finish your degree program you must pass the Praxis Exam in Speech Pathology to demonstrate your knowledge in the various areas of the field. After passing the exam you must finish a clinical fellowship that includes at least 1,260 hours of professional practice supervised by a licensed SLP. This experience provides you with additional practical skills while following the guidance of a licensed Speech Pathologist. After fulfilling these requirements send your application to ABESPA for your Alabama SLP License so you can begin practicing.
In addition to gaining licensure, SLP’s can get a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). This certification is issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). You must meet educational and clinical requirements and pass the Praxis exam and maintain continuing education requirements throughout your career to receive the CCC-SLP certification. The certification is highly valued by employers and demonstrates your commitment to maintaining high professional standards.
For individuals seeking an Speech Pathology career in Alabama securing admission through a master’s degree stands as the faster solution because master’s programs require just two years of full-time attendance. The programs provide an expedited route to field entry along with state licensure-ready clinical training and coursework. The University of Alabama and Auburn University design their curricula to help students achieve a master’s degree within two years that includes both a supervised clinical practicum and preparation for the Praxis exam. Master’s degree students typically require two years of continuous study at Communication Disorders or Speech and Hearing Sciences to achieve their degree.
Combined bachelor’s/master’s or master’s/doctorate programs are not widely available in Alabama; however, some universities offer flexible systems such as accelerated speech pathology degrees, online SLP degrees, or hybrid models which combine academic coursework with practical experience for working professionals to accelerate their completion. The flexible study options prove especially valuable to people who must juggle work responsibilities along with their educational or personal responsibilities.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
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| Samford University |
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University of South Alabama
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| Faulkner University |
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It is important to look at both the tuition and other costs of the Speech Pathology programs in Alabama that you are interested in. For a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders tuition differs between public and private schools. Public schools such as the University of Alabama and Auburn University charge lower tuition fees compared to private schools as far as in-state students are concerned. In-state students can pay between $10,000 and $12,000 per year while out-of-state students pay about $20,000 annually on average.
The tuition for master’s programs is generally higher but varies with the program in question. The University of South Alabama and the University of Alabama have good master’s programs with in-state tuition rates of $10,000 to $15,000 per year, which is relatively low compared to other institutions. The cost of out-of-state tuition for master’s programs is between $20,000 and $25,000 per year. Samford University is an example of private institutions and charges about $25,000 per year, which may not be convenient for some people’s budgets.
Ph.D. or SLPD programs are more expensive because of their level and the tuition can be higher than $30,000 per year. However, there are scholarships, assistantships, or in-state tuition programs that can help reduce the costs. Public universities in Alabama tend to provide the most value to students wishing to enroll in the most affordable SLP programs.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| Faulkner University |
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| Auburn University at Montgomery |
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University of South Alabama
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