Best SLP Degree Programs in Texas

Last Updated

April 16, 2025

Written By

Benjamin Thompson, M.S., CCC‑SLP

Texas has particularly attracted a number of ASHA accredited SLP programs, coupled with a strong job market to sustain graduates. The University of Texas at Dallas provides a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a wide range of electives and a large student population, thus offering the learner a chance to customize their learning. For its part, the University of Texas at Austin offers a Master of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences with a specific emphasis on the bilingual speech pathologist — an indication of the population density in the state. Texas Woman’s University is also part of the top tier and offers both on-campus and distance learning, which are attractive to those who want practical application of theory.

The reason to study speech-language pathology here is that Texas has a predicted job increase of 37% for SLPs between 2030, more than twice the national average, and the annual mean salary is $73,260 (BLS OES Data). This, coupled with a lower cost of living compared to many other states, especially the urban ones, and the emphasis on the need for rural health care, makes Texas a good place to start and grow an SLP career.

2025 - Best SLP Degree Programs in Texas

Speechpathology.org brings you the top speech-language pathology programs in Texas based on what students care about most: strong academics, real-world experience, and reputation. Discover leading speech pathology programs in Texas and learn how we choose them at speechpathology.org/rankings-methology.

#1

University of Houston

Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uh.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Houston's Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology is an ASHA-accredited residential program that enrolls 30-40 students annually. It provides comprehensive academic and clinical training under 14 full-time faculty, with specialized focus areas including voice, language, and multicultural communication disorders. This program prepares graduates for professional credentialing and does not require an entrance exam, offering robust clinical experiences in a personalized learning environment.

  • Accredited by ASHA
  • 30-40 students per year
  • 14 full-time faculty
  • Residential MA program
  • Specialized faculty interests
  • Clinical training included
  • Comprehensive academic preparation

Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Voice disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on voice disorders, the University of Houston's Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology is an accredited program that admits 30-40 students per year. Students receive advanced clinical and academic training from expert faculty, emphasizing hands-on experience in voice-related communication issues. The supportive environment ensures personalized education, and no entrance exam is required, preparing graduates for careers in specialized speech-language pathology.

  • Accredited MA in Speech-Language Pathology
  • Limited enrollment: 30-40 students
  • 14 full-time academic professors
  • Specialized faculty expertise
  • Comprehensive clinical training program
  • Supportive learning environment
  • Diverse communication disorders focus

Master's - Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Motor speech disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website

Specializing in motor speech disorders, the University of Houston's Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology offers accredited training for 30-40 students annually. With 14 full-time faculty, the program delivers comprehensive clinical and academic instruction in a residential setting, focusing on personalized attention for diverse communication challenges. No entrance exam is needed, equipping graduates for professional roles in speech-language pathology.

  • M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology
  • CAA ASHA Accredited Program
  • 30-40 Students Admitted Annually
  • 14 Full-time Academic Professors
  • Residential Program Format
  • Specialized Faculty Expertise
  • Clinical Training Included
  • Supportive Learning Environment

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Houston is a mentor-based program that provides individualized study plans and access to the Texas Medical Center for research. It focuses on areas like aphasia, bilingualism, and voice disorders, requiring students to identify a mentor before applying. This research-intensive program does not specify an entrance exam requirement and prepares scholars for leadership in communication disorders.

  • Mentor-based program
  • Access to Texas Medical Center
  • Individualized study plans
  • Focus on speech-language pathology
  • Research in communication disorders
  • Fall admission only
  • Deadline December 15, 2024
  • Nationally recognized faculty
  • Hands-on research experiences
  • Located in Houston, TX

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Concentration: Aphasia and right-hemisphere disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website

Concentrating on aphasia and right-hemisphere disorders, this Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Houston is mentor-based, offering personalized plans and Texas Medical Center research access. Admission is competitive and requires prior mentor identification, with potential financial assistance. The program emphasizes hands-on research and does not mention an entrance exam, targeting advancements in speech-language pathology.

  • Mentor-based program
  • Focus on Aphasia
  • Access to Texas Medical Center
  • Individualized study plans
  • Fall admission only
  • Competitive admission
  • Financial assistance available
  • Research-focused curriculum
  • Hands-on research experiences
  • Nationally recognized faculty

Doctorate - Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Concentration: Augmentative and alternative communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

With a focus on augmentative and alternative communication, the University of Houston's Ph.D. in Communication Sciences and Disorders is a mentor-based program featuring individualized study and Texas Medical Center research opportunities. It requires mentor identification before application and has a fall admission deadline. No entrance exam is specified, fostering groundbreaking research in communication sciences for aspiring scholars.

  • Mentor-based program
  • Individualized study plans
  • Access to Texas Medical Center
  • Fall admission only
  • Deadline December 15, 2024
  • Research-focused curriculum
  • Hands-on research experiences
  • Nationally recognized faculty
  • Augmentative and alternative communication focus
  • Located in Houston, TX
Show 5 More Programs ˅
#2

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu

Master's - MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University's MS in Speech-Language Pathology is a hybrid program that can be completed in two years, offering both on-campus and distance education options. The 61-credit curriculum covers prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of speech, language, social communication, cognitive-communication, and swallowing disorders. It features small class sizes, accessible faculty, and high Praxis exam pass rates, with extensive hands-on practicum placements in diverse settings. Accredited by ASHA, the program includes optional certificates in bilingual SLP, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and multicultural studies. As a master's program, it may require an entrance exam unless explicitly stated otherwise.

  • Degree in 2 years.
  • On-campus and online options.
  • 61 credit hours required.
  • Small class sizes.
  • High Praxis exam pass rate.
  • Hands-on practicum placements.
  • Accredited by ASHA.
  • Diverse practicum experiences.
  • Cohorts start summer or fall.
  • Distance education allows work.

Master's - MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Bilingual SLP - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University's MS in Speech-Language Pathology with a Bilingual SLP concentration is a hybrid program requiring 61 credit hours over 6-7 semesters. It emphasizes interdisciplinary training through Project Nexus and includes 18 credit hours of clinical practicum in pediatric and adult settings across Dallas and Denton areas. With an average student GPA of 3.76 and adherence to ASHA standards, it prepares graduates for diverse communication disorders practice. As a master's program, it may require an entrance exam unless explicitly stated otherwise.

  • 61 total semester credit hours
  • 6-7 semester full-time program
  • 18 credit hours clinical practicum
  • Multiple clinical settings
  • Fall/Summer start options
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • ASHA standard compliant
  • Interdisciplinary Project Nexus
  • Application deadline Jan 6
  • Clinical sites: Dallas/Denton areas

Master's - MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Deaf and Hard of Hearing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Woman's University's MS in Speech-Language Pathology with a Deaf and Hard of Hearing concentration is an on-campus program spanning 6-7 semesters and 61 credit hours. It offers extensive clinical experience in pediatric, adult, and medical facilities, including 18 credit hours of practicum and interdisciplinary collaboration via Project Nexus. With an average incoming GPA of 3.76 and ASHA-compliant curriculum, it focuses on advanced communication sciences and requires a comprehensive exam. As a master's program, it may require an entrance exam unless explicitly stated otherwise.

  • 61 total semester credit hours
  • 6-7 semester program length
  • 18 credit hours clinical practice
  • Multiple clinic settings
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • Fall/Summer application deadlines
  • ASHA standard compliant curriculum
  • Interdisciplinary Project Nexus
  • On-campus program venue
  • Comprehensive exam requirement
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#3

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX - Public 4-Year - utexas.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Concentration: Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Austin's Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences with a Speech-Language Pathology concentration prepares students to address communication disorders across all age groups through 120 credit hours of rigorous coursework and practical clinical training. This campus-based program emphasizes both academic excellence and hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating speech and language challenges. Admission is competitive and requires meeting UT Austin's general requirements, including potential ACT or SAT exams. Graduates are well-equipped for certification and advanced studies in the field, benefiting from direct access to faculty and on-campus hospital facilities.

  • 120 credit hours.
  • Concentration in Speech-Language Pathology.
  • Combines academic and clinical training.
  • Prepares for certification.
  • Competitive admissions.
  • Focus on communication disorders.
  • Practical clinical experiences.
  • Rigorous coursework.
  • Prepares for advanced study.
  • On-campus program.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Concentration: Audiology - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on Audiology, this Bachelor of Science program at The University of Texas at Austin trains students in diagnosing and managing hearing disorders through a 120-credit curriculum that blends hearing science, aural rehabilitation, and anatomy with clinical practice. As a campus-based degree, it offers immersive hands-on experiences and requires adherence to UT Austin's admission standards, which may include ACT or SAT testing. Students develop expertise in communication sciences and gain practical skills for audiology careers, supported by military-friendly policies and access to on-campus medical resources.

  • 120-credit curriculum.
  • Concentration in Audiology.
  • Campus-based program.
  • Hands-on clinical experience.
  • Focus on hearing science.
  • Includes aural rehabilitation.
  • Anatomy of speech mechanisms.
  • Meets UT Austin admission requirements.
  • Rigorous academic coursework.
  • Direct faculty access.

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Concentration: Deaf Education - Campus Based - Visit Website

The Deaf Education concentration within the Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin specializes in preparing educators to support deaf and hard of hearing individuals. This 120-credit program covers communication techniques, hearing science, and instructional methods through specialized courses, internships, and practical training in assistive technologies. Admission follows UT Austin's competitive process, potentially requiring ACT or SAT exams, and emphasizes developing professionals skilled in educational interventions and language development for diverse settings.

  • 120 total credit hours
  • Multiple tracks: Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, Deaf Education
  • Comprehensive clinical and internship requirements
  • Specialized courses in deaf communication
  • Moody College of Communication degree
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#4

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, TX - Private 4-year - tcu.edu

Bachelor's - Speech-Language Pathology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's Speech-Language Pathology program provides hands-on training at the Miller Speech & Hearing Clinic, featuring small classes and faculty mentorship. It covers diagnosis and treatment of communication disorders through a blend of academic and clinical experiences. The program type is not specified as bachelor's, master's, or doctorate in the data, so entrance exam requirements cannot be determined.

  • Small class sizes
  • Hands-on clinical training
  • Miller Speech & Hearing Clinic
  • Mentorship from faculty
  • Comprehensive communication disorders education

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology offers ASHA-accredited training through two specialized tracks: traditional SLP and Bilingual SLP. The program requires 25 clinical observation hours and prerequisite science courses, with a January 15 application deadline via CSDCAS. Graduates are eligible for ASHA certification and state licensure, preparing for careers in medical, educational, and private practice settings. This master's program does not specify entrance exam requirements in the provided data.

  • ASHA Accredited Program
  • Two Program Tracks Available
  • Application Deadline January 15th
  • 25 Clinical Observation Hours Required
  • Prerequisites Include Multiple Sciences
  • Eligible for ASHA Certification
  • Career Options: Hospitals/Schools/Private Practice
  • Centralized Application System (CSDCAS)
  • Multiple Research Labs Available
  • International Student Options

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Bilingual Speech-Language Pathology - Campus Based - Visit Website

Texas Christian University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a Bilingual Speech-Language Pathology concentration focuses on preparing students for certification (ASHA CCC-SLP) and Texas licensure. The program emphasizes medical, school, and private practice careers, requiring prerequisite courses and 25 clinical observation hours. Applications are due January 15 through CSDCAS, with financial aid available. This master's program does not specify entrance exam requirements in the provided data.

  • Accredited by CAA of ASHA.
  • Eligible for ASHA CCC-SLP.
  • Texas state licensure eligible.
  • Two tracks: SLP and EBSLP.
  • Application deadline: January 15.
  • Prerequisite courses required.
  • 25 hours clinical observation.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Graduate program tours offered.
  • CSDCAS application system used.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#5

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX - Public 4-Year - utdallas.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Child Language Development - Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Texas at Dallas offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a concentration in Child Language Development, providing comprehensive training in speech disorders and clinical interventions. This top-ranked program, accredited by ASHA, requires GRE scores for admission and features a 100% employment rate. Students benefit from hands-on research at the Callier Center for Communication Disorders, focusing on neurobiology of language and child development, preparing graduates for diverse healthcare and educational settings.

  • 100% employment rate
  • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
  • GRE scores required
  • Three recommendation letters
  • Fall application deadline: Feb 15
  • 48 semester credit hours
  • Accredited by ASHA
  • Callier Center for Communication Disorders
  • Research opportunities available
  • Medical and clinical experiences

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Child language development and disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website

UT Dallas's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, concentrating on child language development and disorders, is nationally ranked and emphasizes autism spectrum disorders and neurobiology. Admission mandates GRE scores and a 3.0 GPA, with opportunities for internships and research at the Callier Center. The program boasts a 100% employment rate, equipping students for roles in clinical and educational environments through rigorous coursework and practical experiences.

  • 100% employment rate
  • 3.0 minimum undergraduate GPA
  • GRE scores required
  • Three recommendation letters
  • Fall application deadline: February 15
  • International TOEFL score needed
  • Housed at Callier Center
  • Internship required
  • Research opportunities available

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Concentration: Autism spectrum disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website

Focusing on autism spectrum disorders, the Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at UT Dallas requires GRE scores for admission and is ranked #10 nationally with a 100% employment rate. Students engage in advanced research and clinical training at the Callier Center, covering communication disorders in medical and educational contexts. The program demands a 3.0 GPA and prepares graduates for impactful careers through hands-on internships and a comprehensive curriculum.

  • 100% employment rate
  • Located in Dallas metroplex
  • 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
  • GRE scores needed
  • Three recommendation letters
  • Minimum 48 credit hours
  • Fall application deadline: Feb 15
  • Clinical internship required
  • Internationally recognized center
Show 2 More Programs ˅
#6

Abilene Christian University

Abilene, TX - Private 4-year - acu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Abilene Christian University's Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology offers a comprehensive, campus-based education with small cohort sizes and personalized mentorship. Students gain hands-on clinical experience across diverse settings, including medical simulation labs and hospital orientation programs. The program features two campus locations in Abilene and Dallas, international clinical opportunities, and student-led research. With over 20 years of accreditation and a Christ-centered perspective, it prepares graduates for ASHA certification. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Two campus locations: Abilene, Dallas
  • Small cohort sizes
  • One-on-one mentorship
  • International clinical opportunities
  • Bilingual emphasis program
  • More than 20 years accreditation
  • Over 100 graduate students
  • Christ-centered perspective
  • Clinical practice in multiple settings
  • Medical simulation labs

Master's - Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology

Concentration: Bilingual Emphasis Program - Campus Based - Visit Website

Abilene Christian University's Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology with a Bilingual Emphasis Program provides specialized training for aspiring speech-language pathologists. This campus-based program includes small cohort sizes, one-on-one mentorship, and clinical rotations in multiple settings. It offers international placement options, medical simulation labs, and a faith-based educational approach at Abilene and Dallas campuses. The ASHA-accredited curriculum focuses on bilingual communication disorders, preparing graduates for certification. No entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Two campus locations: Abilene, Dallas
  • ASHA-accredited program
  • Small cohort sizes (<10 students per faculty)
  • One-on-one mentorship available
  • International clinical opportunities
  • Bilingual emphasis program option
  • Medical simulation labs
  • Hospital orientation program
  • Student-led research opportunities
  • Clinical rotations in multiple settings
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

Baylor University

Waco, TX - Private 4-year - baylor.edu

Doctorate - PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Concentration: Child Language and Literacy Disorders - Campus Based - Visit Website

Baylor University's PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a concentration in Child Language and Literacy Disorders prepares students for research and educational leadership through evidence-based practice in a faith-based environment. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes innovative research on childhood communication disorders, offering flexible plans with research and teaching assistantships. Inter-professional collaboration addresses diverse needs, supported by faculty mentorship. This campus-based program requires meeting graduate admission standards; entrance exam requirements are not specified.

  • Rigorous, flexible curriculum
  • Focus on Child Language and Literacy Disorders
  • Faith-based learning environment
  • Research and teaching assistantships
  • Inter-professional collaboration
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Individualized program plans
  • Campus-based program
  • Mentorship from faculty
  • Competitive funding opportunities

Doctorate - PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Concentration: Alternative and Augmentative Communication - Campus Based - Visit Website

Baylor University's PhD in Communication Sciences and Disorders focuses on Alternative and Augmentative Communication, training leaders to solve communication challenges with a faith-based, whole-person approach. Students engage in hands-on research and teaching, with competitive assistantships and a flexible curriculum tailored to individual goals. The program fosters inter-professional learning to support individuals and families, preparing graduates for advanced roles. Admission aligns with graduate standards; specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed.

  • Faith-based research and education.
  • Flexible, rigorous curriculum.
  • Hands-on research experience.
  • Teaching opportunities available.
  • Competitive assistantships offered.
  • Focus on whole-person solutions.
  • Inter-professional learning environment.
  • Individualized student programs.
  • Concentration in AAC available.
  • Prepares for leadership roles.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#8

East Texas Baptist University

Marshall, TX - Private 4-year - etbu.edu

Bachelor's - Speech-Language Pathology

Campus Based - Visit Website

East Texas Baptist University's Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is an on-campus program that blends education and healthcare to address communication disorders across the lifespan. Students gain hands-on experience with 25 observation hours, covering language disorders, phonetics, aural rehabilitation, anatomy, physiology, and neurology. It prepares for graduate studies or a Texas SLP Assistant License, with coursework in child development and clinical methods. This bachelor's level program may require ACT or SAT entrance exams, though details are not specified in the data.

  • Bachelor of Science Degree
  • On-Campus Program
  • Prepares for Graduate Study
  • Texas SLP Assistant License Eligible
  • 25 Observation Hours
  • Covers Communication Disorders
  • Language Disorders Focus
  • Phonetics Training
  • Aural Rehabilitation
  • Anatomy and Physiology

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

East Texas Baptist University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is a 54-credit hybrid program completed in 22 months, preparing students for professional practice through rigorous coursework and 400 clinical hours. Emphasizing evidence-based and Christ-centered care, it offers diverse clinical experiences and comprehensive supervision. As a CAA accreditation candidate with a 3.0 GPA requirement, it positions graduates for success in educational and healthcare settings. This master's level program may require an entrance exam, such as the GRE, though specifics are not provided in the data.

  • 54-credit hour graduate program
  • 22-month comprehensive timeline
  • 400 clinical practicum hours
  • CAA accreditation candidate
  • Face-to-face, online, hybrid formats
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
  • Christ-centered professional approach
  • Diverse clinical experience settings
  • Comprehensive clinical supervision
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#9

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX - Public 4-Year - lamar.edu

Master's - Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.)

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lamar University's Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology is a comprehensive 54-semester-hour program that prepares students for ASHA certification and state licensure. The curriculum includes rigorous coursework in communication disorders and 375 hours of clinical practicum, providing hands-on experience with diverse speech and language challenges across age groups. Graduates are equipped for careers in healthcare, education, and private practice. An entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • Master of Science degree
  • 54 total semester hours
  • ASHA nationally accredited
  • 375 hours clinical practicum
  • National certification preparation
  • Comprehensive course offerings
  • Specialized speech disorder training
  • Thesis option available
  • Multiple specialty courses
  • Advanced clinical practice focus

Doctorate - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Campus Based - Visit Website

Lamar University's two-year Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology combines academic coursework with extensive clinical practicums, featuring an 100% PRAXIS exam pass rate and graduate employment rate. Students complete 11 courses and multiple practicums, gaining expertise in communication disorders, and benefit from a $1,000 annual scholarship and out-of-state tuition waivers. Accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation, this program prepares competent clinicians for professional practice. An entrance exam is required for this master's level program.

  • ASHA-accredited graduate program
  • Two-year comprehensive curriculum
  • Extensive clinical practicum experiences
  • 100% PRAXIS exam pass rate
  • $1,000 annual scholarship
  • Out-of-state tuition waiver
  • Multiple clinical placement options
  • Comprehensive academic training
  • Research-integrated coursework
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#10

Stephen F. Austin State University

Nacogdoches, TX - Public 4-Year - sfasu.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Stephen F. Austin State University's hybrid Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, offered through the James I. Perkins College of Education, requires 53 credit hours and emphasizes clinical practicum. The program focuses on diagnosing and treating diverse speech and language disorders, integrating research and a capstone project. It prepares graduates for professional certification and career opportunities in the field. Admission requires a bachelor's degree; no entrance exam is mentioned as required.

  • 53 credit hours required
  • Includes comprehensive exam
  • Focus on clinical practicum
  • Covers speech and language disorders
  • Capstone project included
  • Offered by James I. Perkins College of Education
  • Prepares for professional certification
  • Blends theory and practice
  • Diverse career opportunities post-graduation
  • Bachelor's degree required for admission
*U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 institutional data.

Comparing Speech Pathology Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Texas

Four year bachelor’s degrees in speech pathology are a 120 credit hours program to start with for those who want to work in this field. If you want to become a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) or if you want to continue your education in graduate school, you will usually only need your high school transcripts and your SAT/ACT scores for admission. It is a good starting point to the jobs in special education or support jobs in the clinics without having to commit to advanced training.

The master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology is a two year, 60 credit hours program; this is required for one to become a licensed SLP and is a preparation for the professional practice in schools, hospitals or in private practice. Admission requirement for this program is a related bachelor’s degree, good grade point average, GRE scores and recommendation letters as the program is designed to provide specialized skills in assessing and treating communication disorders. It has higher earnings and more choices for jobs and therefore suitable for the person who is willing to practice professionally.

Bachelor's Degree

At a Glance

Master's Degree

At a Glance

Comparing SLP Doctorate Degrees in Texas : PhD and SLPD

The University of Texas at Austin and the University of Texas at Dallas offer a PhD in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, which is ideal for those interested in research and academic careers, which can take 4-5 years and approximately 90 credits. Admission is a. speech-language pathology master’s degree, a strong research background, and recommendation letters, with the in-state tuition being around $11,000 per year and out-of-state tuition being $22,000. It prepares for careers as professors or researchers with the potential to earn more than $100,000 annually in academic positions by taking advantage of Texas’ strong university system.

Another doctorate degree in Speech Pathology is the Speech-Language Pathology Doctorate Degree. Our Lady of the Lake University introduced its SLPD in fall 2024 for the seasoned clinicians to advance their practice to advanced practice. It is 2-3 years in length and 40-50 credits. It has a requirement of state licensure, national certification and two years of experience and the cost is $18,498 per year regardless of the residency. This degree is intended to help graduates achieve leadership positions such as clinical directors and the earnings may be comparable to the PhD levels in high demand settings through Texas’ growing healthcare requirements.

SLPD Degree

At a Glance

Doctorate's Degree

At a Glance

Speech Pathology Licensure & Certification Requirements in Texas

In Texas, Licenses are required to practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). This consists of a master’s or doctoral degree from an ASHA accredited program, a clinical fellowship supervised by a certified SLP, and passing the PRAXIS exam as well as having a clean disciplinary record.

This license is good for 2 years and requires 20 continuing education credits each renewal cycle. Most speech pathologists also seek ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), a widely recognized credential obtained from an accredited graduate program, the PRAXIS exam, and a 36-week clinical fellowship under a certified SLP’s supervision. It is valid as long as the user updates it, which is advantageous for employment and skipping certain steps during the licensure process through TDLR’s ASHA waiver.

Speech Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) must have a bachelor’s degree with speech language pathology coursework, 25 hours each of clinical observation and assisting experience, and the Texas jurisprudence exam (supervision required). This license is good for 2 years, and must be renewed every 2 years after that. SLPAs need to have 20 continuing education hours to renew their license. ASHA also offers the C-SLPA certification to SLPAs, which consists of a degree, hours of supervision, and an exam to show expertise within the field and increase employment potential in the growing speech pathology field of Texas.

Fastest SLP Programs in Texas

Most SLP master’s programs in Texas are two years in length and have four semesters of full time, which equals 60 credits. For instance, the UTD program is a two-year, full-time residential program that provides clinical experiences. The length of time for bachelor’s degrees in communication sciences and disorders is four years and one hundred and twenty credits, which is the case of TTUHSC.

There are no combined SLP bachelor’s-master’s programs of in Texas that are offered to shorten the time, but the student can accelerate the completion of the bachelor’s degree by attending summer sessions or by transferring credits from a community college, which may bring the time down to three years. Out-of-state Online speech pathology degree options such as Emerson College’s 20-month master’s are shorter than most programs, but they are out of state and thus more costly.

School NameHighlightsRetention & Grad Rates
Abilene Christian University
  • Two campus locations: Abilene, Dallas
  • ASHA-accredited program
  • Small cohort sizes (<10 students per faculty)
  • One-on-one mentorship available
  • International clinical opportunities
  • Bilingual emphasis program option
  • Medical simulation labs
  • Hospital orientation program
  • Graduation Rate: 60%
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Texas Woman's University
  • 61 total semester credit hours
  • 6-7 semester program length
  • 18 credit hours clinical practice
  • Multiple clinic settings
  • 3.0 minimum GPA required
  • Fall/Summer application deadlines
  • ASHA standard compliant curriculum
  • Interdisciplinary Project Nexus
  • Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Our Lady of the Lake University
  • Hybrid program format
  • 45 credit hours
  • Three-year duration
  • Evening and Saturday classes
  • Leadership and research focus
  • Only six students per year
  • Requires master's degree
  • 3.50 GPA minimum
  • Graduation Rate: 42%
  • Retention Rate: 58%
  • Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
*Credit: NCES, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 2023.

Affordable Speech-Language Pathology Programs in Texas

For in-state students, public universities are the most affordable speech-langauge pathology degree options. Graduate students at the University of Texas at Austin can expect their yearly tuition to be around $11,000, which is $22,000 for a two year master’s program based on their tuition rates. Out-of-state students at the University of Texas Austin will see rates are more like $36,000 for the 2-year program, making in-state attendance much cheaper. These in-state public university tuition rates when compared with out-of-state or private alternatives are much more cost effective. For prospective students who aren’t currently Texas residents, they may consider becoming a resident before starting school in Texas so that they can take advantage of the cheaper Speech Pathology degree programs.

School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Lamar University
  • ASHA-accredited graduate program
  • Two-year comprehensive curriculum
  • Extensive clinical practicum experiences
  • 100% PRAXIS exam pass rate
  • $1,000 annual scholarship
  • Out-of-state tuition waiver
  • Multiple clinical placement options
  • Comprehensive academic training
  • $6,900 - $10,400 (Graduate In-State)
  • $12,800 - $19,200 (Graduate Non-Resident)
The University of Texas at Austin
  • 120 total credit hours
  • Multiple tracks: Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, Deaf Education
  • Comprehensive clinical and internship requirements
  • Specialized courses in deaf communication
  • Moody College of Communication degree
  • Includes aural rehabilitation.
  • Anatomy of speech mechanisms.
  • Meets UT Austin admission requirements.
  • $9,300 - $14,000 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $34,200 - $51,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Texas A & M International University
  • 120 semester credit hours
  • Minimum 2.75 GPA required
  • Clinical observation practicums
  • Comprehensive speech-language pathology curriculum
  • Advanced audiology and neurogenic disorder courses
  • Fall semester admission only
  • Detailed clinical practice requirements
  • Multicultural linguistic trends studied
  • $6,300 - $9,400 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,500 - $23,300 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*From: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

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