In the western United States, Colorado offers many great opportunities for individuals seeking assistance with speech-related challenges and communication. Colorado’s university system is impressive, with a collection of private and public institutions that focus on research and providing their students with top-notch educational experiences. For those interested in the field of speech-pathology, embarking on this journey will unveil the profound impact of human connection and effective communication. Colorado’s speech-language therapy programs stand as beacons of hope, dedicated to aiding individuals of all ages in conquering their communication disorders. These programs are at the forefront of transformative change, from addressing speech impediments in children to tackling stuttering in adults. They provide a lifeline to those looking to improve their communication skills under the direction of a team of committed professionals.

Speech therapists and SLPs specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating speech and language disorders, making a profoundly positive impact on the lives of thousands. You will find a large number of resources and institutions committed to the advancement of speech therapy. From renowned universities boasting significant speech pathology departments to community clinics serving local communities, Colorado boasts an exceptional network of facilities that guarantee accessibility and assurance of top-tier therapy services. In the upcoming sections, we will delve into a comprehensive understanding of these programs, the advantages they bring, and the life-changing experiences they provide to both clients and practitioners.

Speech Language Therapy Programs in Colorado

As we all know, navigating the ideal institution’s selection can be challenging, given the multitude of options offering speech and language pathology programs in the state of Colorado. Below, we present a curated list of both public and private institutions that provide on-campus and online speech-language pathology programs catering to the diverse needs of students.

Colorado Bachelors in Speech-Language Pathology and Speech Therapy

University of Colorado Boulder – Bachelor of Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing Science 

Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS) is a multidisciplinary field exploring human communication’s intricacies and associated disorders. Their students acquire comprehensive knowledge about the nature, origins, and therapeutic interventions for speech, language, and hearing conditions. You’ll get complete insight into communication disorders: Students delve into the characteristics, sources, and therapeutic approaches for disorders affecting speech, language, and hearing. 

Their curriculum explores the scientific foundations of human interaction, deepening students’ understanding of how individuals connect through language and communication. Their interactive Students actively engage with audiologists and speech pathologists immersed in clinical practice, gaining valuable hands-on experience. By nurturing this well-rounded education, their graduates are well-prepared to contribute significantly in disability support, healthcare, and educational settings.

University of Northern Colorado – Bachelor of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Their undergraduate Communication Sciences and Disorders program offers a comprehensive pre-professional bachelor’s degree that equips students with a well-rounded education. Their program strongly emphasizes various disciplines, including students engaging in a diverse curriculum encompassing anatomy, physiology, psychology, and the principles of hearing science, providing them with a solid scientific base. They focus on developing auditory, language, and speech skills, exploring the intricacies of how they communicate and process auditory information.

Their students gain proficiency in technical instrumentation and problem-solving techniques for effectively addressing communication disorders. This program covers a broad spectrum of communication disorders, including those resulting from head injuries, strokes, ear diseases, noise exposure, vocal disorders, autism, developmental delays, brain injuries, genetics, and various other conditions. Furthermore, students delve into the underlying science behind language formulation, speech production, hearing, and auditory processing. They welcome students with diverse interests, including those in the medical field, applied sciences, psychology, acoustics, music, or education, to explore the enriching field of audiology and speech-language sciences.

Metropolitan State University of Denver – Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

The Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS) at MSU Denver is designed explicitly to educate students about communication and its associated disorders while providing services to those affected by speech, language, and hearing challenges. Their department offers diverse educational options to align with the various facets of human communication and the communicative difficulties that can emerge throughout one’s life. They also provide introductory courses that cover a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from language acquisition in children to understanding the distinctions between speech disorders like stuttering and language disorders like aphasia. 

Many of their SLHS alumni pursue graduate degrees, a prerequisite for certification in the highly sought-after professions of speech-language pathology and audiology, consistently ranked among the top healthcare careers. For students aiming to pursue a graduate degree, they offer an intensive full-time Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS SLP) program. Their program seamlessly integrates academic coursework with clinical experiences, with new cohorts enrolling each summer. Students can typically complete the standard MS SLP program in 23 months from the program’s start. They foster a strong connection between the classroom and clinical practice by providing real-world experiences throughout our programs. 

Colorado Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) Programs

University of Colorado Boulder – Master’s Degree Program in Speech-Language Pathology 

This Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) master’s degree program at CU is meticulously designed to equip students with theoretical and practical expertise, preparing them for careers in speech-language pathology across medical, educational, and private practice domains. Students acquire a robust foundation in their field through a comprehensive curriculum and clinical training. Upon completing the SLP program, graduates earn a Master of Arts from the University of Colorado. 

They become eligible to receive the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) after completing the clinical fellowship year and passing the national PRAXIS examination. Additionally, students can apply for Colorado State Licensure, which enables them to practice in public schools. The SLP program spans two years (24 months) and includes one or two internships, culminating in successfully completing a comprehensive exam or submitting a thesis. 

University of Northern Colorado – Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology 

This two-year program is meticulously crafted to prepare students for a fulfilling career as speech-language pathologists. It’s a full-time program unwaveringly focused on equipping students with the tools to become lifelong learners firmly rooted in evidence-based practice (EBP). This program operates under the framework of the clinician-researcher model. Their curriculum is thoughtfully designed to nurture EBP skills, ensuring students engage in a sequential, hands-on learning journey within clinical settings. 

Throughout this curriculum, students are guided in formulating clinical questions, conducting research, collecting data, assessing outcomes, and effectively presenting their findings in written and oral formats. Their holistic approach to education cultivates critical thinking skills, setting the stage for their future success. In addition to the on-campus clinical practice, students embark on two crucial internships. Their internships are strategically placed in public school settings and medical facilities, allowing students the flexibility to complete them locally or in regions beyond Northern Colorado.

Metropolitan State University of Denver – Master of Speech-Language Pathology 

The mission of the MSU Denver SLP graduate program is to provide an inclusive and culturally competent graduate education to a diverse urban population, preparing students for clinical certification in speech-language pathology. Their graduate programs are dedicated to merging excellence with innovation, and their SLP program bridges the gap between theory and practice. In a changing landscape within education and healthcare, they empower students to think critically and make informed decisions.

They uphold values that align with their university’s, emphasizing community engagement, accessibility, diversity, and respect. Their objectives include: Offering an affordable and accessible pathway to a career in speech-language pathology. Delivering a comprehensive academic and clinical curriculum firmly rooted in evidence-based practice.Cultivating clinical scientists who integrate research into ethical decision-making.Leveraging faculty expertise across classroom instruction, clinical practice, and community engagement Advancing interprofessional education and practice through strategic partnerships within the institution.

Online Masters in Speech-Language Pathology in Colorado

University of Northern Colorado – Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology 

This three-year program is meticulously designed to prepare students for entry-level roles as speech-language pathologists, emphasizing a clinician-researcher model. It fosters lifelong learning, grounding students in evidence-based practice (EBP) and academic excellence. The curriculum strategically builds EBP skills through hands-on clinical practicum experiences. Students formulate clinical questions, scrutinize research, gather data, assess outcomes, and effectively present their findings in written and oral formats. Critical thinking skills cultivated throughout the program support their future growth as speech-language pathologists.

Specifically tailored for nontraditional students juggling employment and family commitments, the online program offers a pathway to earning a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. It assumes a prior undergraduate background in Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, or Communication Disorders. For those lacking experience, a core of prerequisite undergraduate courses must be completed before entering the program. Upon graduation, students can take the National Examination in Speech-Language Sciences and complete the Clinical Fellowship Year mandated by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) for the Certificate of Clinical Competence. 

Rocky Mountain University – Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology

Establishing a solid foundation in speech-language pathology involves gaining essential knowledge and expertise that underpin your practice. Delve into a wide range of topics, including dysphagia, childhood language disorders, cognitive-communication disorders, and many others, as you aim to become an authoritative figure in communication and swallowing disorders. Enhance your medical understanding and perspective through advanced training. Gain a comprehensive understanding of a speech-language pathologist (SLP) role within medical settings by integrating medical models, pharmacology, medical bioethics, and other critical components. Equip yourself to assess and treat patients with tracheostomies, those reliant on ventilators, and individuals facing unique and challenging circumstances.

Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology in Colorado 

University of Colorado Boulder – Ph.D. Program in Speech, Language, and Hearing Science 

The University of Colorado’s Ph.D. program in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences offers a dynamic interdisciplinary environment dedicated to unraveling the fundamental processes and mechanisms underlying human speech, language, and hearing. Their program, known as SLHS, equips students for careers in research or clinical practice, encompassing a wide array of theoretical and practical viewpoints. They encompass speech perception, sign language development, neurogenic disorders, neuroscience, motor speech development, speech pathology, stuttering, and numerous other domains.

Their program becomes an excellent fit when aligned with a faculty member who shares your interests and expertise. Your personalized course of study is crafted collaboratively by you, your advisor, and your doctoral committee. Given the inherently interdisciplinary nature of the science of human communication, postgraduate candidates from diverse educational backgrounds related to communication find their academic home at CU Boulder. In addition to specialized SLHS coursework, students engage with departments like neuroscience, linguistics, cognitive psychology, and education.

University of Northern Colorado – Doctor of Audiology

The Doctor of Audiology (AuD) program is a comprehensive, four-year post-baccalaureate course designed to train future clinical audiologists. The University of Northern Colorado’s program follows a clinician-scholar model, with a strong emphasis on preparing students to become independent clinicians who integrate evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders. Their curriculum is built upon a solid foundation of didactic courses covering scientific principles and research methods.

It is complemented by hands-on, clinically-focused classes that enable students to develop practical skills. An exceptional feature of their program is the opportunity for students to engage in student teaching, which significantly broadens their career prospects. The Field of  Audiology is the specialized field that studies hearing and the intricate processes of auditory and vestibular systems. Their students delve into these systems’ developmental, anatomical, physiological, and pathological aspects. Additionally, they provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevention, assessment, rehabilitation, and psychological dimensions associated with hearing and balance disorders. Audiologists work across diverse age groups, ranging from infants to the elderly, and operate in various clinical settings, including hospitals, educational institutions, clinics, and industrial settings. 

How to Become a Licensed Speech Pathologist in Colorado

Becoming a speech-language pathologist in Colorado? If so, it’s essential to know the requirements to obtain licensure in the state. To become licensed, you must hold a master’s or higher degree in communication sciences and disorders from an accredited institution recognized by the US Department of Education, complete a clinical fellowship, and pass a national exam. 

Additionally, you’ll need to provide proof of professional liability insurance with coverage of $1,000,000 per incident and $3,000,000 aggregate per year. If you hold a current, valid license in a jurisdiction with substantially equivalent qualifications, you may be able to apply for certification by endorsement.

If you haven’t completed all of the requirements, you may be eligible for a provisional certification that expires 24 months after issuance or upon issuance of permanent certification. Remember, continuing education is required to maintain licensure, which can be demonstrated through participation in the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program, a program approved by the Director, or military service exemptions. 

As a speech-language pathologist, you’ll be responsible for diagnosing and treating individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. These may include speech and language delays, stuttering, voice disorders, and cognitive-communication disorders. With the proper licensure and training, you can help improve the lives of those with these conditions and make a positive impact in your community.

Final Thoughts

Many options are available for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, each an excellent choice for individuals seeking certification and licensure in speech-language pathology (SLP) to facilitate career advancement and personal growth. Equipped with a communication degree, students are exceptionally positioned to contribute meaningfully to Colorado’s varied and vibrant communities. Colorado offers diverse settings, from vibrant university campuses to welcoming community clinics, creating an ideal environment for aspiring speech-language pathologists and those seeking therapeutic services. 

If you aspire to embark on a fulfilling career in speech-language pathology and search for exceptional educational services, the institutions and programs highlighted in Colorado serve as a shining example of the transformative impact of effective communication. These establishments are a testament to the unwavering dedication of individuals who have made it their mission to understand the complexities of human contact and empower others to overcome communication challenges. Furthermore, several institutions now provide the option of online classes, allowing students to balance their studies with their professional commitments. This flexibility enables students who cannot attend physical lectures to pursue their education while working simultaneously. This approach empowers students to stay on track with their careers and academic pursuits, ensuring they take advantage of both.

Colorado Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Program	University Name	City	State	Accreditation
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	University of Colorado	Boulder	CO	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of Colorado, Boulder	Boulder	CO	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Metropolitan State University of Denver	Denver	CO
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	University of Northern Colorado	Greeley	CO	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of Northern Colorado	Greeley	CO	ASHA