The roles of speech-language pathologists in healthcare are ever-expanding. When looking for a program to start the next level of education required, the state of Georgia offers many opportunities to move forward toward a speech-language pathology career. With several opportunities to complete a Master’s in Education, Georgia has six SLP Masters level programs located throughout the state. Each of these programs is accredited by ASHA and after graduation, creates an avenue for licensure and state licensure to practice.
Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology (MSLP) Programs in Georgia
Speech-Language Pathologists are part of the growing healthcare community that needs to grow as people live longer. SLPs work with children, teens, adults, and older adults with a wide range of clinical needs. A degree program in speech pathology gives the student a wide berth of options for future employment. Jobs in hospitals, schools, and even corporate-level positions offer a range of ways to use this flexible degree program.
University of Georgia Athens, GA – Masters of Education in Communication Science and Disorders
The University of Georgia Department of Communication Sciences and Special Education is the college that concentrates on Communication Sciences and Disorders. The program is located in Athens on the main campus, which offers a diverse learning environment on the oldest land-grant research university in the country, being chartered in 1785.
- Located in Athens, Georgia
- In person, main campus, cohort model of learning
- Full-time two-year program starts in July in a short session.
- Tuition ranges from $27,488 in-state to $46,452 out-state based on on-campus fees.
The University of Georgia’s Master’s program in Communication Science is unique in that it offers a master’s program without completing a thesis. There is an additional option to do research within the structure of the program and to add specialized training programs in both dyslexia and diversity, equity, and inclusion. The program is based on a cohort model, which creates a strong learning group available to students that improves feelings of connectedness and engagement. The program also includes two engaging practical experiences to expose students to school, healthcare, clinic, and medical settings.
The approach taken by the University of Georgia develops strong students who are well-prepared for clinical experience and national accreditation.
Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA – Masters of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
Georgia State University offers a Master of Science degree in Communication Science and Disorders, with a start of the program in the fall. Located in Atlanta, GSU spans through downtown Atlanta which enables students to experience a city rich with history and experiences. With awards as one of the most diverse universities in the country, GSU attracts students from over 159 countries and every state in the nation. This program is accredited by ASHA and offers both an undergraduate and graduate degree option.
- Located in Atlanta
- The program is located on the downtown Atlanta campus.
- Program offers 2- or 3-year programs based on prerequisites.
- Tuition for in-state students is roughly $1,855.00 per semester, and out-of-state registration is roughly $6,205.00 per semester.
Academic and clinical instruction is offered in small class size (25-28) experience. Because the program is located downtown, there are a multitude of clinical experiences available to the students. A unique component of the GSU program is that many students become members of CommunicAID+Nation, which is a non-profit that originated in Atlanta that supports individuals with communication disorders.
Of note, the admission process is a two-step process, with an application to both the Georgia State Graduate Program and the Communication Sciences and Disorders Program.
University of West Georgia, Carrollton, GA – Masters of Education in Communication Science and Disorders
The graduate program at the University of West Georgia offers a competitive education program that brings together students who are focused on helping people live their best lives. A program focused on learning, engagement with others, and effective communication within teams, UWG brings together individuals striving to make the world a better place.
Exploring the campus is made easy by both traditional in-person visits and an enhanced virtual tour. At UWG, you will find a campus with over 100 academic programs committed to excellence and social engagement, committed to embracing diversity and helping students leap forward both in and out of the classroom.
- Located in Carrollton, Georgia
- In-person on campus only with a few hybrid classes offered.
- This program is located in the Education Annex
- Tuition for in-state students is roughly $3764.00, out-of-state tuition is around $12,580.00.
The University of West Georgia begins in the summer with a short session and then continues through 6 semesters of education and clinical practicum. Each student is given the opportunity for multiple clinical experiences on campus, although additional experiences off-campus are required. Students who attend UWG are prepared for careers in settings from schools to hospitals and corporations, ranging from babies to geriatrics.
Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GA – Masters of Education in Communication Science and Disorders
Initially opened as a women’s university, Valdosta State University is now a diverse educational institution located in the southern part of Georgia. Being part of a supportive, engaged community that supports VSU both academically and socially creates an unprecedented feeling of “home.” The community boasts the Wild Adventure Theme Park, the Moody Air Show, and a historic downtown with pubs, coffee shops, and great places to meet others.
- Located in Valdosta, Georgia
- In-person program on campus
- Program is a 2 year program
- Tuition in-state is roughly $17,00.00 per year, out-of-state is roughly $38,400, with AL, FL, NC, SC, and TN qualifying for in-state.
Valdosta State University upholds the educational requirements required to achieve Certification of Clinical Competence along with their strong clinical background. The VSU program is GRE optional, which makes it in the minority of programs that do not require this assessment. This program also boasts one of the highest rates for program completion, passing the national exam, and they accept students during any semester, instead of only Fall admission.
Georgia Southern University (previously known as Armstrong State University) Savannah, GA – Master of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
At Georgia Southern University, the Communication Science and Disorders program offers a strong focus on assessing and treating medical conditions in a variety of healthcare settings. GSU is unique in that it is the only U.S. public university with a campus in Ireland. The school strives to connect students with the area, embracing being “a part of the city, not apart from the city.” Graduates of Georgia Southern University are well-versed in evidence-based treatment and team-oriented skills, enabling them to move forward toward the clinical fellowship experience.
- Located in Savannah, Georgia
- Program is in-person on the Armstrong Campus
- Length of the program is 2-3 years.
- Tuition ranges from $6,842.00 in-state to $17,363.00 out-of-state
The program at GSU is small, with a class size of around 20 students, creating a close learning community. Tuition varies between in-state and out-of-state, and there may be additional fees associated with living off-campus or choosing a specific dining program. There are no online options for this program and it is offered at Waters College of Health Professions on the Armstrong Campus.
As professionals, the staff at GSU uses experience, evidence-based practice, and hands-on research to generate well-rounded clinicians. Collaboration and clinical experiences make GSU a great place to prepare for a career in speech pathology.
Georgia MSLP Programs that do not require the GRE.
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is a tool used to assess an individual’s readiness to attend graduate school. The GRE was created by a set of universities, alongside the Carnegie Foundation, in the early 1900’s. This allowed for schools with advanced education programs to review skills that are deemed important to the schools. The value placed on the scores varies per program, with some using it to weigh significantly on admission, while others use the GRE as part of an overall assessment.
The skills assessed by the GRE include Verbal Reasoning (evaluating relationships, arguments and analyzing written information), Analytic Writing (the ability to evaluate concepts and arguments effectively), and Quantitative Reasoning (problem-solving and information analysis). Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are scored at 130-170 points, with average scores ranging from 150 to 155 accordingly. The Analytical Writing score is created in half-point increments and then combined with the other scores, creating an overall score of 260 to 340. One notable point is that there are no wrong answers, so answering every question is in the best interest of individuals taking this assessment.
There are two schools in Georgia that do not require the GRE:
- University of Georgia
- Georgia State University
(Be aware that there are changes in status and certifications each year and it is up to the student to verify the current information in each situation.)
Most Affordable Master in Speech Pathology Programs
Education can be a strong tool to learn the skills needed to pursue a career. Although important to many, pursuing an advanced degree can be expensive and out of reach for many people. It is important to review and search schools that fit both your academic pursuits and financial abilities. Grants, scholarships, internships, and FAFSA can assist with paying for a college education.
There are several schools in the state of Georgia that are less expensive than others:
- Georgia Southern University
- University of West Georgia
- Georgia State University
Bachelors of Speech Pathology Programs in Georgia
The state of Georgia offers several programs in both Communication Science and Disorders, along with other programs that can serve as a basis for a master’s degree in Speech Pathology. Each program should be reviewed carefully to ensure that if not a Communication Disorder degree specifically, which programs will assist in moving a student forward to becoming a speech therapist.
Georgia State University – Bachelor of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
- Located in Atlanta
- Online and in-person programs
- Depending on the credits taken, the program can take 3-5 years.
- Tuition varies from roughly $4,742 in-state per year to roughly $13,442 out-of-state per year.
Although Georgia State University does not have a specific undergraduate degree in communication disorders, GSU offers multiple health-related undergraduate degrees that can lead to applying to a master’s degree program to become a speech pathologist.
Georgia Southern University – Bachelor of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
Georgia Southern University offers an undergraduate degree in communication science and disorders, leading directly to a master’s degree program.
- Located in Savannah
- In-person program on the Armstrong campus
- Program ranges from 3-5 years depending on credits taken.
- Tuition for in-state students is roughly $3,229 per semester, and out-of-state students roughly $10,549 per semester.
Georgia Southern University offers a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders, along with other healthcare degree programs. Students can explore opportunities to build a strong basis for a future master’s degree program.
Valdosta State University – Bachelor of Education in Communication Science and Disorders
Valdosta State University’s bachelor’s degree program is closely tied to its master’s program.
- Located in Valdosta
- In-person program in the Health Science and Business Administration Building
- Program ranges from 3-5 years based on credits taken per semester.
- Tuition ranges from roughly $3,623.00 in-state per semester, to roughly $10,943.00 out-of-state per semester
The Valdosta State University communication disorder program provides a solid foundation for an ongoing career as a speech-language pathologist and other communication specialists. Students are provided many opportunities to develop a basis for healthcare careers.
Piedmont University – Bachelor of Science/Master’s Integrated Program
The program at Piedmont University can be a combined undergraduate/graduate program that fast-tracks a degree.
- Located in Demorest
- In-person learning program
- Program ranges from 3 -5 years depending on the program plan and credits taken per semester. A program may be shorter with the combined BS/MS program.
- Tuition is roughly $24,000 per year.
Piedmont University has a combined BS/MS program to become a speech pathologist along with a standard undergraduate degree pathway.
University of Georgia – Bachelor of Science in Communication Science and Disorders
The University of Georgia offers many health, science, and educational degrees that can be a bridge to a Master’s degree in Speech Pathology in the future.
- In-person program with online options for some classes
- Program ranges from 3-5 years based on credits taken per semester
- Tuition ranges from roughly $28,000 in-state per year to roughly $49,708 out-of-state per year
The University of Georgia degree in communication disorders encompasses a strong focus on teaching communication and development. This program is the precursor to pursuing ongoing education to become a speech pathologist.
How to Become a Speech Pathologist
Individuals interested in becoming a speech pathologist must achieve the level of a Master’s Degree in Speech Pathology or Communication Disorders, pass the national PRAXIS exam, and complete a Clinical Competence Year as prescribed by the American Speech Language Hearing Association.
The job outlook in the state of Georgia for those interested in becoming a speech pathologist is highly favorable. There is a large growing population of need in schools, hospitals, and clinics, estimated at a growth rate of 42% in the next ten years. With over 400 new jobs posted each year, the future of speech pathology in Georgia is fantastic.
Georgia Speech-Language Pathology Programs
| Program | University Name | City | State | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS) | Georgia Southern University | Savannah | GA | ASHA |
| Master's in Audiology (MS) | University of Georgia | Athens | GA | |
| Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS) | University of Georgia | Athens | GA | ASHA |
| Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS) | University of Mary | Athens | GA | ASHA |
| Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS) | Georgia State University | Atlanta | GA | ASHA |
| Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS) | University of West Georgia | Carrollton | GA | ASHA |
