Maryland offers four unique graduate programs in Speech-Language Pathology, each with its own clinical focus and academic strengths. Students can tailor their education to diverse professional interests from the renowned Gallaudet University in nearby Washington, D.C., to campus-based programs at Loyola, Towson, and the University of Maryland. For additional support, prospective SLPs can turn to organizations like the Maryland Speech-Language-Hearing Association (MSHA) and the Maryland Board of Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers & Speech-Language Pathologists. Below is an overview of the state’s SLP programs, approximate tuition, and tips on becoming a licensed practitioner.

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

Maryland focuses on development, education, diversity, and growth. It offers more than world-class education options; it delivers growth for your whole being. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., offers much more than a typical university scene; it offers life-long educational opportunities. While a master’s degree in speech pathology can be completed here, the impact of being near major medical innovators such as Johns Hopkins University offers much more to the educational process.

The following universities offer master’s degree programs in speech pathology in Maryland:

Loyola University, Baltimore, MD – Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology

The Margaret A. McManus Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic at the Loyola Clinical Center in Baltimore offers students real-world experience and training. Loyola University is steeped in the Jesuit tradition of cura personalis, which means “the whole person.” Offering more than just basic education coursework, the program gives students interested in speech pathology careers a broad education that prepares them for real-life work. Students are immersed in academic excellence and faculty mentorship, which creates a well-rounded learning opportunity. 

• Located in Baltimore
• The program is full-time, in-person, on campus
• It takes two years and/or 60-65 credits to fulfill the requirements to graduate
• Tuition is roughly $35,000 for all students; however, current rates for tuition, housing, and other expenses should be reviewed on the school website.

Towson University, Towson, MD – Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Students interested in breaking life barriers know that Towson University is one of the nation’s leading inclusive education platforms. The university is renowned for its community engagement, and students are offered opportunities to connect with the Learning Network both on and off campus. Speech pathology students participate in the university’s own Wellness program and gain access to local medical and educational specialists through extension clinical supervision.

• Located in Towson
• This program is full-time and located on campus 
• The program takes two years, with a dense plan of clinical work and coursework. 
• Tuition ranges per credit taken each semester, along with specific fees associated with the program  – for in-state students, the per credit fee is $730, and for out-of-state students, the per credit fee is $1335. It is important to review current costs on the school’s official website.

Because of the central location of Towson University, students can partake in a rich, diverse culture and economic growth opportunities, utilize the proximity of Washington, D.C. as an exploration adventure, and be part of a community yearning for information and learning.

University of Maryland, College Park – Master of Arts in Speech Language Pathology (SLPA)

The University of Maryland offers a speech pathology graduate program that can be tied to an optional Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Emphasis track. This program also allows students to pursue a Bilingual Certificate Program alongside the speech program. 

This program is tied to the Center for Advanced Study of Language, the Neuroscience and Cognitive Science graduate programs, the Comparative and Evolutionary Biology of Hearing Grant, and the Maryland Language Science Center, as well as the speech and hearing clinic.

• Located in College Park
• The program is full-time, covering the winter break and the summer sessions for academic classes.
• The program takes two full years of clinical and academic coursework. 
• Tuition for in-state students is roughly $33,000, while out-of-state students pay roughly $60,000. Check the school’s website for current rates.

Gallaudet University, Washington, D.C. – Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Although located in DC, Gallaudet University has strong ties to Maryland. This highly competitive master’s program is rich in history, being part of a world-renowned school. The master’s program engages students in cutting-edge research, clinical experience, and coursework. Gallaudet requires students to have a working understanding of ASL and provides opportunities to engage with d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

• Located in Washington, D.C.
• This program is five full-time semesters
• It takes two years to complete this program, and students have many opportunities to engage in research, thesis work, and unique clinical experiences
• Tuition varies from $10,000 to $20,000 per semester, with additional fees based on residency and housing options.

Maryland MSL Programs that do not require the GRE

The GRE is an exam taken before entering graduate school to assess a student’s ability to participate in high-level academics. Although it is often used as part of the admission criteria for a program, there has been a shift in the last few years to no longer use it as part of the admission process. 

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.

The three schools in Maryland with master’s degree programs no longer require the GRE for admission.

Most Affordable Master’s in Speech Pathology Programs

Each university offers a different program focus, faculty engagement opportunities, and research and clinical experiences. Before committing to a program, review all the different program specifics to ensure that you are in the learning environment that best suits your future goals. 

The program in Maryland that is the most affordable is:

• Towson University

Bachelor in Speech Pathology Programs

Before starting a graduate program, students are required to have a bachelor’s degree. Students do not need a bachelors in speech pathology or communication disorders, but some graduate programs may require additional coursework to ensure that a student is prepared. Some undergraduate degrees transfer seamlessly into a speech pathology degree program, and a review of the student’s coursework will assist in determining if additional classes are required.

How to Become a Speech Pathologist

Students interested in becoming a speech therapist need to spend some time learning about the multitude of different avenues a speech pathologist can take. Interested in working with babies? Ensure that the graduate program has connections to a NICU or children’s hospital rotation. Interested in neurological disorders? The student should research trauma hospital or neuroscience clinic engagement with the university.

Because speech pathologists treat patients in many different settings, students should explore all of the opportunities each program offers. The more research and understanding of the offerings of each university, the better a student’s chances are to have a great learning experience.

Maryland Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Program	University Name	City	State	Accreditation
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of Maryland, College Park	College Park	MD	ASHA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	University of Maryland	College Park	MD	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Loyola University Maryland	Timonium	MD	ASHA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	Towson University	Towson	MD	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Towson University	Towson	MD	ASHA