Online Speech Therapy Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

Speech therapists, also known as speech-language pathologists, work with patients to treat speaking disorders or improve the quality and clarity of speech. Online degree programs in speech-language pathology are available at the master's level. Students may also find online undergraduate programs in speech pathology.

How to Find an Online School for Speech Therapy

Degree Possibilities and Career Requirements

Speech therapy degrees are rarely available at the undergraduate level due to licensing requirements. To become licensed as a speech therapist, graduates must complete at least a master's degree in speech-language pathology.
Additionally, students must complete a preparatory degree, such as an undergraduate pre-professional speech pathology or communication science program, in order to gain admittance into a master's degree program. Pre-professional speech pathology programs are accelerated programs designed for individuals that completed a bachelor's degree program in a field other than communication science; whereas, an undergraduate in communication science is the typical degree required to apply to a master's degree program.

Program Format and Scheduling Requirements

Normally, while degrees in speech pathology may be found in fully online formats, some clinical requirements must be completed either on campus or at a nearby clinic. Additionally, the formatting of the educational program may differ from program to program. Online learners can complete programs requiring students to attend real-time class sessions, as well a turn in assignments and tests on a regular basis. Other programs are designed for more flexible schedules, requiring assignments and tests to be turned in on a given due date; however, students can complete work and communicate with peers around their individual schedules.

Online Program Options for Speech Therapy

Online Pre-Professional Program in Speech Pathology

Pre-professional programs for speech pathology are accelerated programs that provide an individual from another discipline with the knowledge needed to enter into a master's degree program. Online learners typically complete courses in language development, communication disorders, phonology and phonetics. Online coursework may include simulated lab activities and videotaped dissections.

Online Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology

Master's degree programs in speech-language pathology provide students with the education requirements needed for licensure as a speech therapist. Common course requirements include anatomy, physiology, language development, articulation disorders, audiology and neurogenic disorders. In addition to online coursework, students must also fulfill clinical practicums to gain hands-on experience working with evaluating and diagnosing language disorders. Students typically have online access to library databases for research-related activities.