To become a speech-language pathologist in Hawaii, you need a master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program, complete 400+ clinical hours, pass the Praxis exam (score 162+), finish a 36-week clinical fellowship, and obtain state licensure through the Hawaii Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology. Hawaii SLPs earn a median salary of $108,230, with strong job growth projected through 2030.
- Emerson College - Master's in Speech-Language Pathology online - Prepare to become an SLP in as few as 20 months. No GRE required. Scholarships available.
- Grand Canyon University - Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. - This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders
- Arizona State University - Online - Online Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science - Designed to prepare graduates to work in behavioral health settings or transition to graduate programs in speech-language pathology and audiology.
- NYU Steinhardt - NYU Steinhardt's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders online - ASHA-accredited. Bachelor's degree required. Graduate prepared to pursue licensure.
- Pepperdine University - Embark on a transformative professional and personal journey in the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program from Pepperdine University. Our program brings together rigorous academics, research-driven faculty teaching, and robust clinical experiences, all wrapped within our Christian mission to serve our communities and improve the lives of others.
Just like its famously multicultural population, Hawaii boasts a vibrant community of speech-language pathologists. With over 30 clinics operating across the islands, many run by members of the Hawaii Speech-Language-Hearing Association (HSHA), the professional network here is strong and supportive.
HSHA provides continuing education for its members and operates the Hawaii Speech Language Hearing Foundation, which funds an annual conference and additional professional services. While HSHA membership offers valuable benefits, it’s not required for licensure. What you do need is a speech-language pathology practitioner license from the Hawaii Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology.
Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about earning your SLP license in Hawaii, from educational requirements to salary expectations and career opportunities.
Step 1. Complete a Qualifying Master’s Degree Program in Speech-Language Pathology
To qualify for an SLP license in Hawaii, you need a master’s degree in speech-language pathology or a related field like Communication Sciences and Disorders. Your program must be accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA).
Education Requirements
Master’s degree equivalency can also be met with a bachelor’s degree plus at least 75 semester hours of graduate-level coursework that includes:
- Basic Science Coursework (27 credits minimum) – Biological, physical, social, and behavioral sciences, mathematics, and human communication processes
- Professional Coursework (36 credits minimum) – At least 30 credits must be at the graduate level, with 21 credits in speech-language pathology and 6 credits in audiology
- Clinical Practicum (375 hours minimum) – Since CAA accreditation requires 400 hours, qualifying programs easily meet this requirement
Many SLP graduate students earned a bachelor’s degree in communicative sciences and disorders before starting their master’s program, though this isn’t required for admission. If your undergraduate degree is in a different field, you may need to complete prerequisite courses before beginning graduate-level classes.
University of Hawaii Program
The Communication Sciences and Disorders Department at the University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology that meets all Board requirements. The program takes two years and approximately 75 credits, covering topics including:
- Disorders of Phonology and Articulation
- Child Language Disorders
- Neuroscience in Communicative Sciences and Disorders
- Aphasia and the Dementias
- Dysphagia
- Audiological Foundation for Speech-Language Pathology
- Disorders of Fluency
- Voice Disorders
Online SLP Programs
With limited local options and significant distance to mainland universities, many Hawaii residents pursue online degrees in communicative sciences and disorders. Online programs offer flexibility in accessing course materials from anywhere and in setting your own pace. If you’re working full-time while pursuing your degree, online programs provide an excellent alternative to campus-based education.
Step 2. Gain Required Professional Experience Through a Clinical Fellowship Program
After graduating from your master’s program, you need to complete a clinical fellowship (CF) before qualifying for full licensure.
Provisional License Required First
Before beginning your clinical fellowship, you must apply for a provisional license through the Hawaii Board. This provisional license allows you to practice under supervision during your fellowship year. To obtain a provisional license, you need to:
- Have completed your master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program
- Provide documentation of a pre-arranged clinical fellowship position
- Submit verification from your supervising licensed SLP
- Confirm your fellowship site meets Board requirements
The provisional license has the same educational standards as a full license, but you don’t need to have passed the Praxis examination or completed your fellowship hours yet.
Clinical Fellowship Requirements
The Board requires your clinical fellowship to be completed after your master’s degree and initial clinical practicum. You’ll work under a licensed speech-language pathologist for a minimum of 36 weeks and 1,260 hours, completing a fellowship that meets ASHA and Board standards. You can find licensed independent SLPs and approved clinical sites through the Hawaii Licensing Search page.
During your fellowship, you’ll primarily do clinical work with actual patients, learning the practical application of skills outlined in ASHA’s SLP Scope of Practice. This includes:
- Patient education and caretaker training
- Screening and assessment procedures
- Treatment planning and implementation
- Clinical documentation and reporting
- Evidence-based practice and research
Step 3. Pass the National Examination and Consider Earning the CCC-SLP Credential
After completing your RPE, you’re ready to take the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam offered by ETS. Exam centers are available on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, with an online proctored option.
Praxis Examination Details
The speech-language pathology exam must be completed in 150 minutes and contains 132 questions. You can review the study materials provided by ETS before taking your exam. The test covers three main categories:
| Category | Weight | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations and Professional Practice | 33% | Development, common disorders, counseling, ethics, and client advocacy |
| Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis | 33% | Disorder screening, case histories, speech sound production, fluency, disease processes |
| Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Treatment | 34% | Treatment monitoring, follow-up, social aspects of communication, and hearing rehabilitation |
You need a score of 162 (on a scale of 100-200) to qualify for a Hawaii SLP license.
Applying for State Licensure
Once you’ve passed the Praxis exam, you can apply for your Hawaii SLP license by completing the SLP application form. For licensure by examination, you’ll use the same form as your provisional license, but you’ll need to submit verification of coursework and clinical fellowship completion. The application fee is $50, with $76 in licensing fees plus additional processing costs.
It’s also possible to register for temporary services with the Board if you’ll be practicing in Hawaii for less than one month. The cost of temporary registration is $30.
National Certification Through ASHA
With your combined experience and education, you also qualify for the CCC-SLP (Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology) through ASHA after passing the Praxis exam.
The CCC-SLP is a national certification, not a state license to practice. While earning the CCC-SLP doesn’t automatically fulfill Hawaii’s licensing requirements, it demonstrates that you’ve met ASHA’s professional standards and can support your application for state licensure. You’ll still need to complete Hawaii’s specific application process and pay the required fees. This credential is particularly valuable for SLPs already licensed in other states who want to obtain Hawaii licensure, as the CCC-SLP can help streamline the verification process.
If you’re interested in specialized practice areas, you can pursue specialty certification through ASHA in:
- Child language and language disorders
- Fluency and fluency disorders
- Swallowing and swallowing disorders
- Intraoperative monitoring
Learn more about these certifications at ASHA’s specialty certification page.
Step 4. Begin Your Career as a Speech-Language Pathologist in Hawaii
After earning your Hawaii SLP License, you can practice as a professional speech-language pathologist. There are multiple career paths available to newly licensed SLPs in Hawaii.
Pursue Employment Opportunities
Many SLPs who just earned their licenses return to work with the clinic or hospital where they completed their clinical fellowship. Alternatively, you can explore job openings at rehabilitation clinics, hospitals, or specialty therapy practices throughout the islands.
The Hawaii Speech-Language-Hearing Association maintains a Career Center page that lists local opportunities. One of the largest providers is Easter Seals Hawaii, a national organization that provides services and support to children and adults with disabilities, including speech and communication disorders.
Practice Independently as an SLP
If you’d rather be your own boss, you can start an independent practice. This option lets you create the perfect experience for your patients and their caretakers, hire qualified professionals, and train new speech-language pathologists in your clinic.
As an independent provider, you’ll handle business operations including payroll, taxes, marketing, and practice management. Many SLPs find the trade-off worthwhile for the autonomy and professional satisfaction of running their own practice.
Step 5. Keep Your SLP License Current
You’ll need to keep your license current by renewing it before December 31 of odd-numbered years. The Hawaii Board of Speech Pathology and Audiology sends reminder postcards in early November. You can renew your Hawaii license online through the state portal.
Continuing Education Requirements
Hawaii doesn’t require continuing education for SLP license renewal at the state level. However, if you work in Hawaii public schools, you’ll need to maintain a separate teaching license through the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, which may have its own continuing education requirements.
If you hold a CCC-SLP credential through ASHA, you’ll need to complete 30 professional development hours during each three-year certification maintenance interval, regardless of where you practice.
Even without a state mandate, it’s good practice to join the Hawaii Speech-Language-Hearing Association and take their continuing education courses or attend events to stay current in the field. HSHA offers membership at the student, associate, and professional levels.
Speech-Language Pathology Salary in Hawaii
Hawaii offers competitive compensation for speech-language pathologists, with salaries reflecting both the high demand for healthcare professionals and the state’s cost of living. According to May 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (accessed November 2025), Hawaii ranks among the top states nationally for SLP compensation.
Statewide Salary Overview
The median annual salary for speech-language pathologists in Hawaii is $108,230, with the average at $107,040. As you gain experience and develop specialized skills, you can expect your earning potential to grow. Entry-level SLPs at the 10th percentile earn around $91,590 annually, while experienced professionals at the 90th percentile earn up to $122,180 per year.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry-Level) | $91,590 | $44.03 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,900 | $48.03 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $108,230 | $52.03 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,970 | $54.31 |
| 90th Percentile (Experienced) | $122,180 | $58.74 |
| Average (Mean) | $107,040 | $51.46 |
Urban Honolulu Salaries
Approximately 85% of Hawaii’s speech-language pathologists work in urban Honolulu, where about 110 professionals serve the metro area. The median salary in Honolulu is $107,920 annually ($51.88 hourly), comparable to the state average.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $91,590 | $44.03 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,780 | $47.97 |
| Median | $107,920 | $51.88 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,890 | $54.27 |
| 90th Percentile | $122,180 | $58.74 |
| Average | $106,380 | $51.14 |
Job Growth and Career Outlook
Speech-language pathology is one of the fastest-growing professions in Hawaii. According to Projections Central data (2020-2030), the number of SLP jobs in Hawaii is forecast to increase by 24%, well above the national average of 19%. This translates to approximately 30 job openings every year in the state.
U.S. News and World Report ranks SLP as the third-best healthcare job in the nation and among the top 10 best jobs overall. The salary aggregator PayScale rates speech-language pathology among the 15 most meaningful jobs that pay well, based on a survey of 2 million workers.
Whether you work in schools, academic medical centers, private clinics, or healthcare facilities, you’ll have opportunities to build a solid career as an SLP anywhere in Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become an SLP in Hawaii with an online degree?
Yes, you can become an SLP in Hawaii with an online master’s degree, provided the program is accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation. Online programs must include the required 400 clinical practicum hours, which are typically completed in person at approved sites. Many Hawaii residents choose online programs due to limited local options.
How long does it take to become licensed as an SLP in Hawaii?
The complete path to licensure typically takes 6-7 years. This includes a 4-year bachelor’s degree, a 2-year master’s program with a clinical practicum, and a 36-week clinical fellowship. After completing your fellowship and passing the Praxis exam, you can apply for full licensure.
What’s the difference between Hawaii state licensure and ASHA certification?
Hawaii state licensure is required by law to practice as an SLP in the state. ASHA’s CCC-SLP is a national certification that demonstrates you’ve met professional standards but doesn’t replace state licensure. Earning the CCC-SLP can satisfy Hawaii’s licensing requirements and offer additional professional credibility.
Does Hawaii require continuing education for SLP license renewal?
No, Hawaii doesn’t require continuing education for SLP license renewal. You simply need to renew your license before December 31 of odd-numbered years. If you hold ASHA’s CCC-SLP certification, you’ll need to complete 30 professional development hours during each three-year maintenance interval.
Can I work in Hawaii schools with just my SLP license?
To work as an SLP in Hawaii public schools, you need both your state SLP license and a separate license from the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board. The teaching license requires completion of specific coursework in addition to your clinical credentials. Private schools may have different requirements.
How much does the Hawaii SLP licensing process cost?
The state application fee is $50, with $76 in licensing fees plus processing costs. Additional expenses include the Praxis exam fee (approximately $120), background checks, and official transcript fees. The typical total cost ranges from $250-$350 for initial licensure, though costs can vary based on how many transcripts you need and whether you’re applying for provisional and full licenses separately.
What happens during the clinical fellowship year?
During your 36-week clinical fellowship, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed SLP while building your clinical skills. You’ll work with actual patients, conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, provide therapy, and document progress. Your supervisor will evaluate your performance and provide guidance as you transition from student to independent practitioner.
- Emerson College - Master's in Speech-Language Pathology online - Prepare to become an SLP in as few as 20 months. No GRE required. Scholarships available.
- Grand Canyon University - Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. - This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders
- Arizona State University - Online - Online Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science - Designed to prepare graduates to work in behavioral health settings or transition to graduate programs in speech-language pathology and audiology.
- NYU Steinhardt - NYU Steinhardt's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders online - ASHA-accredited. Bachelor's degree required. Graduate prepared to pursue licensure.
- Pepperdine University - Embark on a transformative professional and personal journey in the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program from Pepperdine University. Our program brings together rigorous academics, research-driven faculty teaching, and robust clinical experiences, all wrapped within our Christian mission to serve our communities and improve the lives of others.
Key Takeaways
- Hawaii requires a master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program with at least 400 clinical practicum hours to qualify for licensure
- You must pass the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam with a score of 162 or higher to obtain your license
- A 36-week clinical fellowship under licensed supervision is required after completing your graduate program
- The median salary for SLPs in Hawaii is $108,230 annually, with experienced professionals earning up to $122,180 per year
- Hawaii’s SLP job market is projected to grow 24% through 2030, creating approximately 30 new positions annually
- License renewal occurs every two years on odd-numbered years, with no continuing education requirement at the state level
Ready to Start Your SLP Career in Hawaii?
Explore ASHA-accredited speech-language pathology programs that fit your goals and schedule.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Speech-Language Pathologists reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2025.