To become a licensed speech-language pathologist in Indiana, you need a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program, complete 400 clinical hours, finish a 9-month Clinical Fellowship Year, and pass the Praxis exam with a score of 162 or higher. Indiana offers seven accredited programs and requires licensure through the Speech-Language Pathology Audiology Board.
- 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.
Speech-language pathology is experiencing significant growth in Indiana, with the state projected to see a 31% increase in SLP positions through 2030. This translates to approximately 260 new job openings each year, making it one of the fastest-growing healthcare fields in the state.
Indiana’s demand for SLPs spans diverse settings, from school systems and hospitals to private practices and research institutions. Major employers include healthcare networks, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations like United Health Services’ Community Services With the Deaf in Saint Joseph County.
This guide walks you through the complete process of becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist in Indiana, from selecting an accredited graduate program to maintaining your professional credentials.
Step 1: Complete a Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
The foundation of your SLP career begins with earning a master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). The Indiana Speech-Language Pathology Audiology Board requires this accreditation for licensure eligibility.
Indiana is home to seven CAA-accredited speech-language pathology master’s degree programs. These programs typically require 45-60 credits and take two to three years to complete.
CAA-Accredited Programs in Indiana
| Institution | Degree Type | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Ball State University | Master of Arts | Muncie |
| Indiana State University | Master of Science | Terre Haute |
| Indiana University, Bloomington | Master of Arts | Bloomington |
| Indiana University South Bend | Master of Science | South Bend |
| Purdue University | Master of Science | West Lafayette |
| Purdue University Fort Wayne | Master of Science | Fort Wayne |
| St. Mary’s College | Master of Science | Notre Dame |
Many prospective SLPs also consider online SLP master’s degree programs accredited by the CAA. These programs offer flexibility for working professionals while maintaining the same rigorous academic standards.
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
If you completed your bachelor’s degree in a different field, you’ll need to complete prerequisite coursework before starting graduate studies. Most programs offer pre-professional tracks or expanded master’s curricula to accommodate career changers.
Common prerequisite courses include:
- Speech Science: Acoustic and physiological foundations of speech production
- Language Development: Typical language acquisition across the lifespan
- Introduction to Communication Disorders: Overview of speech and language pathologies
- Phonetics: Sound systems and transcription methods
Graduate Coursework and Clinical Training
Master’s programs combine academic coursework with supervised clinical experience. You can expect to take classes covering:
- Neurological Foundations: Brain structures and functions related to communication
- Phonological Disorders: Assessment and treatment of sound system disorders
- Voice Disorders: Evaluation and therapy for voice problems
- Motor Speech Disorders: Apraxia, dysarthria, and related conditions
- Cognitive-Communication Disorders: Communication challenges following brain injury
- Methods in Speech and Hearing Therapy: Evidence-based treatment approaches
The clinical practicum component is critical. Indiana requires at least 400 hours of supervised clinical experience during your graduate program. These hours must be completed under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist and align with ASHA’s requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP).
Step 2: Complete a Clinical Fellowship Year
After graduating with your master’s degree, you’ll complete a Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) to gain supervised professional experience. This postgraduate training period is required for both Indiana licensure and the optional CCC-SLP certification.
The CFY must meet specific requirements:
- Duration: Minimum of nine months at 30 hours per week
- Part-time option: Can be completed within 18 months if working part-time
- Supervision: Must be supervised by a licensed speech-language pathologist
- Early start: Can begin before graduation with written confirmation from your program
Initial License for Clinical Fellowship
Before starting your clinical fellowship, you must obtain an initial (temporary) license from Indiana. This license allows you to practice under supervision while completing your CFY.
Apply through the Indiana Licensing Enterprise (ILE) platform. The application fee is $50, and the license remains valid for 18 months or until you receive your permanent license, whichever comes first.
Clinical Fellowship Experience
During your CFY, you’ll apply the knowledge gained in graduate school to real-world clinical situations. Your practice will be guided by ASHA’s Scope of Practice for SLPs, which outlines professional responsibilities including:
- Prevention and wellness strategies
- Screening and comprehensive assessment
- Treatment planning and implementation
- Counseling and consultation
- Service coordination and case management
Step 3: Pass the Praxis Examination
The Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology is the national certification exam required for Indiana licensure. You can take the exam after completing your CFY, though many candidates prepare during their fellowship year.
Examination Details
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Test Code | Praxis 5331 |
| Number of Questions | 132 multiple-choice questions |
| Time Limit | 150 minutes (2.5 hours) |
| Passing Score | 162 (on a scale of 100-200) |
| Test Format | In-person at testing centers or online with remote proctoring |
| Registration | Through the ETS Praxis website |
Register for the Praxis exam through the Educational Testing Service (ETS) website. Testing centers are located throughout Indiana, typically on college campuses for convenient access.
Content Areas
The examination covers three main categories, each comprising approximately one-third of the test:
Foundations and Professional Practice:
- Factors influencing communication, feeding, and swallowing across the lifespan
- Counseling techniques and collaborative practices
- Professional ethics and state/federal legislation
- Client advocacy and family-centered care
Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis:
- Screening procedures for communication disorders
- Case history development and clinical interviewing
- Comprehensive assessment of speech, language, and swallowing
- Differential diagnosis of genetic and developmental disorders
Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Treatment:
- Treatment plan development and goal setting
- Evidence-based intervention strategies
- Management of fluency disorders and voice disorders
- Hearing and aural rehabilitation techniques
Preparation Resources
ETS provides official study materials and a test preparation guide (PDF) to help you prepare. The exam covers material from your graduate coursework and clinical experiences, so review your class notes and practicum documentation as part of your study plan.
Optional CCC-SLP Certification
Once you pass the Praxis exam, you’re eligible to apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) through ASHA. While not required for Indiana licensure, the CCC-SLP is considered the gold standard credential in the field.
Benefits of CCC-SLP certification include:
- Enhanced professional credibility with employers
- Interstate practice reciprocity in many states
- Access to ASHA’s professional development resources
- Eligibility for certain specialized certifications
The CCC-SLP application requires the same documentation needed for Indiana licensure: your Praxis scores, graduate transcripts, and clinical fellowship verification. Many Indiana SLPs submit both applications simultaneously to streamline the credentialing process.
Step 4: Obtain Your Indiana SLP License
With your CFY completed and Praxis exam passed, you’re ready to apply for your permanent Indiana speech-language pathology license. All license activities are managed through the Indiana Licensing Enterprise (ILE) online platform.
License Application Requirements
Submit the following documentation through your ILE account:
- Graduate transcripts: Official transcripts showing your master’s degree
- Clinical practicum verification: Documentation of 400+ hours completed during graduate school
- CFY completion: Supervisor’s verification of your Clinical Fellowship Year
- Praxis scores: Official score report showing passing score of 162 or higher
- Application fee: $150 (separate from the initial license fee)
- Background check: Criminal history screening as required by the Board
Indiana Jurisprudence Examination
After the Board approves your license application, you must pass the Indiana Jurisprudence Exam before your license becomes active. This exam tests your knowledge of:
- Indiana Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Statute
- Administrative rules and regulations
- Health Professions Standards of Practice
You need a score of at least 75% to pass. The examination packet, available through the licensing board, contains all the material covered on the test. Most candidates find the exam straightforward after reviewing the provided materials.
Step 5: Maintain Licensure Through Continuing Education
Indiana SLP licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal process ensures you stay current with developments in the field and maintain professional competency.
Renewal Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years |
| Continuing Education Hours | 36 hours per renewal period |
| Self-Study Credits | Maximum 6 hours allowed |
| Renewal Method | Online through the ILE account |
| Renewal Notice | Mailed 90 days before expiration |
Continuing Education Options
You can earn continuing education credits through various formats:
- Professional conferences: State and national conventions
- Workshops and seminars: In-person training sessions
- Online courses: Web-based learning modules
- University coursework: Graduate-level classes
- Self-study: Up to six hours through independent learning
The Indiana Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ISHA) offers continuing education opportunities through annual conventions and specialized classes. ISHA membership also provides access to professional networking, legislative advocacy, and public education initiatives within Indiana.
Career Paths and Opportunities in Indiana
Licensed SLPs in Indiana work across diverse settings, each offering unique opportunities and challenges. Understanding your options helps you make informed career decisions after licensure.
Healthcare Settings
Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and skilled nursing facilities employ many Indiana SLPs. These positions typically involve treating patients with acute conditions, post-surgical recovery needs, or chronic disorders requiring intensive therapy.
Educational Settings
Indiana’s public school system hires a large number of speech-language pathologists. School-based SLPs work with children from preschool through high school, addressing developmental delays, learning disabilities, and communication challenges.
Note that public school positions require additional credentialing beyond your SLP license. ASHA provides a summary of Indiana’s public school requirements for SLPs seeking educational employment.
Private Practice
Many experienced SLPs establish independent practices, offering flexibility in scheduling and service delivery. Private practitioners can provide in-home services or telepractice from a home office, expanding access to underserved areas.
Specialized Certifications
After establishing your career foundation, you may pursue ASHA’s clinical specialty certifications to demonstrate advanced expertise. Available specializations include:
- Fluency disorders
- Child language disorders
- Swallowing and swallowing disorders
These optional credentials build on your CCC-SLP certification and can enhance your marketability in specialized practice areas.
Job Market Outlook
Indiana’s job market for SLPs remains exceptionally strong. The state’s 31% projected growth rate through 2030 significantly exceeds the national average of 19%. This translates to approximately 260 new positions opening annually, creating consistent opportunities for new graduates and experienced practitioners.
The Indiana Speech-Language-Hearing Association maintains a job board regularly updated with openings throughout the state. Many SLPs secure positions with the organizations where they completed their clinical fellowship, benefiting from established relationships and institutional knowledge.
Speech-Language Pathology Salaries in Indiana
Speech-language pathologists in Indiana earn competitive salaries that reflect their advanced education and clinical expertise. Understanding salary ranges helps you make informed career and location decisions.
Statewide Salary Overview
Indiana SLPs earn an average annual salary of $85,700, which translates to approximately $41.20 per hour. Salaries vary based on experience level, employment setting, geographic location, and specialization.
Top earners in the field, typically those with extensive experience or specialized certifications, can earn $114,990 or more annually ($55.28 per hour).
Salary by Indiana Metropolitan Area
Geographic location significantly influences compensation. The following table shows salary ranges (10th to 90th percentile) for major Indiana cities and metropolitan areas:
| Metropolitan Area | Annual Salary Range | Hourly Wage Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bloomington | $61,880 – $108,910 | $29.75 – $52.36 |
| Chicago Metro (IN portion) | $59,160 – $122,740 | $28.44 – $59.01 |
| Cincinnati Metro (IN portion) | $60,650 – $126,110 | $29.16 – $60.63 |
| Columbus | $59,810 – $112,760 | $28.76 – $54.21 |
| Elkhart | $50,150 – $107,640 | $24.11 – $51.75 |
| Evansville | $57,970 – $106,690 | $27.87 – $51.29 |
| Fort Wayne | $56,780 – $110,610 | $27.30 – $53.18 |
| Indianapolis | $59,840 – $116,980 | $28.77 – $56.24 |
| Kokomo | $55,680 – $110,560 | $26.77 – $53.16 |
| Lafayette | $56,030 – $114,590 | $26.94 – $55.09 |
| Louisville Metro (IN portion) | $64,180 – $136,110 | $30.85 – $65.44 |
| Muncie | $52,330 – $109,570 | $25.16 – $52.68 |
| South Bend | $52,880 – $106,750 | $25.42 – $51.32 |
| Terre Haute | $48,970 – $100,500 | $23.54 – $48.32 |
Career Satisfaction and Growth
Beyond competitive salaries, speech-language pathology offers exceptional career satisfaction. US News & World Report ranks SLP as the third-best healthcare job in the nation, reflecting the profession’s combination of meaningful work, strong compensation, and career stability.
Indiana data support this positive outlook. Between 2015 and 2023, the median SLP salary in the state increased by 14%, demonstrating consistent wage growth that outpaces inflation.
PayScale.com’s survey of two million workers identified speech-language pathology as the 14th most meaningful job offering good compensation. The survey measured whether professionals believed their work made the world a better place.
School-Based SLP Job Satisfaction in Indiana
Elizabeth Buck’s master’s thesis at Indiana University provides insight into job satisfaction among K-12 school SLPs in Indiana. Her survey of 269 school-based practitioners revealed that while high caseloads present challenges, most professionals find their work highly rewarding.
Survey respondents reported high satisfaction with:
| Job Aspect | Satisfaction Rate |
|---|---|
| Working with children | 99.6% |
| Ten-month work schedule | 95.3% |
| Educational setting | 92.9% |
| Caseload variety | 80.9% |
| Collaboration with professionals | 78.7% |
| Benefits package | 72.6% |
| Technology access | 63.9% |
| Daily activity variety | 63.4% |
| Workspace and facilities | 63.1% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a speech-language pathologist in Indiana?
The complete process typically takes six to seven years. This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, two to three years for a master’s program (including the 400-hour practicum), and nine to 18 months for the Clinical Fellowship Year. You can take the Praxis exam during or after your CFY, and the Indiana jurisprudence exam follows license approval.
Is the CCC-SLP certification required to practice in Indiana?
No, the CCC-SLP is not required for Indiana licensure. The state issues its own license through the Speech-Language Pathology Audiology Board. However, many employers prefer or require the CCC-SLP because it’s considered the professional standard. The CCC-SLP also makes interstate practice easier if you decide to relocate.
Can I work as an SLP in Indiana schools with just my state license?
Indiana public schools require additional credentials beyond your SLP license. You’ll need specific educational certifications to work in school settings. Check with the Indiana Department of Education or review ASHA’s summary of Indiana school requirements to understand the additional qualifications needed for K-12 employment.
How much does it cost to get licensed in Indiana?
The initial (temporary) license for your CFY costs $50. After completing your fellowship and passing the Praxis exam, the permanent license application costs $150. You’ll also need to budget for the Praxis exam fee (set by ETS) and the criminal background check required by the state. Biennial renewal fees apply every two years.
What’s the average salary for speech-language pathologists in Indianapolis?
SLPs in the Indianapolis metropolitan area earn between $59,840 and $116,980 annually, depending on experience and setting. The median salary is approximately $85,700 statewide. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of this range, while experienced practitioners and those in specialized settings earn at the higher end.
Do I need to renew my Indiana SLP license?
Yes, Indiana requires license renewal every two years. You must complete 36 hours of continuing education during each renewal period, with up to six hours allowed through self-study. The state sends renewal notices 90 days before expiration, and you complete the renewal process online through your Indiana Licensing Enterprise account.
Can I start my Clinical Fellowship Year before graduating?
Yes, Indiana allows you to begin your CFY before graduation, but you need written confirmation from your graduate program stating that you’ll complete your degree. You must apply for and receive your initial (temporary) license before starting any CFY hours. This flexibility helps some students transition more smoothly into professional practice.
Key Takeaways
- Educational foundation: Indiana requires a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program. The state has seven accredited programs, and many online options are also available for flexibility.
- Clinical experience matters: You need 400 supervised clinical hours during graduate school, plus a nine-month Clinical Fellowship Year, before obtaining your license.
- Praxis exam required: You must pass the national SLP examination with a score of 162 or higher. This score satisfies requirements for both Indiana licensure and the optional CCC-SLP certification.
- Strong job market: Indiana projects 31% job growth for SLPs through 2030, creating approximately 260 new positions annually across healthcare, education, and private practice settings.
- Competitive compensation: Indiana SLPs earn an average of $85,700 annually, with significant variation based on location, experience, and specialization. The profession consistently ranks among the top healthcare careers for satisfaction and meaningful work.
- Ongoing professional development: License renewal every two years requires 36 continuing education hours, keeping your skills current and maintaining professional competency throughout your career.
- 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.
Ready to Begin Your SLP Career in Indiana?
Indiana’s growing demand for speech-language pathologists creates excellent opportunities for new graduates and experienced practitioners. With seven accredited programs in the state and strong job growth projections, now is an ideal time to start your journey toward becoming a licensed SLP.
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.