To become a speech pathologist in New Hampshire, you’ll complete a CAA-accredited master’s degree (2 years), pass the Praxis exam, complete a 9-month clinical fellowship, and obtain state licensure through the NH Board. The total process takes 7-8 years, including undergraduate education (4 years), graduate school (2 years), and clinical fellowship (9 months).
- 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.
As a speech-language pathologist in New Hampshire, you’ll make a meaningful difference in people’s lives by helping them overcome communication and swallowing disorders. New Hampshire offers SLPs diverse practice settings, from pediatric clinics to acute care hospitals, with strong demand for qualified professionals across the state.
Speech-language pathologists at facilities like Southern New Hampshire Health in Nashua provide comprehensive speech therapy services addressing speech, language, voice, and swallowing problems for patients of all ages. At Concord Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services, SLPs diagnose and treat disorders using evidence-based approaches, including biofeedback training, neuromuscular exercises, and caregiver education.
Before you can begin providing SLP services in New Hampshire, you must earn licensure through the New Hampshire Speech-Language Pathology and Hearing Care Providers Governing Board. This guide walks you through each step to become a licensed speech-language pathologist in New Hampshire.
Step 1: Complete a Master’s Degree Program in Speech-Language Pathology
Your path to becoming an SLP in New Hampshire begins with earning a master’s degree from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA). The University of New Hampshire offers the state’s CAA-accredited Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program. You may also consider accredited online programs, which employers respect for their rigorous standards.
Admission Requirements
Most graduate programs require:
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Academic references from professors or supervisors
- GRE scores are typically in the 30th percentile or higher
- Bachelor’s degree (any field, though CSD is preferred)
If your bachelor’s degree isn’t in communication sciences and disorders, you’ll complete prerequisite courses before beginning graduate coursework. These foundational courses typically include:
- Science of Language
- Basics of Audiology
- Topics in Communication Disorders
- Anatomy and Physiology of Speech
- Normal Language Development
Core Graduate Coursework
Your master’s program will cover biological, physiological, and linguistic sciences related to communication disorders. Typical courses include:
- Advanced Language Acquisition
- Diagnosis of Speech and Language Disorders
- Dysphagia Assessment and Treatment
- Articulatory and Phonological Disorders
- Applied Neurology
- Stuttering Therapy
- Voice Disorders
- Motor Speech Disorders
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
Clinical Practicum Requirements
You’ll complete at least 400 clock hours of supervised clinical practice, typically during your final year. Your practicum will be supervised by a New Hampshire-licensed SLP and will progress from observation to hands-on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with various communication disorders.
Step 2: Pass the National SLP Exam
After completing your master’s degree, you must pass the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). You can register for the Praxis exam online and access comprehensive study materials through the ETS website.
Exam Details
The Praxis exam consists of 132 multiple-choice questions covering:
- Foundations of professional practice
- Screening, assessment, and diagnosis
- Treatment planning and implementation
- Typical language development across the lifespan
- Communication disorders across populations
- Feeding and swallowing disorders
- Ethics, legislation, and client advocacy
You’ll need a score of 162 (on a 100-200 scale) to pass, as established by ASHA’s Council for Clinical Certification. Testing centers are available in Concord, New London, and Portsmouth for your convenience.
Step 3: Apply for a New Graduate License and Complete a Nine-Month Clinical Fellowship
Once you’ve passed the Praxis exam, you’ll apply for a Speech-Language Pathologist New Graduate License and complete a clinical fellowship of at least nine months (1,260 hours minimum).
New Graduate License Application Requirements
Submit the following to the New Hampshire Board:
- Educational transcripts (sent directly from your institution to [email protected])
- Praxis exam results (sent directly from ETS to [email protected])
- Letter from your institution confirming completion of clinical hours (sent directly to [email protected])
- Completed Supervision Form identifying your fellowship supervisor (must be licensed for at least three years)
- FBI Criminal History Check (obtain through NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification)
- $110 license fee
Finding a Clinical Fellowship
Many graduate programs connect students with clinical fellowship opportunities. You can also search for positions through professional job boards and New Hampshire healthcare facilities. Your fellowship allows you to gain professional experience under supervision while serving diverse patient populations.
Clinical Fellowship Experience
During your fellowship, you’ll work with children and adults with developmental and neurological disorders affecting speech, swallowing, and voice. You’ll gain experience in patient counseling, documentation, administrative tasks, and clinical decision-making. At the end of your fellowship, complete the Clinical Fellowship Report and Rating form and submit it to the Board.
CCC-SLP Certification
While not required for New Hampshire licensure, the Certificate in Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) is a valuable credential that many employers prefer or require. Offered through ASHA, the CCC-SLP demonstrates advanced clinical competence and may enhance employment opportunities, particularly in healthcare settings. You can apply directly through ASHA after completing your clinical fellowship.
Step 4: Apply for Full Licensure and Begin Practicing as a Speech-Language Pathologist
Upon successful completion of your clinical fellowship, you’ll apply for full licensure as a speech-language pathologist. Submit your completed Clinical Fellowship Report and pay the $110 license fee. Once licensed, you can explore various employment opportunities throughout New Hampshire.
Employment Opportunities in New Hampshire
Your Clinical Fellowship Site: Consider pursuing permanent employment where you completed your fellowship. Your supervisor may have full-time positions available or can connect you with other opportunities in the area.
School Districts: New Hampshire schools employ approximately half of the state’s SLPs, providing services to students with communication disorders in educational settings.
Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and skilled nursing facilities throughout New Hampshire hire SLPs to work with patients recovering from stroke, brain injury, and other conditions.
Private Practice: Once licensed, you may open an independent practice or partner with other SLPs, allowing you to set your own schedule and work with your preferred patient populations.
Notable New Hampshire Employers:
- Swing for the Stars Pediatric Therapy
- Home Health VNA
- Speech Therapy Solutions
- Clearly Speaking
- Catholic Medical Center
- Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital
- Concord Hospital
- Southern New Hampshire Health
Step 5: Renew Your License and Complete Continuing Education Requirements
New Hampshire requires SLPs to renew their licenses every 2 years. You’ll receive a renewal notice and application packet at least one month before your expiration date.
Continuing Education Requirements
The New Hampshire Office of Professional Licensure and Certification requires you to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain your license. Your continuing education must come from ASHA-approved conferences, seminars, workshops, or webinars. Browse available opportunities through ASHA’s continuing education portal.
CE Broker Tracking System
New Hampshire requires all SLPs to use CE Broker for continuing education tracking. Upload your completed CE hours as you earn them to ensure compliance with license renewal requirements.
Speech-Language Pathology Salary in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers competitive compensation for speech-language pathologists, with salaries varying by experience level, geographic location, and practice setting.
Statewide Salary Overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry-Level) | $62,190 | $29.90 |
| 25th Percentile | $70,350 | $33.82 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $83,800 | $40.29 |
| Average | $86,900 | $41.78 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,710 | $49.38 |
| 90th Percentile | $113,060 | $54.36 |
Regional Salary Comparison
Salaries for SLPs in New Hampshire vary by region. Central New Hampshire’s nonmetropolitan areas offer particularly strong compensation:
| Region | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Central New Hampshire (Nonmetropolitan) | $91,630 | $64,700 – $106,080 |
| New Hampshire (Statewide Average) | $86,900 | $62,190 – $113,060 |
Job Growth and Outlook
The demand for speech-language pathologists in New Hampshire continues to grow. The profession is expected to see steady growth through 2034, driven by an aging population, increased awareness of early intervention, and expanded services in educational settings. Annual job openings arise from new positions, retirements, and natural workforce turnover, creating consistent opportunities for new and experienced SLPs.
Practice Settings and Specializations
Approximately half of New Hampshire’s SLPs work in educational settings, while about one-third practice in healthcare facilities. Specialized clinics focusing on pediatric therapy, feeding disorders, and neurological rehabilitation can be found throughout the state, offering diverse career paths for SLPs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a speech pathologist in New Hampshire?
The complete path takes 7-8 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2 years for a CAA-accredited master’s program, and 9 months for the clinical fellowship. You can practice with a provisional license during your fellowship year.
Do I need a license to work as an SLP in New Hampshire?
Yes, New Hampshire requires state licensure for all practicing speech-language pathologists. You must complete a master’s degree, pass the Praxis exam, and finish a clinical fellowship before obtaining full licensure.
Can I practice in New Hampshire with an out-of-state license?
New Hampshire is a member of the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC), which allows licensed SLPs from other compact states to practice across state lines. For non-compact states, contact the NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification to inquire about licensure by endorsement if you’re already licensed in another state.
What’s the difference between ASHA certification and state licensure?
State licensure is legally required to practice in New Hampshire, while ASHA’s CCC-SLP certification is a voluntary professional credential. Both require similar educational and clinical requirements, but New Hampshire licensure is mandatory, while the CCC-SLP is optional but valued by employers.
How much does it cost to become licensed in New Hampshire?
The New Graduate License and full licensure each cost $110. Additional expenses include Praxis exam fees ($140), FBI background check fees (approximately $50), and transcript fees. Budget around $300- $ 400 for the complete licensure process, excluding educational costs.
Where can I find clinical fellowship opportunities in New Hampshire?
Many graduate programs maintain relationships with New Hampshire healthcare facilities and schools that offer clinical fellowships. You can also search professional job boards, contact hospitals and school districts directly, and network with licensed SLPs in your desired practice area.
What continuing education is required to maintain my New Hampshire SLP license?
You must complete 30 hours of ASHA-approved continuing education every two years. Use the CE Broker system to track your hours as you complete them. Continuing education must come from approved conferences, seminars, workshops, or webinars.
Key Takeaways
- Educational Requirements: Complete a CAA-accredited master’s degree program (2 years) and pass the Praxis exam with a score of 162 or higher.
- Clinical Fellowship: Complete a 9-month, 1,260-hour supervised clinical fellowship under a licensed SLP before obtaining full licensure.
- Licensure: Apply for a New Graduate License during your fellowship, then full licensure upon completion through the NH Board ($110 per license).
- Competitive Salary: New Hampshire SLPs earn an average of $86,900 annually, with experienced practitioners earning over $113,000 in the 90th percentile.
- Continuing Education: Maintain your license by completing 30 hours of ASHA-approved continuing education every two years.
- Diverse Opportunities: Work in schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices, or specialized clinics throughout New Hampshire.
Ready to Start Your SLP Career in New Hampshire?
Begin your journey to becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist in New Hampshire by exploring accredited graduate programs. Compare programs, admission requirements, and specializations to find the right fit for your career goals.
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.