To become a speech-language pathologist in Pennsylvania, you need a master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program (with prerequisite coursework if your bachelor’s wasn’t in SLP), 1,260 clinical fellowship hours completed within two years, a passing Praxis exam score of 162 or higher, and state licensure. The complete process takes 6-7 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s (depending on prerequisites), and 1 year for your clinical fellowship. Pennsylvania SLPs earn a median salary of $93,800 annually.
- 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.
Pennsylvania offers outstanding opportunities for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) across diverse settings and communities. This comprehensive guide walks you through the five essential steps to earning your SLP license in Pennsylvania, from selecting an accredited graduate program to maintaining your professional credentials.
Pennsylvania’s speech-language pathologists work in some of the nation’s most respected healthcare facilities. The Department of Speech-Language Pathology at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh is recognized as one of the most outstanding pediatric facilities in the nation, providing SLP services across five clinics throughout the city with both inpatient and outpatient evaluations, specialty assessments, and collaborative care with audiology, otolaryngology, and the Cleft-Craniofacial Center. On the eastern side of the state, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) provides comprehensive care for children with speech and language disorders through the Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care and several CHOP Specialty Care Centers across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Step 1: Complete a Master’s Degree from an ASHA-Accredited Program
Your journey to becoming a Pennsylvania SLP begins with earning a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), part of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This accreditation ensures your education meets national professional standards.
Pennsylvania offers 15 CAA-accredited master’s programs in speech-language pathology. If you need flexibility, you can also pursue an accredited online master’s degree that meets Pennsylvania’s requirements.
Admission Requirements
Most Pennsylvania SLP graduate programs require:
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
- GRE scores in the 30th percentile or above
- Strong academic references
- Relevant volunteer or observation experience
You don’t need a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology to apply. If you majored in another field, you’ll complete prerequisite coursework before beginning core graduate classes.
Prerequisite Coursework
If you didn’t complete an undergraduate degree in SLP, you’ll take foundational courses, including:
- Phonetics – Study of speech sounds and their production
- Speech Science – Acoustic and physiological aspects of speech
- Anatomy and Physiology of Speech, Hearing, and Swallowing – Understanding the physical mechanisms
- Language Development – How language skills emerge across the lifespan
- Introduction to Communication Disorders – Overview of the field
- Introduction to Audiology and Hearing Science – Basics of hearing and hearing loss
- Neuroanatomy of Speech, Hearing, and Swallowing – Brain structures and functions
Core Graduate Coursework
Your master’s program will cover essential topics across communication disorders:
- Aphasia – Language disorders following brain injury
- Language Disorders in Preschool Children – Early Intervention Approaches
- Fluency Disorders – Stuttering and cluttering assessment and treatment
- Disorders of Phonology and Articulation – Speech sound production issues
- Professional Issues in Speech-Language Pathology – Ethics, law, and practice management
- Voice Disorders – Vocal quality and resonance problems
- Language Disorders in School-Aged Children – Academic Language Support
Elective Specializations
Choose electives that align with your career interests:
- Craniofacial Disorders – Cleft palate and related conditions
- Motor Speech Disorders – Apraxia and dysarthria
- Cognitive-Based Language Disorders – Language and Cognition Connections
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication – Technology-based communication supports
- Clinical Instrumentation in Speech Pathology – Assessment technology
- Swallowing: Anatomy, Physiology, and Disorders – Dysphagia management
- Research in Speech and Language Pathology – Evidence-based practice methods
Clinical Practicum Requirements
Your graduate program includes supervised clinical practice with specific requirements:
- Minimum 375 total practicum hours
- At least 50 hours in two or more distinctly different clinical environments
- Experience with diverse age groups (children and adults)
- Exposure to various disorder types (articulation, voice, fluency, language)
- Supervised diagnostic evaluations (at least 50% supervision required)
- Treatment and counseling (minimum 25% supervision required)
You’ll begin by observing experienced supervisors and gradually take on more independent responsibilities while receiving feedback on diagnostic conclusions, treatment plans, and therapeutic methods.
Step 2: Complete Your Clinical Fellowship Year
After graduating, you’ll complete a Year of Supervised Professional Experience (YSPE), commonly called the Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY). This critical phase bridges your academic training and independent practice.
Clinical Fellowship Requirements
- Duration: 1,260 hours of clinical experience
- Timeframe: Must be completed within two years
- Supervision: Work under a qualified SLP supervisor
- Direct Client Contact: At least 80% of each week spent in assessment, diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment activities
- Screening Limitation: Client screening should constitute no more than 50% of your time
- Mentorship Meetings: Meet with your supervisor at least monthly to review activities and progress
Finding Clinical Fellowship Positions
Your graduate program can often help you secure a clinical fellowship placement. You can also search for CFY positions through specialized job boards listing clinical fellowship opportunities across Pennsylvania.
Many SLPs complete their clinical fellowship at the same site where they completed practicum hours, which can provide continuity and a strong support network during this transitional period.
Step 3: Pass the National SLP Examination
After completing your clinical fellowship, you’ll take the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology (test code 5331) administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Praxis Exam Requirements
- Passing Score: 162 or higher (Pennsylvania requirement)
- Registration: Register directly through ETS
- Test Centers: Multiple locations available throughout Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Testing Centers
Praxis testing centers are conveniently located across Pennsylvania, including:
| City | Region |
|---|---|
| Allentown | Eastern PA |
| Bethlehem | Eastern PA |
| Philadelphia | Southeastern PA |
| Pittsburgh | Western PA |
| Harrisburg | Central PA |
| Erie | Northwestern PA |
| Lancaster | South Central PA |
| York | South Central PA |
Additional testing sites are available in Bloomsburg, Clarks Summit, Conshohocken, East Stroudsburg, Hawley, Hazleton, Immaculata, Indiana, Lock Haven, Meadville, Media, Millersville, Monroeville, Oil City, Slippery Rock, and West Chester.
Exam Content Areas
The Praxis SLP examination covers comprehensive content across nine major domains:
- Foundations and Professional Practice – Ethics, evidence-based practice, and professional standards
- Development and Performance Across the Lifespan – Typical communication development
- Factors Influencing Communication – Environmental, cultural, and linguistic considerations
- Wellness and Prevention – Screening and health promotion
- Documentation and Advocacy – Record-keeping and supporting client needs
- Assessment – Case history, formal and informal evaluation methods
- Speech Sound Production – Articulation and Phonology Disorders
- Fluency, Voice, and Motor Speech – Stuttering, voice disorders, apraxia, dysarthria
- Language and Social Communication – Receptive/expressive language, pragmatics
Exam Preparation Resources
ETS provides official Praxis preparation materials, including:
- Study companion with practice questions and topic breakdowns
- Interactive practice exams that simulate test conditions
- Content specifications outlining all tested areas
CCC-SLP Certification (Optional but Recommended)
After passing the Praxis exam and completing your clinical fellowship, you can apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) through ASHA. While Pennsylvania doesn’t require this credential for state licensure, the CCC-SLP demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and is highly valued by employers. Many healthcare facilities and school districts prefer or require the CCC-SLP credential.
You can apply directly through ASHA’s online portal once you’ve met all requirements.
Step 4: Apply for Pennsylvania State Licensure
Once you’ve passed the Praxis exam with a score of 162 or higher, you’re ready to apply for your Pennsylvania speech-language pathology license through the Pennsylvania State Board of Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (the State Board).
License Application Process
Submit your application online through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) with the following documentation:
- Official graduate transcript from your ASHA-accredited program
- Proof of clinical practicum completion (375+ hours)
- Official Praxis score report showing 162 or higher
- Verification of clinical fellowship completion
- Application fee payment
Starting Your Career in Pennsylvania
With your license in hand, you can pursue several career paths:
Join Your Clinical Fellowship Site
Many clinics prefer to hire SLPs who have completed their clinical fellowship on-site. You’ve already built relationships with staff and patients, learned the facility’s protocols, and demonstrated your clinical skills. Contact your CFY supervisor about full-time opportunities.
Explore Employment Opportunities
Pennsylvania’s diverse healthcare landscape offers numerous career options:
- Healthcare Systems: Temple University Health System, Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals, Cancer Treatment Centers of America
- Rehabilitation Centers: HCR ManorCare, Fox Rehabilitation, Evergreen Rehabilitation
- Private Practices: Progress Therapy LLC, Tender Touch Rehab Services, CCI Rehab Services
- School-Based Settings: TALK Institute and School, Accomplish Therapy
- Home Health: Invo Healthcare Associates, Dynamicare Therapy
Start an Independent Practice
Some Pennsylvania SLPs choose to open their own practice, allowing you to set your schedule, select specific patient populations, and build your own clinical approach. This path requires additional business planning but offers significant professional autonomy.
Step 5: Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
Pennsylvania SLP licenses expire every two years on July 31st. You’ll need to complete continuing education requirements to maintain your active license.
Renewal Requirements
- Renewal Cycle: Every two years (expires July 31st of odd-numbered years)
- Continuing Education: 20 hours required per renewal cycle
- Approved Providers: Courses must be completed through ASHA or ASHA-approved entities, including CAA-accredited Pennsylvania universities
- Renewal Method: Online renewal through PALS
Documentation Requirements
Keep detailed records of your continuing education activities, including:
- Program flyers or brochures
- Certificates of completion
- Letters from course instructors
- Documentation signed by program providers
While you don’t submit these documents with each renewal, the Pennsylvania State Board conducts periodic audits of licensed SLPs to verify continuing education compliance. Maintain your documentation for at least one renewal cycle beyond your current license period.
Pennsylvania Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries and Job Growth
Pennsylvania offers competitive compensation for speech-language pathologists, with salaries varying by region, setting, and experience level.
Statewide Salary Overview
| Salary Category | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th Percentile) | $61,240 | $29.44 |
| Mid-Career (25th Percentile) | $76,870 | $36.96 |
| Median | $93,800 | $45.10 |
| Experienced (75th Percentile) | $105,880 | $50.90 |
| Top Earners (90th Percentile) | $127,340 | $61.22 |
Median Annual Salary: $93,800 | Average Annual Salary: $93,980 | Total SLPs Employed: 6,860
Metropolitan Area Salaries
Pennsylvania’s metropolitan areas offer varying compensation levels based on cost of living, demand, and healthcare infrastructure:
| Metropolitan Area | Average Salary | Entry-Level | Median | Experienced |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gettysburg | $103,450 | $76,940 | $101,030 | $139,360 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $99,170 | $64,910 | $100,080 | $131,520 |
| Chambersburg | $95,260 | $73,170 | $97,030 | $131,590 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $94,610 | $62,390 | $94,230 | $132,780 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $93,990 | $64,510 | $86,440 | $124,110 |
| State College | $91,700 | $63,070 | $92,670 | $114,400 |
| Reading | $90,320 | $64,660 | $91,700 | $114,630 |
| Erie | $86,900 | $61,370 | $87,670 | $113,030 |
| Altoona | $86,360 | $63,260 | $83,440 | $113,730 |
| Pittsburgh | $84,700 | $52,410 | $82,400 | $113,190 |
Job Growth and Market Outlook
Pennsylvania’s demand for speech-language pathologists continues to grow significantly. Between 2019 and 2024, the average SLP salary in Pennsylvania increased by approximately 10%, reflecting strong market demand and the profession’s value in healthcare delivery.
Projected Job Growth (2024-2034): Pennsylvania is expected to see a 27% increase in SLP positions over the next decade, creating approximately 580 new job openings annually. This growth stems from:
- Increasing awareness of early intervention benefits
- A growing elderly population requiring swallowing and communication support
- Expansion of telepractice and school-based services
- Natural workforce turnover and retirements
Top Private Practice Employers
Pennsylvania’s private practice sector offers diverse opportunities across the state:
- Philadelphia Area: Jill Fedlbaum SLP
- Pittsburgh Area: Bethany Anke SLP, Crossroads Speech & Hearing, Nathan Speech Services, Talktime Speech Therapy
- West Chester: EBS Healthcare
- Bala Cynwyd: Kutest Kids Early Intervention
- Beaver Falls: Talktime Speech Therapy
- Carlisle: Draavery Physical Therapy Institute (Nichole J Reynolds)
- East Stroudsburg: Speech & Hearing Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an SLP in Pennsylvania?
The complete path to Pennsylvania SLP licensure typically takes 6-7 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s degree in speech-language pathology (depending on whether you need prerequisite courses), and approximately 1 year for your clinical fellowship. If you already have a bachelor’s in SLP or completed prerequisites during your undergraduate studies, you can complete the master’s degree in 2 years, reducing the total timeline to 6 years. Students who need additional prerequisite coursework before starting core graduate classes may take closer to 7 years total.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology to get into a Pennsylvania graduate program?
No, you don’t need an undergraduate degree specifically in speech-language pathology. Pennsylvania graduate programs accept students from various academic backgrounds. If you majored in a different field, you’ll complete prerequisite coursework in areas like phonetics, speech science, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, language development, and introduction to communication disorders before starting core graduate classes.
What Praxis score do I need to practice in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania requires a minimum passing score of 162 on the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology (test code 5331). This score meets both state licensure requirements and ASHA’s certification standards. The exam is administered by ETS at testing centers throughout Pennsylvania, and you should register directly through the ETS Praxis website.
Can I complete my clinical fellowship at any clinic in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you can complete your clinical fellowship at any approved clinical site in Pennsylvania, provided you work under a qualified SLP supervisor who holds the appropriate credentials. Your clinical fellowship must include 1,260 hours completed within two years, with at least 80% of each week spent in direct client contact. Many graduate programs help students find clinical fellowship placements, or you can search independently through job boards specializing in CFY positions.
How much do speech-language pathologists earn in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania SLPs earn a median salary of $93,800 annually, with the average at $93,980. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) start around $61,240, while experienced SLPs in the 90th percentile earn $127,340 or more. Salaries vary significantly by metropolitan area, with Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Gettysburg offering the highest average compensation. Between 2019 and 2024, Pennsylvania SLP salaries increased by approximately 10%.
Do I need the CCC-SLP to work in Pennsylvania?
No, the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA is not legally required for Pennsylvania state licensure. However, many employers, particularly healthcare facilities and school districts, prefer or require the CCC-SLP credential. Obtaining your CCC-SLP demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and can significantly expand your job opportunities. You can apply for the CCC-SLP after completing your clinical fellowship and passing the Praxis exam.
What continuing education is required to maintain my Pennsylvania SLP license?
Pennsylvania requires 20 hours of continuing education every two years for license renewal. These hours must be completed through ASHA or ASHA-approved entities, including CAA-accredited universities in Pennsylvania. Your license expires on July 31st of every odd-numbered year, and you’ll renew online through the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS). Keep detailed documentation of your continuing education activities, as the State Board periodically audits licensed professionals to verify compliance.
Key Takeaways: Becoming an SLP in Pennsylvania
- Complete Timeline: The path to Pennsylvania SLP licensure takes 6-7 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s from an ASHA-accredited program (depending on prerequisite needs), and 1 year for a clinical fellowship, completing 375+ practicum hours during graduate school.
- Clinical Fellowship: Complete 1,260 supervised clinical hours within two years, with at least 80% focused on direct client contact in assessment and treatment.
- Praxis Requirement: Pass the national examination with a score of 162 or higher to meet Pennsylvania’s licensure standards.
- Strong Salary Potential: Pennsylvania SLPs earn a median salary of $93,800 (with the average at $93,980), and top earners make $127,340+. Philadelphia and Gettysburg offer the highest compensation.
- Excellent Job Growth: Pennsylvania projects 27% growth in SLP positions from 2024-2034, creating approximately 580 annual job openings across diverse settings.
- Ongoing Requirements: Maintain licensure with 20 continuing education hours every two years through ASHA or approved providers, with licenses expiring July 31st of odd-numbered years.
- 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 Start Your Pennsylvania SLP Career?
Pennsylvania offers exceptional opportunities for speech-language pathologists, from prestigious healthcare facilities to rewarding private practice settings. Begin your journey by exploring accredited graduate programs that align with your career 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.