To become an SLP in Tennessee, you must earn a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program, complete a 9-month clinical fellowship, pass the Praxis exam with a score of 162 or higher, and obtain state licensure through the Tennessee Board of Communications Disorders and Sciences.
- 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.
Tennessee’s growing demand for speech-language pathologists reflects a nationwide trend toward early intervention and expanded special education services. The state projects a 31% increase in SLP jobs through 2030, creating approximately 320 new positions each year. This growth rate exceeds the national average by 12 percentage points.
The Tennessee Department of Health provides comprehensive services for residents with communication disorders, including early intervention programs for preschool-age children. As these programs expand and school districts continue integrating speech therapy into special education, career opportunities for SLPs across Tennessee continue to grow.
This guide walks you through the five essential steps to become a licensed speech-language pathologist in Tennessee, from graduate education through licensure and continuing education requirements. You can also explore online speech-language pathology programs if you need flexible scheduling options.
Step 1: Complete a Graduate Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
Your first step toward Tennessee licensure is earning a master’s degree or doctorate in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). Tennessee accepts only CAA-accredited programs for licensure eligibility.
Graduate programs typically take two years to complete and include both coursework and supervised clinical practice. You’ll study topics like speech and language development, anatomy and physiology, hearing science, and various communication disorders. Programs require 400 hours of supervised clinical practice before graduation, preparing you for your post-graduate clinical fellowship. Explore our comprehensive directory of CAA-accredited speech-language pathology programs nationwide.
Online and Campus-Based Options
CAA-accredited online programs offer flexibility for working professionals and students with family commitments. These programs maintain the same rigorous standards as campus-based options, including hands-on clinical experiences arranged in your local area.
Many programs accept students without undergraduate degrees in speech-language pathology. If you’re coming from a different field, you’ll complete prerequisite courses at the start of your graduate program. These foundation courses cover essential topics and prepare you for advanced coursework.
What You’ll Study
Core courses in SLP graduate programs include:
- Introduction to Hearing Science
- Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing
- Speech and Language Development
- Language Disorders in Children and Adults
- Aural Habilitation and Rehabilitation
- Stuttering and Fluency Disorders
- Voice Disorders
- Neural Bases of Speech and Language
- Swallowing Disorders
- Clinical Methods and Procedures
Tennessee Board-Approved Programs
Five universities in Tennessee offer CAA-accredited master’s programs approved by the state board:
- East Tennessee State University – Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
- Tennessee State University – Master of Science in Speech and Hearing Science
- University of Memphis – Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center – Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
- Vanderbilt University – Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Step 2: Complete Your Clinical Fellowship
After earning your graduate degree, you’ll complete a 9-month clinical fellowship under the supervision of a licensed SLP. This supervised professional experience is required for Tennessee licensure and helps you transition from student to independent practitioner.
The clinical fellowship is your first paid position in the field. You’ll work with real clients while receiving regular supervision and feedback from an experienced SLP. This hands-on experience builds your confidence and competence across different settings and patient populations.
Finding Your Clinical Fellowship
Choose a fellowship that aligns with your long-term career goals. Tennessee offers diverse opportunities across healthcare, education, and private practice settings. Consider what type of clients you want to work with and which environment suits your professional interests.
Common employers for clinical fellows in Tennessee include:
School Districts (requires additional teaching certification through the Tennessee Department of Education):
- Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools
- Knox County School District
- Maury County Public Schools
- Arlington, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, Lakeland, and Millington Municipal School Districts
- Johnson County Schools
Private Practices:
- Franklin Speech and Learning (Nashville)
- The Speech, Language, and Learning Center (Columbia and Lawrenceburg)
- West Tennessee Hearing and Speech Center (Jackson)
- Mountain Region Speech and Hearing Center (Kingsport)
Hospitals and Medical Centers:
- Saint Thomas Health Outpatient Rehabilitation (Cool Springs, Midtown, Murfreesboro)
- Siskin Hospital for Rehabilitation (Chattanooga, East Brainerd, Cleveland)
- The Children’s Hospital at TriStar Centennial (Nashville)
- University of Tennessee Medical Center (Knoxville)
Long-Term Care Facilities:
- Gallaway Health and Rehab (Gallaway)
- Richland Place Health Center (Nashville)
Provisional License Requirements
You must apply for a provisional license as a Clinical Fellow with the Tennessee Board within 10 days of starting your fellowship. Submit your application through the board’s online portal. The provisional license is valid for one year and can be extended in 3-month intervals if you need additional time to complete your fellowship hours.
During your fellowship, you’ll gain experience across ASHA’s full scope of practice, including screening, assessment, treatment planning, intervention, research, and client advocacy. Your supervisor will evaluate your progress and provide mentorship throughout the year.
CCC-SLP Certification Path
If you plan to pursue ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), complete the SLP Clinical Fellowship Report and Rating Form. While not required for Tennessee licensure, many employers prefer or require this national credential.
Step 3: Pass the Praxis Examination
The Praxis Speech-Language Pathology examination is a national test required for Tennessee licensure. You must score at least 162 on a scale of 100 to 200. Most candidates take the exam during their final semester of graduate school or shortly after graduation.
Exam Format and Content
The Praxis SLP exam includes 132 multiple-choice questions. You have 150 minutes to complete the test. Questions are divided into three equal categories:
| Content Area | Percentage | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations and Professional Practice | 33% | Wellness and prevention, counseling and collaboration, legislation and advocacy, research methodology |
| Screening, Assessment, and Diagnosis | 33% | Case history development, assessment procedures, genetic and developmental disorders, and social communication |
| Planning and Implementation | 33% | Treatment factors, intervention planning, progress monitoring, and discharge planning |
Registration and Test Centers
Register for the Praxis exam through the ETS website. Tennessee offers test centers in multiple cities for your convenience:
- Chattanooga
- Clarksville
- Columbia
- Cookeville
- Jackson
- Johnson City
- Knoxville
- Martin
- Memphis
- Morristown
- Murfreesboro
- Nashville
Preparing for the Exam
ETS provides official preparation materials through its website, including practice questions and study guides. Many candidates also use study groups, online courses, and review books to prepare. Plan to study for 6-8 weeks before your test date.
The Praxis board sends your scores directly to the Tennessee Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences. Results are typically available within 2-3 weeks of your test date.
Step 4: Obtain Your Tennessee SLP License
Once you’ve completed your graduate degree, clinical fellowship, and Praxis exam, you’re ready to apply for Tennessee licensure. The Tennessee Board of Communications Disorders and Sciences issues licenses to qualified speech-language pathologists.
Application Process
Submit your Application for Licensure through the board’s online portal. You’ll need to include an official transcript from your graduate program showing your degree completion. The board verifies your Praxis scores directly from ETS.
Processing times vary, but most applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks. You can check your application status online through your board account. Contact the board directly if you have questions or need expedited processing.
School-Based SLP Certification
If you plan to work in Tennessee public schools, you need additional certification from the Tennessee Department of Education. Your clinical SLP license isn’t sufficient for school employment. You must hold one of these credentials:
- Speech Language Teacher License
- Apprentice Special Group License
- Practitioner School Services Personnel License
- Professional School Services Personnel License with SLP endorsement
Requirements and applications for these teaching licenses differ from your clinical license. Visit the Tennessee Department of Education website for specific information about school-based certification.
Beginning Your Career
After receiving your license, you have several paths forward. Many SLPs continue working at the site where they completed their clinical fellowship. Others explore new opportunities through job boards and professional associations.
The Tennessee Association of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists maintains an employment listings page with current openings across the state. These positions span schools, hospitals, private practices, and other settings.
Tennessee’s Early Intervention System serves families with young children who have developmental delays or disabilities. Many public school districts also hire SLPs to provide in-school services for students with communication disorders.
Some SLPs choose to open private practices, serving their local communities independently. Private practice offers flexibility and the opportunity to specialize in specific populations or disorders.
Optional CCC-SLP Certification
Meeting Tennessee’s licensure requirements also qualifies you for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech-Language Pathology. While voluntary, this national credential demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence.
Many employers prefer or require the CCC-SLP, especially hospitals and healthcare systems. The certification also facilitates license reciprocity if you move to another state. Submit your application through ASHA’s online portal, including your clinical fellowship report and official graduate transcript.
ASHA Specialty Certifications
ASHA offers four specialty board certifications for SLPs with advanced expertise:
- Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (BCS-S)
- Intraoperative Monitoring (BCS-IOM)
- Child Language and Language Disorders (BCS-CL)
- Fluency and Fluency Disorders (BCS-F)
These certifications require additional education, experience, and examination. They help market your specialized skills to employers and clients.
Step 5: Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
Tennessee SLP licenses must be renewed annually. You’ll complete 10 hours of continuing education before each renewal, ensuring you stay current with research, techniques, and best practices.
Continuing Education Requirements
Your 10 required CE hours must include:
- 5 hours in your primary specialty area (pediatrics, medical, voice, etc.)
- 5 hours in either speech-language pathology or audiology topics
ASHA-approved courses, university classes, professional conferences, and online programs all count toward your requirement. Keep certificates of completion for your records in case of an audit.
Continuing Education Providers
The Tennessee Association of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists offers CE opportunities throughout the year, including annual conferences and workshops. The association also provides professional advocacy and networking opportunities for Tennessee SLPs.
Many online platforms offer convenient, affordable CE courses you can complete on your schedule. ASHA also provides continuing education through webinars, conferences, and online courses.
License Renewal Process
Renewal applications open several months before your license expires. Submit your renewal through the board’s online portal, documenting your completed CE hours. The board may audit your CE compliance, so maintain records for at least three years.
Tennessee SLP Salary and Job Outlook
Speech-language pathologists in Tennessee earn competitive salaries, with compensation varying by location, setting, and experience level. The statewide average provides a comfortable living wage, and high-earning SLPs significantly exceed this baseline.
Statewide Salary Overview
The average Tennessee SLP earns $83,200 annually, or $40.00 per hour. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator for Tennessee, a family of four (two adults with one working and two children) requires approximately $68,808 annually to meet basic needs, making the average SLP salary comfortably sufficient for supporting a household on a single income. Experienced SLPs in the 90th percentile earn $111,030 or more annually.
Salary by Metropolitan Area
The following salary data is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey for May 2024, published in November 2024. Regional figures represent metropolitan statistical areas as defined by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.
Tennessee’s major cities offer varying salary ranges based on cost of living and demand. The table below shows average salaries and high-end earnings for key markets:
| Metropolitan Area | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | 90th Percentile Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $84,560 | $40.65 | $113,500 |
| Clarksville | $80,730 | $38.81 | N/A |
| Chattanooga | $80,580 | $38.74 | N/A |
| Johnson City | $79,320 | $38.14 | $111,610 |
| Cleveland | $78,560 | $37.77 | $125,210 |
| Nashville | $76,790 | $36.92 | N/A |
| Metro Kingsport | $76,450 | $36.75 | N/A |
| Knoxville | $74,250 | $35.70 | N/A |
| Jackson | $73,350 | $35.26 | N/A |
Salary Growth Trends
Tennessee SLP salaries have shown consistent growth over recent years. Between 2019 and 2023, several markets experienced significant increases:
- Nashville salaries rose 8% to $76,790
- Memphis compensation increased 6% to $84,560
- Metro Kingsport wages grew 5% to $76,450
- Knoxville salaries advanced 5% to $74,250
- Jackson compensation rose 5% to $73,350
Strong Job Growth Projections
According to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s employment projections, the state forecasts a 31% increase in SLP positions through 2030, creating approximately 320 new jobs annually. This growth rate, sourced from Projections Central and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections program, exceeds the national average by 12 percentage points.
Several factors drive this demand:
- Expanded early intervention programs for young children
- Growing integration of speech therapy in special education
- An aging population requiring communication and swallowing services
- Increased awareness of communication disorders
Employment Distribution
Tennessee employs approximately 2,820 speech-language pathologists across the state. Major metropolitan areas concentrate the largest numbers of SLP positions:
- Metro Nashville: 1,010 SLPs
- Memphis: 450 SLPs
- Chattanooga: 380 SLPs
- Knoxville: 340 SLPs
- Metro Kingsport: 120 SLPs
Practice Settings
Tennessee SLPs work in diverse environments, each offering unique opportunities and challenges. School districts employ large numbers of SLPs, providing services during the academic year with summers off. Hospitals and healthcare systems offer medical SLP roles with competitive benefits.
Private practices allow independent practitioners to build specialized client bases and set their own schedules. Long-term care facilities need SLPs to serve elderly residents with swallowing and communication disorders. Early intervention programs focus on young children and family education.
Tennessee’s many private clinics specializing in speech-language pathology include:
- The Speech and Hearing Center (Chattanooga)
- More Than Words Therapy Services (Clarksville)
- Speech & Hearing Center (Cleveland)
- The Speech, Language & Learning Center (Columbia)
- Patrick Rehab-Wellness Center (Fayetteville)
- Jones Therapy Services (Franklin)
- PipSqueak Speech Therapy (Franklin)
- West Tennessee Hearing & Speech Center (Jackson)
- Speech Language Reading Center (Hixson)
- Clearly Speaking Speech Path (Knoxville)
- Deborah L Curlee Communication Consultants (Knoxville)
- Speech Language & Learning Center (Lawrenceburg)
- Speech Pathology Services of Eastern Tennessee (Maryville)
- Lyttle Fox Therapy (Mount Juliet)
- Bright Beginnings Pediatric Therapy Center (Murfreesboro)
- Jones Therapy Services (Murfreesboro)
- Speech/Language Services (Nashville)
- Jennifer McVey Pediatric Speech Therapy (Nolensville)
- Let’s Talk Speech Therapy (Oneida)
- Speech Language & Learning Center (Spring Hill)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an SLP in Tennessee?
The complete process typically takes 6 to 7 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2 years for a master’s degree in speech-language pathology, and 9 months for the clinical fellowship. You can apply for licensure during your fellowship year, so most graduates receive their license about 6.5 years after starting college.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree in SLP to get into Tennessee graduate programs?
No. Many Tennessee graduate programs accept students from other undergraduate majors. Programs offer prerequisite courses at the start to prepare students without SLP backgrounds. You’ll study foundational topics in speech science, language development, and anatomy before beginning advanced coursework.
What’s the passing score for the Praxis SLP exam in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires a minimum score of 162 on the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam, which uses a scale from 100 to 200. The exam includes 132 multiple-choice questions covering foundations and professional practice, screening and assessment, and treatment planning and implementation. You have 150 minutes to complete the test.
How much do SLPs earn in Tennessee?
The average SLP salary in Tennessee is $83,200 annually, or $40.00 per hour. High earners in the 90th percentile make $111,030 or more. Memphis offers the highest average salaries at $84,560, while Cleveland provides the highest top-end salaries at $125,210 for experienced practitioners.
Can I work as an SLP in Tennessee schools with just my clinical license?
No. Tennessee public schools require additional certification from the Tennessee Department of Education. You’ll need a Speech Language Teacher License or School Services Personnel License with SLP endorsement in addition to your clinical SLP license from the Board of Communications Disorders and Sciences.
Does Tennessee offer reciprocity for SLP licenses from other states?
Tennessee accepts credentials from SLPs licensed in other states who meet Tennessee’s core requirements: a CAA-accredited master’s degree, completed clinical fellowship, and passing Praxis score. You’ll still submit an application and documentation, but you won’t need to repeat your fellowship or exam. Contact the Tennessee Board to confirm your specific situation.
What’s the job outlook for SLPs in Tennessee?
Tennessee’s SLP job market shows excellent growth potential. The state projects a 31% increase in SLP positions through 2030, creating approximately 320 new jobs each year. This growth rate exceeds the national average by 12%, driven by expanded early intervention programs, growing special education services, and an aging population requiring communication and swallowing therapy.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee requires a CAA-accredited master’s degree, a 9-month clinical fellowship, and a Praxis exam score of 162 or higher for SLP licensure
- Five Tennessee universities offer board-approved graduate programs: East Tennessee State, Tennessee State, University of Memphis, UT Health Science Center, and Vanderbilt
- School-based SLPs need additional Tennessee Department of Education certification beyond the clinical license from the Board of Communication Disorders and Sciences
- The average SLP salary in Tennessee is $83,200, with top earners making $111,030 or more in cities like Memphis ($113,500) and Cleveland ($125,210)
- Job growth projected at 31% through 2030, creating approximately 320 new positions annually and exceeding the national rate by 12%
- Annual license renewal requires 10 hours of continuing education: 5 hours in your specialty area and 5 hours in speech-language pathology or audiology topics
- 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 SLP Career in Tennessee?
Explore CAA-accredited speech-language pathology programs that match your career goals and location preferences.
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.