To become an SLP in Vermont, you’ll need a master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program, complete a 36-week clinical fellowship supervised by a licensed SLP, pass the Praxis exam (score 162+), and obtain licensure through Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation. The process typically takes 6-7 years with median salaries of $81,890 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.
Vermont’s speech-language pathologists are essential healthcare professionals serving communities across the state’s diverse landscape. From Burlington’s medical centers to rural schools in the Northeast Kingdom, SLPs provide life-changing services to people of all ages with speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders stemming from injury, neurological conditions, developmental delays, and medical conditions.
With approximately 470 licensed SLPs serving Vermont’s population, the state maintains a robust community of communication specialists. Vermont’s small professional community offers tight-knit networking through the Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association and exceptional opportunities for new graduates to make meaningful impacts in both urban and rural practice settings.
Step 1: Complete an Accredited Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology
To become a licensed SLP in Vermont, you must earn a master’s degree in speech-language pathology accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). The CAA accredits both online and traditional campus-based master’s programs, giving Vermont residents multiple pathways to enter the field.
Vermont’s Limited Campus Options
Vermont has just one campus-based option: the Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders at the University of Vermont in Burlington. This highly competitive program typically admits students with GPAs of 3.5 or higher and strong clinical observation experience.
Due to limited in-state options, many Vermont residents pursue CAA-accredited online programs from universities nationwide. Online programs offer the same accreditation and clinical training requirements as campus programs, with the flexibility to complete coursework from home while arranging clinical placements near your Vermont community.
Undergraduate Prerequisites
If you hold a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or communication sciences and disorders, you can transition directly to graduate-level coursework. Students with degrees in other fields typically complete prerequisite courses or a pre-professional program before beginning their master’s studies. Common prerequisites include:
- Speech Science and Anatomy
- Phonetics and Phonology
- Language Acquisition and Development
- Introduction to Communication Disorders
- Introduction to Audiology
Graduate Program Requirements
SLP master’s programs require two to three years of full-time study and typically include 48-60 graduate credits. Your coursework will cover the breadth of communication sciences and disorders, preparing you for diverse clinical settings.
Core graduate coursework includes:
- Audiology and Hearing Rehabilitation – Understanding hearing disorders and their impact on communication
- Speech Sound Disorders – Assessment and treatment of articulation and phonological disorders
- Language Disorders – Working with children and adults with language impairments
- Dysphagia and Swallowing Disorders – Critical for medical SLP settings
- Voice and Fluency Disorders – Treating conditions like stuttering and vocal pathology
- Neurogenic Communication Disorders – Working with stroke, TBI, and progressive neurological conditions
- Clinical Methods and Evidence-Based Practice – Research and professional practice foundations
Clinical Practicum Experience
Your graduate program includes a supervised clinical practicum providing hands-on experience before your clinical fellowship. You’ll complete a minimum of 400 clock hours of supervised clinical experience across diverse populations and settings, with at least 325 hours in direct client contact. This prepares you for Vermont’s employment landscape, which spans schools, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and private practices.
Step 2: Complete a 36-Week Clinical Fellowship
Vermont requires completion of a Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist holding an active CCC-SLP credential. The fellowship must include at least 36 weeks of full-time professional experience (35 hours per week minimum) or the part-time equivalent.
Applying for Provisional Licensure
Before beginning your clinical fellowship, you must apply for Vermont’s Provisional License by Registration through the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) Online Services Platform. OPR no longer accepts paper applications.
Your provisional license application requires:
- Official transcripts sent directly from your graduate program
- Name and license number of your clinical fellowship supervisor
- Verification of your supervisor’s current Vermont licensure and CCC-SLP status
- Application fee payment through the OPR portal
Finding a Clinical Fellowship in Vermont
You’re responsible for securing your own clinical fellowship position with a qualified supervisor. The fellowship is a paid professional position that allows you to enter the field in your preferred practice setting. Choose carefully, as many fellows transition to full-time employment with their fellowship employer after obtaining licensure.
Vermont employers who regularly hire clinical fellows include:
| Employer | Location | Setting Type |
|---|---|---|
| Central Vermont Medical Center | Berlin | Hospital – Inpatient & Outpatient |
| University of Vermont Medical Center | Burlington | Academic Medical Center |
| Southwestern Vermont Health Care | Bennington | Hospital & Rehabilitation |
| Green Mountain Speech & Hearing Services | Montpelier | Private Practice |
| Vermont School Districts | Statewide | Educational |
Rural and Telehealth Opportunities
Vermont’s rural nature (65% of the state’s land area) creates unique opportunities for SLPs interested in telehealth service delivery. Many fellows gain experience providing telepractice services to underserved communities in the Northeast Kingdom and southern Vermont regions. This experience is increasingly valuable as telehealth becomes standard practice across healthcare settings.
Step 3: Pass the National SLP Examination
Vermont requires all SLP license applicants to pass the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). You can take the exam during your clinical fellowship or after completing it.
Exam Registration and Testing Centers
Register for the Praxis SLP exam through the ETS Praxis registration portal. You can test at any Praxis-authorized center nationwide. In Vermont, there’s a testing center in Williston (near Burlington), though you may also test at centers in neighboring states for convenience.
Exam Structure and Content
The Praxis SLP exam consists of 132 multiple-choice questions administered over 150 minutes. Questions are divided into three weighted categories:
| Content Area | Weight | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations and Professional Practice | 33% | Characteristics of disorders, culturally appropriate service delivery, documentation, and professional ethics |
| Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis | 33% | Communication and swallowing disorder assessment, case histories, anatomy, and physiology evaluation |
| Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Treatment | 33% | Treatment planning, goal development, determining appropriate interventions, and making recommendations |
Passing Score: Vermont requires a minimum score of 162 on a scale of 100-200. The national passing rate typically ranges from 88-92%, making adequate preparation essential.
Exam Preparation Resources
ETS provides official study materials and practice tests for the SLP Praxis exam. Many candidates also use commercial prep courses, study groups through the Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and online review programs.
Optional: Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP)
After completing your clinical fellowship and passing the Praxis exam, you’re eligible to apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). This nationally recognized credential demonstrates advanced clinical competence and is required by many employers, particularly medical facilities and school districts.
The CCC-SLP application requires:
- Official transcript from your CAA-accredited graduate program
- Completed SLP Clinical Fellowship Report and Rating Form signed by your supervisor
- Passing the Praxis SLP exam score
- ASHA membership and certification fee
Vermont License Benefit: If you earn your CCC-SLP before applying for Vermont licensure, you can streamline the state license application by submitting your ASHA certification in lieu of separate documentation of your clinical fellowship and exam scores.
Step 4: Obtain Your Vermont SLP License
After passing the Praxis exam and completing your clinical fellowship, you’ll apply for full licensure through the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) Online Services Platform.
License Application Requirements
Your Vermont SLP license application must include:
- Proof of graduate degree – Official transcripts from your CAA-accredited program
- Clinical fellowship verification – Completed Clinical Fellowship Report signed by your supervisor (or CCC-SLP certificate if already obtained)
- Praxis exam scores – Official score report showing a minimum of 162 (or proof of CCC-SLP)
- Supervisor documentation – Verification of your clinical fellowship supervisor’s credentials
- Application fee – Current fee payable through the OPR portal
License by Endorsement (Interstate Applicants)
If you’re already licensed in another state, Vermont accepts license applications by endorsement. You must demonstrate equivalent education, clinical experience, and examination requirements. Vermont requires:
- Active, unrestricted license in good standing from another U.S. state
- Master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program
- Passing Praxis SLP exam score (or CCC-SLP certification)
- Verification of licensure history from all states where you’ve held licenses
Beginning Your Career
Once licensed, you can practice as a speech-language pathologist throughout Vermont. Many newly licensed SLPs secure full-time positions with their clinical fellowship employer, ensuring continuity of care with established patients and seamless integration into the workplace.
Vermont’s SLP employment landscape includes:
- Educational Settings – Public schools, private schools, preschools, early intervention programs (the largest employment sector)
- Healthcare Facilities – Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies
- Private Practice – Independent practitioners, group practices, specialty clinics
- Telehealth Services – Remote service delivery to rural and underserved communities
The Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association (VSHA) provides job listings, professional development resources, and networking opportunities for Vermont SLPs.
Step 5: Maintain Licensure Through Continuing Education
Vermont requires licensed SLPs to complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) every three years to renew their licenses. This ensures you stay current with evidence-based practices, emerging research, and advances in the field.
Continuing Education Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Hours | 30 hours per 3-year renewal cycle |
| Approved Providers | ASHA-approved providers, Vermont-approved providers, and relevant professional conferences |
| Documentation | Maintain certificates of completion; OPR may audit |
| CCC-SLP Exemption | Active CCC-SLP holders automatically meet Vermont CE requirements |
CCC-SLP Continuing Education Exemption
If you maintain an active CCC-SLP credential through ASHA, Vermont’s Office of Professional Regulation recognizes that you’ve met the continuing education requirements. You won’t need to submit separate CE documentation for license renewal, though you must maintain your ASHA membership and certification.
Vermont CE Opportunities
The Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association offers continuing education courses, workshops, and an annual conference specifically for Vermont practitioners. VSHA membership provides access to:
- State-specific CE opportunities and workshops
- Networking with Vermont’s SLP community
- Legislative advocacy and professional support
- Discounted conference registration and CE rates
You can also complete ASHA-approved CE courses online, attend national conferences, or participate in specialty certifications that count toward Vermont’s CE requirements.
License Renewal Process
Vermont SLP licenses expire on a three-year cycle. You’ll receive renewal notifications through the OPR online portal. Complete your renewal application and fee payment online, ensuring you’ve met the 30-hour CE requirement (or maintain active CCC-SLP status) before your license expires.
For detailed renewal instructions and current fees, consult the Vermont OPR Speech-Language Pathologist Renewal Instructions.
Vermont SLP Salary and Career Outlook
Vermont offers competitive salaries for speech-language pathologists, with strong job growth projected through 2030. The state’s small but concentrated SLP workforce creates excellent opportunities for new graduates and experienced practitioners.
Statewide Salary Data
According to 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Vermont employs approximately 470 licensed SLPs. Salary ranges vary by experience level, practice setting, and geographic location within the state.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th Percentile) | $62,120 | $29.87 |
| Early Career (25th Percentile) | $69,800 | $33.56 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $78,580 | $37.78 |
| Experienced (75th Percentile) | $96,230 | $46.26 |
| Top Earners (90th Percentile) | $103,340 | $49.68 |
Average Vermont SLP Salary: $81,890 annually
Salary by Vermont Region
Compensation varies across Vermont’s regions based on local demand, cost of living, and practice settings.
| Region | SLP Population | Median Salary | Salary Range (10th-90th Percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington-South Burlington Metro | ~150 SLPs | $79,870 | $62,680 – $103,110 |
| Northern Vermont (Nonmetropolitan) | ~160 SLPs | $77,850 | $62,630 – $103,340 |
| Southern Vermont (Nonmetropolitan) | ~150 SLPs | $77,470 | $58,910 – $104,160 |
Career Outlook and Job Growth
Vermont’s job market for speech-language pathologists is exceptionally strong, with steady demand across educational, healthcare, and private practice settings.
Projected Growth Through 2030:
- 23% job growth – Above the national average for healthcare professions
- 30 annual job openings – From new positions, retirements, and turnover
- High demand in rural areas – Particularly the Northeast Kingdom and southern counties
- Growing telehealth opportunities – Expanding access to underserved populations
Employment by Work Setting
Vermont SLPs work across diverse settings. Employment data reflects positions across the state’s healthcare and education sectors where SLPs practice. Schools and educational settings employ the majority of speech-language pathologists in Vermont.
| Work Setting | Estimated Positions | Primary Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Schools & Education | ~642 | K-12 students, IEP development, and classroom support |
| Physical/Occupational Therapy Offices | ~224 | Outpatient rehabilitation, multidisciplinary care |
| Home Health Services | ~54 | In-home therapy, geriatric care, and chronic conditions |
| School Districts (Administrative) | ~51 | Program coordination, supervising SLPs |
| Hospitals | ~38 | Acute care, stroke recovery, dysphagia management |
| Nursing & Skilled Care Facilities | ~28 | Long-term care, progressive disorders, and swallowing therapy |
| Private Practice | ~26 | Specialized services, private clients, telehealth |
Note: Employment figures represent positions available across various settings and may include part-time positions. Actual counts may vary based on employment patterns and reporting methodology.
Vermont SLP Employers and Private Practices
Vermont’s SLP community includes numerous private practitioners and specialty clinics throughout the state. Some established practices include:
- Bennington: Tracy Locher SLP Services
- Brattleboro: Shine Speech Therapy, LLC
- Burlington: Fletcher Allen Speech Therapy, Julia C. Walberg SLP
- Hartford: Speak Vermont
- Montpelier: Voice Speech & Hearing Center
- Rutland: Center for Communication, Cognition and Swallowing; Speech & Language Therapy Associates
- South Burlington: Vermont Speech Language Pathology
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA do I need to get into Vermont SLP programs?
The University of Vermont’s SLP program is highly competitive and typically admits students with GPAs of 3.5 or higher, though the minimum requirement is 3.0. Strong clinical observation experience, recommendation letters, and personal statements also significantly impact admission decisions. If you have a lower GPA, consider online CAA-accredited programs, which may have more flexible admission criteria while providing the same quality education.
How long does it take to become an SLP in Vermont?
The complete path to Vermont SLP licensure typically takes 6-7 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for a master’s degree (including clinical practicum), and 9 months (36 weeks) for the clinical fellowship. Students who need to complete prerequisite courses may need an additional semester to year before starting their master’s program.
Can I practice in Vermont with an SLP license from another state?
Yes, Vermont accepts licensure by endorsement if you hold an active, unrestricted license from another U.S. state. You’ll need to demonstrate equivalent education (CAA-accredited master’s degree), clinical experience (CF completion), and examination requirements (passing Praxis score or CCC-SLP). Apply through the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation’s online portal and provide verification of your out-of-state license history.
What are the continuing education requirements in Vermont?
Vermont requires 30 hours of continuing education every three years for license renewal. However, if you maintain an active CCC-SLP credential through ASHA, Vermont automatically recognizes that you’ve met the CE requirements and you don’t need to submit separate documentation. The Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association offers state-specific CE opportunities, workshops, and an annual conference for practitioners.
Does Vermont accept online SLP master’s programs?
Yes, Vermont accepts any master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program, whether delivered online or on campus. The CAA accredits online programs to the same rigorous standards as traditional programs, and all programs require in-person clinical practica. With only one campus option in Vermont (UVM), many state residents pursue online programs from universities nationwide while completing clinical hours at Vermont facilities.
How much does it cost to become licensed as an SLP in Vermont?
Major costs include graduate tuition ($30,000-$90,000 for the full program, depending on in-state vs. out-of-state or online), Praxis exam registration ($130), Vermont provisional license application fee, Vermont full license application fee, and optional ASHA membership and CCC-SLP certification ($225 annual membership + $80 application fee). However, the clinical fellowship is a paid position, helping offset costs during your final training year.
What’s the job outlook for SLPs in Vermont?
The job outlook for Vermont SLPs is excellent. The state projects 23% job growth through 2030, creating approximately 30 annual job openings from new positions, retirements, and turnover. Vermont maintains a strong concentration of SLP positions relative to its population, and rural areas face ongoing shortages. With approximately 470 licensed SLPs serving a population of over 640,000, demand for qualified practitioners remains strong.
Key Takeaways: Becoming an SLP in Vermont
- Education Path: Earn a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program (Vermont has one campus option; online programs are equally accepted)
- Clinical Training: Complete a 36-week paid clinical fellowship under a licensed supervisor with a CCC-SLP credential
- Licensing Requirements: Pass Praxis exam (score 162+), apply through Vermont OPR, maintain 30 CE hours every 3 years
- Strong Salary Potential: Vermont SLPs earn $81,890 median salary with entry-level starting at $62,120 and experienced practitioners earning $96,230+
- Excellent Job Market: 23% projected growth through 2030, third-highest concentration of SLP jobs nationally, strong demand in rural areas
- CCC-SLP Benefits: Optional ASHA certification streamlines Vermont licensure and automatically satisfies continuing education requirements
- 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 Vermont?
Explore CAA-accredited speech-language pathology programs that match your career goals. Compare campus and online options to find the right fit for your Vermont licensure path.
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.