To become a speech-language pathologist in West Virginia, you’ll need a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program, complete 400 clinical hours, pass the Praxis exam (score 162+), complete a 9-month clinical fellowship under supervision, and obtain state licensure through the WV Board of Examiners. The entire process typically takes 6-7 years with median salaries of $80,170.
West Virginia’s speech-language pathology community is robust and growing, with speech-language pathologists (SLPs) providing vital services to improve speech, language, communication, and swallowing abilities across the state.
From major providers like WVU Medicine’s Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic in Morgantown and Boone Memorial Health in Madison to small private clinics throughout rural West Virginia, SLPs help everyone from infants with developmental delays to seniors dealing with age-related conditions like Parkinson’s disease and stroke recovery.
- 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.
With rising salaries and expanding career opportunities, the SLP profession is experiencing strong growth for professionals with the proper credentials. To practice as a speech therapist in West Virginia, you must earn state licensure through the West Virginia Board of Examiners of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology.
Step 1: Complete a Master’s Degree Program in Speech-Language Pathology
Becoming a speech-language pathologist in West Virginia starts with earning a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from a program accredited by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA).
The CAA accredits both campus-based and online programs. Online programs are particularly valuable in West Virginia, where there are only two CAA-accredited SLP programs. Online CAA-accredited master’s programs are entirely accepted for West Virginia licensure, provided you complete all in-person clinical practicum requirements through approved facilities.
Foundational Course Requirements
Most graduate programs don’t specifically require a bachelor’s degree in communicative sciences and disorders, but having one gives you a decisive advantage. If you haven’t completed undergraduate coursework in the field, you may need to complete pre-professional courses or additional requirements at the start of your graduate program.
Typical foundational courses include:
- Phonetics
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech Mechanism
- Language Acquisition
- Introduction to Communication Disorders
- Diagnostic Audiology
- Aural Rehabilitation
Graduate Program Requirements
Master’s degree programs in speech-language pathology typically consist of about 48 credits and take two to three years to complete. You’ll dive deep into specialized topics that prepare you for clinical practice.
Courses you can expect include:
- Evidence-Based Practice in Communication Disorders
- Neurophysiological Bases of Speech and Language
- Child Language and Literacy Disorders
- Advanced Stutter Disorders
- Craniofacial Anomalies
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Near the end of your graduate program, you’ll complete a clinical practicum. West Virginia requires 400 hours of supervised clinical experience for licensure, which you’ll complete through your graduate program before beginning your clinical fellowship.
Step 2: Pass the National Examination to Qualify for Provisional Licensure
Before you can begin your clinical fellowship in West Virginia, you must pass the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA) National Examination in Speech Language Pathology, administered by Praxis. This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge across all major areas of speech-language pathology practice.
To register for the exam, follow the instructions on the Praxis registration page. Praxis testing centers are located throughout the US. In West Virginia, you can take the exam at centers in Athens, Beckley, Charleston, Huntington, Martinsburg, and Morgantown.
Exam Format and Content
The exam consists of 132 questions that you’ll complete in 150 minutes. You can prepare using the official study materials. The exam covers three main categories:
Foundations and Professional Practice (1/3 of exam):
- Development and performance
- Every day communication and swallowing disorders
- Counseling and collaboration
- Ethics and professional standards
- Client advocacy
Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Diagnosis (1/3 of exam):
- Screening for disorders
- Developing case histories
- Speech sound production assessment
- Fluency evaluation
- Disease processes
Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation of Treatment (1/3 of exam):
- Monitoring treatment progress
- Follow-up processes
- Social aspects of communication
- Communication impairments
- Hearing and aural rehabilitation
To pass the exam, you need to score at least 162 on a 100-200 scale, as required by West Virginia. Once you pass, you’ll be ready to apply for your provisional license and begin your clinical fellowship.
Step 3: Apply for Provisional License and Complete Clinical Fellowship
After passing the national SLP exam, you can apply for a provisional license and begin your clinical fellowship. West Virginia requires a clinical fellowship of at least nine months of full-time work to qualify for permanent licensure.
You must hold a provisional license while completing your clinical fellowship. The application for the provisional license must be received by the Board no later than 30 days into your clinical fellowship, so don’t delay in submitting your paperwork.
Provisional License Application Requirements
To receive a provisional SLP license, complete an Application for Provisional License and submit it to the Board along with:
- An official transcript from the college or university where you earned your SLP master’s degree
- Proof of your passing Praxis exam score
- A completed Postgraduate Professional Experience (PPE) Agreement form (completed by you and your supervising SLP)
The provisional license lasts for one year and can be renewed once if you need additional time to complete your fellowship requirements.
Clinical Fellowship Experience
Your clinical fellowship provides opportunities to work directly with patients under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. Much of your work will be determined by patient needs and your practice setting. ASHA’s Scope of Practice for SLPs outlines the research, counseling, assessment, and advocacy tasks you’ll engage in during this period.
The fellowship gives you your first chance to gain independent exposure to clinical practice outside your graduate program while being paid for your services. This is your opportunity to start your career in the practice setting and specialized area that interests you most, so take time to select your fellowship sponsor carefully.
Sample employers of SLPs in West Virginia include:
- Soliant Health, Martinsburg
- Wheeling Hospital, Wheeling
- Genesis Rehab Services, Beckley
- West Virginia University Healthcare, Martinsburg
Optional CCC-SLP Certification
Upon passing the national SLP exam and completing your clinical fellowship, you’ll also qualify for the CCC-SLP (Certificate of Clinical Competency in Speech-Language Pathology) through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
This optional designation demonstrates an advanced level of professionalism and commitment to continuing education. While not required for state licensure, the CCC-SLP is often preferred by employers and can open additional career opportunities.
You must apply directly through ASHA, which includes providing an official copy of your graduate transcript, an official copy of your SLP exam score sent directly from Praxis, and a completed SLP Clinical Fellowship Report and Rating Form.
Step 4: Obtain Full State Licensure and Begin Your Career
To apply for a permanent SLP license in West Virginia, complete and submit the Initial License Application for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology to the Board, along with a copy of your graduate transcripts and a copy of your exam score sent directly from Praxis.
To qualify for licensure, you must also take and pass the Jurisprudence Examination that covers state laws as they relate to providing speech-language therapy services in West Virginia.
Career Settings and Opportunities
As a licensed SLP in West Virginia, you can pursue your career in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, schools, private practices, and through telepractice. The state’s mix of urban and rural areas provides diverse opportunities to serve different populations with varying needs.
You can view current SLP job listings through the West Virginia Speech, Language, and Hearing Association jobs board.
Step 5: Maintain Licensure and Complete Continuing Education
You must renew your West Virginia SLP license biennially on December 31. You can complete your license renewal online through the Board’s website.
To renew your license, you must complete at least 20 hours of continuing education during each two-year renewal period. These continuing education hours keep you current with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in speech-language pathology.
Both ASHA and the West Virginia Speech, Language, and Hearing Association offer excellent continuing education opportunities, including conferences, workshops, online courses, and webinars.
Speech-Language Pathology Salary and Job Outlook in West Virginia
West Virginia offers competitive salaries for speech-language pathologists, with strong job growth projected through 2030. The median SLP salary in West Virginia is $80,170 per year, or $38.54 per hour. The highest-paid SLPs in the state (90th percentile) earn about $122,420 annually, or $58.86 per hour.
Salary by Location
SLP salaries vary by location throughout West Virginia. Metropolitan areas near major cities and border regions typically offer higher compensation.
| Location | Median Annual Salary | Median Hourly Wage | 90th Percentile Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro DC (Winchester, VA-WV) | $91,750 | $44.11 | $128,950 |
| Northern West Virginia (nonmetro) | $96,200 | $46.25 | $120,730 |
| Huntington-Ashland Metro | $87,270 | $41.96 | $118,650 |
| Wheeling, WV-OH | $70,330 | $33.81 | $129,010 |
| Charleston Metro | $82,530 | $39.68 | $114,180 |
| Parkersburg-Vienna Metro | $82,310 | $39.57 | $116,580 |
| Southern West Virginia (nonmetro) | $71,160 | $34.21 | $120,150 |
| Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH | $73,950 | $35.55 | $105,870 |
Employment and Job Growth
West Virginia is home to approximately 920 speech-language pathologists. In the decade leading up to 2030, West Virginia will see an average of 80 SLP job openings every year due to a combination of new job growth, retirements, and natural job turnover.
During this period, the number of SLP jobs is expected to increase by 28 percent, significantly higher than the anticipated 19 percent national average growth rate for this profession. Between 2019 and 2023 alone, SLP jobs in West Virginia grew an impressive 9 percent.
Major Employers
According to the US Department of Labor, approximately 2,320 businesses, schools, and non-profit agencies employ SLPs in West Virginia. Major employer categories include:
Healthcare Organizations:
- Physical therapy offices: 359 employers
- Home health services: 306 employers
- Hospitals: 142 employers
- Nursing and residential care facilities: 84 employers
- Hospice care: 39 employers
Educational Settings:
- Public and private schools: 1,076 employers
- Religious schools: 54 employers
- School districts: 11 employers
- Special education schools: 10 employers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an SLP in West Virginia?
The entire process typically takes 6-7 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for your master’s degree in speech-language pathology, and 9 months for your clinical fellowship. If you need to complete prerequisite courses, it may take slightly longer.
Can I work as an SLP in West Virginia while completing my clinical fellowship?
Yes, you can work with a provisional license during your 9-month clinical fellowship. You’ll work under the supervision of a licensed SLP and receive compensation for your services. This allows you to gain practical experience while earning an income.
Do I need to live in West Virginia to get licensed there?
No, you don’t need to be a West Virginia resident to obtain licensure. You must complete your clinical fellowship in West Virginia and pass the state jurisprudence exam, but residency isn’t required. Many SLPs live in neighboring states and work in West Virginia.
What’s the difference between ASHA certification and West Virginia licensure?
West Virginia state licensure is required by law to practice as an SLP in the state. ASHA’s CCC-SLP certification is optional but highly recommended. The CCC-SLP demonstrates national recognition of your professional competence and is often preferred by employers. Many SLPs hold both credentials.
How much does it cost to get licensed as an SLP in West Virginia?
The Praxis exam costs $140, and you’ll need to pay application fees for both your provisional and permanent licenses. Graduate program costs vary widely, typically ranging from $30,000 to $100,000+, depending on whether you attend a public or private institution. Many students use financial aid, scholarships, and work during their clinical fellowship to offset costs.
Does West Virginia accept SLP licenses from other states?
West Virginia may grant licensure by endorsement if you hold a current license in another state and meet all West Virginia requirements, including the same educational standards and passing the Praxis exam. You’ll still need to pass West Virginia’s jurisprudence exam and complete the state application process.
What’s the job outlook for SLPs in West Virginia through 2030?
The job outlook is excellent. West Virginia expects 28% job growth for SLPs through 2030, significantly higher than the 19% national average. The state anticipates 80 annual job openings due to growth, retirements, and turnover. Demand is robust in rural areas and school settings.
Key Takeaways
- Becoming an SLP in West Virginia takes 6-7 years total, including your bachelor’s and master’s degrees and a clinical fellowship.
- You must complete a master’s degree from a CAA-accredited program, pass the Praxis exam (score 162+), and complete 400 clinical hours.
- The 9-month clinical fellowship requires a provisional license and supervision by a licensed SLP, during which you’ll receive compensation.
- West Virginia SLPs earn a median salary of $80,170 annually, with the highest earners making over $122,420
- Job growth of 28% through 2030 creates approximately 80 annual openings, with robust demand in rural areas.
- Continuing education of 20 hours every two years is required to maintain your license.e
Ready to Start Your SLP Career in West Virginia?
Explore CAA-accredited graduate programs and take the first step toward becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist.
- 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.
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.