Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) Professional Licensure Disclosures

The MS-SLP program at OBU prepares students for professional licensure in specific states and national certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are required to hold a current state license in every state where they practice. Some states also require SLPs to hold educator certification to work in a school. State licensure boards and educator credentialing departments may require additional qualifications beyond academic and clinical requirements such as:

• Exams
• Professional experience
• Application and licensing fees
• Criminal background checks
• Reference checks
• Fingerprint submissions
• Continuing education for license maintenance

State licensing requirements can change at any time. While the OBU MS-SLP program updates this information annually, students are strongly advised to:

1. Contact relevant state licensure and educator certification boards before enrollment to confirm eligibility.
2. Review all academic and clinical requirements for their intended practice location.
3. Consult with their academic advisor for guidance.

Certification of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)

Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to pursue a national credential through the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). The Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) can be pursued upon successful completion of a master’s degree from a program accredited by the Council of Academic Accreditation in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAA), completion of the Clinical Fellowship (CF), and earning a passing score on the Praxis II Speech-Language Pathology Examination (Praxis). Graduates begin the certification process upon graduation by completing an application on the ASHA website. For complete and up to date information regarding ASHA Certification, visit https://www.asha.org/certification/.

State Licensure

To practice as an SLP in a specific state, a state license must be obtained. The table below provides information about whether the MS-SLP program at OBU meets the state licensure requirements for each state and territory. Many states have additional and specific requirements which may include additional coursework, examinations, professional development, and practicum hours. Students are responsible for reviewing state licensure information prior to enrollment. Additional information about state associations and state licensure boards can be found on the ASHA State-by-State website. Students are responsible for understanding and following all state licensure requirements for any state where they plan to practice professionally.

Educator Credential

Some states require an additional certificate to work as an SLP in a school. The table below provides information about whether the MS-SLP program at OBU meets the educator credential requirements in each state and territory. Requirements vary by state and may include additional coursework, examinations, professional development, and practicum hours. Students are responsible for reviewing licensure information prior to enrollment. State association and state licensure board information can be found on the ASHA State-by-State website. Students are responsible for understanding and following all educator credential requirements for any state where they plan to practice professionally.

State and Territory Disclosures

The table below indicates whether the OBU MS-SLP program aligns with state licensure and educator certification requirements. Each state and territory are marked as either "MEETS," “DOES NOT MEET,” or "UNABLE TO DETERMINE." If additional requirements are needed, an * will be present and will indicate the type of additional requirement. Students must work with their academic advisor and the Director of Clinical Education to ensure all specific requirements are addressed.

While the OBU MS-SLP program reviews state licensure and educator certification requirements annually, students are ultimately responsible for understanding and meeting all requirements for their intended practice location.