Ready to become an SLP, but missing core prerequisite courses?
Let OBU help you take the first step.
If you’re considering a career in speech-language pathology but don’t have a degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), we are here to help.
At OBU, our online SLP Core Prerequisites are designed just for you, those who are called to serve individuals with communication and swallowing disorders but need a solid academic foundation before entering a graduate program.
Our online SLP Core Prerequisites:
- Cover the essential knowledge typically found in undergraduate CSD or SLP programs
- Include 25 guided clinical observation hours required for graduate program application
- Help you build confidence for success in graduate courses and clinical experiences
And because they’re fully online and just 8 weeks each, they’re flexible enough to fit into your life right now.
Learn more about OBU’s online SLP Core Prerequisites:
Why choose the OBU path to SLP?
The OBU MS-SLP program is built on a foundation of Christ-centered service, clinical excellence, servant leadership, and a commitment to meeting the needs of individuals across the lifespan. But, to succeed in our accelerated 16-month graduate format, you need the right preparation. That’s where our online SLP Core Prerequisites come in.
18% Employment Growth
SLP career is expected to grow 18% by 2033. Faster growth than the average for all occupations
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of June 18, 2025
$95,410 Median Pay
In 2024, the median pay for speech-language pathologists was $95,410 per year, and $45.87 per hour.
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of June 18, 2025
Why are online SLP Core Prerequisites needed?
Speech-language pathology is a high-impact, fast-growing profession that requires strong preparation in both theory and clinical application. If your background is in education, music, psychology, linguistics, or social work—just to name a few—you bring valuable skills. But chances are, you haven’t completed courses in areas like:
- Phonetics
- Speech and Language Development
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Language and Hearing Science
- Communication and Swallowing Disorders
These are foundational to the work you’ll do as an SLP, and OBU’s online SLP Core Prerequisites ensure you’re ready to make the most of graduate school and serve individuals and families with confidence and care.
As a licensed speech-language pathologist, your career could take you into:
- Public and private schools
- Hospitals and rehab centers
- Skilled nursing facilities and home health
- Early intervention programs
- Private practice or community clinics
Wherever your calling leads, it starts here.
We’ve designed this pathway for students from all walks of life.
If your educational background is in:
- Education
- Music or Vocal Performance
- Psychology, Sociology, or Social Work
- Communications, Linguistics, English, Math, Science, or Human Development
- Or any other discipline
You’re a great candidate—and our team is ready to help you chart your personalized path forward.
About the Graduate Program
OBU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) is a 16-month online-hybrid graduate program that combines:
- Online coursework
- On-campus residencies
- Clinical externships in your own community
Rooted in service and mentorship, the program equips you for a career that blends compassion, clinical excellence, and Christ-centered care.
Ready to learn more?
Fill out a quick form and we’ll help you determine whether you need the online SLP Core Prerequisites and how they fit into your journey to becoming an SLP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the online SLP Core Prerequisites courses?
Seven fully online courses covering key CSD topics:
- SLP 3003: Communication and Swallowing Disorders Across the Lifespan (3)
- SLP 3013: Language Science for Speech-Language Pathologists (3)
- SLP 3023: Acoustic and Articulatory Phonetics (3)
- SLP 4003: Anatomy and Physiology of Speech, Hearing, and Swallowing (3)
- SLP 4013: Audiology Fundamentals for Speech-Language Pathologists (3)
- SLP 4023: Speech and Language Development (3)
- SLP 4033: Guided Clinical Observation (1)
Each course is 8 weeks long and designed to prepare you for graduate study. Four courses must be completed (with a B- or better) before applying to the MS-SLP program at OBU; the other courses may be completed prior to enrollment.
These courses are enrolling now and being offered on a limited rollout for the Fall 2025 semester. Beginning Spring 2026, all SLP Core Prerequisites will be offered every semester.
Who are the online SLP Core Prerequisites for?
These courses are for students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-CSD/SLP field (or those enrolled in a bachelor’s degree in a non-CSD/SLP field) who need to meet graduate program prerequisites.
How much do the online SLP Core Prerequisites cost, and how do I pay?
Price per credit hour: $350*
Courses are competitively priced to help you take this step affordably. Flexible payment plans are available. Have questions about financial aid or payment options? Fill out a quick form to connect with a program advisor.
*Does not include required textbooks or software accounts
What pathways are available for SLPAs?
OBU offers two fully online bachelor’s degree completion pathways for SLPAs with an associate’s degree who are ready to pursue graduate study in Speech-Language Pathology:
Both programs are designed to help SLPAs complete their undergraduate education and ensure students are academically prepared for graduate-level study. These pathways reflect OBU’s commitment to supporting students called to serve in the SLP profession.
You’re closer than you think.
Becoming a speech-language pathologist is a journey—but with OBU, you will have expert guidance and mentorship along the way. Let’s take the first step together.
Ready to apply?
Submit your non-degree application and select “pre-SLP” from the subject area list. A member of our admissions team will contact you soon.
Candidacy Statement
The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology (distance education) at Oklahoma Baptist University is an Applicant for Candidacy by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700.