SLP Programs in Pennsylvania: Requirements, Fellowships, and School-Based Careers.

To enroll in SLP programs in Pennsylvania, you must complete a master’s degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited program. After graduation, you must complete a 1,260-hour clinical fellowship, pass the Praxis exam, and apply for state licensure. 

Summary: How to become an SLP in Pennsylvania

1. Earn a master’s degree in speech-language pathology
2. Complete a 1,260-hour clinical fellowship (CF)
3. Pass the Praxis exam
4. Apply for Pennsylvania licensure
5. Begin working as a licensed SLP

What are SLP programs in Pennsylvania?

SLP (Speech-Language Pathology) programs in Pennsylvania are grad school programs that prepare you to diagnose and treat communication disorders. These programs are required for licensure and typically include:

• A master’s degree (usually 2 years)
• Coursework in speech, language, and swallowing disorders
• Clinical practicum experience
• Training aligned with national certification standards

Completing an accredited program is the first step toward becoming a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist.

Clinical fellowship requirements for Pennsylvania SLPs.

After graduating from an SLP program, you must complete a clinical fellowship (CF). A clinical fellowship is a supervised, hands-on training experience that helps you transition from student to independent clinician.

• 1,260 total hours
• At least 80% direct clinical contact
• Supervision by a certified SLP
• Can be completed full-time or part-time

Where can you complete an SLP clinical fellowship?

In Pennsylvania, clinical fellowships can be completed in:

• Public and private schools
• Pediatric clinics
• Hospitals
• Early intervention programs

Many aspiring SLPs choose school-based fellowships because they provide consistent experience and strong mentorship. If you’re looking to move toward the goal of becoming a school-based SLP, Kelly Pediatric Therapy, offers comprehensive clinical fellowship programs for SLPs in school-based settings.

Even if you do your clinical fellowship in a different field, you can still obtain the required education specialist or special education credentials to work in Pennsylvania schools.

Benefits of school-based SLP roles in Pennsylvania.

Choosing a school-based clinical fellowship can offer both professional and personal advantages.

1. Meaningful impact

School-based SLPs support students from pre-K through high school, helping with:

• Speech and articulation
• Language development
• Fluency and voice disorders
• Social communication skills

They play a key role in improving academic and social outcomes.

2. Strong work-life balance

School-based roles often include:

• Predictable daytime schedules
• Holidays and school breaks
• Minimal evening or weekend work

This structure allows for better balance, self-care, travel, etc. compared to many clinical settings.

3. Collaborative work environment

SLPs in schools work closely with multi-disciplinary teams to develop and implement personalized plans that support students:

• Teachers
• Special education staff
• Occupational therapists
• Families

You’ll benefit from teamwork, guidance, and the chance to make a real difference in students’ lives.

4. Competitive compensation

School-based SLPs in Pennsylvania earn an average salary of more than $80,000 depending on experience and district. Many roles also include:

• Benefits packages
• Professional development
• Mentorship opportunities

What do school-based SLPs do?

School-based Speech-Language Pathologists:

• Evaluate and diagnose communication disorders
• Provide therapy services to students
• Develop and implement IEP goals
• Collaborate with educators and families
• Support academic, social, and emotional development

Their work directly impacts students’ ability to succeed in school and beyond.

How to choose the right SLP path in Pennsylvania.

When selecting an SLP program and career path, consider:

• Your preferred setting (schools, hospitals, clinics)
• Opportunities for mentorship during your clinical fellowship
• Work-life balance goals
• Long-term career growth

If you’re interested in working with children, school-based programs provide a strong foundation.

Grow your career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.

Our programs exceed the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA) required mentored experience, with flexible hours, licensure support, and mentorship from experienced SLPs. You’ll gain the skills and tools for this role, including developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), screening, and working with families. Here’s what you can expect:

• Mentorship and extended supervision with experienced SLPs.
• Full-time and part-time schedules that fit your schedule, including flexible 1099 roles.
• A program primarily based in a school setting, providing real-world experience working with students, educators, and other school clinicians.
• Support with licensure applications and connections to a national network of fellows for training and support.
• Opportunities for higher hourly rates for 1099 positions.

If you're looking to move forward in your professional career in a way that supports growth, balance, and impact—consider working with us as a school-based therapist.

Learn more about joining our team.