GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College has announced the launch of its new online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, the College’s first online degree program, with students expected to begin classes in August 2027. The program marks a milestone in Thiel’s continued commitment to innovative, student-centered education.
Designed for aspiring speech-language pathologists, including working adults balancing careers, families and other responsibilities, Thiel’s online M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology offers a convenient and affordable pathway to a high-impact profession. The program combines the flexibility of online learning with Thiel’s signature personalized faculty mentorship, clinical preparation and career-focused education.
The new program is designed to help students become speech-language pathologists without spending more time or money than necessary. With a streamlined curriculum — up to 19 fewer credits than some local competitors — and tuition below the national average for online SLP programs, Thiel’s online M.S. in SLP gives students a practical way to pursue graduate education while keeping their goals, schedules and budgets in focus.
“Thiel College has always been committed to meeting students where they are, and this new online program is a powerful example of that mission in action,” said Sheila Nowinski, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs and Dean of the College. “For working adults and students who need a more flexible path to graduate education, our online M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology offers the convenience, affordability and academic quality they need to take the next step in their careers. As Thiel’s first fully online degree program, it reflects our commitment to innovation while preserving the personal attention and faculty support that define a Thiel education.”
The online M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology allows students to complete coursework from anywhere. The program is delivered through online coursework, with the only in-person academic requirement being a single four-day on-campus residency before graduation. The residency includes hands-on learning experiences and gives students the opportunity to connect with faculty and peers before staying to celebrate graduation. Students can study part time and continue working, earning and managing personal responsibilities until clinical experiences begin. Clinical placements are a required component of the program and often require additional scheduling flexibility because they represent a full-time load.
The distance pathway for the Master of Science program in Speech-Language Pathology at Thiel College is currently under review by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Thiel College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
“Speech-language pathology is a deeply meaningful profession, and we know many prospective students are looking for a way to enter the field without putting their lives on hold,” said Amy Tepper, Ed.D., Program Director of Thiel College’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “Thiel’s online program was built with those students in mind. It offers a flexible, supportive and academically rigorous path for working adults who want to take their careers to the next level while preparing to serve individuals and communities through evidence-based practice, interprofessional education and clinical experience.”
Students in Thiel’s M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology program benefit from the College’s tradition of personalized education, small class sizes, strong faculty mentorship and career-focused learning. Thiel’s campus-based speech-language pathology graduates have achieved strong outcomes, including a 100% completion rate, 96% PRAXIS pass rate and 98% employment within one year of graduation. Across the College, 95% of Thiel graduates are employed or pursuing further education within one year.
Speech-language pathologists work in a variety of educational, healthcare and community settings, including schools, hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers and home care organizations. Recent employers of Thiel graduates include Blue Cross of Western Pennsylvania, Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Frederick County Public Schools, Good Samaritan Hospital Home Care, Chardon High School and Metamorphosis Therapy Group.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.