Massachusetts Speech Pathology State License Guide

Applicants for a speech pathology state license in Massachusetts must submit evidence that they meet the January 1, 2005, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association criteria and procedures for a Certificate of Clinical Competence in speech-language pathology.

The below information has been curated by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) based on Massachusetts’ rules and regulations for state licensure as a speech-language pathologist. Please note that requirements/information may change at any time, so always check with your state for the most up-to-date information.

Summary of Massachusetts Speech Pathology State License Requirements

Massachusetts has 10 accredited higher education institutions with communication sciences and disorders programs in the state. These institutions are prepared for the 13% increase in demand for a Massachusetts speech pathology license. Applicants have the option of pursuing an online master’s in speech pathology degree. Licensees must complete clinical observation hours for Massachusetts speech pathology licensure before beginning their careers to become an SLP in Massachusetts.

Speech Pathology Initial Licensure for Massachusetts

Applicants for Massachusetts speech pathology state licensure must submit they meet ASHA standards and procedures for Certificate of Clinical Competence in speech language pathology. Upon completion of all necessary requirements for a Massachusetts speech pathology license, applicants need to apply for speech pathology license verification and monitor status. 

Speech Language Pathology Licensure Exemptions for Massachusetts

Massachusetts speech-language pathology licensure exempts physicians and physician-supervised personnel. Other exemptions for Massachusetts speech-language pathology license include teachers of esophageal speech and students in assistant training/certificate programs. 

Reciprocity for Speech Therapists in Massachusetts

Individuals with a current speech therapy license in another state can be issued Massachusetts speech therapy licensure if they meet Massachusetts requirements at the time of application. The applicant must also report any previous disciplinary actions. 

Interim Practice for those Aspiring to Become a Speech Pathologist in Massachusetts

Massachusetts does not offer speech therapy license verification to individuals completing their clinical fellowship year. 

Continuing Education for Speech-Language Pathologists in Massachusetts

For licensees to maintain a Massachusetts licensure, they must complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education per biennium. Dual licensees must finish a minimum of 30 CE hours. A minimum of 10 of those hours must be in the individual’s area of licensure. 

Contact Information for SLP State Licensure in Massachusetts

The Board of Registration for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology can assist in speech pathology licensure in Massachusetts. The Board can assist with speech pathology services as well as the path to Massachusetts speech pathology licensure.

Massachusetts SLP Licensing Board Oversight

Massachusetts SLP licensing is monitored by the Board of Registration for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. The Board licenses individuals who would like to work in speech therapy and protect those they serve. 

Massachusetts Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Board of Registration for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118 
617-701-8679
Speech.audiology@mass.gov

Massachusetts Hearing Screening Contacts

Massachusetts Early Intervention System
Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition
250 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-624-6060                     
Email: ei@massmail.state.ma.us

Massachusetts ASHA Network Representatives

Information Last Updated June 2020

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