If you’re pursuing speech-language pathology, you’ve probably heard about the 25 required observation hours. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) mandates these hours as part of the path toward earning your Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP).
Many graduate SLP programs now expect applicants to have all 25 hours completed before they begin the master’s program. If you’re not already in an undergraduate communication sciences and disorders (CSD) track, finding these observation opportunities can be tricky but totally doable.
Below, we’ll cover three ways to complete your ASHA-required 25 observation hours before starting grad school.
1) Reach Out to Local Speech-Language Pathologists
The most traditional method is to connect directly with licensed SLPs in your area. You can start by reaching out to schools, hospitals, or private practices that employ speech-language pathologists.
While cold emailing can sometimes lead to success, a better approach is to get connected through your state’s Speech-Language and Hearing Association . These associations often have member directories or student networking groups that can help you find SLPs willing to let you observe their sessions. You can also make use of your network! Ask people you know if they know a speech-language pathologist who would be willing to have a student observer or if they can simply connect you with SLPs they know and you can ask the clinician directly. People are more likely to engage with and help someone they meet through their network rather than someone who is cold-calling or emailing.
When contacting a clinician, briefly explain who you are, that you’re completing SLP prerequisites, and that you’re looking for ASHA observation hours. Be professional, polite, and clear about your goals. Offering flexible times or locations will make it easier for clinicians to say yes.
2) Master Clinician Network ($54/year)
If you can’t find in-person opportunities, the Master Clinician Network (MCN) is a trusted online alternative. For $54 per year, students gain access to virtual assessment and treatment videos covering a wide range of communication disorders.
These videos qualify toward ASHA’s 25 observation hours, but note that you’ll need a licensed SLP supervisor to officially sign off on your time. Many students find supervisors through post-bacc programs or local professional networks.
Once you’re approved, you can log hours at your own pace and review real clinical interactions from anywhere in the world.
3) Simucase ($80/semester or $100/year)
Simucase offers a similar, virtual route with interactive, case-based simulations. For $120 per semester, you can complete observation experiences through video-based scenarios that mirror real assessments and treatments.
Unlike Master Clinician Network, Simucase provides a Guided Observation Program with the option to have your hours verified by a Simucase-based SLP. You can meet with them virtually to finalize your observation sign-off — though be sure to confirm whether an additional fee applies.
Final Thoughts
Completing your 25 observation hours can feel intimidating if you’re not in a traditional CSD program, but these three options make it accessible. Whether you choose local networking, Master Clinician Network, or Simucase, you’ll be well on your way to meeting ASHA’s requirements and strengthening your grad school applications. Before using the online option, be sure that the schools you want to apply to will accept these hours for their own requirements.
Observation hours aren’t just a box to check, they’re your first opportunity to understand the day-to-day impact of speech-language pathology. Take advantage of every learning moment!
Happy Learning!
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