10 Accredited Bachelors in Speech Pathology Programs in California
A bachelor’s degree in speech pathology could be your first vital step toward a rewarding career that helps others communicate well. Ten complete undergraduate programs in California prepare you for advanced study in this growing field.
The bachelor’s degree in communicative sciences and disorders builds the foundation you’ll need to become a qualified speech-language pathologist. California’s programs stand out because they focus on career preparation. Some schools even offer accelerated 5-year programs that combine undergraduate and graduate coursework. This approach could save you a year on your educational trip.
Many schools have de-emphasized ACT/SAT scores in their evaluation process. The Economic Mobility Index, on top of that, helps you assess how these programs support students from low-income backgrounds to advance their economic status.
San Diego State University offers a complete program in speech, language, and hearing sciences. California State University Los Angeles specializes in Communication Disorders curriculum. This guide will help you direct your path and find the perfect program to launch your speech pathology career.
1. San Diego State University
San Diego State University is a great institution for students who want to get a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology in California. The school combines strong academic preparation with extensive clinical experiences that create an excellent starting point for future speech-language pathologists.
Overview
SDSU offers a B.A. in Liberal Arts and Sciences with a major in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. This program prepares you for graduate studies in communicative disorders. Students must complete 19 units of general studies before they can advance to 36 upper division specialized units.
The program’s coursework covers:
- Normal and disordered speech patterns
- Language development and disorders
- Hearing sciences and audiology
- Clinical procedures and intervention techniques
The School of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences prepares professionals to meet the needs of a diverse society. The curriculum emphasizes multicultural competence throughout. Students should take additional college-level courses in anatomy, biology, psychology, linguistics, physics, and mathematics to build a stronger academic foundation.
Clinical opportunities
SDSU’s on-campus Speech-Language Clinic, 82 years old, is one of the program’s most valuable features. This facility serves the community and trains future professionals. The clinic helps children and adults throughout San Diego with diagnostic and intervention speech and language services.
Faculty members who hold certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and California state licenses directly supervise all student clinicians. The clinic has moved from a fee-based to a donation-based system and now serves more than 1,000 clients annually.
These clinical experiences are a great way to get hands-on training that enhances classroom learning and provides real-life experience before graduation.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
The WASC Senior College and University Commission accredits SDSU’s program. The graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. This accreditation will give students assurance that the program meets professional standards.
Keep in mind that the bachelor’s degree mainly prepares you for graduate study. Students with only undergraduate training have limited professional opportunities. You’ll need a master’s degree, national certification, and state licensure to practice as a speech-language pathologist.
SDSU’s master’s program in speech-language pathology accepts only 40-45 students from about 600 applicants each cycle. Students complete this residential, full-time program in five semesters – two academic years plus summer.
Among speech pathology schools in California, SDSU stands out with its high pass rates on the Praxis exam – the required certification test for speech-language pathologists in most states. These results show how well the program prepares students for professional practice.
2. University of Redlands
The University of Redlands runs a prestigious bachelor’s in speech pathology program that’s 50 years old with an outstanding record in academic excellence and clinical training. Students who want to treat and care for patients with communication disorders will find a complete education at this respected institution.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CDIS) at Redlands helps students learn about the science of human communication. This pre-professional degree prepares you perfectly to continue into graduate studies in speech-language pathology or audiology.
Among speech pathology schools in California, Redlands stands out with impressive results—100% of Redlands BA in Communication Sciences & Disorders graduates have successful outcomes within six months of graduation. The program’s value shows in the numbers, with alumni earning an average salary of $94,000 in communication sciences and disorders occupations in 2024, highlighting strong salary potential.
The department delivers individual-specific education through:
- Small class sizes that promote close student-faculty relationships
- Integrative learning experiences
- Diversity-focused curriculum
- High ethical standards
- Liberal arts and sciences foundation
Clinical opportunities
Students pursuing their speech pathologist bachelor’s degree at Redlands benefit greatly from access to the Truesdail Center for Communicative Disorders. This on-campus facility serves the community while providing excellent training opportunities for students.
Licensed speech-language therapists supervise your hands-on experience at Truesdail. You’ll help create and implement therapy programs for clients after a full evaluation process that includes diagnostic testing and staff meetings. These programs range from individual sessions to small group sessions, adult support groups, and parent training groups.
The center welcomes referrals from private and professional agencies, school districts, individuals, and support groups. You’ll work with clients of all backgrounds, which builds your clinical skills while helping the university meet its mission of community service.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits the University of Redlands. The bachelor’s degree in speech pathology program specifically prepares students for graduate education, unlike some other programs.
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the master’s program in Communication Sciences and Disorders. This prestigious recognition confirms the program’s high professional standards.
Master’s program graduates meet all academic and clinical practicum standards for:
- Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in Speech-Language Pathology from ASHA
- Speech-Language Pathology license from the state board
- Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
The two-year master’s track requires 60 semester units, while the three-year “Grad Plus” pathway needs 80 units for those without prerequisites. Students must complete undergraduate prerequisites in speech and hearing science, audiology, functional anatomy/physiology, language development, and phonetics.
Redlands’ close-knit community of students and faculty creates meaningful educational experiences that have built its reputation for producing caring and expert professionals.
3. California State University, Los Angeles
California State University, Los Angeles offers an outstanding bachelor’s in speech pathology program through its Department of Communication Disorders. Students who want to help others overcome communication challenges are drawn to this program’s mix of academic preparation and hands-on clinical experience.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Communicative Disorders at Cal State LA helps students prepare for graduate degrees in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology. California requires a master’s degree to work as speech-language pathologists, so this undergraduate program builds the foundations needed for advanced studies.
The program attracts many aspiring speech pathologists and has a high acceptance rate of 91%. The costs are budget-friendly compared to other speech pathology schools in California, with total expenses between $35,818 and $38,493. Students can get financial help easily, and 92% receive some form of aid.
Students in this program get:
- Complete coursework covering communication disorders
- Strong preparation for graduate-level studies
- Chances to explore communication sciences
- Coursework that applies to related fields like special education and deaf education
Cal State LA has a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology that needs 39 units of coursework for students with degrees in other fields. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA in their most recent 60 semester units.
Clinical opportunities
The Robert L. Douglass Speech-Language Clinic stands at the center of Cal State LA’s clinical training. This clinic provides diagnostic and therapeutic services in a university setting. Students learn in an open environment because all services are free.
The clinic helps both children and adults who experience:
- Articulation and phonology challenges
- Language disorders
- Cognitive impairments
- Voice and fluency issues
- Hearing disorders
The clinic received a grant from the Parkinson Voice Project. Students now learn specialized SPEAK OUT!® & The LOUD Crowd® therapy programs in English and Spanish. This bilingual capability makes students more versatile professionals.
The Clinical Assistant Program lets undergraduate students work with graduate students and their clients for one semester. Licensed professionals with California licensure and ASHA’s certificate of clinical competence supervise all therapy sessions.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
ASHA doesn’t accredit undergraduate programs, but Cal State LA’s Master’s program in Speech-Language Pathology has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. This accreditation lasts from 2025-2032, with the next review set for February 2031.
Getting into the master’s program is tough. Only 28 students got offers out of 338 applications, and most admitted students had GPAs between 3.52-4.00. Each class typically has 24 students.
Cal State LA’s master’s program graduates meet requirements for:
- ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology
- California state licensure in Speech-Language Pathology
- Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
The speech pathology salary grows by a lot after finishing the master’s degree. About 60% of graduates work in schools and 40% in hospitals.
Cal State LA gives students a budget-friendly path to a bachelor’s degree. The program prepares students well for competitive graduate programs needed for professional certification.
4. Chapman University
Chapman University’s bachelors in speech pathology pathway stands out among speech pathology schools in California. The program prepares students for advanced graduate studies through complete education and hands-on clinical experiences.
Program overview
Chapman University’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program serves as its main graduate-level education in speech-language pathology. Students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields can transition into speech pathology through Chapman’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program.
This 30-unit post-baccalaureate program has:
- 10 courses you can finish in just 10 months
- Classes on Friday evenings and Saturdays that work well with your job
- Face-to-face learning at Chapman’s Orange campus
The curriculum teaches everything in foundational knowledge:
- Overview of communication disorders
- Phonetics and speech sound disorders
- Anatomy and physiology of speech mechanisms
- Child language acquisition and development
Students who complete this certificate can apply to Chapman’s graduate program or other master’s programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Clinical opportunities
Hands-on clinical experience is the foundation of professional preparation at Chapman. The graduate program needs 400 hours of supervised practicum in healthcare and education settings of all sizes. These experiences are a great way to get knowledge to students pursuing this pathway.
Students work in various settings such as:
- Hospitals and rehabilitation centers
- Skilled nursing facilities and private practices
- Early intervention programs
- K-12 public schools
Students start with experience at Chapman’s on-campus clinics before moving to off-site placements. They provide assessment and treatment to people with communication disorders under supervision. These disorders range from stuttering and hearing loss to neurological conditions and swallowing disorders.
Chapman’s partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of Orange County ended up creating unique community outreach opportunities. Students provide speech and language therapy to homeschooled students with Down syndrome.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) has accredited Chapman University. The Master of Science program in Communication Sciences and Disorders received accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology in 2013.
The master’s program uses a cohort model with fall entry and takes six trimesters (two years). Each year brings 471 applications, with about 122 offers made. Admitted students usually have GPAs between 3.40-4.00.
Graduates meet requirements for:
- Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- California Services credential in speech-language pathology
- California state license in speech-language pathology
Chapman’s post-baccalaureate to master’s pathway works well for career-changers interested in speech pathology. The university doesn’t offer a traditional undergraduate major but provides a fast-track post-baccalaureate program. This program helps students earn credentials needed for a profession with strong salary potential after completing graduate studies.
5. University of the Pacific
Located in Stockton, the University of the Pacific delivers an innovative bachelors in speech pathology program that emphasizes both academic excellence and detailed clinical training. The university is one of the premier speech pathology schools in California and has earned nationwide recognition for its distinctive approach to clinical health education.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Pacific follows a full-time, cohort-based structure with a pre-determined curriculum sequence. Students must enroll full-time and advance through speech-language pathology courses in order with their cohort. This structured approach will give detailed preparation for future speech pathologists.
The program aims to prepare reflective speech-language pathologists for lifelong success through excellent, student-centered experiential learning. Students develop these vital competencies:
- Knowledge of simple human communication processes
- Understanding of communication and swallowing disorders
- Assessment and intervention procedures
- Ethical and compassionate service
We designed this program as pre-professional training that serves as significant preparation for graduate-level education. Students with undergraduate degrees can pursue the university’s accelerated 15-month master’s program, so those without speech pathology backgrounds can enter the 24-month graduate pathway.
Clinical opportunities
Pacific stands out as a national leader in undergraduate clinical education—one of the few programs nationwide offering hands-on clinical experience at the bachelor’s level. Students actively participate in clinical sessions at the university’s Stockton centers starting their junior year.
During their senior year, undergraduates get involved in both diagnostic and therapy sessions and typically get around 70 hours of clinical experience. These practical experiences take place in several on-campus facilities:
- Pacific Speech, Hearing and Language Center (adult clients)
- RiteCare Childhood Language Center (children ages 2-18)
- Language-Literacy Center (youth with language-literacy disorders)
Licensed and certified professionals directly supervise all clinical work to ensure quality care and proper mentorship.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
Pacific’s undergraduate program cannot receive specific ASHA accreditation since this applies only to graduate programs. The university’s master’s program in Speech-Language Pathology has held accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology since 1973. The next accreditation review comes up in 2027.
Students can choose between two accelerated graduate pathways: a 15-month option for those with speech-language pathology bachelor’s degrees and a 24-month option for those with non-speech-language pathology backgrounds. Students need a minimum 3.0 GPA in their last 60 units of coursework, at least 25 guided observation hours with an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist, and a completed CSDCAS application.
Pacific has managed to keep a 100% pass rate on the national certification examination prior to graduation for more than two decades—significantly higher than the national average of 80-90%. Graduates satisfy all requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential after completing the master’s program.
6. California State University, Fullerton
California State University, Fullerton offers a bachelor’s in speech pathology program that combines scientific understanding with hands-on clinical experience. Among schools in California, CSUF distinguishes itself through expert faculty and rich clinical training opportunities.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Science in Communicative Disorders at CSUF needs 42 units within the major and 51 units of general education. Students can choose 27 units of free electives to complete the required 120 units for graduation. This program helps students prepare for graduate studies, as a master’s degree remains the minimum requirement to practice as a speech-language pathologist.
CSUF’s program stands out with these strengths:
- Nationally recognized faculty experts in diagnosing and managing communication disorders
- A curriculum focused on multicultural clinical practices
- Community service learning through the Center for Internships and Community-Engagement
- Career preparation for both educational and healthcare environments
The program prepares students for graduate school and provides valuable knowledge to those pursuing teaching credentials in early childhood, special, or elementary education.
Clinical opportunities
The campus Speech and Hearing Clinic serves as a training facility and community resource. The clinic runs on donations, making services available to community members while supporting graduate clinician training.
Students work with various clinical practices including child and adult therapy, audiology, school and medical settings, transgender voice communication, and alternative communication. Licensed professionals with ASHA certification supervise all clinical work directly.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
CSUF’s master’s program in speech-language pathology holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA. Students who graduate meet all requirements for ASHA certification (CCC-SLP), California state licensure, and Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential for public schools.
The program enables students to treat speech, swallowing, and language disorders throughout life. Graduates work in schools, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and private practices.
7. California State University, Long Beach
California State University, Long Beach leads communication disorders education with its distinguished bachelors in speech pathology program since 1954. The program builds a vital foundation through detailed academic preparation for future speech-language pathologists.
Program overview
CSULB’s Department of Speech-Language Pathology offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree that focuses on normal and disordered processes of speech, language, hearing, and swallowing. Students can choose from three significant career paths:
- Preparation for graduate studies in speech-language pathology
- Qualification for State of California licensure as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)
- Foundation for SLPA certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
This program stands out among other speech pathology schools in California with its complete approach to communication disorders. Students learn about normal development and various factors that can disrupt typical communication patterns, such as genetic, cultural, neurological, physiological, psychological, and socioeconomic influences.
Clinical opportunities
The university’s on-campus Speech-Language Clinic serves as both a teaching facility and community resource. Local children and adults can receive diagnostic and therapeutic services for speech, language, and communication disorders completely free of cost.
Graduate student clinicians provide all evaluation and therapy services while faculty members supervise directly. These faculty members maintain:
- National certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- California state licensure as speech-language pathologists
The clinic operates according to the university’s fall, spring, and summer semester calendar. Students receive structured clinical experiences throughout their academic training.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
CSULB’s Master of Arts program in speech-language pathology holds full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. This prestigious status qualifies graduates for:
- Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from California Commission for Teacher Credentialing
- State of California Licensure in Speech-Language Pathology
Students pursuing a speech pathologist bachelor’s degree at CSULB can enter the graduate pathway through a cohort-based program that takes five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). The program combines school-based internships with medical and private practice experiences. Students complete 400 clinical hours needed for professional certification.
8. California State University, Northridge
California State University, Northridge’s Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences (CDS) offers a 40-year-old bachelor’s in speech pathology program. The program will give you the skills you need to pursue graduate-level education in the field.
Program overview
CSUN’s Bachelor of Arts in Communicative Disorders lets students choose between Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology tracks. These paths blend classroom theory with real-world practice. Students learn about normal communication development and disorders to build a strong foundation for their professional career.
The program has two main phases:
- Pre-Clinical Phase: Students take core courses like Phonetics, Hearing Science, Speech and Language Development, and Speech Science
- Clinical Phase: Students must complete prerequisite courses and qualify for clinical privileges
Students need to maintain their clinical privileges by scoring at least a “B” grade in each clinical course. They must also meet professional standards. Many students praise their faculty’s expertise and commitment to helping them succeed.
Clinical opportunities
Students gain hands-on experience at the on-campus Language, Speech and Hearing Center. This facility helps people with communication disorders while students watch sessions and work with faculty members.
CSUN’s National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) chapter offers great networking and volunteering opportunities. These real-world experiences add value to classroom learning and prepare students for advanced clinical work.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
The university’s Master of Science program in Speech-Language Pathology holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA. The current accreditation runs through 2029, with a review coming up in 2028.
The graduate program needs applicants to have either a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders or complete 30 specific prerequisite semester units. Your GPA in major coursework matters more than GRE scores. You need at least 18 graded units of prerequisites. This detailed preparation helps graduates qualify for professional certification and licensure.
9. San Francisco State University
San Francisco State University enables future speech pathologists to excel through its culturally responsive Bachelor of Science program in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. This program distinguishes itself among other speech pathology schools in California with its strong emphasis on antiracism and equity in communication services.
Program overview
SFSU’s Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences creates a solid foundation for clinical science careers and graduate study in speech-language pathology. Students begin the program in their junior year after they complete general education requirements for a Bachelor’s degree. The curriculum needs 120 total units for graduation. Undergraduates can take up to 6 units of graduate coursework during their final semester.
SFSU’s curriculum goes beyond academic excellence. Students learn to become competent, culturally sensitive speech-language pathologists who value research in clinical practice. The program helps students master assessment and management of communication and swallowing disorders. They also develop sensitivity to their clients’ needs, values, and cultures.
Students must maintain an overall 2.0 GPA to meet the program’s rigorous academic standards. The department helps students succeed through academic advising, study groups, and professional growth opportunities with the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Clinical opportunities
The Nicholas Certo Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic serves dual purposes. It functions as an educational facility for master’s level clinicians and provides free community services. This 50-year-old clinic offers:
- Individual and group therapy for children with various speech-language needs
- Services for adults with aphasia, motor speech disorders, traumatic brain injury, and gender affirmation
- Diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic interventions for communication disorders
Graduate students receive hands-on experience under state-licensed and ASHA-certified faculty supervision. The Bay Area’s schools, medical facilities, and private practices provide additional off-campus internship opportunities. Students need faculty approval and must interview with potential sites before placement.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
SFSU’s Master of Science program in Speech Language Pathology holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The current accreditation extends from 2025-2033. Students who complete the master’s curriculum meet all requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.
The graduate program requires students to complete 35 units of academic coursework, 6 units of clinical practica, and 14 units of internships. Most students finish these requirements in five full-time semesters, including summer session. Students interested in specialization can take up to 15 additional units, which adds one to two semesters to their program.
10. Biola University
Biola University combines faith-based education with rigorous academic training in its bachelors in speech pathology program. This unique approach distinguishes it from other speech pathology schools in California by integrating Christian viewpoints with clinical excellence.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Biola equips students through specialized coursework in speech, language, and hearing sciences. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA while learning both theory and practical applications.
Biola’s innovative accelerated 3+2 program combines undergraduate and graduate studies. Students can complete both degrees in five years instead of six. The accelerated track requirements include:
- Maintaining a 3.6 overall GPA
- Meeting professional competency standards
- Applying to the master’s program during the third year
The program focuses on four core principles: strong theoretical framework, excellence in clinical practice, biblical viewpoint, and influential community service.
Clinical opportunities
The university’s on-campus speech-language clinic serves clients aged two to 82 years. This facility operates during fall and spring semesters with a donation-based model that ensures accessibility and quality training.
Undergraduate students get hands-on experience by:
- Observing graduate clinicians
- Taking part in supervised therapy sessions
- Working with various client populations
Licensed, ASHA-certified faculty members supervise all clinical work. This training helps students prepare for the graduate program’s extensive clinical requirements. Students complete on-site practica at Biola’s clinic before moving to external placements in schools and medical settings.
Accreditation and graduate pathway
The WASC Senior College and University Commission accredits Biola University. The Master of Science program in Speech-Language Pathology earned accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology in 2021, valid through 2026.
The graduate program needs 63 semester credit hours and costs about $1,084 per credit for the 2025-26 academic year. Biola students substantially outperform national averages for graduate school acceptance. National rates range between 29-42%, while Biola students achieve 95-100% acceptance rates.
Graduates qualify for:
- ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence
- California state licensure
- California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
Start Your Career as a Speech Pathologist Today
A bachelor’s in speech pathology program sets the foundation to help others communicate better. Ten accredited programs in California give students detailed coursework, practical clinical experience, and clear paths to graduate studies.
Each school brings something special to the table. San Diego State University shines with its clinical programs. The University of Redlands shows great results with graduate placements. State schools in Los Angeles, Fullerton, Long Beach, and Northridge provide economical solutions with strong local ties. Chapman University and University of the Pacific let students finish faster and save time. San Francisco State focuses on cultural awareness in care. Biola University combines faith-based viewpoints with clinical excellence.
Good undergraduate preparation matters, but becoming a speech-language pathologist needs graduate-level education. These programs help students get ready through well-planned courses and clinical work. Their campus clinics are a great way to get real experience while helping communities through free or pay-what-you-can services.
The field needs commitment – good grades, clinical hours, and graduate school admission. All the same, the career benefits make it worth the effort. Speech pathologists have solid job prospects in schools and healthcare, with pay that matches their expertise.
Starting your path as a speech-language pathologist starts with picking a program that lines up with your goals and situation. Location, cost, hands-on opportunities, and graduate success rates should shape your choice. California’s speech pathology programs of all types give you solid ground to start helping others find their voice.