15 Top Speech Pathology Master’s Programs in California for 2025

A master’s degree in speech pathology from California could launch your career to new heights. California is the second highest-paying state for speech-language pathologists (SLPs), with professionals earning an impressive average of $92,280 annually.

The career outlook shines bright, as the field expects 18% growth from 2023-2033. This rate is nowhere near the average growth of other professions. California boasts more than 20 programs with accreditation from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and recognition from the California Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board (SLPAB). Students who choose the top speech pathology graduate programs in California learn cultural competence, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. These skills prepare them for work in schools, hospitals, and private practices.

Recent changes to college rankings bring fresh perspectives. A new Economic Mobility Index measures how well programs boost low-income students’ economic status. The rankings no longer consider ACT/SAT scores, which shows the changing landscape of college admissions. This piece will guide you through California’s best SLP programs as you plan for 2025 admission.

1. Pepperdine University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Pepperdine University leads California’s speech pathology master’s programs with its new online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program starting Fall 2025. The distance education program blends academic excellence with hands-on clinical experience, built on Pepperdine’s Christian values.

Program Overview

The online MS in Speech-Language Pathology program delivers a detailed curriculum that focuses on communication and swallowing development, disorders, assessment, and treatment. Students learn speech-language pathology principles and serve patients’ physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. The reliable 53-credit curriculum includes 22 courses and 400 supervised clinical hours that prepare students for one of healthcare’s fastest-growing fields. Students complete a Praxis preparation sequence in their final two trimesters to get ready for licensure examinations.

Program Length

Students can pick between two flexible learning options:

• Full-time program: Completed in five trimesters
• Part-time program: Completed in eight trimesters

Both paths mix weekly online learning with three on-site experiences at Pepperdine’s Calabasas campus. The program welcomes new cohorts three times a year in January, May, and August.

Tuition and Fees

The estimated total tuition reaches $95,400 for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students need to pay a $1,000 nonrefundable deposit to secure their spot, which applies to their first-term tuition. Financial aid options include:

• Federal student loans (FAFSA code: 001264)
• Employer tuition assistance programs
• Veterans educational benefits
• Private education loans

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has granted the MS program Candidate for Accreditation status. This “preaccreditation” status goes to developing programs for up to 5 years. The courses and clinical requirements align with CAA and ASHA standards for certification in Speech-Language Pathology. Graduates will have the knowledge they need for the Praxis Exam, Certificate of Clinical Competence, and state licensure, though requirements vary by state.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Completion of required foundational courses in communicative disorders
• Three letters of recommendation (two preferably from academic professors in communication sciences)
• Statement of interest addressing career goals and capacity for success
• $65 non-refundable application fee

Students without foundational coursework can first complete Pepperdine’s online Post Baccalaureate Speech-Language Pathology Foundations program. ASHA also requires students to complete prerequisite courses in biology, physics or chemistry, statistics, and behavioral sciences before admission.

2. California State University, Chico – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders

CSU Chico provides an exceptional path for future speech-language pathologists through its MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders program. Students gain academic knowledge and clinical expertise needed to succeed professionally through this 20-year-old program.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders gets students ready for national certification, state licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. Students learn through specialized courses about normal human development, communicative processes, and study communication disorders with their assessment and treatment approaches. The curriculum includes articulation disorders, autism spectrum disorders, cognitive-language disorders, fluency disorders, voice disorders, and swallowing disorders. Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories with advanced audiovisual capabilities and a yearly community speech and hearing fair.

Program Length

Students complete this 56-unit program in two years typically. The program’s success rate shows that 95% of students graduate within this timeframe. Some students may take three years to finish if needed. The well-laid-out curriculum combines academic coursework with extensive clinical experience to ensure detailed preparation.

Tuition and Fees

California residents pay $9,996 in graduate tuition and fees for the 2024-2025 academic year, while out-of-state students pay $20,076. Part-time students’ tuition costs $418 per credit hour. Living expenses bring the total estimated cost to $30,612 for in-state campus residents and $40,692 for out-of-state students.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has accredited the program through February 2026. This accreditation shows the program meets high educational standards. The program’s graduates score higher than the national average on the PRAXIS licensing/certification exam consistently.

Admission Requirements

This competitive program requires:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Three letters of recommendation
• Resume and personal essay
• Completion of CMSD 488 or equivalent
• Completion of ASHA-required undergraduate courses in biological science, physics/chemistry, statistics, and behavioral sciences

The program receives 174 applications each year and extends admission offers to 39 students. CSU Chico’s graduates achieve a 100% employment rate within three months of completing the program.

3. California Baptist University – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

California Baptist University offers a values-driven speech pathology master’s program that combines rigorous academic study with hands-on clinical experience. This faith-based approach helps create speech-language pathologists who blend professional expertise with compassionate care.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at CBU gives students the interdisciplinary knowledge and clinical experience they need to become licensed and nationally certified speech-language pathologists. Students learn at the on-campus Clinical Education Center where they help people with communication disorders of all ages. The curriculum covers both developmental and acquired organic and neurogenic communication disorders. This prepares graduates to work in healthcare and educational settings. The program’s faculty members bring deep academic knowledge and clinical experience. They create a shared learning environment where students get personal attention.

Program Length

Students enter and complete all coursework together in a cohort model. The program takes two years to complete, including two summers, and needs full-time commitment. The program’s demanding schedule means students should avoid working while studying. Classes typically run from September through late June. Clinical practicums might continue through July and August. This approach builds community and helps students learn from each other.

Tuition and Fees

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program’s annual tuition is about $33,902 for the 2024-2025 academic year. This amount doesn’t include housing, food, transportation, books, and supplies.

Accreditation and Licensure

The program has accreditation from:

• Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• Commission on Teacher Credentialing for the State of California (received original accreditation on August 11, 2017)

Graduates can apply for the Required Professional Experience for California state licensure, ASHA’s Clinical Fellowship Year, and the Preliminary Speech-Language Pathology Services credential.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need to submit:

• Bachelor’s degree in communication disorders from an accredited university (3.0 minimum GPA)
• Application through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Science & Disorders Programs
• Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
• Three letters of recommendation
• Resume showing relevant volunteer or work experience
• Essay explaining your interest and how it matches CBU’s mission

Students must complete ASHA-required prerequisite courses in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and behavioral sciences.

4. San Diego State University – MA in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

San Diego State University runs one of California’s most competitive speech pathology master’s programs. The program accepts only 40-45 students from about 600 applicants each year.

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences creates entry-level speech-language pathologists ready to work in public schools, hospitals, and private practices. Students receive complete training in articulation, fluency, voice disorders, language disorders, swallowing, cognitive aspects of communication, and communication modalities. The program includes three semesters of clinical training at SDSU’s Speech-Language Clinic. Students then complete two externship semesters – one in a public school and another serving adolescents or adults.

Program Length

Students complete this five-semester program over two academic years plus one summer. The program runs full-time and in-person only. Most students focus solely on their studies and use financial aid. Some students work 5-10 hours weekly in campus jobs, but the program doesn’t allow part-time study or remote learning.

Tuition and Fees

California residents starting in 2025-26 should expect these costs:

• Basic tuition and fees: $10,794
• Books and supplies: $970
• Total academic year costs based on living arrangements:
  • Living with parents: $26,198
  • University housing: $38,938
  • Off-campus: $35,616

Non-resident students pay an additional $444 per unit above basic tuition.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits this program. Graduates qualify for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California Speech-Language Pathology licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Admission Requirements

Students must meet these criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.2 GPA (admitted students typically average 3.8)
• Background in speech, language, and hearing sciences through undergraduate or post-baccalaureate studies
• Three recommendation letters, preferably from professors
• Clear background check before starting the program

Students must submit applications through both CalState Apply and CSDCAS.

5. California State University, East Bay – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

California State University, East Bay stands out among California’s speech pathology master’s programs. The university’s strong focus on clinical training and professional preparation gives students the skills they need for successful careers as speech-language pathologists.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program readies students for careers in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and public schools. Students learn to make effective communication accessible to everyone, particularly children and adults with disorders of speech, language, hearing, cognition, and swallowing. The program includes extensive clinical training and two off-campus internships. The university’s Norma S. and Ray R. Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic provides free and low-cost speech and language therapy services to the community.

Program Length

Traditional on-campus students can complete the program in two years. Cal State East Bay also offers an online MS option with 60-62 units spread over eight semesters (three years, including summers). Online students spend two weeks on campus during their first summer, which helps them build strong connections with professors and classmates.

Tuition and Fees

California residents pay annual tuition of $8,072, while out-of-state students pay $17,592. Students should plan for additional expenses like books, housing, and other necessities beyond these basic academic costs.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits this program. The California Commission on Teacher Education has also accredited the department’s Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential preparation program. Graduates can apply for California state licensure, the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence, and the California Teacher’s Commission Speech-Language Pathology Services credential.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet these criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology/communication disorders or equivalent
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (applications with lower GPAs may not receive full review)
• Foundational coursework in anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, phonetics, child language development, speech and hearing science, neuroanatomy, and audiology
• Three letters of recommendation (preferably from academic sources)
• Personal statement and resume/CV detailing relevant experience

The strongest candidates show excellent academic performance, field experience, strong work ethic, and experience working with diverse populations.

6. California State University, Fullerton – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders

California State University, Fullerton ranks among California’s leading speech pathology master’s programs. The university stands out because of its outstanding faculty expertise and clinical opportunities. This program’s reputation for creating skilled practitioners dates back to when it first began.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders will give you specialized education to diagnose and treat communication disorders. Students learn specific instruction in key areas such as speech/language development, child language disorders, audiology, neurogenic communicative disorders, fluency disorders, and Augmentative/Alternative Communication. Doctoral-level faculty with expertise in specific clinical sub-disciplines required by ASHA teach most graduate classroom instruction, which makes this program unique. Students gain valuable experience through high-quality clinical rotations at Southern California’s major teaching hospitals and public schools. The program uniquely serves a clinical population with exceptional linguistic and cultural diversity.

Program Length

Students typically complete their studies in four semesters plus one or two summer terms. This well-laid-out approach helps students finish all coursework and clinical experiences within this timeframe. The curriculum follows a careful sequence that combines academic learning with hands-on practice.

Tuition and Fees

California residents enrolled in seven or more units will pay tuition and fees of $4,498.81 per semester for the 2024-2025 academic year. Non-resident students must pay an additional $396.00 per unit on top of their registration and tuition fees. The CSU Board of Trustees has approved a multi-year tuition increase starting in 2024-2025, so these costs may change.

Accreditation and Licensure

Since 1969, the program has managed to keep its accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Graduates can earn several professional credentials:

• Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential for public school service
• California state license
• ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence

Admission Requirements

Candidates need to meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in CSD or completion of 36 units (12 courses) of prerequisites
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants usually have GPAs above 3.7)
• Three letters of recommendation from academic and clinical sources
• Personal statement showing professional interests and career goals
• Official transcripts from all colleges attended

Students must submit their application materials through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application Service (CSDCAS) by January 15th at 8:59 pm PST.

7. California State University, Long Beach – MA in Communicative Disorders

California State University, Long Beach has a cohort-based MA in Communicative Disorders program that combines clinical training with academic excellence. CSULB stands out among California’s speech pathology master’s programs by preparing students through a well-laid-out curriculum that works in a variety of professional settings.

Program Overview

CSULB’s Master of Arts program shapes professional speech-language pathologists through a cohort-based learning model. Students need to complete at least 58 units of coursework that covers assessment and intervention for various communication disorders. The program gives students hands-on experience through on-campus clinical practice and off-campus internships. CSULB’s approach differs from other programs by offering academic seminars yearly in a set sequence. The department runs two nationally accredited tracks—a traditional program and a special cohort program—that focus on developing skilled practitioners.

Program Length

Students complete the program in five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). This timeline includes one semester of school-based internship and another in medical/private practice settings. The full-time, in-person curriculum moves all students through coursework together. Students attend classes and on-campus clinic sessions during weekdays (Monday through Friday). This schedule creates an intensive but quick path to graduation.

Tuition and Fees

International students should expect to pay around $19,806 for the 2024-2025 academic year. California residents pay less but need to plan for books, supplies, and living costs. Summer semester tuition runs higher than fall/spring terms. Students can explore various financial aid options through CSULB’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the program. Graduates can earn multiple credentials:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)
• California State License in Speech-Language Pathology
• California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential

Admission Requirements

Students must meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or equivalent field
• At least 30 semester units (45 quarter units) of prerequisite coursework in speech-language pathology/communication sciences
• Grades of C or better in ASHA-required basic science courses
• Observation hours with different disorders in assessment and intervention settings
• A 3-unit special education class completed before starting the program

The department accepts new students once a year for fall enrollment, with applications due by January 15.

8. California State University, Los Angeles – MA in Communication Disorders

Cal State LA stands among California’s top speech pathology master’s programs with an impressive 91% acceptance rate. The Master of Arts in Communication Disorders program shapes future speech-language pathologists through a balanced mix of academic work and hands-on clinical experience.

Program Overview

The MA in Communication Disorders teaches students to evaluate and treat communication and swallowing disorders in a variety of populations. Students gain expertise through classroom learning combined with practical experience at the on-campus Robert L. Douglass Speech-Language Clinic. This clinic serves as a training ground and helps the community with diagnostic and rehabilitation services. Students must complete 59 semester units of graduate coursework and clinical practicum. Many students also pursue the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential, which adds 3 more semester units.

Length

This master’s program takes two years to complete and has two summer sessions (six terms total). The complete, full-time curriculum gives students thorough training in speech-language pathology. Students move through their courses step by step with supervised clinical rotations.

Tuition and Fees

The 2024-2025 academic year was $8,038 for in-state students and $18,798 for out-of-state students per year. California residents should budget around $26,000 for the entire program, including all semesters and fees. Students need to plan ahead financially to make this career investment.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has accredited the program through 2032. Graduates can pursue:

• California state licensure from the Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board
• ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence
• Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential

Admission Requirements

This competitive program has these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in communicative disorders or equivalent
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants typically have GPAs between 3.63 and 4.0)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Letter of professional goals and intent
• Possible on-campus interview

The department gets about 338 applications each year but takes only 28 students. The program is much more selective than its high acceptance rate suggests. Strong candidates need to show both academic excellence and professional potential.

9. California State University, Northridge – MS in Communicative Disorders

California State University, Northridge stands out with its nationally recognized MS in Communicative Disorders program. Students build successful careers helping people improve their speech abilities. The professional pathway gives students exceptional clinical experience through CSUN’s Language, Speech and Hearing Center.

Overview

A master’s degree serves as the professional entry-level requirement to work as a speech-language pathologist. The detailed curriculum meets academic requirements to practice in medical, rehabilitative, or private practice settings in any state. Students learn through classroom instruction, online learning, and hands-on clinical participation. Advanced graduate students get more clinical experience at affiliated medical centers, professional practices, and public schools. Many graduates now work successfully at Los Angeles Unified School District, Kaiser Permanente, and Easterseals.

Program Length

Students typically complete this two-year master’s degree program with a required practicum. The curriculum balances academic coursework with practical clinical experience to prepare students thoroughly for professional practice.

Tuition and Fees

Students pay approximately $54,306 to complete the degree, based on $862 per unit for the 63-unit program. Students should also plan for:

• University application fee: $70 (non-refundable)
• Books and supplies: costs vary by program
• Graduation application fee: $47

Clinical practicum experiences may require additional costs throughout the program.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA accredits this program. Graduates qualify for:

• State licensure to practice in medical settings
• Educational credentials to work in public schools
• ASHA’s professional certification

Admission Requirements

Successful applicants need:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA in CDS coursework (admitted students’ average GPA: 3.79)
• Completed prerequisite courses in phonetics, hearing science, speech/language development, and speech science
• Three recommendation letters
• ASHA-required courses in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and social/behavioral sciences

10. Chapman University – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Ranked No. 92 by U.S. News & World Report for Best Graduate Schools 2021, Chapman University stands out among speech pathology master’s programs in California. This Orange County institution delivers student-specific education that emphasizes clinical excellence and inter-professional practices.

Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders equips future speech-language pathologists with skills needed for clinical or supervisory roles in healthcare and education. Students benefit from this full-time program that blends classroom learning with guided clinical fieldwork courses. You’ll learn to assess and treat communication disorders like stuttering, hearing loss, articulation disorders, autism spectrum disorder, aphasia, and swallowing disorders. Students gain experience in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, private practices, agencies, early intervention programs, and K-12 public schools. Chapman’s program offers a unique advantage – its Communication Sciences and Disorders department shares space with physical therapy and physician assistant studies programs, which creates natural opportunities for inter-professional learning.

Program Length

New students join as a cohort each fall. The 63-unit curriculum takes two years (six trimesters) to complete and has a graduate capstone project and complete examinations. Students must log 400 hours of supervised practicum in education and healthcare settings of all types. The university awards master’s degrees once yearly on August 1.

Tuition and Fees

Current tuition runs $13,663 per trimester. The total program cost comes to about $75,000. The program’s demanding schedule leads most students to focus on their studies rather than working while enrolled.

Accreditation and Licensure

The program has kept its accreditation since 2009 from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Graduates qualify for:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA
• California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
• California state license in speech-language pathology

Admission Requirements

Students need to submit:

• Completed CSDCAS application
• Undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders or equivalent
• Three letters of recommendation (one from academic source)
• Personal essay that shows writing skills and career commitment
• Graduate Record Examination scores from the past five years
• Selected candidates may need to complete an in-person interview

11. San Francisco State University – MS in Communicative Disorders

San Francisco State University develops culturally responsive speech-language pathologists through a program that balances academic knowledge with clinical expertise. This outstanding speech pathology master’s program in California highlights research importance in clinical practice and encourages sensitivity to each client’s needs, values, and cultures.

Program Overview

The MS in Communicative Disorders curriculum helps students become competent practitioners who understand research applications in clinical settings. Students learn from skilled instructors, clinical researchers, and supervisors both on and off campus through extensive academic and clinical experiences. The program provides complete expertise in assessing and treating communication disorders through hands-on practicum placements. Students are ready for careers in a variety of settings after graduation, including public schools, medical facilities, and private practices.

Length

Students finish the program in a minimum of 5 full-time semesters including a summer session. The degree needs 35 units of academic courses plus 6 units of clinical practica. The program also requires internships totaling 14 units to get the 375 clinical clock hours plus 25 observation hours needed for certification and licensure. Students who choose specializations might need up to 15 extra units, which could add one to two semesters to their studies.

Tuition and Fees

The 2024-2025 academic year had simple tuition costs of about $8,256 for California residents. Non-residents pay an additional $444 per unit. Total annual costs with living arrangements are:

• On-campus: $37,412
• Off-campus: $38,002
• Living with parents: $27,148

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has accredited the program through 2033. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing currently accredits the program. Students who complete the curriculum meet requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Admissions

Applicants need to submit:

• Two separate applications (department and university’s graduate admissions via CSU Apply)
• Official transcripts from all colleges attended
• Minimum two letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to academic potential
• Personal essay describing attributes, experiences, and goals
• Evidence of written English proficiency

12. San Jose State University – MA in Education, Speech Pathology Concentration

San Jose State University now offers a modern online MS program in speech-language pathology that combines distance learning with hands-on fieldwork. SJSU stands out among California’s speech pathology master’s programs, building on its decades of educational excellence.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program gives you the expertise in various communication disorders. The curriculum includes articulation disorders, fluency disorders like stuttering, augmentative communication methods, voice disorders, dysphagia, and neurogenic communication challenges. Students learn theoretical knowledge and clinical applications through an evidence-based, ethical, and multicultural framework. The program’s unique structure lets you take online academic courses with a small cohort while you complete fieldwork observations at nearby locations.

Length

Students need 66 units to graduate, and the program accepts new students in fall and spring. SJSU SPEAKS (Speech-Language Pathology Education and Applied Knowledge and Skills) runs as a two-year online graduate program across five consecutive semesters, including summer. Students who need prerequisite courses can opt for a three-year plan.

Tuition and Fees

The annual tuition runs about $31,002, making the total program cost approximately $62,004 for students completing in two years. This cost reflects the program’s quality and its potential career value.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA has accredited this program. California’s Commission on Teacher Credentialing has also approved it for Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. Graduates can pursue ASHA certification, state licensure through California’s Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology Board, and the Speech-Language Hearing Services credential.

Admission Requirements

Program requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Official transcripts from all previous institutions
• Personal essay and resume
• Letters of recommendation

International students must take an English language proficiency exam. The program doesn’t require GRE scores.

13. University of the Pacific – MS in Speech-Language Pathology

University of the Pacific stands out among California’s speech pathology master’s programs by offering accelerated education pathways. The university’s graduates have achieved perfect examination pass rates for more than 20 years and consistently perform better than the national average.

Program Overview

Pacific’s Department of Speech-Language Pathology at the Stockton campus delivers high-quality clinical education based on solid research foundations. Students progress through a full-time, pre-professional program that follows a structured course sequence in cohorts. The program welcomes 20-22 students yearly for the 15-month track, while 10-12 students join the 24-month program. Their graduates have achieved a remarkable 100% employment rate within one year after completing their studies.

Program Length

Students can choose between two accelerated master’s degree options:

• 15-month (4 semester) program designed for students with speech-language pathology undergraduate degrees
• 24-month (6 semester) program tailored for students holding non-speech-language pathology bachelor’s degrees

Students work directly with the graduate program director to create study plans that match their individual needs.

Tuition and Fees

The program charges $1,483 per unit with total requirements ranging from 56-88 units based on your chosen pathway. This educational investment has proven its value – 100% of students have successfully passed the national certification examination before graduation for over two decades.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA fully accredits the Master of Science education program. Graduates qualify for:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA
• State licensure through California’s Department of Consumer Affairs
• California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential

Admission Requirements

The priority application deadline runs through January 15, with a final submission date of February 1. Candidates must meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA for the last 60 units
• Official transcripts from all post-high school institutions
• Personal statement describing motivation and abilities
• Three letters of recommendation (at least one from university faculty)
• Video recording responding to prompts on CSDCAS

14. University of Redlands – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders

The University of Redlands has a 50-year legacy in speech pathology education and ranks among California’s most respected master’s programs in this field. Students benefit from personal attention and expert faculty who help them develop both academic knowledge and clinical skills.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders creates graduates who meet high academic and clinical standards for professional practice. Students experience a balanced mix of theoretical education and hands-on clinical work. The department builds on a strong liberal arts foundation that helps students develop significant thinking skills and better communication abilities. The program stands out because of the meaningful shared relationship between students and faculty, which builds its reputation for producing caring and skilled professionals.

Program Length

Your educational background determines the program length. Students with Communication Sciences and Disorders undergraduate degrees complete the program in 24 months. “Grad Plus” students who need prerequisite courses take 36 months. Students must finish all five prerequisites at another institution or take them within the graduate program.

Tuition and Fees

Students pay about $37,350 yearly, at $1,245 per credit throughout the program. This cost reflects the detailed education and clinical training students receive. Students can access financial support through fellowships, research assistantships, scholarships, loans, and graduate assistantships.

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the master’s program. Graduates qualify for three vital credentials: ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California’s Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board license, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from California’s Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA to be considered
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal essay addressing specific prompts
• Application through CSDCAS (deadline: February 1, 2025)

International students must submit transcript evaluations through IERF or WES and prove English proficiency through standardized tests.

15. Loma Linda University – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Loma Linda University’s Christ-centered MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders program balances academic rigor with practical clinical training. This 25-year-old program’s faith-based approach makes it unique among California’s speech pathology master’s programs. Students experience professional excellence and spiritual values working together.

Program Overview

The Master of Science program prepares students for careers in speech-language pathology in a variety of educational and healthcare settings. The curriculum promotes independence and ethical responsibility toward people with speech, language, and hearing challenges. Clinical education is the backbone of this program. Students gain extensive experience at Loma Linda University Medical Center and affiliated sites, which provides exposure to various communication disorders. The curriculum thoroughly covers assessment and intervention for articulation, language, stuttering, voice, hearing, cognitive aspects, social communication, and swallowing disorders.

Program Length

Students with undergraduate degrees in communicative disorders complete the program in seven quarters of coursework. The program starts each fall with students moving through as a cohort. Graduate courses happen during late afternoon/early evening hours with one Friday morning per month in the first and second years. Students participate in clinical practicum each quarter, which typically requires one morning or afternoon weekly. The final two quarters involve full-time placements in both public school and medical settings.

Tuition and Fees

First-year costs for 2025-2026 academic year include:

• Tuition and fees: $31,539
• Books and supplies: $1,139

Second-year expenses consist of:

• Tuition and fees: $37,682
• Books and supplies: $1,290

Accreditation and Licensure

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA accredits this program. Graduates earn three credentials: the Preliminary Speech-Language Pathology Services credential for California schools, the Temporary License in Speech-Language Pathology, and eligibility to pursue the Certificate of Clinical Competence through ASHA.

Admission Requirements

Admission criteria include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology/Communication Disorders
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.3 GPA for last 96 quarter/64 semester credits
• Personal statement and three letters of recommendation
• Completion of courses in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and social/behavioral sciences

Pick a Speech Pathology Master’s in California Today

Your path to a rewarding and lucrative career in California starts with picking the right speech pathology master’s program. You’ll find many programs across the state that offer different benefits while meeting accreditation standards. The field looks promising with average annual salaries of $92,280 and a projected growth rate of 29%. These numbers make speech pathology an attractive choice for healthcare professionals.

Program lengths vary based on your needs. University of the Pacific offers accelerated 15-month programs, while San Diego State University provides standard two-year options. The costs show big differences too. CSU campuses charge around $8,000 per year, but private universities can cost more than $30,000 annually. You’ll need to weigh these factors against admission requirements to pick the best option.

Every speech pathology master’s program in California prepares you for vital credentials. These include ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. With these qualifications, you can work in schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers.

The complete clinical training from these programs will prepare you to help patients effectively. California has a program that matches your professional goals and personal values. You might prefer Pepperdine’s Christian values-based approach, SDSU’s rigorous academic standards, or CSU East Bay’s focus on serving diverse populations. Your experience as a skilled speech-language pathologist begins with choosing a program that fits your circumstances and dreams