8 Accelerated Speech Pathology Degrees in California
Looking to speed up your career in speech-language pathology? California’s accelerated SLP programs let you finish your education in just 16 weeks. These programs create a direct path to working with patients of all types — from children with cleft palates to adults recovering from strokes.
These accelerated speech pathology programs pack both speed and substance. Students at leading institutions achieve remarkable results, with 100% employment within one year of graduation and a 98% Praxis Examination pass rate. The programs also provide extensive clinical experience. Some programs let students complete 25 supervised observation hours, while others require 300 hours of supervised clinical practice in three different settings.
Students eager to join this growing field have several great options. Some universities combine bachelor’s and master’s degrees into a five-year program instead of the traditional six or seven years. Leading institutions welcome between 20-32 students each year and give them hands-on experience with more than 100 clients weekly.
Want to find which program fits you best? Let’s explore the 8 accelerated speech pathology degrees in California. Student reviews will help you make an informed choice.
1. University of the Pacific (Accelerated MS Program)
The University of the Pacific has built an outstanding reputation in accelerated speech pathology programs. Their track record speaks for itself—100% of graduates passing the national certification exam for over two decades. Students learn through a community-focused model at the Stockton campus, which sets this speech-language pathology program apart.
Program overview
Research-backed clinical instruction forms the core of Pacific’s accelerated MS in Speech-Language Pathology program. Students get practical experience at seven different sites through the program’s community-based clinical education approach. This setup helps build your professional network and lets you serve people from many backgrounds who need speech-language pathology services.
The program meets all requirements for:
- The Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from ASHA
- California state licensure in Speech-Language Pathology
- The California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
On top of that, it has earned recognition as both an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and a Hispanic-Serving Institution.
Admission requirements
The priority deadline falls on January 15th, with admissions decisions coming by mid-February. You can still apply through February 1st and receive your decision by late March.
Here’s what you need:
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in your last 60 units of study
- Three reference letters (one must come from university faculty)
- A personal statement about your motivation, skills, and abilities
- A 3-4 minute video responding to specific prompts
The 2023 admissions cycle saw 105 applicants. The program selected 28 students for the 15-month track and 8 for the 24-month track. These students had average GPAs of 3.73 and 3.61 respectively.
Clinical experience
Early hands-on experience makes this program stand out. You’ll practice at three on-campus facilities:
- RiteCare Childhood Language Center of Stockton
- Pacific Speech, Hearing, and Language Center
- Language-Literacy Center
Students in the 15-month program jump into clinical work during their first two semesters. You’ll spend two days each week for seven months working with certified speech-language pathologists in northern California public schools. The program ends with a full-time medical externship lasting one semester, which might require relocation.
Program length and format
Pacific offers two fast-track options:
- 15-Month Program (4 semesters): This is a good fit if you have an undergraduate degree in Communication Disorders/Speech-Language Pathology or equivalent prerequisites
- 24-Month Program (6 semesters): This works for students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields
Both paths are much shorter than typical 3-4 year university programs. Students in the 24-month program complete foundation courses in their first two terms before starting graduate-level work.
Tuition and fees
Each unit costs $1,483, with total units ranging from 56-88 depending on your track. This private university’s tuition might be higher than public schools, but entering the workforce 9-12 months earlier than traditional program graduates could offset the cost.
You can get financial help through:
- Two School of CSD scholarships for first-year students
- Eight to nine graduate assistantships with $3,000 tuition waivers and $5,000 monthly stipends
- $300-$600 yearly funds for professional conferences
Student reviews
While direct student feedback is limited, the results tell a compelling story. This is a big deal as it means that for over 20 years, 100% of students have passed the national certification examination before graduating—the national average sits at 80-90%. The program also boasts a 98% Praxis Examination pass rate and 100% employment rate within one year of graduation (based on three-year averages).
Students value the accelerated format that gets them into the workforce quickly while providing detailed training in various professional settings.
2. Biola University (3+2 Accelerated Program)
Biola University runs a unique accelerated speech pathology program with Christian values at its core. Students can earn both their undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years. The program boasts an impressive 86.4% acceptance rate into competitive SLP programs, way above the national average of 24.6%. Students get ready for their careers through rigorous academics and plenty of hands-on practice.
Program overview
Biola’s 3+2 accelerated program combines a Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. The program kicked off in 2016 after getting candidacy of accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Students learn from a Christian viewpoint, which gives them a deeper understanding of people and the world. This approach helps graduates build both technical skills and empathy for people from all walks of life.
Admission requirements
Students who want to join the accelerated 3+2 program must:
- Let the university know during their freshman fall semester
- Keep a 3.6 overall GPA throughout their studies
- Show they meet professional standards set by department faculty
- Apply for the MS program in their third year
Regular MS program needs a minimum 3.0 GPA, GRE scores (290+ overall, 145+ verbal, 145+ quantitative, 3.0+ writing), three recommendation letters, and an interview with program faculty. International students need a TOEFL score of 100 IBT.
Clinical experience
Biola’s early clinical experience stands out as a key program feature. Students work in various clinical settings to get their required 400 certification hours. The university’s on-campus Speech-Language Clinic serves clients aged 2 to 82 who have different communication disorders. Students also provide therapy at four local private schools. They work with children who have speech-sound disorders, language disorders, fluency issues, and social pragmatic disorders.
Students spend one semester with a licensed speech-language pathologist at a local school and complete a medical externship working with adults. Trained supervisors watch and guide them through up-to-the-minute audio/visual monitoring during these placements.
Program length and format
The accelerated 3+2 program needs:
- 120 credits for the BS in Communication Disorders
- 63 credits for the MS in Speech-Language Pathology
Students finish their undergraduate degree in three years instead of four. This saves them lots of time compared to traditional six-year paths. This faster pace works best for motivated students who know their career goals and want to start working sooner.
Tuition and fees
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program costs $1,084 per credit for 2025-26. Full-time students (12-19 credits) pay about $16,255 per term, with total program costs around $68,292. While Biola’s price tag is high, students often say that “the quality of education is good and the community is wonderful”.
Student reviews
Students love Biola’s hands-on experience at the undergraduate level, which they call “extremely rare”. One student shared, “having class with the professor who actually wrote the book we’re reading is amazing and makes me feel that my tuition dollars are being used well”.
Many students think the high cost is worth it. As one put it, “Biola is very expensive. However, the quality of education is good and the community is wonderful”. Students also value their spiritual growth and sense of community. A first-semester student mentioned they “already have a sense of what my purpose is in life”.
3. Pepperdine University (Online MS in SLP)
Pepperdine University is launching an online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program in 2025, adding a fresh view to speech pathology education in California. The program blends academic excellence with detailed clinical experience, all rooted in Pepperdine’s Christian mission.
Program overview
The online MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at Pepperdine features a reliable 53-credit curriculum with 22 courses that help students become skilled, compassionate speech-language pathologists. ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) has granted the program candidacy status, which means graduates can pursue ASHA Certification (CCC-SLP). Students benefit from a unique mix of online learning and three on-site experiences at the Calabasas campus, where simulation activities make classroom learning come alive.
Admission requirements
The program requires:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
- Completion of foundational courses in communicative disorders
- Three letters of recommendation (two preferably from faculty members)
- Statement of interest explaining your goals in speech-language pathology
- Official transcripts from all previous college coursework
Students who need to complete foundational courses can join Pepperdine’s online Post Baccalaureate Speech-Language Pathology Foundations program. New cohorts start three times a year in January, May, and August.
Clinical experience
Clinical preparation is the substance of Pepperdine’s program through:
- 400+ supervised clinical clock hours in settings near you
- Five-course practicum sequence in settings of all types including schools, healthcare, and assisted living facilities
- Equal focus on pediatric and adult populations
- Simulation-based learning that covers essential skills like documentation and billing
Clinical placements give students great exposure to patients from different backgrounds in various settings.
Program length and format
Students can choose from two flexible study options:
- Full-time track: Five trimesters to complete
- Part-time track: Eight trimesters to complete
Both paths combine weekly online classes with three required on-site experiences at the Calabasas Campus. Students take a Praxis preparation sequence in the final two trimesters to get ready for the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology.
Tuition and fees
The 2025-2026 academic year costs include:
- Tuition: $1,800 per credit, reaching about $95,400 for the 53-credit program
- Graduate fees: $1,700 for full-time students (five trimesters) or $2,000 for part-time students (eight trimesters)
- Deposit: $500 non-refundable deposit saves your spot and applies to your first term’s tuition
Students can access financial support through:
- Merit scholarships (automatic consideration after admission)
- Federal loans (available via FAFSA with code 001264)
- Employer tuition assistance programs
Student reviews
Students often praise Pepperdine University’s exceptional learning environment. “The courses offer small student to teacher ratios which allows the student to really engage with the instructor,” one student shared. University data shows that 95% of students say their degree improved career prospects, and 96% would recommend the school to others.
Students value Pepperdine’s supportive community deeply. “I developed friendships that will last a lifetime,” remarked one student. Many students find that the university’s Christian foundation strikes a chord with them, adding value to their education without pushing specific beliefs.
4. California Baptist University
California Baptist University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology will give you the skills you need for healing work. The program focuses on intensive clinical training and knowledge across healthcare fields. What makes this program stand out from other accelerated speech pathology programs in California is how it blends Christian values with professional growth.
Program overview
The SLP master’s program at CBU will give you the clinical skills and knowledge you need to become a licensed and nationally certified speech-language pathologist. The program sits within the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders in the College of Health Science. This setup encourages collaboration and problem-solving between healthcare disciplines. You’ll get intensive professional development alongside your academic training to prepare you for workplaces of all types. After graduation, you can apply for both California state licensure and ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology.
Admission requirements
The speech pathology program at CBU requires you to:
- Have a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders from an accredited institution (a post-baccalaureate certificate program is required for other degrees)
- Apply through the Centralized Application Service for Communication Science & Disorders Programs
- Keep a minimum 3.0 GPA (cumulative or last 60/90 units)
- Submit three letters of recommendation
- Include a resume showing relevant volunteer or work experience
- Write an essay about your motivation and connection to CBU’s mission
The program admission committee reviews applications and invites selected candidates for interviews.
Clinical experience
The on-campus Clinical Education Center is the life-blood of your hands-on training. You’ll work with faculty supervisors to assess and treat people of all ages who have various communication disorders. The program requires at least 400 supervised clinical hours in schools, community centers, and medical settings. This exposure to many practicums helps you prepare to work with patients who have different diagnoses and disabilities.
Program length and format
Students enter as a group and take all classes together in sequence. You’ll finish your master’s degree in exactly two years, including two summers. The program’s demanding schedule makes it difficult to work while studying. The first summer session runs for eight weeks with scheduled classes and practicums.
Tuition and fees
The Speech-Language Pathology program costs $993 per unit for the 2025-2026 academic year. Your total annual tuition will be about $33,902. Other costs include:
- Books and supplies: $1,062 to $2,000 annually
- Room and board: About $12,140 per year
- Health insurance: $1,149 per semester (optional)
Your total yearly costs will reach approximately $54,430.
Student reviews
Students love how the program helps them reach their career goals. One student shared, “CBU was able to guide me in the direction that I wanted to go (the medical route). They helped me find the resources to apply for medical internships and further my education”. The supportive learning environment gets frequent mentions, with faculty who are “strongly committed to teaching and supervising students”. Students build strong connections with their professors, who stay available through different channels to help students reach their full potential.
5. Chapman University
Ranked No. 92 by U.S. News & World Report for Best Graduate Schools 2021, Chapman University’s Speech-Language Pathology program balances tailored instruction with various clinical experiences. The program, 14 years old, stands as a respected choice for aspiring SLPs in California.
Program overview
The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Chapman University readies future speech-language pathologists for healthcare and education roles. Students learn to assess and treat people with developmental or acquired communication disorders. The department sits among other health science programs like physical therapy and physician assistant studies. This setup encourages inter-professional educational practices that boost your clinical view. Students become eligible for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and a California Services credential in speech-language pathology after graduation.
Admission requirements
To apply to Chapman’s program, you must submit:
- Application through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application System (CSDCAS) by January 15, 2026
- Undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or Post-Baccalaureate equivalent
- Official transcripts showing minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA
- Three letters of recommendation, including one from an academic source
- Personal statement addressing your writing skills, career commitment, and professional goals
Students without an undergraduate CSD degree need at least four Post-Baccalaureate CSD courses on their official transcript by the application deadline. The verification process might take up to four weeks, particularly during December-February, so early submission helps.
Clinical experience
Students complete 400 hours of supervised practicum in various education and healthcare settings during the program. Each trimester includes carefully guided internships at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, private practices, agencies, early intervention programs, and K-12 public schools. Both on-site and university supervisors guide student progress during these experiences. The program focuses on tailored clinical placement experiences to build essential professional competencies.
Program length and format
The program uses a cohort model with fall entry and runs as a full-time, intensive course. Students can complete the 63-unit curriculum in two years (six trimesters). The program ends with a graduate capstone project and comprehensive exams to show mastery of course material. Students progress through the program with the same group of peers, creating a supportive learning community.
Tuition and fees
Graduate students in the 2025-2026 academic year pay $1,800 per credit. The total program cost reaches about $113,400 for 63 credits. Panther Village offers housing options, with shared rooms costing $7,367 per semester. Chapman requires health insurance, available at $2,365 yearly if students lack personal coverage.
Student reviews
Student feedback shows different sides of Chapman’s program. Many students like the small class sizes. “The classes are on the smaller side, with about 30 students per class” and “the teachers are amazing! Most of the teachers that work there own their own companies or are experts in their fields”. Some students raise concerns about program management. One student suggests others “avoid Chapman’s grad program” because of “awful management in regards to practicum placements”. Another points out the program has “expensive tuition that keeps going up”. All the same, many value the “state of the art facility” and chance to “work together with other healthcare professionals”.
6. San Diego State University
San Diego State University boasts California’s #1 ranked Speech Language program. Their Master of Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences program delivers exceptional clinical preparation and helps graduates secure employment.
Program overview
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited the MA program at SDSU. Graduates qualify for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The program gives you complete training in communication disorders of all types and prepares you for various clinical scenarios.
Admission requirements
Competition is fierce with about 600 applicants vying for 40-45 spots each cycle. Requirements include:
- A minimum 3.20 GPA in the last 60 semester units (admitted students average around 3.8)
- Speech, language, and hearing sciences undergraduate prerequisites
- English proficiency proof for international students
Students must submit applications through CalState Apply by December 1st and the Communication Sciences and Disorders Central Application Service (CSDCAS) by January 12th.
Clinical experience
Students complete at least 19 units of clinical practicum in different settings. The clinical sequence combines diagnostic practicums, clinical intervention experiences, and advanced field practice. This hands-on training prepares students for professional practice after graduation.
Program length and format
Students complete the program in five semesters – two academic years plus one summer. The program runs exclusively on campus with in-person classes. Most students focus solely on their studies and use financial aid rather than working during the program. The program doesn’t offer part-time or remote options.
Tuition and fees
The 2025-26 academic year costs $10,794 in tuition and fees for resident graduate students. Non-residents pay an extra $444 per unit. Total yearly costs reach about $26,198 for residents living with parents and $35,616 for off-campus residents.
Student reviews
The program consistently earns high marks for quality and career preparation. A graduate shared, “Attending San Diego State University for my Speech Pathology degree was one of the best decisions of my life. The program’s emphasis on community service helped me apply my learning to ground applications”. Student satisfaction runs high, with 91% reporting their degree enhanced their career prospects.
7. California State University, East Bay
California State University, East Bay offers multiple paths to become a licensed speech-language pathologist. Students benefit from flexible program options and hands-on training at the on-campus clinic.
Program overview
The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at CSU East Bay equips students academically and clinically for state licensure, ASHA certification, and the Speech-Language-Hearing Services credential. Students can choose between two tracks: a traditional two-year graduate program for those with communication disorders backgrounds and an extended program for career-changers. Graduates can work in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, public schools, or private practice.
Admission requirements
Admission requirements include:
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in the last two years of coursework
- A baccalaureate degree in speech pathology and audiology
- A minimum of 60 hours of supervised clinical practice
International students must achieve a TOEFL paper score of 550.
CSU East Bay clinical experience
Students train at the on-campus Norma S. Rees Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic where they observe, train, and conduct research. The program requires 400 clock hours, including 25 observation hours and 375 clinical contact hours. Students gain experience in various settings including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and schools.
CSU East Bay program length and format
CSU East Bay’s 2025-26 program offers a hybrid format through Self-Support. The online program runs for three years, spanning eight semesters including summers. Working professionals and students with other commitments find this part-time format particularly suitable.
CSU East Bay tuition and fees
Online program students pay $850 per unit. Traditional on-campus students’ annual expenses range from $28,279 (living with parents) to $38,685 (off-campus). These costs cover tuition, books, housing, and personal expenses.
CSU East Bay student reviews
The university’s diverse and supportive environment receives high praise from students. A recent graduate shared, “Having classes offered both online and in person allowed me to work and get an education”. Students also value the “state of the art facility” and chances to “cooperate with other healthcare professionals”.
8. Loma Linda University
Loma Linda University, a faith-based institution, combines spiritual values with clinical excellence in its speech-language pathology program. This Seventh-day Adventist educational health-sciences institution serves more than 4,500 students through its unique approach to healthcare education.
Program overview
The MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders program blends challenging coursework with hands-on clinical experiences in a variety of settings. Students who graduate from this Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology accredited program qualify for California licensure, the Preliminary Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential, and ASHA certification.
Admission requirements
The program requires:
- Bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or equivalent
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA with at least 3.3 GPA in the last 96 quarter/64 semester units
- Personal statement and three recommendation letters (preferably academic)
- At least one undergraduate course in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and social/behavioral sciences
Clinical experience
First-year students complete at least one clinical practicum each quarter. They rotate through specialty clinics that focus on autism, phonology, voice, early intervention, and stuttering. Second-year students move on to Fieldwork II experiences, and some may complete their final quarters out-of-state.
Program length and format
The traditional program runs for seven quarters, including summer between years one and two. Students with non-SLP bachelor’s degrees can opt for the Transitional Master’s Program, which takes eleven quarters to complete.
Tuition and fees
The program’s graduate tuition rates typically increase with professional education sector inflation. Students must enroll in at least four units per quarter to receive financial aid.
Student reviews
The program’s blend of faith and professional development resonates with many students. A graduate shared, “The program has wonderful professionals who incorporate faith into our studies which provides an unexplainable strength to reach the dream of helping others”.
Find an Accelerated SLP Program Today
You need to think over multiple factors beyond completion speed when selecting the right accelerated speech pathology program. Our review of California’s top programs has revealed several advantages. These accelerated pathways let you start your career faster—some in just 16 months—while giving you the complete education needed for professional success.
Clinical experience is the substance of all eight programs. Each institution makes hands-on training a priority that readies you for ground scenarios. University of the Pacific offers seven different clinical sites, while California Baptist University has its on-campus Clinical Education Center. This focus on practical training explains why these programs’ graduates have high employment rates and do well on certification exams.
Money matters need your attention. Public institutions like San Diego State University charge $10,794 for residents, while private universities like Chapman cost $113,400 for the entire program. Notwithstanding that, you’ll save money through lower living expenses and earlier entry into a well-paying profession thanks to the accelerated format.
Each institution’s program format is different. Pepperdine has a fully online option with few campus visits. CSU East Bay offers a hybrid approach that works well for working professionals. Faith-based institutions like Biola, California Baptist, and Loma Linda combine spiritual views with clinical training for students who want this aspect in their education.
Program competition levels vary greatly. San Diego State—ranked #1 in California—takes only 40-45 students from about 600 yearly applicants. Other programs have smaller cohorts with easier entry requirements.
Take time to assess your personal priorities before making your final choice. Think over your location preference, learning format, faith alignment, clinical population interests, and budget constraints. Note that checking each program’s accreditation status will ensure you can get certified after graduation.
Any of these eight accelerated programs can start your rewarding speech-language pathology career. The field grows faster with excellent job prospects in educational, medical, and private practice settings. The program that lines up with your goals will give you the specialized skills to make a real difference in people’s lives who have communication disorders.