9 Best ASHA-Accredited SLP Programs California Students Choose
Looking for ASHA-Accredited SLP Programs in California can be daunting when you want to advance your career in speech-language pathology. Your educational options are excellent with prestigious universities like Fresno State and Pepperdine offering accredited programs.
Accredited programs play a vital role in your professional future. The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) will give a solid foundation through quality education needed for professional practice. These programs follow specific ASHA SLP course requirements, including completion of 36 units and 400 supervised clinical hours. This preparation helps you qualify for state licensure after graduation.
California provides flexible paths to your SLP career. You can choose between full-time study to complete your degree in five trimesters or part-time options that span eight trimesters. Many programs now offer online options with asynchronous coursework and evening synchronous classes. This makes education available while you manage other responsibilities. Let’s head over to nine of the best ASHA accredited programs that California students consistently choose.
1. Pepperdine University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology
Pepperdine University’s online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program combines academic excellence with Christian values. Students can prepare for a rewarding career as speech-language pathologists through a curriculum that covers all aspects of communication and swallowing disorders.
Program format
Students can choose flexible enrollment options that match their lifestyle and career goals:
- Full-time track: Complete the program in five trimesters
- Part-time track: Finish in eight trimesters
The program needs 53 credit units to graduate and starts three times a year in January, May, and August. Students attend weekly online classes and must complete three mandatory on-site experiences at the Calabasas Campus. The curriculum features 22 online courses that build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Students need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and must complete all foundational courses in communication sciences and disorders. Those who lack these prerequisites can join Pepperdine’s online Post-Baccalaureate Speech-Language Pathology Foundations program to prepare for the master’s program.
Clinical practicum
Hands-on experience is essential to education at Pepperdine. Students complete 400 supervised clinical clock hours, including 25 observation hours, at locations near their community. These practicum experiences happen in settings of all types and provide balanced exposure to both pediatric and adult populations.
The clinical training sequence has five clinical practicum courses built into the program. Students develop expertise in prevention, identification, assessment, and intervention for patients with communication and swallowing disorders throughout their lives.
The program builds professional development through clinical competencies that include:
- Professional behavior
- Business aspects of practice
- Universal precautions
- Self-assessment
- Clinical counseling
- Cultural linguistic diversity
- Communication skills
ASHA accreditation
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program holds Candidate for Accreditation status from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Programs in development receive this “preaccreditation” status for up to five years.
All courses and clinical requirements meet CAA and ASHA standards for certification in Speech-Language Pathology. This will give you an education that lines up with industry standards and prepares you for professional practice after graduation.
Licensure preparation
Students take a complete Praxis preparation sequence during their final two trimesters to get ready for the Praxis Exam in Speech-Language Pathology. The program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills needed for:
- The Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)
- The Praxis Exam
- State licensure (requirements vary by state)
The program’s graduates meet licensure requirements in 47 states. Hawaii, Kentucky, and North Carolina have different requirements that the program doesn’t currently meet. Students planning to work in schools should check with state or local education departments about additional certification or licensure requirements.
Students must attend three mandatory five-day onsite experiences to support their professional growth. The second onsite experience includes Praxis exam preparation. The third ends with the Summative OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) and Evidence-Based Practice Portfolio presentation.
2. CSU San Marcos – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology
California State University San Marcos offers a flexible way to become a speech-language pathologist with their part-time Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology program. CSUSM is one of California’s top ASHA accredited SLP programs that combines quality education with the ease of distance learning.
Program format
CSUSM’s Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology welcomes a new group of students each fall semester. Students can complete this part-time program with 76 units over 8 consecutive semesters, which includes two summer terms. The program structure helps you balance your work and personal life while earning your degree.
The program uses these learning methods:
- Self-paced coursework and assignments you complete on your own
- Live online evening classes two to three nights each week
- Learning labs on the San Marcos campus twice every semester
You’ll learn about prevention, assessment, and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders at every age. This knowledge opens doors to many career opportunities after graduation.
Clinical experience
Students get a full clinical training experience at CSUSM. You need to complete at least 400 supervised clinical clock hours at community locations. This includes 25 hours watching professionals and 375 hours of direct service across at least three different settings.
Most clinical placements happen in the San Diego County area. Your experience will include:
- Four hands-on clinical placements in local settings
- Five-week rotations during summer terms
- Extended 14-16 week placements in the third fall and spring semesters
The program’s specialty clinics are a great way to get exposure to different areas of speech-language pathology. You’ll work directly with various communication disorders to prepare for ground application.
ASHA certification eligibility
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has given CSUSM’s program full accreditation. This shows the program meets all ASHA’s high standards.
The curriculum lines up with ASHA requirements and has coursework in:
- Biological sciences (human or animal)
- Physical sciences (physics or chemistry)
- Social/behavioral sciences
- Statistics
Students finish their program in the final semester with either a thesis, project, or written comprehensive examination. They then defend their work orally, which helps prepare them for ASHA certification.
State licensure pathway
After completing the program, you’ll meet the academic requirements for:
- A temporary California state SLP license
- A preliminary CTC SLP Services credential
- ASHA membership and certification
The path to licensure starts after you receive your MS in Speech-Language Pathology degree. You’ll need to check that your Certificate of Clearance or 30-Day Substitute Permit is current with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Your licensure pathway requires you to:
- Pay the CEHHS Credential Evaluation Fee
- Submit an official request for a Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
- Complete the credential recommendation process with the CTC
Graduates must pass the National Exam (PRAXIS) and complete the clinical fellowship year (CFY) for full licensure. CSUSM’s Student Services team helps guide you through this process as you move into professional practice.
3. San Francisco State University – MS in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences
San Francisco State University’s MS in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences program sits in one of America’s most diverse cities. The program will prepare you for clinical excellence in an urban setting. This face-to-face program uses the San Francisco Bay Area’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity to train speech-language pathologists who are culturally responsive.
Program structure
The MS program needs 35 units of academic coursework and 6 units of clinical practica. You must also complete internships worth 14 units to get the required 375 clinical clock hours and 25 observation hours for certification and licensure. Students usually finish the program in 5 full-time semesters, including one summer session.
Core academic courses include:
- Culturally & Linguistically Responsive Practices
- Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practices
- Neurogenic Disorders of Language
- Dysphagia
- Voice and Resonance
- Fluency Disorders
The program runs mainly face-to-face, but offers changes for students who have internship placements outside the Bay Area during their second year. This mix gives you personal instruction and practical experience.
Clinical internships
You’ll get hands-on experience through clinical internships that build your professional skills. These internships help you develop advanced clinical abilities while licensed professionals guide you.
San Francisco State places student interns throughout the Bay Area’s culturally and linguistically diverse locations:
- Urban, suburban, and rural schools
- Private practices
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Skilled nursing facilities
- Acute care medical settings
The program’s connections are impressive, with access to over 20 school districts and 36 medical facilities through partnerships that are 2023 old. You need to request placements one semester ahead and meet with an advisor to check all prerequisites.
ASHA and state licensure
The program’s MS degree has full accreditation from ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) for 2025-2033. This respected accreditation shows the program meets all professional certification standards.
The curriculum gives you all academic and clinical experiences needed for:
- ASHA certification in speech-language pathology
- State of California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential (SLPSC)
- State of California license to practice speech-language pathology
After finishing your coursework, you can choose between two final options: Plan A (comprehensive examination plus counseling course) or Plan B (master’s thesis with oral defense plus counseling course). You can pick the option that matches your strengths and career goals.
State specialization options
San Francisco State has four optional clinical specialization experiences you can add to your MS program. These specializations give you focused expertise for specific career paths.
The specialization options include:
- AAC Graduate Certificate – Teaches you to provide culturally-responsive Augmentative and Alternative Communication services
- Project ASCEND – Trains speech-language therapists to work with nonspeaking autistic children who need augmentative communication
- ECSE Credential – Offers Early Childhood Special Education credentials to meet the high demand for qualified professionals in inclusive settings
- Spanish-Bilingual Certificate – Helps Spanish speakers use their language skills to become highly qualified bilingual speech-language therapists
These specializations might need up to 15 additional units, which could add one to two semesters to your studies. This extra time gives you specialized credentials that will boost your value in specific clinical areas.
4. Fresno State – MA in Speech-Language Pathology
The Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program at California State University, Fresno is known for its detailed academic preparation and clinical training opportunities. The program will give you the skills to excel in a variety of speech-language pathology settings throughout California and beyond.
Program overview
The 36-unit graduate program at Fresno State has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA). Students get a solid professional background in normal speech and language development, language disorders, voice disorders, articulation disorders, and fluency disorders.
You’ll need these to get admitted:
- A minimum 3.0 GPA in your last 60 units and CSDS coursework
- Three letters of recommendation
- A letter of intent
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores
You must keep a B average with no more than two C grades on your approved Program of Study. Getting three Cs at any point will automatically disqualify you from the program.
Students need to complete a culminating experience through a thesis, project, or comprehensive written examination. Most students finish the program in about two years of full-time study.
Clinical fellowship year
After getting your master’s degree, you’ll start a Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) – paid, professional supervised experience needed to get your Certificate of Clinical Competence. This step bridges your academic training and independent professional practice.
Your CFY lets you gain real-life experience under experienced professionals. Fresno State graduates often land jobs in school settings before they even finish their degree.
New speech-language pathologists typically make around $65,000 yearly in school settings (9-month contracts) or $90,000 in hospitals (12-month contracts). This fellowship year boosts your clinical skills while you earn money and complete certification requirements.
ASHA and California licensure
The program meets all academic and clinical practicum requirements to get both the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) in Speech Pathology and California state licensure. In spite of that, you’ll need extra steps to complete these credentials.
After graduation, ASHA certification requires you to:
- Complete the CFY of supervised professional experience
- Pass the Praxis II Speech-Language Pathology Test
California state licensure needs you to:
- Complete a year of Required Professional Experience (RPE)
- Pass the Praxis Test
You can complete both CFY and RPE at the same time during your first professional job. You’ll need the license to work in all settings except public schools, while the Certificate of Clinical Competence is required for almost all work environments outside public schools.
Credentialing process
Working as a speech-language pathologist in California public schools requires a Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. You can only get this credential after completing the MA in Speech-Language Pathology program.
The core team requirements include:
- Completing the master’s degree program
- Getting 25 guided observation hours and 375 approved clinical clock hours
- Completing placement in a school setting (CSDS 257)
- Meeting the simple skills requirement (CBEST)
- Getting fingerprint clearance through the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
Submit your credential application to the Fresno State Credential Analyst with a $25 processing fee. The Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) will email you instructions to finish the online application and pay the $102.65 CTC fee.
Fresno State’s detailed program will give a solid foundation to get your license, certification, and credentials needed to start your speech-language pathology career in various professional settings across California.
5. California State University, Los Angeles – MA in Speech-Language Pathology
California State University, Los Angeles offers one of the most competitive ASHA accredited SLP programs in California. The Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program accepts less than 10% of applicants [link_1], and admitted students have GPAs between 3.63 and 4.0.
Program accreditation
The residential Speech-Language Pathology program at CSULA has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA). This accreditation runs through 2025-2032, with the next review coming up in February 2031. Students who graduate from this prestigious program automatically meet the academic and clinical practicum requirements needed for ASHA certification.
Clinical practicum and coursework
Students just need to complete 59 semester units of graduate coursework and clinical practicum. The program runs over two years and includes two summer sessions, making it six terms total. All classes take place face-to-face, which creates a hands-on learning environment. The curriculum will give a solid foundation for:
- ASHA certification
- California state licensure
- Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
The program requires 400 hours of supervised clinical practicum, with 25 hours dedicated to clinical observation. Students must take the clinical practicum component four times and can opt for a fifth time if they want extra credit.
ASHA certification process
CSULA graduates automatically meet ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence requirements for academic and clinical practicum. They also need to:
- Score at least 162 on the Educational Testing Services Praxis II Speech-Language Pathology Test
- Complete a 36-week, full-time mentored clinical experience (Clinical Fellowship Year)
This certification is a great way to get professional recognition and boost career opportunities in various settings.
Licensure and credentialing
CSULA’s master’s degree graduates qualify for:
- The Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
- Licensure from the California Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board
- ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence
California licensure requires graduates to complete their Required Professional Experience (RPE) with a temporary license. The Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential process starts with an application through the university’s credential analyst.
CSULA graduates work in different settings. About 60% find jobs in schools while 40% work in hospitals. The program costs approximately $26,000 in tuition and fees for all six semesters during the 2024-2025 academic year.
6. University of the Pacific – MS in Speech-Language Pathology
University of the Pacific provides one of California’s quickest ways to become a speech-language pathologist through their accelerated MS in Speech-Language Pathology program. Their Stockton campus program combines intense academic training with complete clinical experience to help you succeed in the field.
Program format
Pacific excels by offering two accelerated program options:
- 15-month accelerated track – For students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology or have completed prerequisite coursework in communication disorders
- 24-month accelerated track – Designed for students with undergraduate degrees in other fields
Both paths follow a cohort structure with class sizes typically around 38 students. Students need to complete 56 semester credit hours of coursework. The schedule requires availability Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for classes, clinic, and off-site placements.
The program attracts many qualified candidates, with about 105 applicants competing for 36 spots each year. Admitted students have shown strong academic performance with average GPAs of 3.73 for the 15-month cohort and 3.61 for the 24-month cohort.
Clinical training
Clinical experience is the foundation of Pacific’s program. Students must complete:
- A minimum of 400 supervised clinical clock hours
- At least 25 hours in clinical observation
- At least 375 hours in direct client/patient contact
The clinical practicum takes place in a variety of settings including the university’s Speech, Hearing and Language Center, Scottish Rite Language Center, hospitals, clinics, and schools. Students work with patients of all ages and from culturally/linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Students learn to identify individuals with communication handicaps, perform complete evaluations, create positive changes in communication skills, and build effective relationships with clients and fellow professionals.
ASHA accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited the program for 2019-2027. The next review is scheduled for February 2027. This accreditation confirms that the program meets all ASHA professional preparation standards.
Licensure readiness
Pacific’s program prepares you to obtain:
- The Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology granted by ASHA
- California state licensure in Speech-Language Pathology
- The California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential
Pacific graduates have achieved excellence consistently. They maintain a 100% pass rate on the national certification and state licensure examination for over two decades. This is a big deal as it means that the national average passing rate of approximately 80-90%. On top of that, the program has achieved a 100% employment rate within one year of graduation (based on a 3-year average).
7. Loma Linda University – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Loma Linda University stands out among ASHA accredited SLP programs that California students can think over. The program offers a comprehensive approach to speech-language pathology education by combining clinical excellence with spiritual values. Students in the MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders program learn to deliver care that addresses the whole person while preparing for professional success.
Program structure
Students complete the master’s program in a seven-quarter, full-time format over two years, including summer between first and second years. Your journey begins in the Autumn Quarter as part of a cohort. The class schedule accommodates different needs with sessions in late afternoons, evenings, and one Friday monthly.
The curriculum strikes a perfect balance between advanced academic coursework and supervised clinical experiences in medical, educational, and community settings. Students develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills at the same time through this integrated approach. The second year features full-time educational fieldwork or adult placement fieldwork during Winter and Spring Quarters.
Clinical experience
Hands-on training in specialty clinics and community settings starts right from your first quarter. First-year students typically work in at least one clinic per quarter, including summer. Weekly schedules range from half a day to three-and-a-half days, plus additional time for preparation and supervision.
Students rotate through specialty clinics focused on:
- Autism
- Phonology
- Voice
- Early intervention
- Stuttering
- School-age speech sound disorders
Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA with no grade below C to qualify for clinical practicum. Additional requirements include current CPR certification and submission of CA CTC Certificate of Clearance.
ASHA and state licensure
Program graduates qualify for California licensure, the Preliminary Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential, and ASHA certification. The program holds full accreditation from both the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
The Praxis exam plays a vital role in ASHA certification, California licensure, and the California School Credential. Students need a passing score of 162.
Faith-based education
The program builds on Loma Linda University’s historic pillars. Students learn to approach their profession with integrity, compassion, and dedication to comprehensive care. This foundation helps integrate physical, mental, and spiritual well-being in professional practice. Students can serve local and global communities while developing into ethical and compassionate practitioners, aligned with the university’s mission.
8. Chapman University – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Chapman University’s MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders program in Orange County equips professionals to help people with communication disorders of all types.
Program delivery
Chapman runs a 63-unit program as a cohort model starting in fall. Students complete the program in two years through six trimesters. The curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical work. Students learn to assess and treat people who have developmental or acquired communication disorders – from stuttering to swallowing difficulties.
Clinical practicum
The clinical training requires 400 hours of supervised practice in settings of all types. Students work in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, private practices, early intervention programs, and K-12 public schools. The program’s specialty clinics include RiteCare Childhood Language Center, Stroke Survivor Boot Camp, and Feeding for At-Risk Infants. A 3.0 GPA is required to participate in clinical practicum.
ASHA certification
The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) renewed the program’s accreditation for eight years in 2018. Graduates qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), California state licensure, and the Preliminary California State Credential in Speech-Language Pathology.
Unique features
Chapman stands out by offering both school-based and medical emphasis areas. Students get special clinical training sessions each year at no extra cost. The active National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) chapter lets students serve their community.
9. California Baptist University – MS in Speech Language Pathology
California Baptist University (CBU) in Riverside takes education beyond traditional classroom learning. Their MS in Speech Language Pathology program creates future speech-language pathologists through a combination of clinical excellence and spiritual development.
Program format
Students progress through this master’s program as a cohort and complete their degree in exactly two years, including two summers. The program requires 70 units of coursework and detailed clinical training. Students should not work during the program due to its demanding schedule. The curriculum covers everything in phonology, language disorders, fluency, autism spectrum disorders, and acquired neurogenic communication disorders.
Clinical hours
The Clinical Education Center (CEC) on the Health Science Campus provides hands-on experience with faculty supervisors. Students help clients of all ages with various communication challenges under professional guidance:
- Speech and language delays
- Autism
- Hearing impairment
- Aphasia
- Traumatic brain injury
- Stuttering and apraxia
Students must complete at least 400 supervised clinical hours in a variety of settings.
ASHA accreditation
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) has fully accredited the program for 2021-2026. The next accreditation review will take place in August 2025. This confirms the program meets all professional standards for speech-language pathology education.
Mission integration
CBU makes its program unique by weaving Christian values throughout the curriculum. The program’s strategic plan “embraces the ethics of Christian faith, scientific discovery and high-quality academic preparation”. Students develop their professional skills while embracing spiritual values that line up with the university’s Christian worldview.
Choose an Accredited SLP Program Today
Your future career as a speech-language pathologist will depend on picking the right ASHA-accredited SLP program. Each program we looked at has its own strengths while meeting the basic requirements for ASHA certification and California state icensure. Your personal situation, career goals, and ideal learning environment should guide your choice.
University of the Pacific’s 15-month track works great for full-time students who want to finish quickly. Working professionals might find CSU San Marcos or Pepperdine’s online format more suitable. San Francisco State University and Loma Linda University’s specialized tracks help you focus on specific areas of speech pathology.
Clinical experience is the substance of these programs. All but one of these schools require about 400 supervised clinical hours in a variety of settings. This hands-on training combined with complete coursework will give you both the theory and practical skills you’ll need in your practice.
ASHA accreditation means your education meets strict national standards, whatever program you pick. These programs’ graduates consistently do well on the Praxis exam and find great jobs throughout California and beyond.
Becoming a licensed speech-language pathologist just needs dedication and a full picture of what’s ahead. These nine top-rated California programs give you all the tools you need to succeed. California has excellent educational options to start your rewarding career in speech-language pathology – from urban to suburban settings, faith-based to secular schools, and online to on-campus.