15 CAA Accredited SLP Programs in California: Complete 2025 Guide

Joining a CAA accredited program in speech-language pathology represents a smart career move. The CCC-SLP certification stands as the gold standard credential for professional speech therapists. A CAA-accredited SLP master’s degree lets you take the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA) National Examination in Speech Language Pathology.

California’s selection of SLP master’s programs is remarkable. The state offers over 20 different speech pathology degrees. Almost 20 programs have earned ASHA accreditation, showing their steadfast dedication to high professional standards that prepare graduates for the field. Students can choose between residential programs like CSU San Marcos’s MS in Speech-Language Pathology with 400 supervised clinical hours, or flexible online options.

The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA), which operates within ASHA, sets and maintains strict standards for SLP graduate programs. A degree from an accredited program is a vital requirement for California licensure. The state requires a master’s degree from an accredited institution and 300 supervised clinical hours across three different settings.

Here, we dive into 15 top CAA accredited SLP master’s programs in California. You’ll learn about program formats, clinical requirements, admission criteria, and financial aspects. The information here will help you choose between online and campus-based experiences to start your rewarding career helping people overcome speech, language, and swallowing disorders.

Pepperdine University (Online)

Pepperdine University runs an innovative online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that blends academic excellence with Christian values. Students who complete this distance education program meet all requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP).

Program overview

The program teaches students to prevent, identify, assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders in a variety of patient populations. Students build both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills with strong clinical emphasis. The curriculum builds from basic concepts to advanced practices, which helps graduates serve patients throughout the care spectrum.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The program holds Candidate for Accreditation status from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA, ensuring high educational standards. Students who graduate become eligible for licensure in 47 states. Hawaii, Kentucky, and North Carolina have different requirements. The courses align with CAA and ASHA standards, setting students up for success after graduation.

Program format and duration

The program needs 53 credit units. Students can choose full-time (five trimesters) or part-time (eight trimesters) study. Key features include:

• Three yearly cohort starts (January, May, August)
• Weekly online classes
• Three required five-day onsite sessions at the Calabasas Campus
• A complete examination and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)

Clinical practicum details

Students must complete 400 supervised clinical hours, with 25 observation hours. They work in various settings in their local communities, focusing equally on pediatric and adult care. Clinical rotations expose them to different disorders and patient backgrounds, making them ready for professional practice.

Admission requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and must finish foundational courses in communicative disorders. The application needs three recommendation letters (two preferably from academic sources), a statement of interest, and a $65 fee. Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL (minimum 95) or IELTS (minimum 7.0) scores.

Tuition and financial aid

Each credit costs $1,800, bringing the total program cost to about $95,400. Graduate fees are $1,325 for full-time students and $2,120 for part-time students. The university reviews all admitted students for merit scholarships based on their GPA and work experience. Students can also get federal loans (through FAFSA), employer assistance, and external scholarships.

NYU Steinhardt (Online)

NYU Steinhardt’s Speech@NYU is a CAA accredited program that offers a complete online master’s in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. Students who want to become speech-language pathologists will find this distance education program provides both strong academic training and clinical experience.

Program overview

Speech@NYU matches the same challenging curriculum as students get on campus, with 48 graduate-level credits. Students learn methods to prevent, assess and treat people who have communication and swallowing disorders. The program integrates research principles with evidence-based clinical practice. Some students might need up to seven foundation courses online if they lack the right undergraduate background. These foundation courses cover Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech and Swallow Mechanism, Phonetics, and Introduction to Audiology, among others.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The master of science program in speech-language pathology at NYU Steinhardt (both residential and distance education) has accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA. Graduates can apply for New York State licensure as speech-language pathologists. Each state has different licensure requirements, but the program helps students meet educational requirements in many states. Students should contact the Clinical Field Placement Team if they plan to relocate during the program. Moving could affect their placement requirements or licensure eligibility in a new state.

Program format and duration

Students can choose between full-time and part-time options with these completion timelines:

• Full-time with CSD undergraduate background: 6-7 semesters
• Full-time without CSD background: 7-8 semesters
• Part-time with CSD background: 8-9 semesters
• Part-time without CSD background: 9-10 semesters

Students without foundation courses can finish their degree in six terms if studying full-time. The program runs continuously through Fall, Spring, and Summer terms.

Clinical practicum details

Students start their clinical practice after finishing theoretical coursework. The Clinical Practicum and Field Placement Sequence spans five terms. Students complete two on-campus clinical immersions and three field placement experiences. The immersion sessions let students provide language, hearing, cognitive, and swallowing screens to people from different backgrounds. Experienced SLPs supervise all student work. Field placements usually need 35+ hours weekly for 12-16 weeks. Students must log at least 375 direct contact hours, with 150 hours in pediatric settings. These hours satisfy NY state requirements for Teaching Students with Speech and Language Disabilities certification.

Emerson College (Online)

Speech@Emerson offers a detailed Master of Science in Communication Disorders program. The program takes a family-centered approach to speech-language pathology education. Students learn to become generalist practitioners who can serve clients of all ages through evidence-based practices.

Program overview

The online program shares a similar curriculum with its on-campus counterpart. Graduates are ready to pursue national certification and licensure. Students dive into evidence-based topics ranging from typical and disordered communication to theories of language development, impairment, and rehabilitation. The program teaches through family-focused, developmental, cognitive, psychosocial, behavioral, and medical models. Students develop practical skills through hands-on experiences.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA fully accredits this program. Students who graduate and pass the national Praxis exam can start their Clinical Fellowship. This is the first step to get ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence. The program does not meet educational requirements for licensure in Illinois, Kentucky, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

Program format and duration

Students can pick between two tracks:

• 5-term track: Complete in as few as 20 months
• 9-term track: Takes 36 months for students who want a more relaxed schedule

Students must complete 72 graduate credit hours—54 applied credit hours and 18 foundational credit hours based on their academic background. The program’s intensity means full-time students can’t work, especially during clinical placements.

Clinical practicum details

The program requires 400 supervised clinical hours. This breaks down into 25 hours of clinical observation and 375 hours of direct client contact. Students complete one virtual practicum (CD 611) and four community-based placements (CD 612-615). Clinical sites require attendance three to four days weekly, six to eight hours daily throughout each semester. Every student must complete a school-based placement and work with adult clients.

University of St. Augustine (San Marcos)

The University of St. Augustine distinguishes itself from other SLP master’s programs in California through its innovative hybrid approach. Students benefit from a flexible program that combines convenience with detailed hands-on clinical experience.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program teaches clinicians to identify and manage communication disorders throughout life. Students learn critical thinking, cultural competency, and ethical standards to improve their clients’ quality of life. The program gives graduates the tools to guide and influence their profession with six core learning outcomes. These outcomes emphasize evidence-based practice, professional competencies, and working together across disciplines.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The MS-SLP program has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The WASC Senior College and University Commission accredits the university. Students who graduate from this CAA-accredited program can apply for provisional licenses while completing their Clinical Fellowship requirements. The university also has authorization from California’s Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education to operate its San Marcos campus.

Format and duration

The program’s structure includes:

• 55-58 total credit hours depending on elective choices
• Five trimesters of full-time study lasting about 1 year, 8 months
• A mix of online coursework and in-person learning
• Three-day campus residencies in four of five trimesters

Clinical practicum details

Clinical experiences are the life-blood of this program. Students must complete 400 clinical clock hours. The program offers both virtual and in-person practicum experiences. Students get access to advanced endoscopy equipment, which many other SLP programs don’t offer. The university handles clinical placement arrangements, so students don’t need to find their own sites. Students also have opportunities to work in the program’s Pro Bono Clinic, which provides telehealth services to community members.

California State University, San Marcos

CSU San Marcos offers a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that blends challenging academics with hands-on clinical experiences. Students learn through a well-laid-out curriculum that emphasizes evidence-based practice and cultural competency.

Program overview

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program teaches students prevention, assessment, and intervention practices while shaping them into ethically responsible clinicians who make evidence-based decisions. Students learn to promote wellness in culturally and linguistically diverse populations. The program focuses on four main learning outcomes:

• Understanding typical and disordered communication across the lifespan
• Integrating theory and evidence-based principles into practice
• Communicating effectively to promote wellness
• Being skilled in entry-level practice requirements

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The MS education program in speech-language pathology (residential and distance education) at CSU San Marcos holds CAA accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA. The program’s current accreditation runs from 2020 to 2028, with the next review set for August 2027. Graduates meet academic requirements for temporary California state SLP licensure, preliminary CTC SLP Services credential, and ASHA membership and certification.

Program format and duration

The 76-unit program uses a cohort model that students complete in five consecutive semesters, including summer terms. Students in the residential full-time program attend classes and clinics Monday through Friday during regular business hours, with some evening or weekend sessions. Each cohort accepts 60 students, with 50 students joining in Fall 2024.

Clinical practicum details

Students gain minimum of 400 supervised hours in speech-language pathology at community-based settings. The CSUSM Speech-Language Clinic features specialty clinics that showcase the faculty’s expertise with both pediatric and adult populations. Licensed supervisors guide graduate students who provide personalized services to about 200 people each year. The department runs free clinics that provide thousands of hours of speech, language, and swallowing services to community members.

San Diego State University

Ranked #1 in California and #12 nationally by U.S. News and World Report, San Diego State University’s Speech-Language Pathology program ranks among the best SLP master’s programs in California. Students learn in modern facilities equipped with observation rooms, specialized laboratories, and on-campus audiology and speech-language clinics.

Program overview

The School of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences prepares professionals who help and study people with communication disorders. Students learn to become well-rounded clinicians through training in assessment, treatment, and management of speech, language, and hearing disorders throughout life. Career opportunities await graduates in rehabilitation centers, schools, hospitals, private agencies, private practice, research centers, and universities.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

This fully CAA accredited program meets the high standards of the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. Graduates qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), California State Licensure, and teaching credentials. California’s license requirements include a master’s degree, 300 clock hours of supervised clinical experience, a passing score on the national examination, and nine months of supervised work experience.

Program format and duration

Students complete this program in five semesters, which includes two academic years plus summer, as a full-time residential program. Each semester combines academic coursework with clinical rotations. Students then gain hands-on experience in public schools and community agencies. The program demands full attention, so most students focus solely on their studies and rely on financial aid rather than working.

University of the Pacific

University of the Pacific boasts a remarkable exam pass rate of 98% and offers two accelerated SLP master’s pathways that fast-track career entry. The program’s Stockton campus location makes it one of California’s top SLP master’s programs with a unique advantage in completion time.

Program overview

The program aims to shape reflective speech-language pathologists through quality clinical instruction rooted in research. Students develop leadership and critical thinking skills while gaining extensive clinical experience. Undergraduates start hands-on clinical sessions in their junior year, and seniors typically log 70 hours of clinical experience. The program’s success shows in its outcomes – 100% of graduates find jobs in the field within a year after graduation.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation has fully recognized the University of the Pacific’s Master of Science education program in speech-language pathology through 2027. Graduates meet all academic and clinical requirements to get the Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. The program’s students have maintained a 100% pass rate on the national certification exam for over twenty years, which stands well above the national average of 80-90%.

Program format and duration

Students can choose between two accelerated options:

• 15-month program: Four semesters for students with speech-language pathology bachelor’s degrees
• 24-month program: Six semesters for students with degrees in other fields

These timeframes beat traditional programs that usually take 24-36 months. Graduates can start their careers 9-12 months earlier than their peers from other universities.

California State University, Long Beach

The Master of Arts program at California State University, Long Beach uses a cohort-based structure that students can complete in five consecutive semesters. CSULB’s speech-language pathology program is nearly 70 years old, granting degrees since 1954.

Program overview

This program aims to create professional speech-language pathologists through detailed training. The curriculum has specialized courses that cover cognitive-communication disorders, language and literacy disorders, preschool language disorders, aphasia, motor speech disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Students learn to help clients with different needs through rigorous academic and clinical education in medical and educational settings.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The program has full recognition from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology until 2027. Graduates can earn three key credentials: the Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA, California State Licensure in Speech-Language Pathology, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission for Teacher Credentialing.

Program format and duration

Students need to complete 58 units of coursework over five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). The program’s unique structure includes one full semester of school-based internship and another semester of medical/private practice internship. Students must keep their GPA at 3.0 or higher throughout the program.

Chapman University

Chapman University’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders ranks #92 among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Graduate Schools 2021. This CAA accredited program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice to create skilled clinicians.

Program overview

Students learn to assess and treat communication disorders ranging from stuttering and hearing loss to cleft palate and neurologically-based speech disorders. The program’s clinical training gives students practical experience with hearing aids, augmentative communication systems, and assistive technologies. Professionals can choose Chapman’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program – a 30-unit curriculum that takes just 10 months to complete.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The program’s excellence shows in its eight-year reaccreditation from 2018 by the Council on Academic Accreditation. The program started in 2009 and now produces graduates who qualify for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence, California Services credential in speech/language pathology, and California state licensure.

Program format and duration

Students progress through six trimesters in cohorts over two years. The comprehensive curriculum requires 63 units of coursework and 400 supervised clinical hours. Clinical training happens in hospitals, rehabilitation agencies, and schools. Students benefit from collaborative learning opportunities with other health science programs.

San Francisco State University

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program at San Francisco State University champions cultural competence throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. This CAA accredited program equips speech-language pathologists with detailed academic and clinical experiences.

Program overview

Students become competent, culturally sensitive speech-language pathologists who value research in clinical practice. The program at SFSU promotes teamwork to serve people with communication disabilities and welcomes all views. Students build resilience and critical thinking skills to excel in their future careers. Cultural competence, evidence-based practice, and a global outlook make this program stand out.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation has granted full accreditation to the program through 2033. Graduates earn ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, a nationwide symbol of professional excellence. The program readies students for California licensure requirements. Students meet all requirements for the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Program format and duration

The program spans five full-time semesters, including summer term, with 35 units of academic courses and 20 units of clinical practica. Knowledge builds systematically from foundational to advanced concepts. Clinical experiences begin with on-campus practica and progress to off-campus internships in various Bay Area settings.

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University’s master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders builds on Christian values to provide robust clinical foundations. The program distinguishes itself from other SLP master’s programs in California through its focus on clinical independence and values-based healthcare delivery.

Program overview

The Communication Sciences and Disorders MS program blends graduate coursework with practical clinical experience in hospitals, schools, and private clinics. Students learn to assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders for patients of all ages. The program helps future clinicians develop technical expertise, critical thinking abilities, and ethical foundations that support their professional growth.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA accredits this program, along with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Graduates can qualify for the preliminary speech-language pathology services credential, temporary California state license, and pursue employment as clinical fellows working toward ASHA certification.

Program format and duration

Students complete a seven-quarter (two-year) curriculum together as a cohort starting in the Autumn Quarter. Classes take place during late afternoons, early evenings, and one Friday each month. Students spend their final two quarters in full-time educational fieldwork or adult placement fieldwork experiences.

Biola University

Biola University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program stands out among faith-based schools. The program combines Christian principles with detailed clinical training to help students become licensed, certified speech-language pathologists.

Program overview

The MS-SLP program builds on four main pillars: a strong theoretical framework, excellence in clinical practice, a Christian point of view, and meaningful community service. Students learn about prevention, identification, evaluation, and treatment if you have communication disorders. The program goes beyond technical skills and helps students develop Christ-like character when working with clients and colleagues. The results speak for themselves – about 90% of students get accepted into graduate school.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA has fully recognized Biola’s MS-SLP program (2021-2026). The next review will take place in February 2025. Students who complete the program can qualify for professional licensure. The curriculum prepares them for both ASHA certification and state licensure requirements.

Program format and duration

Students must complete 63 total credits and earn at least a B- in each course. The program requires students to maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their studies. On top of that, they need to complete 375 supervised clinical hours through on-campus and off-campus clinical practicum courses.

California Baptist University

California Baptist University brings students together in a unified group through its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program. This CAA accredited program combines academic excellence with Christian values to prepare future speech-language pathologists.

Program overview

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders houses the MS-SLP program within the College of Health Science. This setup promotes interdisciplinary communication and effective problem-solving. The faculty brings exceptional academic knowledge and clinical experience in developmental and acquired communication disorders. Students learn diagnostic assessment, multicultural issues, counseling in communication disorders, and research methodologies through the curriculum. Cal Baptist has become the #90 most popular school nationwide for speech pathology master’s degrees thanks to this thorough preparation.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has fully accredited the program through 2026, with the next review due in August 2025. The California Teaching Commission has approved the program, which allows graduates to pursue the Preliminary Speech Services Credential. Students qualify for California state licensure’s Required Professional Experience after graduation and become eligible for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence through the Clinical Fellowship Year.

Program format and duration

Students complete this challenging 71-credit hour program over two years including two summers. The full-time schedule runs from September through June, and clinical practicums continue through July and August. Students should focus exclusively on their studies due to the program’s intensity. The first-year tuition costs approximately $33,902.

California State University, Northridge

CSUN’s fully online Master of Science in Communicative Disorders meets academic requirements for nationwide licensure as a speech-language pathologist. The program ranks among California’s most respected SLP master’s programs that combine flexibility with quality education.

Program overview

The Speech-Language Pathology program equips professionals to help exceptional individuals as language, speech, and hearing specialists. Graduates work in settings of all types – medical centers, skilled nursing facilities, community speech centers, public and private schools, and private practices throughout California and nationwide. Career paths include school speech therapists, pediatric specialists, home health practitioners, and teletherapy providers.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

CSUN’s curriculum meets the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s rigorous standards as a CAA accredited program. Graduates meet academic requirements for licensure in all states, educational credentials for public school employment, and ASHA’s professional certification. This credential propels development through increased career growth, job mobility, and professional credibility.

Program format and duration

The program’s cohort format ensures timely completion and builds networking relationships among students. Students experience maximum faculty interaction through 100% online delivery. Students need either GRE scores or a minimum 3.5 GPA for admission. The program awarded 50 master’s degrees in 2021 and ranked #17 nationally for speech-language pathology graduates.

San Jose State University

San Jose State University’s MS in Speech-Language Pathology program has shaped professional practitioners for more than 50 years. The CAA accredited program creates creative, evidence-informed critical thinkers through culturally responsive methods.

Program overview

The Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences gives you the complete knowledge of communication disorders. Students learn about articulation disorders, stuttering, voice disorders, dysphagia, and neurogenic communication disorders. The curriculum focuses on assessment and intervention within evidence-based, ethical, and multicultural frameworks. Students also receive federal grants that support specialized training in communication enhancement and culturally competent assessment.

Accreditation and licensure readiness

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology fully accredits both residential and online programs. Graduates can obtain professional licensure in multiple states including Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, and several others. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing provides additional accreditation for Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Program format and duration

Students must complete 66 units during their studies. The program offers two timeline options. Students with communicative disorders background can choose a two-year track, while those without prior experience can take a three-year track. Students can apply by September 1 for Spring admission or by January 15 for Fall enrollment.

Choose a Top CAA Accredited SLP Program

Your path to a successful career in speech-language pathology starts with picking the right CAA accredited SLP program. California offers 15 outstanding programs that meet strict accreditation standards, each with its own unique strengths.

The programs showcase different approaches to education. Pepperdine University and NYU Steinhardt give you flexible online options if you need distance learning. San Diego State University and CSU San Marcos’s residential programs come with cutting-edge facilities. University of the Pacific stands out by offering fast-track options that get you into the workforce quicker than usual.

These programs share one vital goal – they prepare you to meet ASHA certification requirements, California’s state licensure standards, and school credential mandates. You’ll go through intensive academic coursework and clock 400 supervised clinical hours in a variety of settings.

Money matters will definitely shape your decision. Program costs range widely from state university rates all the way up to private school fees that exceed $95,000. The good news is that many schools help SLP students with scholarships, graduate assistantships, and financial aid packages.

Rankings shouldn’t be your only deciding factor. Take time to think over the program format, completion timeline, and clinical opportunities. Faculty expertise, location priorities, and religious affiliation might matter to you too. Each program’s Praxis exam pass rates and job placement numbers can tell you a lot about its quality.

You now have all the information needed to choose your path toward becoming a certified speech-language pathologist in California. These CAA accredited programs are the foundations for your professional success in helping people overcome communication challenges. Pick any one of them and you’ll be well on your way.