12 Flexible SLP Masters Programs in California: Part-Time Guide 2025
Want to pursue an SLP master’s degree in California while balancing work and life? You’re looking at one of the most rewarding careers in the Golden State. California SLPs earn an average of $92,280 per year, making it the second highest-paying state for these professionals.
California offers more than 20 different speech pathology degrees. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has accredited almost 20 programs that meet rigorous professional standards. The career outlook for speech pathology graduates looks exceptionally promising. The field expects 18% growth from 2023-2033. This rate surpasses most other professions, particularly in underserved areas where SLP services are needed more than ever.
Good news for working professionals – California’s SLP programs now offer flexible, part-time options. Healthcare workers, educators, and career-changers can choose from 12 programs that combine academic excellence with schedule flexibility. These programs help you reach your career goals while maintaining your current commitments.
Pepperdine University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology
Pepperdine University’s online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program launching in Fall 2025 sets itself apart from other California SLP programs. The program blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical practice while staying true to Pepperdine’s Christian mission.
Overview
The online MS in Speech-Language Pathology gives you the skills to help people with communication and swallowing disorders at any age. You’ll learn to prevent, diagnose, and treat communication disorders while focusing on compassionate patient care. The program features weekly online classes and three visits to the Calabasas Campus. You’ll complete 400 supervised clinical hours at a location that works best for you. Christian values are woven throughout the speech-language pathology education.
Length
The program offers two flexible study paths:
- Full-time track: Five trimesters to complete
- Part-time track: Eight trimesters to complete
Both paths follow the same detailed 53-credit curriculum with 22 courses. The program starts three times a year – January, May, and August. This schedule works well for busy professionals.
Tuition and Fees
For 2025-2026, tuition costs $1,800 per credit, bringing the total to $95,400 for the 53-credit program. Graduate fees are $1,700 for full-time students and $2,000 for part-time students. Students must pay a $1,000 non-refundable deposit to reserve their spot, which later counts toward first-term tuition. Students can access several financial aid options, including federal loans, employer support, and scholarships.
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 program Candidate for Accreditation status. This “pre-accreditation” status lasts up to five years for new programs. The program prepares you for licensure in California and most other states. It meets requirements in 47 states, except Hawaii, Kentucky, and North Carolina.
Admission Requirements
You’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
- Completed foundational courses in communicative disorders
- Three recommendation letters (two should come from communication sciences professors)
- Statement of interest showing your purpose, background, and potential for success
- $65 non-refundable application fee
Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL scores (minimum 600 paper/95 internet) or IELTS (minimum 7.0).
California State University, East Bay – Online MS in SLP
Cal State East Bay will launch its first cohort of online MS in Speech-Language Pathology students in Fall 2025. This flexible program meets high academic standards and stands among the top SLP masters programs in California for working professionals.
Program Overview
Students learn through digital platforms in this part-time, hybrid format that includes significant hands-on training. The program starts with a two-week campus stay during your first summer. You’ll live in university housing and build strong connections with faculty and classmates. The detailed curriculum spans 60-62 units and covers everything from adult neurogenic disorders to dysphagia treatment. You’ll get unique clinical experience in this distance format that blends practical skills with theoretical knowledge.
Program Length
Students need 8 semesters (3 years) including summers to complete the program. This timeline helps you balance work and studies effectively. This speech pathology masters degree doesn’t offer quick completion options – you can’t finish faster than the standard schedule. Students must finish all requirements within five calendar years.
Tuition and Fees
Each unit costs about $850. Your first-year tuition ranges from $16,631 to $17,922 based on your program track and residency status. Non-California residents pay an extra $420 per unit. Additional costs include:
- Books and supplies: $1,054 yearly
- Housing and food: $12,854-$21,549 (depends on living arrangements)
- Transportation: $1,411-$2,962
- Personal expenses: $2,946-$3,513
Accreditation and Licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) of ASHA has fully accredited CSU East Bay’s Master of Science program in speech-language pathology. The accreditation runs from 2020 through 2028. The program boasts a 100% pass rate on national certification exams. Graduates qualify for ASHA’s National Examination, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.
Admission Requirements
This SLP program requires applicants to:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Complete foundational communication disorders coursework (or join the extended program)
- Show strong grades (GPAs below 3.0 might not get full consideration)
- Provide three recommendation letters (academic sources preferred)
- Submit both university and department applications
The department accepts Fall term applications until mid-January.
San Jose State University – Online MS in SLP (SJSU SPEAKS)
San Jose State University’s communicative disorders program, 60 years old, now shares its expertise through SJSU SPEAKS (Speech-Language Pathology Education and Applied Knowledge and Skills). This program stands out as an innovative online option among SLP masters programs in California.
Program Overview
SJSU SPEAKS provides a complete curriculum that covers communication disorders throughout life stages. Students learn about articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders, alternative communication methods, voice disorders, dysphagia, neurogenic communication disorders, and more. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills through online academic courses and clinical practicum experiences in your community. Working professionals can easily access this speech pathology masters degree through asynchronous learning and evening synchronous classes.
Program Length
Students complete the program in two years with five continuous semesters. The structured timeline helps students plan their careers better than traditional campus programs. The program accepts students in both fall and spring semesters to give more flexibility for starting your education.
Tuition and Fees
The SJSU SPEAKS program’s first-year tuition costs approximately $19,650. This special session program runs through SJSU Professional and Continuing Education with a different fee structure than regular university programs. Students should plan for additional costs like textbooks, clinical materials, and professional memberships. The California State University system might change fees based on funding and board approvals.
Accreditation and Licensure
SJSU’s program meets all SLP program standards with accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA until 2026. The next accreditation review comes up in August 2025. Graduates qualify for SLP licensure in Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, North Dakota, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington.
Admission Requirements
You need these qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
- Communication disorders prerequisites
- Personal essay and resume
- Three letters of recommendation
Fall admission deadlines (both on-campus and online programs) end January 15, while spring admission (online program only) closes October 1. The program doesn’t require GRE scores, but international students must prove English language proficiency.
California State University, Northridge – Online MS in Communicative Disorders
California State University, Northridge has earned the Outstanding Achievement Award from the University Professional and Continuing Education Association. The university offers one of the best SLP masters programs in California through their online format.
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Communicative Disorders sets you up for a rewarding career helping people with speech difficulties. This nationally recognized program meets all academic requirements for speech-language pathologist licensure. You can complete your coursework online and get hands-on experience through practicum opportunities in your local community. The program will give a solid foundation to build your career in schools, medical facilities, rehabilitation centers, or private practice settings.
Program Length
The program has a well-laid-out 3-year, 10-semester format. Students need to complete 36 units of coursework and pass a comprehensive examination. You’ll need 27 more units of coursework and clinical practicum experiences to meet ASHA certification, state licensure, and credentialing requirements. Students progress together in cohorts, which creates a supportive learning environment.
Tuition and Fees
Starting Spring 2026, tuition is $862 per unit, bringing the total cost for the 63-unit program to $54,306. Other fees include:
- University application fee: $70 (non-refundable)
- Books and supplies: Costs vary by program
- Graduation application fee: $47
- Proctored examination fees for about half of all courses
The program runs on a self-support model without State of California funding. This allows for specialized attention but comes with strict financial policies.
Accreditation and Licensure
The program has earned accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This dual accreditation means graduates can pursue licensure in medical settings, educational credentials for public schools, and professional certification through ASHA. The program has only confirmed it meets educational requirements for licensure in California and North Dakota.
Admission Requirements
Competition for admission is fierce, with students admitted recently having an average GPA of 3.79. Applicants must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences/Speech-Language Pathology OR
- Complete all 10 prerequisite courses before the application deadline
- Meet ASHA Standard IV-A coursework in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and social/behavioral sciences
- Have a minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA (3.5+ in CDS coursework recommended)
- Get three recommendations (academic faculty preferred)
- Live in the United States throughout the program
California State University, San Marcos – Online MS in SLP
California State University San Marcos has a hybrid MS in Speech-Language Pathology program. The program combines digital convenience with in-person clinical training and stands out as one of the most available SLP masters programs in California for students juggling multiple responsibilities.
Program Overview
The hybrid MS program equips you with skills for professional practice in speech-language pathology. Students learn in cohorts with three main goals: training in prevention, assessment and intervention practices; becoming ethically responsible clinicians; and promoting wellness in a variety of populations. Students complete at least 400 supervised clinical hours in community-based settings to gain ground experience for their future career. Graduates meet academic requirements for California state SLP licensure, preliminary CTC SLP Services credential, and ASHA membership and certification.
Program Length
Students need 76 units to finish the program. Working professionals can choose the part-time online option that runs for 8 consecutive semesters including summer terms. The residential full-time option ends in just 5 consecutive semesters. The program ends with a final semester project that could be a thesis, project, or written comprehensive examination with an oral defense component.
Tuition and Fees
The program costs $599 per unit with 76 units required for completion. On top of that, students pay mandatory semester fees of $840, which include:
- Student Union ($315)
- Academic Excellence and Student Success ($250)
- Athletics Fee ($100)
- Associated Students Fee ($75)
- Other campus fees ($100)
Students can opt for Health Facilities/Services ($95) and Mental Health services ($93). The university offers several payment options through the CSUSM Payment Plan and financial aid via FAFSA.
Accreditation and Licensure
The program has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Graduates meet educational requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.
Admission Requirements
Students need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. They should have either a degree in Speech & Hearing Sciences/Disorders with ASHA basic science requirements or a bachelor’s in another field plus ASHA requirements and CSUSM prerequisite courses. International students must show English proficiency through TOEFL (80iBT), IELTS (6.0 overall), or Cambridge English (score of 180+). Students can apply until January 2, 2025, for Fall 2025, with interviews in March.
Loma Linda University – Transitional MS in SLP (Hybrid)
Loma Linda University, established in 1905, stands out with its Transitional MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at the School of Allied Health Professions. This Seventh-day Adventist health sciences university blends spiritual values with clinical education, making it stand apart from other SLP masters programs in California.
Program Overview
Students with non-SLP bachelor’s degrees will find the Hybrid Transitional MS program tailored to their needs when pursuing a speech pathology masters degree. The program structure starts with a fully online first year and moves to in-person advanced coursework and clinical training. Students learn through hands-on experience in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, and private clinics. The university’s mission “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ” enriches the educational journey, and spiritual life becomes a key part of the LLU experience.
Length
Students complete the program in 11 quarters (3 years). The cohort model starts in fall quarter, letting you progress through your studies alongside peers. The program schedule works well with student needs. Many classes run in late afternoon or early evening, which lets you work part-time during morning hours. This flexibility becomes especially valuable during clinical practicums in later quarters.
Tuition and Fees
Annual costs change, so students should reach out to the Office of Student Finance about current rates. Tuition increases usually match inflation rates in professional education. Students must enroll in at least 4 units per quarter (half-time) to receive financial aid. International students should plan their budget with 12-month living expenses based on provided estimates.
Accreditation and Licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits this program. This accreditation will give graduates the educational standards needed for professional certification. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing also recognizes the program, which qualifies graduates to receive the Preliminary Speech Language Pathology Services credential and Temporary License in Speech-Language Pathology.
Admission Requirements
Program requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a field other than SLP
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, plus 3.3 GPA in last two undergraduate years (96 quarter/64 semester credits)
- Three letters of recommendation (preferably academic)
- Compelling personal statement
- Prerequisite coursework in biological sciences, physical sciences, statistics, and social/behavioral sciences must be completed before fall quarter of second year
University of Redlands – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders
University of Redlands has provided excellent speech-language pathology education for over 50 years. Their MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders offers tailored attention and detailed clinical preparation.
Overview
The university stands out among SLP masters programs in California with its student-focused approach. Small classes foster close relationships with expert faculty members. Students train in an in-house clinic with state-of-the-art audio and video equipment. The program helps you diagnose, treat, and prevent communication and swallowing disorders for patients of all ages. Students interested in additional specialization can earn a specialty certificate in Bilingual Speech-Language Pathology with Spanish Language Focus.
Program Length
Program length varies based on your academic background. Students who have Communication Sciences and Disorders undergraduate degrees complete their studies in 24 months. “Grad Plus” students without prerequisites take a 36-month track. They complete foundation courses in year one followed by graduate coursework in years two and three. This adaptable structure makes the program ideal for professionals seeking a speech pathology masters degree.
Tuition and Fees
Students entering in 2025-2026 will pay $1,321 per credit. The program requires 56 credits, bringing total tuition to $49,392. Students can access financial support through fellowships, research assistantships, scholarships, and graduate assistantships.
Accreditation and Licensure
The program maintains full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA through 2026. Graduates qualify for three vital credentials: ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California’s Speech-Language Pathology license, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from California’s Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Admission Requirements
This option requires:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (any major accepted)
- A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Three recommendation letters (professors preferred)
- A personal essay (400 words maximum)
- CSDCAS application submitted by February 1, 2025
University of the Pacific – Accelerated MS in SLP
The University of the Pacific stands out among SLP masters programs in California with its fast-track path to your masters degree. Students looking to save time will appreciate the program’s unique timeline options.
Program Overview
The Stockton campus program uses a community-based clinical education model. Students work at seven different sites to gain hands-on experience. This setup helps build strong connections with future colleagues while serving people who need SLP services. Students learn through quality clinical training and solid research foundations, which prepares them for work in many professional settings.
Program Length
Students can choose between two quick paths: a 15-month (4 semester) track for those with SLP bachelor’s degrees or a 24-month (6 semester) option for students from other fields. Both paths need internships and externships with professional speech-language pathologists. Most schools take four years for career-changers, which makes Pacific’s faster approach a big advantage.
Tuition and Fees
First-year students can get two scholarships through the School of CSD. The school also gives eight to nine graduate assistantships with $3,000 tuition waivers and $5,000 monthly stipends during year one. Students receive $300-$600 yearly travel funds to attend professional conferences.
Accreditation and Licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology fully accredits the program. After graduating, students meet all requirements for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. Pacific students have achieved a 100% pass rate on the national certification exam for over 20 years—well above the national average of 80-90%.
Admission Requirements
Application criteria include:
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 units and all prerequisites
- 25 guided observation hours with an ASHA-certified SLP
- Completed CSDCAS application
Priority deadline falls on January 15, with a final deadline of February 1. Priority applicants get decisions by mid-February, while regular deadline applicants hear back by late March.
California Baptist University – MS in SLP
California Baptist University’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program stands out among other SLP programs by weaving Christian values into its curriculum.
Program Overview
The MS in Speech-Language Pathology at CBU equips you with interdisciplinary knowledge and clinical experience to become a licensed speech-language pathologist. The program focuses on language and communication disorders, assessment strategies, and research methodologies. Students get hands-on experience through many practicums in different clinical settings that prepare them to work with various diagnoses and disabilities.
Program Length
This speech pathology masters degree takes exactly two years to complete, including two summers. Students move through the program together in a cohort model. The program’s demanding schedule makes it difficult to work while studying. Students must complete at least 400 supervised clinical hours in school, community, and medical settings.
Tuition and Fees
International students should expect to pay around $33,902 for their first year. Students need additional funds for housing, food, transportation, books, and supplies.
Accreditation and Licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA accredits this program. The California Teaching Commission’s approval means graduates can qualify for the Preliminary Speech Services Credential.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders
- Submit application through CSDCAS
- Provide official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Include three recommendation letters
- Submit a résumé with relevant experience
- Write an essay that lines up with CBU’s mission
San Francisco State University – MS in Communicative Disorders
San Francisco State University offers a residential MS in Communicative Disorders program. The program focuses on culturally sensitive speech-language pathology education and resilient clinical research practices.
Program Overview
The program prepares skilled speech-language pathologists who value research in clinical practice. Students learn through comprehensive academic and clinical experiences with expert instructors both on and off campus. The curriculum has all components needed for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the State Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. Students’ work at the Nicholas Certo Speech, Language, and Hearing Clinic involves screenings, evaluations, and therapy for clients of all ages.
Program Length
Students complete program requirements in five full-time semesters, including a summer session. The curriculum needs 35 units of academic courses, 6 units of clinical practica, and 14 units of internships. These internships help students collect the 375 clinical clock hours plus 25 observation hours required for certification and licensure. Second-year students can adjust their formats to finish internships outside the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tuition and Fees
California residents’ annual tuition is about $9,160. Out-of-state students pay higher tuition at $20,120 per year, with an extra $444 per unit. Campus residents should budget $37,412 yearly, which covers housing ($18,270), food ($5,620), and other expenses. Off-campus students need around $38,002 annually. Students living with family can reduce costs to $27,148.
Accreditation and Licensure
The program has full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation through 2033. This accreditation lets graduates take ASHA’s National Examination and qualify for state licensure. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing also accredits the program, so graduates can get the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.Admission Requirements
Fall admission applications are due by December 15. The department expects high academic performance with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants must turn in sealed transcripts from all colleges attended, three recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. Competition is fierce – a recent cycle received 113 applications but made only 43 admission offers.
California State University, Fullerton – MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Cal State Fullerton’s MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders has been accredited since 1969. This makes it one of the oldest SLP masters programs in California with an excellent track record of clinical success.
Program Overview
The program offers complete training in the field of communicative disorders. Students get valuable hands-on experience with clients in clinical facilities on and off-campus. They learn assessment, diagnosis, and therapy plan implementation. Most graduate courses are taught by doctoral-level faculty who bring specialized expertise and deep clinical sub-disciplinary knowledge.
Program Length
Students can complete this masters degree in 2-2.5 years (5-7 semesters). Faculty advisors help you create an Individual Student Schedule to plan your educational path at the start. The program allows five years from your first course to complete your degree.
Tuition and Fees
The annual in-state tuition costs $7,470, which saves students 32% compared to other public universities nationwide. Financial aid supports 59.2% of enrolled students.
Accreditation and Licensure
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology fully accredits this program. Graduates qualify for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.
Admission Requirements
The competitive admission process requires:
- Bachelor’s in communicative disorders or equivalent (36 semester units)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants typically achieve above 3.7)
- Three recommendation letters
- Letter of intent describing professional objectives
California State University, Long Beach – MA in Communicative Disorders
Founded in 1954, California State University, Long Beach has one of Southern California’s oldest SLP masters programs in California through its Department of Communicative Disorders.
Overview
The department’s Master of Arts in Communicative Disorders comes in two forms: a traditional program and a special cohort program. Both paths shape students into professional speech-language pathologists with strong academic and clinical foundations. The curriculum has nine academic seminars, research methods, clinical methods, on-campus practicums, and off-campus internships.
Program Length
Students earn this speech pathology masters degree over five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring) in a cohort-based model. The program’s courses follow a set sequence and run once yearly during fall and spring semesters. Students must complete 50 semester units—46 units of coursework and 4 units of culminating activity.
Tuition and Fees
California residents pay $9,926 annually for graduate tuition and mandatory fees. Non-resident students pay an extra $7,992, bringing their yearly total to $17,918. A student’s total costs depend on their living arrangement: commuter students ($29,310), on-campus housing ($33,436), or off-campus housing ($41,326).
Accreditation and Licensure
The program maintains full accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation through March 2027. Graduates can earn three vital credentials: ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.
Admission Requirements
The program’s competitive admission typically accepts students with GPAs between 3.64-4.00. Students need a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences or related field plus 30 semester units of prerequisite coursework. The program accepts applications once yearly until January 15.
Start Your Journey Now
Starting a career in speech-language pathology through these flexible California programs creates exceptional growth opportunities. SLP professionals earn around $92,280 yearly, and the field shows an impressive 18% job growth forecast through 2033. Your investment in a part-time SLP master’s degree will pay off significantly.
These programs come with their own distinct benefits to think over. Pepperdine’s Christian-centered approach might match your values, and CSUN’s award-winning online format could be perfect for your digital learning priorities. The University of the Pacific’s quick completion times help career-changers move into this rewarding field.
All 12 options maintain strict accreditation standards, whatever program you select. Your education will meet ASHA certification requirements, California state licensure, and educational credentialing. These three credentials are vital to boost your job prospects in medical facilities, schools, and private practices.
Your final choice depends on location, program length, format priorities, and budget. Part-time and hybrid options let you keep your income while advancing your education – a significant advantage when you balance professional growth with life’s demands.
Now is the perfect time to explore these opportunities. California’s population growth and better awareness of communication disorders keep creating more jobs for qualified speech-language pathologists. This guide to flexible SLP programs gives you the insights to pick a path that matches your career goals and personal situation.