7 Top-Rated Masters in Speech Pathology Schools: Los Angeles Edition

Starting a career in speech pathology in one of the best job markets makes California an excellent choice. California ranks as the second-highest-paying state for speech-language pathologists. Professionals here earn an average of $92,280 annually. The Los Angeles metro area leads with the highest average pay at $93,920.

The career outlook is bright with a projected job growth rate of 29% from 2020-2030. Working in California requires a master’s degree from an accredited program. You’ll need 300 hours of supervised clinical experience in three different settings and professional experience. Most California universities have speech pathology programs accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation. This accreditation lets graduates apply for their Certificate of Clinical Competence and California state licensure.

Picking the right school is a vital step in your professional development. This guide explores seven top-rated speech pathology master’s programs in the Los Angeles area. You’ll find everything you need to build a strong foundation for your career.

California State University, Los Angeles

California State University, Los Angeles ranks among the best schools offering a master’s in speech pathology around Los Angeles. The program’s location in a major city gives students excellent education and training opportunities to build successful careers in speech-language pathology.

Program overview

Cal State LA’s Department of Communication Disorders in the Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services offers a Master of Arts in Communicative Disorders with a focus on Speech-Language Pathology. Students learn advanced assessment and treatment methods for communication disorders, including language development, speech pathology techniques, and audiology basics.

Students learn evidence-based approaches to diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders in a variety of populations. The program balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills needed for professional work. Students need a completed undergraduate degree in Communicative Disorders or equivalent prerequisite courses to join the program.

Program length and format

The master’s program runs for two years with two summer sessions, adding up to six academic terms. Students must finish 59 semester units of graduate coursework and clinical practicum experiences. Many students also pursue the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential, which adds 3 more semester units.

The program accepts only full-time students, with 24 students in each yearly cohort. This setup promotes team learning and collaboration. Recent data shows the program’s acceptance rate is less than 10%.

Tuition and costs

Cal State LA’s graduate tuition and fees for 2024-2025 are $8,688 for California residents and $18,768 for out-of-state students. The total cost over six semesters comes to about $26,000 for in-state students. A tuition increase has been approved, so check with Student Financial Services for current rates.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits the program. The current accreditation runs from 2025 to 2032, with the next review set for February 2031.

This accreditation helps graduates meet ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence requirements. It protects student interests, serves the public, and improves teaching, learning, research, and professional practice quality.

Clinical training opportunities

Clinical education plays a vital role in CSU LA’s program. Students get hands-on experience in hospitals, schools, and community clinics under professional supervision. This practical training lets them apply their knowledge to real-life cases while working with different patient groups.

Students can complete their required clinical hours for certification and licensure through the program. They must also finish a master’s thesis or comprehensive project to develop research skills and deeper understanding of communicative disorders.

Admission requirements

Getting into Cal State LA’s speech pathology master’s program is highly competitive. Requirements include:

• A bachelor’s degree in communicative disorders or equivalent prerequisite courses
• 0 minimum GPA in undergraduate coursework
• 0 minimum GPA in undergraduate or prerequisite speech-language pathology and audiology courses
• Clinical observation hours documentation (due about one month before program starts)

Faculty committees review applications based on COMD coursework GPA, overall undergraduate GPA, recommendation letters, professional goals statement, and possible campus interviews. Admitted students’ GPAs ranged from 3.63 to 4.0 in the latest cycle.

The Fall 2026 admission cycle doesn’t require GRE scores. Applications go through Cal State Apply and CSDCAS (CSD Central Application Service). January 15 is the deadline for fall admission.

The program’s selectivity shows in recent numbers – 338 applications received with only 28 admission offers.

California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge stands out as one of the best speech pathology schools in California. The university offers an outstanding masters in speech pathology program that students can complete 100% online. CSUN ranks #12 among 134 schools nationally for speech-language pathology, putting it in the top 10% of programs nationwide.

Program overview

CSUN’s Master of Science in Communicative Disorders offers a complete education in speech-language pathology through its nationally recognized curriculum. Students who graduate from this program meet all academic requirements for licensure in medical facilities, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and public schools. They also qualify for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) certification, a prestigious credential in the field.

CSUN’s excellence shows in its ranking as #29 out of 297 schools for communication sciences. This puts it in the top 10% nationwide and makes it the third-best program in California. The program blends theory with hands-on practice. Students develop critical thinking and evidence-based decision making skills through courses in psychology, cognitive science, biology, and language science.

Program length and format

Students complete CSUN’s masters program online over three years. The cohort-based model helps build strong peer relationships and keeps students on track to graduate. Learning happens through pre-recorded lectures and weekly live Zoom sessions. Students who miss the live sessions can watch recordings later.

Students need 63 units to graduate. The program uses advanced online learning tools with traditional teaching methods. Students connect through web platforms, email, phone, and the Blackboard course management system. They can join real-time chat forums in Blackboard’s Virtual Classroom or participate in discussions through the Virtual Discussion Board.

Tuition and costs

The Spring 2026 cohort will pay $862 per unit. Total tuition comes to $54,306 for all 63 required units. Students should also plan for these extra costs:

• $70 non-refundable university application fee
• Variable costs for books and supplies
• $47 graduation application fee
• Proctored examination fees (50% of courses require proctored exams)
• Clinical practicum experience costs

Students can get financial help through federal aid (FAFSA), scholarships, and veterans benefits from CSUN’s Veterans Affairs Office.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits CSUN’s Master of Science program. The current accreditation runs from April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2029. CSUN also has institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), renewed for 10 years on March 8, 2022.

This strong accreditation means the program meets high standards in six areas: administrative structure, faculty qualifications, curriculum design, student support services, assessment processes, and program resources. The program’s graduates have a 93% employment rate, showing how much employers trust CSUN’s training.

Clinical training opportunities

CSUN students get solid clinical training even though the program is online. They complete their required practicum hours in their local communities. Students must complete 400 total hours following ASHA guidelines, with at least 75 hours working with four different age groups (0-6, 7-12, 13-18, and adult).

Students work with each age group in order. The program includes an extra “catch-up” clinical course in fall after adult placement if students need more hours. Students gain experience in voice, stuttering, neuro clinics, augmentative and alternative communication, social skills programs, and early intervention.

Admission requirements

Getting into CSUN’s speech pathology program isn’t easy. Recent cohorts had an average GPA of 3.79. The program needs:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders or finished prerequisites before deadlines
• Minimum 2.5 university GPA (3.5+ in CDS coursework makes applications more competitive)
• 10 prerequisite courses plus ASHA Standard IV-A requirements
• Three letters of recommendation (academic faculty preferred)
• Personal statement

Students without a speech pathology background can take CSUN’s Certificate of Pre-SLP program. Students who earn a 3.85 GPA or higher and get positive faculty recommendations automatically get into the master’s program. Fall admission applications must reach the university by January 15.

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach started its masters in speech pathology program in 1954. This makes it one of Southern California’s oldest programs of its kind. The university’s exceptional clinical work and service to the community make it an attractive choice for future speech-language pathologists.

Program overview

The College of Health and Human Services’ Department of Speech-Language Pathology awards both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Students who earn their Master of Arts (M.A.) will qualify for three crucial credentials: the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the Speech-Language-Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission for Teacher Credentialing, and the State of California Licensure in Speech-Language Pathology.

The program strives for excellence in academic and clinical preparation. Research advancement and service to both university and local community are also priorities. The university stands out because of its resilient clinical education and partnerships with nearby schools and hospitals. The curriculum teaches cultural competence and evidence-based practices to work with clients from various backgrounds.

Program length and format

Students complete the M.A. program in five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring) as part of a cohort. This complete format has dedicated semesters for school-based internships and medical/private practice internships. Students need to finish at least 58 units of coursework.

Classes take place on weekdays (Monday through Friday) in person. Academic seminars happen once every year. The program works best for full-time students. Each cohort follows the same course sequence. Recent data shows about 29 full-time students join the program yearly.

Tuition and costs

California residents will pay $9,926 in graduate tuition and mandatory fees for 2024-2025. Non-resident students pay an extra $7,992, which brings their total to $17,918 per year. Total costs change based on where students live:

• Commuter students: about $29,310 per year
• On-campus housing: about $33,436 per year
• Off-campus housing: about $41,326 per year

Summer semester costs more than fall/spring terms. Students should check with CSULB’s Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships about options to reduce these costs.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits CSULB’s Master of Arts program in speech-language pathology. The current accreditation runs from 2019 through 2027. The next review will happen in February 2026.

This accreditation shows the program meets high standards and graduates will meet ASHA certification requirements, which they need for professional practice.

Clinical training opportunities

The university’s Speech and Language clinic serves as both a clinical and research lab for students. Students get valuable hands-on experience under professional supervision.

Students also train at local hospitals, rehabilitation agencies, language/speech/hearing clinics, and public schools. These experiences help students get their required 400 direct clinical contact hours. They work with people who have various communication and swallowing disorders.

Admission requirements

Getting into CSULB’s speech pathology masters program is competitive. Recent data shows admitted students had GPAs between 3.64 and 4.00. You need:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Speech-Language Pathology, or related field, OR
• Bachelor’s degree in another field plus at least 30 semester units of prerequisite coursework in speech-language pathology/communication sciences
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 units of coursework
• Completed ASHA basic science requirements
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose and resume

The program accepts applications once a year for fall admission. The deadline is January 15. CSULB doesn’t need or accept GRE scores anymore. Qualified applicants usually get interviews.

California State University, Fullerton

California State University, Fullerton sits just 30 miles from downtown Los Angeles. The university offers a competitive master’s in speech pathology program that boasts strong community ties and clinical diversity. Students benefit from a blend of challenging academic work and hands-on experience to become skilled speech-language pathologists.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at CSUF teaches students to assess, diagnose, and treat communication disorders throughout life. Graduates can work in educational settings, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and private clinics. The program features doctoral-level faculty members who have earned national respect for their expertise in communication disorders. Students get unique clinical practice opportunities that include specialized work with transgender voice communication and alternative communication methods. The university has strategic collaborations with hospitals, schools, and private practice clinics to boost learning opportunities.

Program length and format

Students typically need four semesters plus one or two summer terms to graduate. The program requires 34 units of adviser-approved coursework through 12 graduate seminars. Students must keep a 3.0 GPA both overall and within their Graduate Study Plan. Students have five years from their first course to complete the degree. CSUF needs students to stay enrolled until graduation through coursework or by signing up for Graduate Studies 700.

Tuition and costs

The 2024-2025 academic year costs $7,924 for in-state students, while out-of-state students pay $18,684 annually. California residents spend about $30,000 for the entire program. These rates are 32% lower than the national average for public universities. Students receive substantial financial help – the university gave out $337 million in loans, grants, and scholarships during 2023-24.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits CSUF’s Master of Science program. This prestigious status dates back to 1969. Graduates meet all requirements for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). The program also readies students for California state licensure and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential needed for public school work.

Clinical training opportunities

Students must complete 400 supervised clinical clock hours. This includes 25 hours watching experienced practitioners and 375 hours working directly with clients under ASHA-certified supervisors. Seven different clinical practicum courses help fulfill ASHA, state license, and public school credential requirements. Each student creates a clinical practicum plan with their advisor that can adapt to changing needs. This training prepares graduates to work in a variety of professional settings.

Admission requirements

The speech pathology program at CSUF attracts many qualified applicants. Here’s what you need:

• A bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or 36 units of undergraduate preparation for other majors
• A 3.0 GPA minimum, though most successful applicants have above 3.7
• Three recommendation letters – two from CSD faculty/instructors and one from a supervisor
• A personal statement about your professional interests and career goals
• At least 8 of 12 CSD prerequisite courses finished by January 15 application deadline

International students need a minimum TOEFL score of 550. The program doesn’t ask for GRE scores.

Chapman University

Ranked #92 by U.S. News & World Report, Chapman University’s master’s program in speech pathology stands out as a private institution in Orange County. The program at the Rinker Health Sciences Campus in Irvine offers customized education with smaller class sizes than public universities.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders creates skilled speech-language pathologists ready for clinical roles in healthcare and education. Students learn to assess and treat patients with communication disorders, from stuttering and hearing loss to neurologically-based speech impairments. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice and team-based education, as the department shares space with physical therapy and physician assistant programs. Graduates earn three key credentials: ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Program length and format

Students complete this full-time, cohort-based program in two years. The curriculum runs through six back-to-back terms (fall, spring, summer), and students move through their courses together. Students need 63 semester credit hours to graduate. Each course requires a minimum grade of B- to stay in good academic standing.

Tuition and costs

Each credit hour costs $1,435. The total tuition reaches about $90,405 for the required 63 credits. Students should also plan for extra costs like health insurance ($2,365 per year), books, and clinical practicum expenses.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association fully accredits this program. The current accreditation runs from 2018 to 2026, with the next review set for August 2025. This recognized accreditation means graduates meet all ASHA certification requirements.

Clinical training opportunities

The program requires 400 clinical hours in a variety of settings. Students take seven clinical practicum courses (CSD 620-660), each with specific hour requirements. They gain experience in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and public schools. These supervised experiences let students work with patients of all ages who have different communication disorders.

Admission requirements

Applications go through the Communication Sciences and Disorders Centralized Application System (CSDCAS) by January 15. Key requirements include:

• Undergraduate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or post-baccalaureate equivalent
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal essay showing writing ability and career goals
• ASHA prerequisite courses must be finished before starting

The faculty interviews selected candidates in person after reviewing applications. Each year, about 47 full-time students join the program.

University of Redlands

The University of Redlands has been a leader in speech-language pathology education in Southern California for over 50 years. The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders gives students a strong preparation for careers in this expanding field.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders teaches students to become certified speech-language pathologists who can diagnose, treat, and prevent communication and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages. Small classes make shared relationships possible between students and expert faculty, which is the program’s biggest strength. Redlands, a Hispanic-Serving Institution, gives students special options like a bilingual emphasis program and TEAMMATES training grant. The department has earned recognition for producing caring and skilled professionals who thrive in clinical settings.

Program length and format

Your educational background determines which of two pathways you’ll take. Students with communication disorders prerequisites complete the program in 24 months. The Grad Plus Pathway takes 36 months for students who need prerequisites. You must complete 60 semester credit hours through in-person classes at the College of Arts and Sciences campus. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical practice in a dynamic environment.

Tuition and costs

The 2025-2026 academic year tuition is $1,321 per credit. Total tuition reaches $79,260 for the required 60 credits. Students pay extra fees: a one-time $300 New Student Fee, an $86 Associated Student Fee each semester, and a yearly $100 Wellness Fee. International students need to show they have at least $41,000 to cover program costs.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited the master’s program from 2018 through 2026. Graduates meet all academic and clinical practicum standards for:

• ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology
• California Speech-Language Pathology licensure
• Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing

Clinical training opportunities

The on-campus Truesdail Center for Communicative Disorders serves as both a training facility and community resource where students get practical experience. Students learn using state-of-the-art audio and video equipment at the center. Redlands also offers specialized training like the Parkinson Voice Project’s SPEAK OUT!® therapy program.

Admission requirements

You’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (competitive applicants range from 3.07-4.00)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal essays
• Completed prerequisite courses or willingness to finish them in the Grad Plus pathway

Submit applications through CSDCAS by February 1. Spanish speakers can earn a Specialty Certificate in Bilingual Speech-Language Pathology alongside their degree.

Biola University

Biola University emerges as Los Angeles’s only Christian institution with a master’s in speech pathology program. The program blends academic excellence with faith-based values, drawing students who want both professional growth and spiritual development.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology gives students the tools to become licensed, certified speech-language pathologists who can diagnose and treat communication disorders in children and adults. The program’s foundation rests on four key elements: a strong theoretical framework, excellence in clinical practice, biblical view, and meaningful education that prepares graduates to serve their communities effectively.

Program length and format

Students need 63 total credits to complete this program over two years. Each course requires a minimum grade of B- to maintain academic standards. The curriculum combines classroom learning with hands-on clinical experiences.

Tuition and costs

Tuition rates for 2025-26 stand at $1,084 per credit. Full-time students taking 12-19 credits pay $16,255 each term. The total program cost reaches $68,292. This investment brings great value through its blend of clinical and academic preparation.

Accreditation and certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has granted full accreditation to the program from 2021-2026. February 2025 marks the next accreditation review.

Clinical training opportunities

Students must complete 400 clinical hours across various settings. First-year students train at Biola’s Speech-Language Clinic and off-site facilities. Second-year students move on to externships in schools and adult-focused environments. Clinical educators coordinate placements and let students request specific opportunities that match their interests and abilities.

Admission requirements

Successful applicants need a baccalaureate degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or must finish specific prerequisite courses. The admission process looks at several factors: a minimum 3.0 GPA, GRE scores above 290, three recommendation letters, and a faculty interview. Your educational background determines which prerequisites you’ll need.

Pick a Los Angeles SLP Master’s Today

You’ll need to think over several key factors to pick the right masters in speech pathology program. The curriculum quality, clinical opportunities, location, and cost all play crucial roles. The Los Angeles area has some great options that will set you up for success in this field.

These programs share essential elements for professional certification while offering their own strengths. Cal State LA gives you city exposure with budget-friendly tuition. Cal State Northridge stands out with a convenient 100% online format. Cal State Long Beach brings its 69-year-old reputation to the table. Cal State Fullerton shines with specialized clinical experiences, especially in transgender voice communication.

Private schools like Chapman University, University of Redlands, and Biola University give you smaller class sizes and more individual attention. These benefits come with higher tuition costs. Each school brings something special to the table. Chapman focuses on inter-professional education. Redlands offers bilingual options. Biola adds a faith-based viewpoint to the simple certification requirements.

Whatever program you choose, you’ll meet all the requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and educational credentials. These schools’ graduates have soaring win rates in employment. The field is expected to grow 29% through 2030.

Your program investment will pay off with excellent career prospects. Speech pathologists in Los Angeles earn some of the highest salaries in the country – about $94,000 per year. On top of that, the relevant clinical experiences in these programs help you graduate with both knowledge and practical skills that employers value.

The final choice might seem daunting, but understanding each program’s unique features will help you narrow it down. Look at your finances, how you learn best, and your career interests to find the program that lines up with your goals. Without doubt, your educational trip through any of these seven outstanding programs will prepare you for success in the ever-changing world of speech-language pathology.