9 California Speech Pathology Master’s Programs with No Prerequisites in 2025

Speech pathology master’s programs in California create a path toward a rewarding career with promising growth opportunities. The job market for Speech-Language Pathologists will grow by 29% from 2020 to 2030, which substantially exceeds average occupational growth rates. Licensed Speech Therapists earn around $92,800 per year, making this field both stable and financially rewarding.

Students can choose from more than 20 speech pathology masters programs in California. Almost 20 of these programs have American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) accreditation. Most programs need specific prerequisites, which might raise concerns about extra time and expenses. These prerequisite-heavy programs usually take 3 years to complete. Students spend their first year finishing foundation coursework before they start their master’s-level studies.

The good news is that several California institutions now provide faster paths for students without speech pathology backgrounds. Some programs show this trend, like Vanderbilt’s (though not in California), which needs just one extra semester instead of a full year. On top of that, some programs no longer require GRE scores, including University of Arizona and UC Berkeley.

This piece explains 9 California programs that welcome students from a variety of academic backgrounds. These programs help you move into speech pathology without extensive prerequisite coursework. Each program offers a unique way to prepare you for a career where all but one of these professionals work in educational settings, especially when you have special education needs.

Pepperdine University

Pepperdine University has launched a unique online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that welcomes students from a variety of academic backgrounds. Starting Fall 2025, this program blends strong academic training with Christian values to prepare graduates for rewarding careers in speech-language pathology.

Program overview

The MS in Speech-Language Pathology program at Pepperdine combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical skills. Students complete 22 courses and 400 supervised clinical clock hours at locations near them. The 53-credit curriculum combines weekly online classes with three campus visits at the Calabasas Campus. The program aligns with Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) certification standards.

Students without foundational coursework can join Pepperdine’s online Post Baccalaureate Speech-Language Pathology Foundations program. This program lets you finish prerequisite courses at your pace before starting the master’s program.

Program duration

Two scheduling options adapt to your lifestyle:

• Full-time: Complete the program in five trimesters
• Part-time: Finish in eight trimesters

The program starts three times a year—January, May, and August—giving you multiple entry points. Working professionals and career-changers will find these options convenient.

Tuition and fees

The 2025-2026 academic year costs include:

• Cost per credit: $1,800
• Estimated total tuition: $95,400 (53 credits)
• Graduate fees: $1,325 for full-time students; $2,120 for part-time students

A $1,000 nonrefundable deposit secures your spot in the program. Graduate fees cover program software, clinical tracking software, drug testing, background checks, and student practice insurance needed for clinical placement. You can manage program expenses through financial aid options like employer tuition assistance, federal student loans, private loans, and scholarships.

Admission requirements

Program requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Foundational courses in communicative disorders

Your application needs:

• Online application with $65 non-refundable fee
• Official transcripts from all previous college coursework
• Three letters of recommendation (preferably two from academic professors)
• Statement of interest
• Proof of English language proficiency for non-native speakers

Unique features

The program has several standout elements. Students complete a Praxis preparation sequence for the Speech and Language Pathology exam in their final two trimesters. The curriculum weaves Christian values with skilled, compassionate care for patients’ physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

The Post Baccalaureate option creates a path for career-changers without fixed semester course loads. Graduates gain the expertise needed for the Praxis Exam, Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), and state licensure (requirements vary by state).

New York University (Online)

NYU Steinhardt’s online Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders program brings exceptional speech pathology education to California residents who want flexible study options. This ASHA-accredited program, Speech@NYU, helps students pursue speech-language pathology certification without prerequisite coursework.

Online program overview

Speech@NYU delivers detailed, evidence-based training to future speech-language pathologists in a fully online format. Students learn evidence-based practices that are the foundations of person-centered care for patients of all backgrounds with communication and swallowing disorders. The master’s program needs 48 graduate-level credits to prepare students for speech-language pathology certification.

Students become well-rounded speech-language pathologists ready to treat clients with communication disorders throughout their lives. The program includes foundation courses, instrumentation and research courses, disorder courses, and specialized electives. These electives cover topics like aphasia, and language and communication in autism.

Online program duration

Students can choose from two flexible options:

• Full-time option: Finish the program in six or seven terms
• Part-time option: Take classes at a slower pace until field placement starts

Each student works with an academic advisor to create the best study plan for their lifestyle while maintaining good academic progress. The program starts new cohorts in January and September, and applications get reviewed as they come in. The January 2026 cohort’s final application deadline is September 12, 2025.

Online tuition and fees

The 2025-2026 academic year costs include:

• Credit cost: $2,272
• First credit registration/service fee per term: $571
• Additional credits registration/service fee per term: $79

The total tuition for 48 graduate-level credits comes to about $109,056. Some students might need foundation courses (2-14 credits) at extra cost. Students must also pay for travel and lodging during required visits to the New York City campus.

Students can get scholarships based on their admission application without extra paperwork. Federal financial aid includes the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan (up to $20,500 yearly) and the Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan.

Online admission requirements

The online program’s standards match the on-campus version. NYU Steinhardt looks for students who:

• Want a comprehensive education
• Show compassion and real interest in helping others
• Can handle challenging graduate work

GRE scores aren’t needed for admission. Good candidates typically have a 3.0 cumulative GPA in their bachelor’s degree or a 3.2 GPA in communicative sciences and disorders foundation courses.

Applications should include transcripts, a current resume/CV, two recommendation letters, and a personal statement. The program accepts U.S. citizens or permanent residents who will stay in the United States throughout their studies.

Online unique features

Speech@NYU stands out in several ways. NYU Steinhardt’s faculty, placement specialists, academic advisors, and tech support team guide students through their entire journey. The same experts who teach on campus – scholars, published researchers, and practicing clinicians – lead the online classes.

Online students get access to NYU’s resources just like on-campus students. These include the Bobst Library, Wellness Exchange, Writing Center, and Wasserman Center for Career Development. The Wasserman Center helps students grow professionally through one-on-one coaching, webinars, and virtual career fairs.

Students can also study abroad in places like Sweden or Ghana. These international programs let them learn about communication disorders from different cultural viewpoints.

California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge (CSUN) ranks #12 out of 134 schools nationally for speech-language pathology. This places CSUN in the top 10% of programs nationwide. The Master of Science in Communicative Disorders program welcomes students from academic backgrounds of all types through flexible prerequisite paths.

Program overview

The master’s degree in Communicative Disorders at CSUN prepares students to become speech-language pathologists. This complete program meets academic requirements to practice in medical, rehabilitative, or private settings across the country. Graduates can work in public schools and receive professional certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Students learn both theory and practice at the CSUN Language, Speech and Hearing Center. The program builds strong foundations in human communication science through psychology, cognitive science, biology, and language science. Advanced students get additional clinical experience at affiliated medical centers, professional practices, and public schools.

Program duration

CSUN provides both on-campus and online formats. The online program uses a cohort model that helps students finish on time and build connections with classmates. Students without a speech pathology background typically need five years to complete the program. The first two years focus on leveling courses.

Tuition and fees

The 63-unit Master’s program in Communicative Disorders costs $862 per unit, with total tuition around $54,306. Other costs include:

• University application fee: $70 (non-refundable)
• Books and supplies (costs vary)
• Graduation application fee: $47
• Proctored examination fees (for about half of all courses)
• Clinical practicum expenses may apply

The program runs independently from State of California funding, so students must cover their full budget throughout their studies.

Admission requirements

CSUN has two paths to enter their speech pathology master’s program:

Traditional applicants need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders or 30 specific prerequisite semester units
• Minimum university GPA of 2.5, though competitive applicants usually have 3.5+ GPA in communication disorders courses
• Three letters of recommendation (academic faculty preferred)
• Personal statement
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended

Career-changers can take the Certificate of Pre-SLP program path with:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any field
• Minimum 2.5 GPA in the last 60 semester units
• Students with 3.85+ GPA in the Pre-SLP program and positive faculty recommendations automatically enter the Master’s program

Fall 2026 admission doesn’t require GRE scores.

Unique features

CSUN’s Communication Disorders program has several standout qualities. Students receive extensive clinical training at the CSUN Language, Speech and Hearing Center. The center runs specialty clinics for voice disorders, stuttering, neurological conditions, and augmentative communication.

The program values diversity and inclusivity. About 64% of bachelor’s graduates are Hispanic or Latino. Both campus and online formats use a cohort model that creates a supportive learning community.

The online program blends advanced distance learning technologies with high educational standards. Students connect through web platforms, email, and phone with support from the Blackboard course management system. Students can complete all practicum hours in their local communities without relocating.

San Francisco State University

The Master of Science program at San Francisco State University is known for its emphasis on cultural sensitivity that prepares graduates to serve California’s diverse population. The program creates competent speech-language pathologists through detailed academic and clinical training in one of the state’s most vibrant cities.

Program overview

San Francisco State’s speech-language pathology curriculum helps professionals learn about research importance in clinical practice. The program has all academic and clinical experiences students need for American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) certification, California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential, and California state licensure.

Students must complete 35 units of academic coursework plus 6 units of clinical practica. The degree requirements include 375 clinical clock hours and 25 observation hours through internships worth 14 units. Students learn to understand communication disorders in various populations, which reflects the university’s commitment to serving multicultural communities.

The program has specialty tracks in:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Autism and Neurodiversity
• Inclusive Early Childhood
• Spanish-Bilingual Specialization

Program duration

Students complete the program in a minimum of 5 full-time semesters, including one summer session. The program uses a face-to-face/residential format and offers modifications for students who complete internships outside the San Francisco Bay Area during their second year.

Specializations may require up to 15 additional units, which could extend studies by one or two semesters. Students can choose full-time or part-time enrollment, though most students (72 out of 74 in recent cohorts) opt for full-time study.

Tuition and fees

Graduate students at San Francisco State University can expect these costs for the 2025-2026 academic year:

• Tuition fees (7+ units): $9,294 per year
• On-campus housing and food: approximately $23,890 annually
• Off-campus housing and food: approximately $22,590 annually
• Books and supplies: $1,100
• Total estimated annual cost: $38,450 (on-campus) or $39,040 (off-campus)

Out-of-state and international students pay an additional $444 per unit beyond regular tuition fees.

Admission requirements

San Francisco State welcomes applicants without undergraduate speech pathology backgrounds. Students without a bachelor’s degree in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences must complete nine prerequisite courses:

• Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech Mechanism
• Language Development
• Developmental Speech-Language Disabilities
• Voice and Speech Science
• Neurolinguistics
• Clinical Phonetics
• Audiology
• Audiometry
• Aural Rehabilitation or Introduction to Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences

Students must complete at least six of these courses before applying and show proof of registration for the remaining three in the spring semester. Application requirements include:

• Official transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester units

Unique features

SF State’s program stands out in several ways. The university serves as a minority-serving institution and holds designation as both an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution and a Hispanic-Serving Institution.

The program maintains high standards with a competitive admission process. Recent cohorts saw only 43 acceptances out of 113 applicants, with a target class size of 40.

Students gain hands-on experience in specialized clinical facilities under expert supervision. Each clinical practica limits six students per supervisor to ensure individual attention.

The program’s bilingual emphasis matches California’s multicultural landscape and prepares graduates to work with linguistically diverse populations throughout the state.

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) has provided outstanding speech-language pathology education since 1954. The program stands as one of the state’s oldest speech pathology master’s programs. Students who want to build careers in this growing field benefit from the Department of Speech-Language Pathology’s cohort-based approach that makes shared learning possible.

Program overview

CSULB’s Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology needs 58 units of coursework. The well-laid-out curriculum has specialized seminars on cognitive-communication disorders, language disorders, autism spectrum disorders, dysphagia, and ways to increase communication. Students learn practical skills through on-campus clinics at the university’s Speech and Language clinic and field placements in hospitals, rehabilitation agencies, and public schools.

Students who graduate can qualify for 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 State of California Licensure. Students can choose between directed readings with an elective or a thesis as their final requirement.

Program duration

Full-time students who keep a 3.0 GPA complete the program in five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). This timeline includes one full semester of school-based internship and one full semester of clinical internship in a hospital or private practice setting. Students take courses in the same order, and academic seminars run once yearly.

Tuition and fees

California residents will pay about $16,434 in tuition for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students must pay a non-refundable $150 enrollment deposit to hold their spot, which later reduces a portion of the State University Fee. International students must prove English proficiency through tests like IELTS (6.5), TOEFL (80), PTE-A (58), or Duolingo (115).

Admission requirements

CSULB accepts students without speech pathology backgrounds. You need:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• At least 30 semester units (or 45 quarter units) in speech-language pathology before enrollment

You must submit:

• Resume/CV
• Statement of purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• Unofficial transcripts

CSULB no longer requires or accepts GRE scores. Qualified candidates receive interview invitations. The committee reviews skills needed for ASHA standards and personal traits that make competent speech-language pathologists.

Unique features

CSULB stands out in several ways. The on-campus Speech and Language clinic serves as both a clinical and research laboratory. The program’s cohort model creates supportive learning communities. Students attend all graduate courses in person, which allows direct faculty interaction. CSULB combines its rich history of excellence in speech-language pathology education with structured clinical training to prepare students for successful careers across various settings.

California State University, Fullerton

Cal State Fullerton’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program sits just 30 miles from downtown Los Angeles. The program shapes students into skilled speech-language pathologists by combining academic excellence with clinical diversity.

Program overview

The master’s program has managed to keep accreditation by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology since 1969. Students receive detailed professional education that covers assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of communication disorders throughout life. Doctoral-level faculty teach 12 graduate seminars, requiring 34 units of adviser-approved coursework. The program’s graduates qualify for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential needed for public schools.

Program duration

Most students finish the program in four semesters plus one or two summer terms[202]. Students get five years from their first course to complete the degree. The program requires continuous enrollment through either coursework or registration for Graduate Studies 700. This well-laid-out timeline will give a clear path to graduation.

Tuition and fees

The 2024-2025 academic year costs California residents $7,924 annually, while out-of-state students pay $18,684 per year. The program’s total cost for California residents reaches about $30,000 – 32% less than what other public universities charge on average. The university distributed $337 million in loans, grants, and scholarships during 2023-24.

Admission requirements

The program welcomes students from a variety of academic backgrounds with these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or 36 units of undergraduate preparation
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants typically have above 3.7)
• Three recommendation letters (two from CSD faculty/instructors, one from a supervisor)
• Personal statement outlining professional interests and career goals
• Completion of at least 8 of 12 CSD prerequisite courses by January 15 application deadline

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

Unique features

CSUF’s program stands out not just for its long-standing accreditation, but also through specialized clinical opportunities in transgender voice communication and alternative communication methods[202]. Students complete 400 supervised clinical clock hours, including 25 observation hours and 375 direct client contact hours. The university’s strategic collaborations with hospitals, schools, and private practice clinics boost learning opportunities. These connections, paired with nationally respected doctoral-level faculty, create an outstanding environment for future speech-language pathologists.

California State University, Fresno

The 70-year-old Speech-Language Pathology master’s program at California State University, Fresno’s College of Health & Human Services prepares students for professional practice through detailed academic and clinical training.

Program overview

Fresno State’s Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology develops skilled clinicians who can treat communication and swallowing disorders. Students can earn ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and school credentials through this program. The curriculum covers speech sound disorders, language disorders, voice and fluency disorders, assessment procedures, and treatment methods. Students need to complete 36 units of academic coursework and 22 units of graduate clinical core, which adds up to 58 graduate units.

Program duration

Students complete this two-year program over four semesters of coursework and five semesters of clinical practicum, including one summer semester. The graduation requirements include 400 clinical hours, with 300 hours at the graduate level. Students gain experience at the University Speech and Hearing Clinic and at least two other settings through internships, student teaching, or residency programs.

Tuition and fees

The 2025-2026 academic year costs for in-state graduate students taking 7+ units come to $4,919.50 per semester. This amount combines $4,032 in tuition with mandatory campus fees. Out-of-state and international students pay an extra $444 per unit. First-year international students should budget around $14,304 for tuition fees. The mandatory campus fees cover health services, instructionally related activities, and student services.

Admission requirements

The program requires:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA in overall coursework, last 60 units, and major classes (admitted students usually have 3.6-4.0 GPAs)
• GRE scores (no minimum requirement, average combined Verbal and Quantitative score is 300)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Letter of intent

Students need 30 units of prerequisite courses for full classified admission. Notwithstanding that, applicants without a speech pathology background can apply after completing specific foundational coursework.

Unique features

The program accepts about 20 students each semester (Fall and Spring), which creates a close-knit learning environment. Students can demonstrate their expertise through a thesis, project, or comprehensive written exam. Of course, this culminating experience helps graduates prepare for the PRAXIS Exam needed for certification. The clinical hours from various settings ensure students are ready to practice after graduation.

University of Redlands

The University of Redlands boasts 50+ years of educational excellence. Their Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program shapes professionals through individual attention and complete clinical training.

Program overview

Students in the Redlands MS program learn to diagnose, treat, and prevent communication and swallowing disorders throughout life. The program meets every requirement for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. Students can also earn a Specialty Certificate in Bilingual Speech-Language Pathology with Spanish language focus.

Program duration

Redlands provides two timeline options based on your background:

• Standard pathway: 24 months for students with communication disorders background
• Grad Plus pathway: 36 months for students without prerequisites

Students in the Grad Plus track complete five prerequisite courses during their first year before starting graduate coursework.

Tuition and fees

The 2025-2026 costs include:

• Tuition: $1,321 per credit
• Total program tuition: approximately $49,392 (56 required credits)
• Additional fees: $300 one-time new student fee, $86 per semester student fee, $100 annual wellness fee

Admission requirements

Students can apply from October 1 through February 1 via CSDCAS. Requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
• No undergraduate CSD degree required
• College-level statistics course
• Three recommendations (preferably from professors)
• Personal essay (400 words maximum)

Unique features

Redlands creates strong student-faculty bonds through small class sizes. Students get hands-on experience at the Truesdail Center for Communicative Disorders. The program’s status as a Hispanic-Serving Institution helps prepare clinicians who can serve California’s diverse population effectively.

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University’s Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders program blends faith-based principles with rigorous clinical and academic training to create competent speech-language pathologists.

Program overview

The Communication Sciences and Disorders program combines graduate coursework with clinical experience that students gain in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, and private clinics. Students learn to assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders in both children and adults. The program meets all requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services credential.

Program duration

Students who hold an undergraduate degree in communicative disorders can complete the program in seven quarters, which takes about two years. New students join as a cohort each fall quarter.

Tuition and fees

Graduate tuition costs approximately $30,640 annually. This amount covers tuition and mandatory fees for full-time students.

Admission requirements

Applicants need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or equivalent
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Minimum GPA of 3.3 for last 96 quarter/64 semester credits
• Personal statement
• Three letters of recommendation

Unique features

Loma Linda’s identity as a Seventh-day Adventist institution shapes its approach to whole-person care that combines physical, mental, social, and spiritual elements. Students receive practical training at the university’s six hospitals. The clinical practicum gives students extensive real-life experience before they graduate.

Start Your Education Today

A speech pathology master’s degree without prerequisites can open doors for career-changers and non-traditional students. This piece highlights nine California programs that welcome students from different academic backgrounds. These schools value diverse viewpoints in the speech-language pathology field and create paths through post-baccalaureate options, accelerated curricula, and flexible admission policies.

These programs keep their academic standards high while removing obstacles that could stop qualified candidates from joining this rewarding field. Schools like CSULB, CSUF, and NYU show their commitment by dropping GRE requirements.

Each program prepares you completely for ASHA certification, state licensure, and school credentials. You can choose Pepperdine’s Christian-values approach, NYU’s flexible online format, or one of the California State University options. The programs also have unique features. Redlands offers a bilingual certificate, CSUF provides transgender voice communication training, and San Francisco State focuses on cultural sensitivity.

Speech-language pathology is without doubt a growing career field with 29% projected growth and salaries around $93,000 per year. The field lets you work in various settings – from schools to hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers.

Your choice depends on what matters most to you – program length, cost, location, specialization options, or clinical opportunities. So, take time to review each program based on your situation to make the best choice for your career.

Starting your experience as a speech-language pathologist begins with finding the right program. These nine California programs show that you don’t need previous speech pathology coursework to begin this rewarding career path.