7 SLP Master’s Programs in CA for Non-CSD Majors

Are you looking for a career that pays well and lets you make a real difference? Speech-language pathology in California could be your perfect fit, even without a background in communication sciences. The job outlook for Speech-Language Pathologists looks incredibly promising. A projected growth of 15% between 2024 and 2034 is a big deal as it means that it surpasses typical job growth rates. On top of that, California SLPs earn $112,030 on average per year, which makes this career both stable and financially rewarding.

You don’t have to worry about starting from zero if you’re switching careers. Many speech pathology master’s programs in California welcome students from different educational backgrounds. California stands out as the perfect place to build this career with over 20 ASHA-approved master programs and great job prospects. A licensed Speech-Language Pathologist position in California requires a master’s degree in speech pathology and completion of supervised clinical hours. This piece will show you seven quick-start SLP programs that cater specifically to non-traditional students like you who want to start a rewarding career.

1. Chico State

Chico State runs one of the most student-friendly speech-language pathology master’s programs for career changers in northern California. The program strikes a perfect balance between cost and quality education. This makes it an excellent choice for non-traditional students who want to start their SLP career.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at California State University, Chico helps you build a rewarding career in speech-language pathology through a detailed curriculum. This ASHA-accredited program will give you both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for clinical practice. You’ll be ready for state licensure, national certification, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential after graduation.

Students work together in cohorts that encourage teamwork while following well-laid-out, sequential coursework in speech, language, and swallowing sciences. Your training includes diagnostic and clinical practice at the on-campus Clinic for Communication Disorders and various community locations. This practical experience helps you graduate with the confidence and skills needed to work in settings of all types, from schools and hospitals to rehabilitation centers and private practices.

Program length

The MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders needs 56-59 total units. Students typically finish in two years (about five semesters). This quick timeline helps you cut education costs and start working sooner. The program has shown great results with 95% of students finishing their degree within two years.

The well-planned curriculum builds a solid foundation in speech-language pathology. You’ll complete 400 clock hours of supervised clinical experience that meets all professional certification requirements.

Tuition and fees

California residents studying at the postbaccalaureate level at CSU Chico will pay $7,886 in tuition plus $2,446 in mandatory campus fees yearly. This adds up to $10,332. Students from outside California pay extra $420 per unit on top of regular tuition. Their annual costs reach about $16,548 for an 8-unit graduate program.

Your total costs will change based on where you live:

Students can get financial help through federal and state grants, Wildcat Scholarships, and the Graduate Equity Fellowship Program, which aims to bring more diversity to graduate programs.

Admission requirements

The program has several key requirements:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 30 semester units
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Completion of CMSD 488 or equivalent
• ASHA-required undergraduate courses in human-focused biological science, chemistry or physics, statistics, and social/behavioral sciences

You’ll need to submit three recommendation letters, a resume, personal essay, and transcripts through both Cal State Apply and CSDCAS application systems. The program accepts 97% of applicants, but meeting all prerequisites remains crucial.

Students without an SLP background might need “leveling” courses if they come from another field. You must also pass the CBEST before finishing your master’s degree if you want the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Unique features

The program’s on-campus Clinic for Communication Disorders offers free speech and language evaluations and treatment services to community members. First-year graduate students work at this facility under licensed and certified speech-language pathologists.

Students consistently score at or above the national average on the PRAXIS examination over the last 15 years. About 90% pass on their first try in the last three years. Graduates join a network of successful alumni working in private practices, schools, medical facilities, and rehabilitation centers.

The supportive faculty and relaxed campus atmosphere make learning better through personal interactions. Speech-Language Pathologists earn a median pay of $95,410 yearly, and job opportunities are growing 15% faster than average. CSU Chico prepares you well for this promising career.

2. California State University, East Bay

CSU East Bay emerges as a perfect choice for professionals switching to speech-language pathology without previous communication disorders training. Students find the university’s fresh approach to education available, especially those from non-traditional backgrounds looking to enter this expanding field.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at CSU East Bay readies you for state licensure in California, ASHA certification, and the Speech-Language-Hearing Services credential for public schools. Both the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing accredit the program, which ensures quality education standards.

Career-changers will find this program ideal because of its extended format option designed for students without communication disorders background. CSU East Bay creates a path for non-CSD majors to enter the field, unlike traditional programs that need extensive prerequisites. Your qualification after graduation allows you to work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practices. Speech pathologists in California earn a median salary of $110,000 per academic year.

Students gain valuable clinical experience at the Norma S. and Ray R. Rees Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic right on campus, working with real patients from Bay Area communities. Off-site placements that match your career interests enhance this hands-on training.

Program length

Students without communication disorders background can complete CSU East Bay’s extended graduate program in 3-4 years. The curriculum needs 60-62 semester credit hours, with a flexible format that suits busy professionals.

The part-time hybrid program runs through 8 semesters (3 years including summers), with all course instruction delivered digitally. A valuable two-week campus residency happens in your first summer to help you build connections with professors and classmates. Working professionals or those with personal commitments benefit from this mix of online learning and in-person experience.

Fall 2025 marks the launch of this new online/hybrid SLP Master’s program, giving non-traditional students an innovative path forward.

Tuition and fees

California residents taking 6 or more units per semester will pay $9,607 in graduate tuition and fees at CSU East Bay. The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program costs $850 per unit. First-year tuition ranges between $16,631 and $17,922 based on your program track and residency status.

Your expenses will vary depending on where you live:

Out-of-state students pay an extra $420 per unit above base tuition. Students from eligible western states can join the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program to qualify for reduced rates at 150% of California resident tuition.

Admission requirements

You need to complete two main steps: submit your university application through Cal State Apply and send a separate departmental application. The program requires a minimum 2.5 GPA, but prefers 3.0 or higher. Applications below 3.0 might not receive full consideration.

Your application package should include:

• A one to two-page personal statement about your career choice and reasons for selecting CSU East Bay
• Current resume/CV showing educational background and relevant experiences
• Unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions
• Three letters of recommendation (preferably from academic sources)
• A pre-recorded video response (3 minutes or less)
• A brief diversity statement describing multicultural experiences

February 1st usually marks the deadline for fall admission applications, though dates may change yearly. International students must meet additional requirements, including TOEFL scores (minimum paper score: 550).

Unique features

Cultural competence sits at the heart of CSU East Bay’s educational philosophy. Students learn to work with culturally and linguistically diverse populations—a vital skill in California’s multicultural landscape.

The department runs the East Bay area’s only mobile screening van, which serves the community while giving students real-life clinical experience beyond traditional settings. Programs like the Conversation Club for adults with autism and the ConversAACion program for speech-generating device users prepare you for specific career challenges.

Project ASPIRE offers specialized training in autism spectrum disorders, giving graduates knowledge that many other programs don’t provide. This focus on modern speech pathology needs makes the program relevant in today’s healthcare environment.

The curriculum covers everything in speech-language pathology while staying flexible for non-traditional students. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking speech pathology master’s programs in California without traditional prerequisites.

3. California State University, Fullerton

The Master of Science in Communicative Disorders at California State University, Fullerton stands out as one of Southern California’s top speech pathology programs. Students who want to become speech-language pathologists will find an excellent educational experience here, even if they come from different academic backgrounds.

Program overview

Cal State Fullerton’s MS in Communicative Disorders prepares you to treat speech, swallowing, and language disorders in patients of all ages. The program has managed to keep its accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology since 1969. Students get detailed training to assess, diagnose, and treat various communication disorders.

After graduating, you can pursue the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP), California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential for public schools. Most graduates find work in schools, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and private clinics.

The program’s faculty includes prominent experts in diagnosing and managing communicative disorders. Students benefit from the program’s special focus on multicultural clinical issues, autism intervention, alternative communication methods, and swallowing disorders.

Program length

This well-laid-out program takes just 18 months to finish. Students complete four semesters plus one or two summer terms[173]. You’ll need 34 units of adviser-approved coursework, including 12 graduate seminars to build your expertise. Your studies include hands-on experience through clinical practica in various settings like child care, adult care, audiology services, schools, and medical facilities.

Tuition and fees

CSU Fullerton costs less than other California speech pathology programs. The program’s total tuition is $14,870, making it a budget-friendly way to earn your credentials.

Graduate students starting will pay $4,498.81 for seven or more units, or $2,902.81 for six or fewer units. Out-of-state students pay an extra $420 per semester unit. The yearly in-state tuition runs about $7,470, which beats the national average of $11,011 for public 4-year colleges.

The university helps many students with costs – 59.2% got financial aid as of fall 2024. During 2023-24, students received $337 million in loans, grants, and scholarships.

Admission requirements

Here’s what you need to apply:

• Fall applications open October 1 and close January 15 at 8:59 pm PST
• A bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or finish 12 prerequisite CSD courses and one statistics course
• You need a 3.0 GPA minimum, but successful applicants usually have above 3.7 in CSD courses
• Send two copies of electronic transcripts from all colleges to both Cal State Apply and CSDCAS
• Write a personal statement about your experience, interests, and goals (max 5,500 characters)
• Get three recommendation letters (two from CSD instructors, one from a supervisor)

International students must score at least 550 on TOEFL. The program doesn’t require GRE scores, unlike many other graduate programs.

Unique features

The Speech and Hearing Clinic is the heart of the program. Students gain valuable clinical experience while helping community members access affordable services. Expert supervisors guide this hands-on training throughout the academic year.

Spring 2021 saw the introduction of a Multicultural Certificate option, showing the program’s dedication to training culturally aware practitioners. This focus especially helps in California’s diverse linguistic environment.

The program’s graduates have achieved a perfect 100% job placement rate within six months. This soaring win shows the program’s quality and its strong connections throughout California.

Strong partnerships with hospitals, schools, and clinics give students diverse clinical experiences. These prepare them for real-life challenges as speech-language pathologists in different settings.

4. University of Southern California (USC)

USC’s speech-language pathology program at the Keck School of Medicine is a top choice. Students who want to become speech-language pathologists get excellent medical training along with their communication disorders education.

Program overview

USC’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) gives you detailed academic and clinical training to enter the field. The program sits within USC’s Caruso Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, which creates excellent chances for medical teamwork. You’ll learn to help people with communication and swallowing disorders in all settings throughout their lives.

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has given the program full accreditation. You’ll build evidence-based, culturally-aware intervention skills through engaging academic courses and varied clinical experiences to help diverse populations.

The program takes 25 students per class and runs full-time, which makes shared learning possible. Of course, after graduating, you can apply for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Program length

Students complete the MS-SLP curriculum in six back-to-back semesters over two years. The well-planned structure helps you prepare quickly for your career. You’ll need to finish 69-71 units of academic coursework and clinical practicum experiences.

ASHA requires 400 clinical hours with patients of different ages in various settings. You’ll get these hours at hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and community clinics across Los Angeles.

USC recommends not working during the program because of its demanding schedule. The full-time cohort model keeps all students moving through their courses together, which helps everyone learn better.

Tuition and fees

Getting your degree at USC requires significant financial investment. The total cost comes to approximately $173,065, covering tuition and fees for the entire program.

First-year students can expect:

USC charges flat-rate tuition, so you can take 15-18 units each semester without extra cost. Each semester also includes a Health Center Fee ($650) and Programming Fee ($27.50).

The department is relatively new to USC’s graduate programs and doesn’t yet offer departmental scholarships, assistantships, or other financial help. Students should look into federal, state, and private funding options.

Admission requirements

The program has several requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) from an accredited U.S. institution OR completion of a post-baccalaureate (leveling) certificate program
• Minimum 3.0 overall GPA
• ASHA prerequisite courses must be finished before starting:
  • Biological Sciences (human/animal science)
  • Physical Sciences (physics/chemistry)
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences
  • Statistics (standalone course)
  • Each prerequisite needs at least 3 credits

You must submit official transcripts, three recommendation letters, a personal statement, two required short-answer essays, and a detailed resume/CV. The program doesn’t accept undergraduate degrees or leveling courses from schools outside the United States.

Unique features

Being part of the Keck School of Medicine creates unmatched chances to work across disciplines. Students learn from specialized medical resources and experts through USC’s Caruso Department of Otolaryngology.

Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the nation, so you’ll work with patients from many cultural and language backgrounds. Students, faculty, and staff meet monthly for “Coffee and Conversation” to share knowledge and build lasting professional relationships.

USC believes in face-to-face learning to develop the people skills that speech-language pathologists need. After graduating, you’ll be ready to work in many settings, and California’s speech-language pathologists earn about $92,280 yearly.

5. Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University, known for its health sciences education and faith-based foundation, has excellent speech pathology programs. These programs blend clinical excellence with a comprehensive approach. Students from non-traditional educational backgrounds will find this program particularly appealing.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Loma Linda University combines graduate coursework with practical clinical experience. Students train in hospitals, schools, and private clinics. This complete program helps you assess and treat communication and swallowing disorders at every life stage. Graduates qualify for the California preliminary speech-language pathology services credential, temporary state licensure, and can pursue ASHA certification as a clinical fellow.

Students without SLP majors can join the Transitional MS program. The program starts with foundation courses and moves to advanced graduate courses with clinical training. The curriculum strikes a balance between academic standards and hands-on experience to support career-changing professionals.

Program length

Traditional MS students complete their program in 7 quarters (2 years). The Transitional MS program takes 11 quarters (3 years). Both programs use a cohort model. Students start in fall quarter and move through the curriculum together. Classes run in late afternoons/early evenings with one Friday morning monthly during the first two years.

Tuition and fees

Tuition rates change each academic year. The Office of Student Finance can provide current figures. Students must enroll in at least 4 units per quarter to qualify for financial aid. Loma Linda’s tuition is higher than state universities due to its reputation and private status, so financial planning is crucial.

Admission requirements

Traditional MS program requirements include:

• Undergraduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, with 3.3 GPA for the last 96 quarter credits or 64 semester credits
• Three letters of recommendation (preferably academic)
• Personal statement about professional motivation
• On-site writing sample

Students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields can apply to the Transitional MS program. Applications open October 1. Deadlines are January 1 for traditional MS and March 1 for transitional MS.

Unique features

Loma Linda promotes wellness and whole-person care through values-based education. Students get supervised clinical experience in various professional settings. First-year transitional students can complete their coursework online (synchronously), which works well for working professionals. The Hybrid Transitional MS program gives career-changers flexibility to build basic knowledge before moving to advanced clinical work.

6. San Jose State University

SJSU’s Speech-Language Pathology program features flexible on-campus and online options. This adaptability makes it perfect for non-traditional students who want to enter this expanding field.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology provides a complete study of communication disorders. Students learn about articulation issues, stuttering, alternative communication, voice disorders, dysphagia, neurogenic disorders, hearing problems, language disorders, and cognitive-communication challenges. The program combines academic excellence with practical clinical experiences. Students learn evidence-based, ethical, and culturally responsive intervention frameworks. Graduates qualify for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Hearing Services credential.

Program length

SJSU welcomes students from different educational backgrounds with multiple program options:

Students without prerequisites can join the extended program, which combines foundational coursework with the standard two-year curriculum.

Tuition and fees

Students pay $19,650 in total tuition fees. First-year costs reach about $16,559. The university charges $850 per unit for graduate studies. SJSU’s Financial Aid and Scholarship Office provides various options to help with these expenses.

Admission requirements

The application process happens in two steps through Cal State Apply and CSDCAS. Students need:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Personal statement and resume
• Three recommendation letters
• For international students: TOEFL (80), IELTS (6.5), or PTE (53)

Career-changers benefit from no GRE requirement.

Unique features

SJSU’s 50-year experience in communicative disorders education shows in its 98% graduate employment rate. The Kay Armstead Center is vital to the program. It offers specialized services including an AAC clinic, voice clinic, adult intellectual disability clinic, children’s language disorders clinic, Spartan Aphasia Research Clinic, and a stuttering camp for children. Students get hands-on experience with patients in various settings. The online program ranks #74 nationwide, reflecting its quality. Its neurodiversity specialty training prepares graduates for California’s multicultural environment.

7. University of Redlands

The University of Redlands brings over 50 years of excellence in speech-language pathology education. Students seeking entry into this rewarding field can choose from several flexible pathways.

Program overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders teaches you to diagnose, treat, and prevent communication and swallowing disorders. You’ll meet all requirements for ASHA certification, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential after completing the program. Students benefit from a strong liberal arts foundation combined with science-based clinical skills that encourage close relationships between students and faculty.

Program length

Students with a Communication Sciences background complete the 24-month full program. Those without prerequisites, known as “Grad Plus” students, take the 36-month program. Both options use a cohort model with fall entry dates.

Tuition and fees

Tuition costs $1,321 per credit. Students need 56 credits, bringing total tuition to approximately $49,392. Additional fees include:

Admission requirements

Students can apply through CSDCAS from July 15 to February 1. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, personal essays, and official transcripts. International students must provide transcript evaluations from IERF/WES and English proficiency scores (TOEFL: 80+, IELTS: 6.5+, PTE: 80+).

Unique features

The Truesdail Center for Communicative Disorders is essential to the program. It provides speech-language therapy in ten specialty areas. The program’s Hispanic-Serving Institution status allows for a bilingual emphasis option. This blend of tailored education and diverse clinical experiences creates caring, expert professionals.

Next Steps

These seven California programs provide a clear path to a speech-language pathology career that works with your educational background. Each program gives career-changers distinct advantages and provides the thorough training needed to succeed in this growing field.

Several California State University campuses give you quality education at reasonable prices. CSU Chico, East Bay, and Fullerton are great choices if you watch your budget. USC might get pricey, but its connection to Keck School of Medicine provides exceptional medical training. Loma Linda University shines with its values-based approach and special transitional program built for non-SLP majors. San Jose State and University of Redlands adapt to your learning style and schedule with their flexible programs.

Traditional tracks take about two years to complete. Students without prerequisites need three to four years. Tuition ranges substantially – CSU Chico costs around $10,000 per year while USC’s total program costs over $170,000. Every school offers financial aid options.

These programs share some key features despite their differences. They all have ASHA accreditation and prepare you for California licensure with supervised clinical experiences. The programs welcome students from a variety of academic backgrounds through leveling or transitional courses.

Your investment of time and money ended up creating excellent career opportunities. Speech-language pathology jobs grow almost three times faster than average occupations. California SLPs earn $112,030 yearly, well above the national average.

Picking the right program that matches your needs starts your journey toward this rewarding career. These seven California programs help non-traditional students make real changes in communication health, whether you need affordable tuition, flexible schedules, or specialized training.