8 Top Online Speech Language Pathology Masters in California

Want to build a career helping people with speech, language, and swallowing disorders? A speech language pathology masters in California could be your next step. The state offers more than 20 different degree options that can lead you to this fulfilling profession.

The good news is that many speech pathology graduate programs now offer online learning options. This makes it much easier to manage your studies alongside your current responsibilities. California has nearly 20 speech language pathology masters programs with American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) accreditation. These programs maintain high professional standards. The state’s SLP masters programs also prepare you for license requirements. You’ll need to complete 300 supervised clinical hours and score at least 162 on the Educational Testing Service Praxis exam.

You can choose from a range of programs at California State University campuses and private institutions between San Francisco and San Diego. There are also great national online options like Emerson and NYU, where you can be a part of a renowned program from your home state. Let’s take a closer look at the 8 best online speech pathology programs in California that could match your educational needs and career goals.

Pepperdine University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Pepperdine University brings a fresh perspective to California’s speech pathology education with its online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program launching in Fall 2025. The program blends academic excellence with hands-on clinical experience while staying true to Pepperdine’s Christian values.

Key features

The program delivers a 53-credit curriculum with 22 courses and 400+ supervised clinical clock hours. Students have two flexible study paths:

• Full-time track: Completed in five trimesters
• Part-time track: Completed in eight trimesters

Students attend three on-site sessions at Pepperdine’s Calabasas Campus that help build strong bonds within the community. The curriculum flows naturally from basic concepts to advanced practices, equipping students to care for patients throughout their lives.

The program’s academic strength comes from Pepperdine’s Christian mission that focuses on serving communities and improving lives. Every course and clinical requirement meets the standards set by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Three yearly start dates: January, May, and August
• No GRE scores needed for admission
• Licensed speech-language pathologists with expertise in various fields make up the core team
• Clinical placements close to students’ locations
• Praxis exam prep sequence in final two trimesters

Cons:

• Program holds candidacy status with CAA (a “pre-accreditation” status valid up to 5 years)
• First class graduates in Spring 2027
• Tuition costs more than some public universities
• Three campus visits might challenge students living far away

Pricing and financial aid

The 2025-2026 academic year tuition runs $1,800 per credit, reaching about $95,400 for the full 53-credit program. Graduate fees add:

• $1,700 for full-time students (five trimesters)
• $2,000 for part-time students (eight trimesters)

A $1,000 non-refundable deposit secures your spot and applies to first-term tuition. Financial support includes:

• Merit scholarships (automatic consideration after admission)
• Federal loans (available through FAFSA with code 001264)
• Employer tuition assistance programs
• Veterans benefits if you qualify

The Office of Financial Aid helps students navigate application steps, compare resources, and use their funds effectively.

Best for

This speech language pathology masters program fits perfectly if you:

• Want education grounded in Christian values
• Need flexible full-time or part-time study options
• Don’t have a communication sciences background but can take foundation courses first
• Seek complete preparation for ASHA certification and state licensure
• Value mixing online learning with face-to-face experiences

Graduates leave ready for the Praxis Exam in Speech and Language Pathology, the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), and state licensure, though state requirements vary. The program creates paths to careers as speech-language pathologists in schools, healthcare settings, and private practice, or advanced studies through research-based doctoral programs.

University of St. Augustine – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology

The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences runs a hybrid online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program that blends flexibility with clinical training. Fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA) through 2027, this program will give you the path to become a certified speech-language pathologist without moving for classes.

Key features

St. Augustine’s MS-SLP program brings together online learning and clinical experiences:

• Hybrid format: You can complete coursework online and attend short on-campus residencies for hands-on training
• Multiple campus options: You’ll have four locations to choose from for residencies (San Marcos, St. Augustine, Austin, or Dallas)
• Accelerated timeline: The 55-credit program takes just five trimesters (about 1 year, 8 months)
• Three annual start dates: You can start in January, May, or September, which gives more flexibility than other programs
• No GRE requirement: The school makes admission decisions based on your qualifications instead of test scores

Students attend four 3-day on-campus residencies to practice clinical skills in simulated environments. The program includes training with state-of-the-art endoscopy equipment—a chance that many speech pathology graduate programs don’t offer.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• CAA accreditation runs through 2027, which guarantees program quality and certification eligibility
• The degree comes with a certificate in cultural and linguistic diversity
• Students get ground clinical experience through a pro bono telehealth clinic
• The program accepts more students than most SLP programs (71% of applicants got offers recently)
• Students learn to work with healthcare teams through interprofessional education

Cons:

• Tuition costs more than many public universities
• On-campus residencies might be challenging for some students
• Large classes (30-55 students) could mean less individual attention
• Field placement can be competitive
• With 445 total students, you might get less personal advising

Pricing and financial aid

Tuition for the MS-SLP program runs about $71,334 for the required 55-58 credits. Program fees ($3,125) and books/expenses ($3,883) bring the total to $78,342.

The school provides several ways to fund your education:

• Merit scholarships up to $13,000 split across trimesters
• Federal student loans (FAFSA)
• Yellow Ribbon Program for eligible veterans (up to $5,000 from USAHS, matched by VA)
• VA education benefits for qualifying students, including Post-9/11 GI Bill®
• Each leveling course costs $561 for students without speech pathology backgrounds

St. Augustine stands out by providing dedicated financial aid counselors you can reach by email, phone, or in person.

Best for

This speech language pathology masters program works best if you:

• Need a flexible schedule but value hands-on learning
• Want to get certified in under 2 years
• Don’t have a CSD undergraduate degree and need prerequisite courses
• Want specialized clinical experiences with advanced technology
• Need multiple start dates throughout the year
• Have military benefits to use

Graduates can take the Praxis exam and work in speech-language pathology practice. The program requires 400 clinical clock hours, which builds practical skills for success in healthcare and educational settings.

Emerson College – Online MS in Communication Disorders

Ranked among the top graduate programs nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, Emerson College offers an online Master of Science in Communication Disorders. The program matches the quality of its on-campus counterpart. Speech@Emerson prepares future speech-language pathologists through a flexible yet complete curriculum based on proven practices.

Key features

Speech@Emerson stands out with these advantages:

• Flexible completion options: Choose between a 5-term track (as few as 20 months) or a 9-term track (up to 36 months)
• Multiple entry points: Start your education in January, May, or September
• Same curriculum as on-campus: Learn from the same course content and faculty as the respected residential program
• Family-centered approach: Support clients of all ages with their families throughout treatment
• Accreditation: The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA fully accredits the program

Students attend one weekend-long immersion at Emerson’s Boston campus to gain hands-on experience in a shared setting. The program includes one virtual placement and four community placements where students complete their required 400 supervised clinical practice hours.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• No GRE needed for admission
• Placement specialists help secure clinical sites within a national partner network
• Welcomes students with all experience levels, including those new to speech pathology
• SLP ranks #9 on U.S. News & World Report’s 100 Best Jobs list
• Ranks #32 for Best Speech Pathologist Program nationally
• 99% first-attempt pass rate on the national examination in the last three years

Cons:

• Costs more than many public university programs
• Students without speech-language pathology background must take extra foundational courses
• Online students can’t access fellowships and scholarships offered to on-campus students
• Must travel to Boston for immersion experience
• Fewer scholarship options than other programs

Pricing and financial aid

The 54-credit program costs $1,495 per credit for 2025-2026. Base tuition runs approximately $80,730. Students who need foundational courses might pay up to $107,640 in total tuition for 18 additional credits.

Extra costs include:

• $50 registration fee per term
• $50 program materials fee for test protocols
• $125 for Calipso access (clinical hours tracking system)
• $138 for health and background checks through CastleBranch
• $400 non-refundable enrollment deposit
• Travel and lodging costs for the on-campus immersion

Financial aid options have some limits. Online students can’t receive Emerson’s fellowships or institutional scholarships. U.S. citizens and permanent residents can apply for federal student aid through FAFSA (school code: 002146), including Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Direct Graduate PLUS Loans.

Emerson College best for

This speech language pathology masters program fits perfectly for:

• Professionals who want a flexible online format without sacrificing quality
• Students drawn to a generalist approach that prepares them for various clinical settings
• People who value small class sizes and close faculty relationships
• Those ready to start their studies with multiple entry points throughout the year
• Career-changers new to speech pathology who need foundational coursework

The job market looks promising with an 18% growth projection for speech-language pathologists from 2023 to 2033. Most graduates work in schools (40% of SLPs), hospitals, and healthcare settings, earning competitive salaries around $80,000 yearly.

New York University (NYU) – Online MS in Communicative Sciences and Disorders

NYU Steinhardt’s exceptional reputation shines through its online MS in Communicative Sciences and Disorders program. The institution’s roots go back to 1831. This speech pathology graduate program shapes future speech-language pathologists through evidence-based methodology and clinical experience.

Key features

NYU’s 48-credit curriculum stands out for these reasons:

• Detailed curriculum structured across fall, spring, and summer terms to create an immersive learning experience
• Two required on-campus immersions that provide hands-on clinical diagnostic preparation before field placements
• Five varied practicum experiences including clinical diagnostics and supervised field placements
• Cultural responsiveness focus throughout all courses and clinical experiences
• Accreditation by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology

Students who don’t have a bachelor’s degree in communicative sciences need to complete extra foundational courses (up to 14 credits) to build their knowledge before starting graduate-level coursework. The program’s clinical sequence starts with diagnostic processes and on-campus immersions, followed by three semesters of off-campus field placements.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Graduates earn a median salary of $75,159, putting the program in the top 9% nationwide for earning potential
• The program boasts a 95% retention rate and 87% graduation rate
• Students can complete a master’s thesis or research-focused paper
• Study abroad opportunities exist in countries like Sweden and Ghana
• Bilingual Extension Track welcomes multilingual students

Cons:

• The program costs about $109,056 for 48 credits
• The city-integrated campus lacks a traditional college feel
• New York City’s housing market runs expensive and competitive
• High-achieving peers create a competitive environment
• Field placement semesters demand full-time commitment, which limits work opportunities

Pricing and financial aid

The 48-credit program costs approximately $109,056, not including additional foundation courses some students might need. Students should also plan for:

• Registration and service fees each term
• Travel and lodging during two required NYC campus immersions
• Living costs if moving for field placements

NYU’s financial assistance includes:

• Merit-based scholarships for select students (no separate application needed)
• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans up to $20,500 yearly
• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans to cover remaining expenses
• University-based scholarships for specific groups

Best for

This speech language pathology masters program fits perfectly if you:

• Want a prestigious program with strong earning potential
• Care about culturally responsive clinical practices
• Need flexibility combined with structured clinical experiences
• Speak multiple languages and seek specialized certification
• Want research opportunities alongside clinical training

The program prepares graduates to diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders. They can apply for professional licensure and work in healthcare facilities, schools, and research institutions.

Grand Canyon University – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology

Grand Canyon University’s Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program helps aspiring professionals become compassionate care providers who work with communication disorders. This STEM-designated program teaches scientifically-based practices and critical thinking skills you’ll need to become a well-rounded SLP professional.

Key features

The program blends flexibility with hands-on training through several unique elements:

• Flexible online learning lets you complete coursework on your schedule while you keep up with professional and personal commitments
• Three required on-campus experiences span the first three semesters, each lasting three days in Phoenix. You’ll participate in simulations and get hands-on practice with equipment
• Three clinical practicums help you earn required certification hours while you build competence with patients of all ages
• Part-time placement starts in community settings under licensed supervision, followed by two full-time practicum experiences
• Nationwide clinical partnerships let you choose placements close to home

The curriculum builds deep knowledge and advanced clinical skills through evidence-based practices. Each on-campus intensive experience covers different groups—pediatric, infant, adult, and geriatric—so you’re ready to work in any clinical setting.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• No GRE needed for admission
• Help finding clinical placements near you
• Freedom to set up new clinical agreements with sites not yet partnered with GCU
• Institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission since 1968
• Strong job outlook with projected 18% growth for speech-language pathologists from 2023-2033 (approximately 33,300 new jobs)

Cons:

• You must travel to Phoenix for three on-campus experiences
• Full program costs more than some public universities
• Acceptance rates aren’t widely shared
• Program is newer compared to other options
• Clinical practicum schedules might challenge working professionals

Pricing and financial aid

The program costs about $89,290, which matches the median annual salary for speech-language pathologists according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. GCU hasn’t raised campus tuition since 2009, showing their commitment to affordable education.

You can get financial help through:

• Several scholarship options if you qualify
• Special military rates for service members and eligible spouses
• Yellow Ribbon Program for veterans
• Federal student aid through FAFSA
• Institutional scholarships that cut tuition nearly in half for many campus students ($7,300 average scholarship in 2024-25)

GCU also runs a free Financial Literacy Program to help current and future students manage their education costs.

Best for

This speech language pathology masters program works great if you:

• Want a faith-integrated curriculum that aligns with Christian values
• Need mostly online learning with just a few campus visits
• Want to develop skills with patients of all ages and backgrounds
• Value practical, hands-on clinical experiences
• Need help coordinating clinical placements

After graduation, you can pursue ASHA certification in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) and work in schools, hospitals, clinics, or private practice. The program gives you the knowledge and clinical experience needed for state licensure, though requirements vary by state.

California State University, Northridge – MS in Communicative Disorders

California State University, Northridge has launched an online Master of Science in Communicative Disorders program that balances cost with academic excellence. Students who want to become speech-language pathologists can now access this program from anywhere in the US.

Core features

The MS in Communicative Disorders program delivers a strong curriculum in a flexible format:

• 100% online learning with practicum requirements met at local sites
• 36-month program structure that lets you keep your job while studying
• 63-unit curriculum that covers all communication disorders
• Practical clinical experience through CSUN’s Language, Speech and Hearing Center
• Advanced clinical placements at affiliated medical centers, professional practices, and public schools

The program goes beyond classroom teaching and focuses on hands-on learning through intensive clinical work. Students can meet academic requirements for licensure in all states, get educational credentials for public school jobs, and earn ASHA certification.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• A well-respected program with national recognition
• You can create your own study schedule while keeping your job
• The curriculum covers everything about communication disorders
• More affordable than private universities
• Graduates work at leading organizations like Los Angeles Unified School District, Kaiser Permanente, and Easterseals
• The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) fully accredits this program

Cons:

• Getting in is tough with an average admitted GPA of 3.79
• Students without CDS/SLP bachelor’s degrees need 30 semester units of prerequisites
• US residents only – no international students accepted
• Takes longer than some fast-track options
• The rigorous curriculum needs lots of time and dedication

Pricing and financial aid

The program costs about $54,306 total, at $862 per unit for 63 units. Other costs include:

• University application fee: $70 (non-refundable)
• Books and supplies: costs vary by program
• Graduation application fee: $47
• Extra costs for clinical practicum experiences

CSUN gives private grants to undergrads with high academic achievement (3.5 GPA or higher). The competitive nature of this speech language pathology master’s program makes financial planning crucial.

Best for

This speech pathology graduate program fits perfectly for:

• Professionals who need a flexible program that works with their job schedule
• Students looking for quality education at public university prices
• People with strong academic records (given the 3.79 average GPA requirement)
• Those wanting careers in schools, healthcare facilities, and private practices
• Independent learners who excel in online education
• California residents seeking an ASHA-accredited program with strong clinical training

After graduating, you’ll be ready to take state licensure exams and work in settings where speech-language pathologists are in high demand.

California State University, San Marcos – Online MS in Speech-Language Pathology

CSU San Marcos offers a hybrid MS in Speech-Language Pathology program that blends online learning with hands-on clinical practice. Working professionals can earn their comprehensive speech pathology certification while keeping their day jobs through this accelerated program.

Key features

The core team has designed a 76-unit program that students complete in 8 consecutive semesters, including summers. Students learn through multiple channels in this hybrid format:

• Self-paced coursework you complete on your own time
• Online evening classes two to three nights each week
• Weekend learning labs (Saturday and Sunday) twice per semester on campus
• Four live clinical placements in San Diego County region

Clinical placements follow a smart progression: 5-week rotations during both Summer I and Summer II, followed by longer 14-16 week placements in Fall III and Spring III. Students gain at least 400 supervised hours in community-based practice throughout the program.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Evening and weekend classes fit working adults’ schedules
• Strong focus on bilingual/bicultural training that reflects San Diego County’s diverse population
• Excellent job prospects with 90-100% of graduates landing positions
• Graduates qualify for temporary California SLP license, preliminary CTC SLP Services credential, and ASHA certification

Cons:

• Fast-paced program demands careful planning with work schedules
• You’ll need daytime availability for clinical placements
• Program accepts California residents only
• Campus visits required twice each semester for weekends

Pricing and financial aid

Students pay $599 per unit, bringing the total to about $45,524 for all 76 units. Each semester includes $840 in mandatory fees that cover student union, recreation, academic records, and campus services.

New students must pay a $70 application fee. After acceptance, there’s a $150 intent to enroll fee that applies to your first semester costs.

Students can get financial help several ways. The CSUSM Payment Plan lets you spread costs over installments. Federal aid becomes available after submitting FAFSA applications. Military members and veterans get support through the Epstein Family Veterans Center, though Extended Learning programs don’t qualify for Cal Vet Fee Waivers.

Best for

This program works great for California residents who:

• Want a schedule that fits with full-time work
• Like learning in structured groups with peer support
• Want training focused on California’s diverse communities
• Need real clinical experience in community settings
• Look for an affordable path to SLP certification compared to private schools

New cohorts start each August. Applications open October 1 and close January 2 of the following year.

University of the Pacific – Accelerated MS in Speech-Language Pathology

The University of the Pacific has maintained perfect examination pass rates for over two decades. Their Stockton campus offers two accelerated paths to earn a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Students receive clinical experiences alongside strong academic preparation.

Key features

The Department of Speech-Language Pathology provides two accelerated master’s degree options:

• 15-month (4 semester) program for students with speech-language pathology undergraduate degrees
• 24-month (6 semester) program for students with non-speech-language pathology bachelor’s degrees

Students progress through their programs in cohorts following a well-laid-out sequence. The university welcomes 20-22 students yearly for the 15-month track and 10-12 students for the 24-month program. The on-campus facilities let students start their clinical experience early. Students in the 15-month program begin working with clinical cases right from their first two semesters.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Perfect examination pass rates spanning 20+ years (100% students pass before graduation)
• Every graduate finds employment within one year
• Clinical experiences begin in the first semester
• Graduates enter careers 9-12 months before other university graduates

Cons:

• Tuition costs more than public universities at $1,483 per unit
• The pre-professional program demands extensive time commitment
• No online options available – campus attendance required
• Selective admission process with early deadlines (priority: January 15th; final: February 1st)

Pricing and financial aid

Program units cost $1,483 each, with requirements ranging from 56-88 units based on your pathway. Expected total costs reach:

• $83,048 for the minimum 56-unit program
• $130,504 for the full 88-unit program

Students can access federal loans through FAFSA (school code: 001329). International students should budget around $100,398 for tuition, housing, and other expenses.

Best for

This program suits students who want a fast track to certification with solid clinical foundations. Students get unique hands-on experience through strategic clinical sequences, including school district placements and medical externships. The program’s perfect exam success rate appeals to achievement-focused students who prioritize professional excellence.

Choose Your Top California Online SLP Program Now

Your professional goals in this rewarding field start with picking the right speech language pathology master’s program. California has some great options for aspiring speech-language pathologists. These range from prominent private universities to budget-friendly state schools. Each program comes with its own set of benefits you should think about.

You can pick a program format that fits your lifestyle. Programs vary from University of the Pacific’s quick 15-month track to CSU Northridge’s flexible 36-month part-time schedule. Most programs also blend online learning with on-campus sessions to help you manage your existing commitments.

Money will without doubt shape your decision. Tuition varies by a lot between schools – from $45,524 at CSU San Marcos to over $100,000 at NYU. You should review scholarship options, federal aid, and potential returns before picking your program.

Clinical experience is necessary for quality speech pathology education. Every program ensures you complete the required 400+ supervised clinical hours for certification. Their approaches differ though – some start clinical placements right away, while others focus on coursework first.

Program accreditation needs your attention too. The good news is all these programs have received or are working toward Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) accreditation. This ensures they meet ASHA certification standards.

Speech-language pathologists have excellent job prospects, with 18% growth expected between 2023-2033. After graduating, you’ll find jobs in schools, hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation centers throughout California and beyond.

The best program comes down to your situation, career goals, and priorities. California has a speech language pathology master’s program that matches your needs, whether you want affordability, flexibility, prestige, or quick completion. Your experience of becoming a certified speech-language pathologist begins with choosing a program that sets you up to achieve success in this rewarding profession.