Best Speech Pathology Schools in California

Considering speech pathology schools in California? That’s a brilliant path to take. Speech-language pathologists in California will see a remarkable 29% job growth rate from 2020-2030, which means plenty of career opportunities ahead.

California stands out as the second-highest-paying state for SLPs. The average annual salary reaches $92,280, and professionals can expect a solid 16.4% employment growth rate (2016-2026). The path to this rewarding career requires a master’s degree program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). This accreditation is essential to get the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

The good news is you have many excellent options. EdFind lists over 300 institutions across the country that offer degree programs in audiology, speech-language pathology, and speech, language, and hearing science. In this piece, we’ll get into the 15 best SLP programs in California. You’ll learn about their costs, admission requirements, and unique features that will help you find the right program to begin your career path.

University of Southern California (USC)

The University of Southern California launched an innovative Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program in Fall 2021. This program ranks among California’s top speech pathology schools and provides complete training for aspiring SLPs.

Program Overview

Students at USC’s MS-SLP program become skilled speech-language pathologists through a comprehensive educational approach. The program resides in the prestigious Caruso Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine and emphasizes evidence-based, ethical, and shared practice. Students get dynamic academic courses and clinical experiences that prepare them to help diverse populations in interdisciplinary settings. Each cohort has 25 students who follow a well-laid-out curriculum. The curriculum builds knowledge and skills needed for prevention, assessment, and intervention of communication and swallowing disorders.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council of Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) has granted the program Candidacy Accreditation. This “pre-accreditation” status runs for five years (May 2, 2021 – April 30, 2026). The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes all credits and degrees from programs with candidacy status as equivalent to those from an accredited program.

Tuition & Costs

Students can expect total direct costs of $173,065, which covers tuition and required fees. The 2024-2025 academic year costs break down as:

Program Length

Students complete the program in two years across six consecutive semesters as a cohort. The requirements include 69 units of coursework, 400 clinical hours, comprehensive examinations, and a capstone project.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or completion of a post-baccalaureate equivalent
• Minimum 3.0 GPA overall
• Prerequisite coursework in biological sciences, physical sciences, social/behavioral sciences, and statistics
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement and responses to short-answer essays
• Resume or CV highlighting relevant experiences

Unique Features

Los Angeles gives USC students exceptional clinical opportunities. The program uses the resources of a premier medical school in the nation’s second-largest city. Students gain from interprofessional experiences and specialized training in areas like voice disorders. Experts from the Caruso Department of Otolaryngology teach these courses. Research plays a key role in the program, and students complete capstone projects that showcase the department’s dedication to field advancement.

San Diego State University

San Diego State University ranks as the #1 speech language program in California. This makes it a standout choice among speech pathology schools in the state. The School of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences provides detailed education to future speech-language pathologists.

Program Overview

The university’s Speech-Language Clinic, 82 years old, serves the community while training graduate students. Students learn to work with people from different racial, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds. The program helps students develop skills in communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, cultural awareness, and evidence-based decisions. Graduates work in rehabilitation centers, schools, hospitals, and research facilities.

Accreditation & Certification

The Master of Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences education program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. On top of that, it prepares students to meet requirements for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), California state licensure, and the Speech Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Tuition & Costs

California residents can expect these costs for the 2025-2026 academic year:

Students from other states must add $444 per unit to the simple tuition and fees.

Program Length

Students complete the MA program in five semesters, spanning two academic years plus one summer. The program’s intensity means most students focus solely on their studies and use financial aid rather than working.

Admission Requirements

Competition is fierce with about 600 MA applications each cycle for only 40-45 spots. Students need:

• Bachelor’s degree with GPA of at least 3.20 (admitted students average around 3.8)
• Completion of prerequisite coursework before beginning the program
• Passing a background check
• Two-step application process with CalState Apply and CSDCAS by specified deadlines

Unique Features

ASHA-certified and California-licensed SDSU faculty directly supervise all student clinicians. Students complete 25 hours of guided observation and 375 clock hours working with children and adults who have speech-language and hearing disorders. The university’s 16 research labs let students study under faculty supervision, creating a unique hands-on experience in the field.

San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University delivers speech-language pathology training that values cultural sensitivity and research in the Bay Area’s diverse environment. The program stands out among other California speech pathology schools because of its detailed training approach and urban setting.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communicative Disorders: Speech Language Pathology at SFSU prepares skilled, culturally aware speech-language pathologists who value research in clinical practice. The curriculum has extensive academic and clinical experiences with expert instructors on and off campus. Students build their clinical expertise through academic knowledge, research understanding, and awareness of their clients’ needs, values, and cultures. The program ranks among top global universities for speech-language pathology education and delivers outstanding teaching quality with hands-on learning opportunities.

Accreditation & Certification

The MS education program has accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology through 2033. Students learn everything needed for ASHA certification, California state licensure in speech-language pathology, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. These credentials share similar academic and clinical requirements.

SFSU Tuition & Costs

The estimated costs for 2025 depend on where students live:

Students who aren’t California residents pay $444 more per unit.

Program Length

Students need at least 5 full-time semesters, including summer session. The program requires 35 units of academic courses, 6 units of clinical practica, and 14 units of internships to get 375 clinical clock hours plus 25 observation hours. Students can enroll part-time, but this makes the program longer.

Admission Requirements

Students need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences or equivalent
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants usually have 3.5+)
• 9 prerequisite courses
• Three recommendation letters
• Statement of purpose
• Applications due December 15

Unique Features

Student interns work throughout the San Francisco Bay Area’s culturally and linguistically diverse communities. They gain experience in urban, suburban, and rural schools, rehabilitation facilities, nursing facilities, and acute care settings. The department works with over 20 school districts and 36 medical facilities through long-standing MOUs. These clinical experiences range from low-income schools with mainly English-language learners to rehabilitation centers serving war veterans and patients with specialized disorders.

California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach offers a cohort-based MA program that prepares future speech-language pathologists. The program balances academic excellence with clinical experience. CSULB stands out as a top choice among speech pathology schools in California.

Program Overview

CSULB’s Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology program teaches students to assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, hearing, and swallowing disorders throughout a patient’s life. Students learn advanced concepts about congenital, developmental, acquired, and neurogenic communication disorders at every life stage. You’ll develop professional skills through academic classes and hands-on clinical training that help you make ethical clinical decisions and apply evidence-based practices.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has accredited the program. The program secured re-accreditation for the maximum allowable interval of 8 years (from 4/1/2019 through 3/31/2027). Graduates qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, California State License, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Tuition & Costs

California residents pay about $3,689 per semester for full-time enrollment (7+ units). Non-resident students must pay an additional $420 for each credit unit. A non-resident taking 12 units would pay $8,729 per semester. Summer semester tuition costs more than fall/spring semesters.

Program Length

Students complete the program in five semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). This includes one semester of school-based internship and one semester of medical/private practice internship. The program requires a minimum of 58 units of coursework. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA throughout their studies.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need these qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or equivalent
• Or a bachelor’s degree in another field with at least 30 semester units in speech-language pathology
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Completed prerequisite coursework before enrollment
• All application materials submitted by January 15

Unique Features

The department runs an on-campus Speech and Language clinic that serves as both a clinical and research laboratory. Students can complete field placements at local hospitals, rehabilitation agencies, and public schools. The program’s cohort model creates a supportive learning community where you’ll progress through structured courses with your peers.

California State University, Fullerton

Cal State Fullerton runs a nationally recognized Master’s program in Communication Sciences and Disorders. The program stands out among California’s speech pathology schools because of its expert faculty and excellent clinical training opportunities.

Program Overview

Students pursuing a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders at CSUF get a solid foundation to become speech-language pathologists. The program’s greatest asset is its faculty members who have earned national recognition for their expertise in communicative disorders. The program excels in multicultural clinical issues, autism, alternative communication methods, and swallowing disorders.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits CSUF’s master’s education program in speech-language pathology. This accreditation confirms the program’s high educational standards. Students who complete this program can earn the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) with ASHA.

Tuition & Costs

Graduate students should plan for these costs in the 2024-2025 academic year:

Students from outside California pay an additional $420 per semester unit.

Program Length

Students complete the program in five semesters. The coursework spans two academic years plus one summer term. The program requires 34 units of coursework approved by advisers and the Graduate Committee.

Admission Requirements

Competition for admission is fierce. Successful candidates typically have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or equivalent
• GPA of 3.0 minimum (most accepted students have above 3.7)
• 12 CSD prerequisite courses with 9 specific required courses
• Three recommendation letters
• Personal statement showcasing qualities and experiences

Unique Features

CSUF’s Speech and Hearing Clinic gives students exceptional clinical training. The clinic operates as a non-profit CSUF Foundation agency that helps people with communicative disorders. Students gain experience through strategic collaborations with more than thirty hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practices. This extensive network helps students develop skills in various settings while working with different populations.

California State University, East Bay

California State University, East Bay stands out among speech pathology schools in California. The university’s Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences (SLHS) provides detailed academic and clinical training.

Program Overview

CSUEB’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology prepares students for state licensure, national certification, and public school credentials. The program champions communication as a human right for everyone. Students help children and adults with speech, language, hearing, cognition, and swallowing disorders. The interdisciplinary program blends science with liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences. Students develop strong skills in simple and applied science, professional conduct, and writing.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA has accredited the MS education program for both residential and distance learning. The California Commission on Teacher Education has accredited the department’s Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential preparation program. After graduation, students can apply for California state licensure, ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence, and California Teacher’s Commission Speech-Language Pathology Services credential.

Tuition & Costs

Graduate students can expect these costs for 2025-2026:

Students from outside California pay extra fees per unit.

Program Length

Students with communication disorders backgrounds can complete the program in two years. Those without such backgrounds take an “extended” program lasting three years plus one term. The program’s completion rates are impressive: 93% (2023-2024), 90% (2022-2023), and 100% (2021-2022), with a three-year average of 94.12%.

Admission Requirements

Requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university
• Foundational coursework including anatomy and physiology of speech/hearing, phonetics, language development, speech/hearing science, clinical observation, neuroanatomy, audiology, and clinical methods
• No minimum GPA requirement, but applications under 3.0 might not get reviewed
• Fall term applications only, with deadlines usually in mid-January

Unique Features

The university’s Norma S. and Ray R. Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic offers free and budget-friendly therapy services. Students get hands-on clinical experience while helping Bay Area communities. The program boasts a perfect 100% pass rate on national exams in the last three years. All graduates have found jobs in the field.

California State University, Northridge

California State University, Northridge provides online speech-language pathology education that stands out among other speech pathology schools in California. Their programs are available to everyone and follow a well-laid-out learning approach.

Program Overview

CSUN gives students two paths to become speech-language pathologists: a Master of Science in Communicative Disorders and a Certificate of Preparation for Advanced Studies in Speech-Language Pathology (Certificate of Pre-SLP). College graduates who want careers in speech-language pathology but need prerequisite coursework can take the Pre-SLP program. Students who complete the master’s program meet academic requirements for licensure in all states, educational credentials for public schools, and ASHA certification.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the MS program in Speech-Language Pathology. Students who graduate qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Tuition & Costs

The Pre-SLP Certificate program costs $814 per unit with a total of $24,420 for the 30-unit program. The MS program costs $862 per unit, adding up to $54,306 for the 63-unit degree.

Program Length

Students complete the Certificate of Pre-SLP in two years through a cohort format. The master’s program takes three years and uses the cohort model to ensure students finish on time.

Admission Requirements

Pre-SLP program requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Minimum 2.5 GPA in the last 60 semester units
• English proficiency for international students

Students can automatically enter the master’s program from Pre-SLP with:

• 85+ GPA in the Pre-SLP program
• Positive faculty recommendations

CSUN Unique Features

The programs run completely online and are available to students from any location. The cohort format helps build networking relationships and increases faculty interaction. Pre-SLP students who meet specific criteria get guaranteed admission to the master’s program. The program’s structure lets students keep their full-time jobs while studying.

California State University, Chico

CSU Chico ranks among California’s top speech pathology schools due to its strong community ties and excellent clinical training opportunities. The Communication Sciences and Disorders program has earned recognition for academic excellence on campus and throughout the state.

Program Overview

The Communication Sciences and Disorders MS program helps you qualify for national certification, state licensure, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. Students learn to support people of all ages through coursework and hands-on clinical experience. The program gives graduates the skills to work in early intervention programs, K-12 schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. This program ranks as one of Chico State’s five largest graduate programs.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited CSU Chico’s Communication Sciences and Disorders MS education program. The program’s accreditation period runs through February 2026.

Tuition & Costs

The 2025 academic year tuition costs are:

Program Length

Students can complete the 56-57 unit MS in Communication Sciences and Disorders in two years. More than 95% of students finish within this timeframe. The program combines academic coursework with clinical practice experiences.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need these requirements to apply:

• Bachelor’s degree (preferably in communication sciences and disorders)
• GPA of 3.0
• Application deadline: January 15 for fall admission (no spring admission)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Resume
• Personal essay
• Transcripts submitted through CSDCAS application

Unique Features

Students get practical experience through various placement opportunities in hospitals, medical facilities, private practices, and public schools. They provide high-quality, evidence-based speech, language, and hearing services both on and off campus. The program’s residential nature and available faculty create strong student-teacher relationships. Once accepted, you’ll work on diagnostic and clinical practice while attending academic seminars that build your scientific knowledge and clinical expertise in speech and hearing disorders.

California State University, Fresno

Fresno State’s Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders blends academic learning with clinical practice to help students build successful careers in speech-language pathology. Students looking for a complete professional preparation will find this program stands out among California’s speech pathology schools.

Program Overview

The MA program combines academic coursework with supervised clinical training to help students launch careers in speech-language pathology. Students learn to handle speech, language, hearing, and swallowing issues for patients of all ages. The program equips students with skills to work with patients from various backgrounds in different professional settings. Graduates meet all requirements for state licensure and ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has fully accredited this master’s degree program, with accreditation extending through February 2032. Students who graduate will qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. The program maintains strict guidelines to uphold its educational standards.

Tuition & Costs

The 2025-2026 academic year costs for graduate students are:

Non-resident students must pay an additional $444 per unit, which makes the total cost much higher for out-of-state applicants.

Program Length

Students typically complete this master’s degree in two years of full-time study. The program requires a 36-unit graduate curriculum plus clinical practicum hours. Students must log at least 400 clinical hours before receiving their MA degree, with 300 of these hours at the graduate level.

Admission Requirements

The program has competitive admission standards that include:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 units of any coursework and in CSDS coursework
• Three letters of recommendation
• Letter of intent
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores

Students need to apply to both the university and department separately. The department’s deadlines might differ from general university timelines.

Unique Features

Students participate in supervised clinical practicum experiences both on and off campus. They can choose from three culminating experiences: thesis, project, or comprehensive written examination. The department’s focus on clinical practice gives students extensive hands-on experience. Graduates have excellent job prospects, finding positions in schools, healthcare facilities, and private practices throughout California.

California State University, Sacramento

Sacramento State’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, 70 years old, ranks among California’s most respected speech pathology schools. Students learn theory first before applying their knowledge in practical settings while working toward professional certification.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Sacramento State focuses on prevention, assessment, and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders for patients of all ages. Students get detailed academic coursework and clinical practice to develop key professional skills in accountability, effective communication, evidence-based practice, and professional duty.

Accreditation & Certification

The MS program holds accreditation from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA through November 30, 2027. After graduation, students qualify for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s Certificate of Clinical Competence, California State License in Speech-Language Pathology, and the California Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential.

Tuition & Costs

For 2025-2026, costs per semester are:

Students from outside California pay an extra $444 per unit.

Program Length

The program admits students in two cohorts. Students in the Fall Clinical Practica Cohort start their clinical practica in fall and graduate in at least 4 semesters. The Spring Clinical Practica Cohort begins clinical practica in spring and needs a minimum of 5 semesters to graduate. Each cohort completes three semesters of on-campus clinical practica and off-campus internships.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have:

• Undergraduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology/Communication Sciences
• 0 GPA in the major (2.75 overall)
• Completed prerequisite coursework
• Three letters of recommendation
• Oral and written essay
• Documentation of observation hours

Unique Features

The department’s Maryjane Rees Center provides assessment and treatment services to Sacramento residents. Graduate students get hands-on experience here under faculty supervision. Students can choose from various internship placements at private practices, medical centers, and school districts to enhance their practical skills.

San Jose State University

San Jose State University ranks among California’s oldest speech pathology schools. Students have prepared for careers in speech-language pathology here over 50 years. The program combines challenging academic coursework with extensive clinical practice to prepare competent professionals who serve people from all backgrounds.

Program Overview

SJSU’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology provides detailed study of communication disorders. Students focus on articulation disorders, stuttering, alternative communication, voice disorders, dysphagia, neurogenic disorders, hearing disorders, language disorders, and cognitive-communication disorders. The curriculum emphasizes assessment and intervention through evidence-based, ethical, inclusive, and culturally responsive methods. Students gain expertise through theoretical knowledge paired with hands-on clinical experience.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the program. The program holds accreditation from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. The California Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board has also approved the program. Graduates qualify for ASHA Certification, California State Licensure, and the Speech Language Hearing Services credential.

Tuition & Costs

Graduate students’ costs vary based on living arrangements for 2025-2026:

Non-resident students pay extra fees per unit.

Program Length

Students can choose between two tracks. Those with communication disorders backgrounds complete a two-year option, while others take a three-year extended option. Full-time students must enroll continuously over five semesters, including summer.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have:

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum 3.0 GPA
• Completed application through both Cal State Apply and CSDCAS
• Personal essay, resume, and three letters of recommendation
• English language proficiency for international students

Unique Features

Students gain valuable clinical experience at the Kay Armstead Center for Communicative Disorders. The program offers specialty clinics in AAC, voice, aphasia research, and stuttering. The program’s excellence shows in its perfect 100% pass rate on national exams and high graduate employment rates.

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University stands out among California’s speech pathology schools by blending faith-based values with comprehensive medical training in its speech-language pathology program.

Program Overview

The School of Allied Health Professions offers a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Students learn to assess and treat disorders related to speech, language, hearing, cognitive communication, and swallowing. Clinical education serves as the program’s cornerstone, with students gaining experience in hospitals, schools, and private clinics. The university’s status as a Hispanic-Serving Institution enables it to serve patients from many cultural backgrounds.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has granted full accreditation to the master’s program through 2028. The next review will take place in August 2027. Students who complete the program can obtain their Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state license, and Speech-Language Pathology Services credential.

Tuition & Costs

Students should budget around $30,640 for tuition and fees during the 2025-2026 academic year.

Program Length

Students must complete the program full-time over seven quarters (two years), as no part-time options exist. The curriculum requires 72 quarter credit hours.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology/Communication Disorders
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (successful applicants typically have 3.20-4.00)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Interview
• January 2 application deadline for fall admission

Unique Features

The program requires students to complete a research capstone project. Students benefit from the university’s location within a major academic medical center, which creates opportunities to work with complex medical cases and collaborate across healthcare disciplines. Loma Linda’s faith-based mission shapes its commitment to serving diverse communities. Research focuses on aural rehabilitation, autism spectrum disorders, dysphagia, fluency disorders, and voice disorders.

University of the Pacific

University of the Pacific stands out among California’s speech pathology schools by offering accelerated paths that help students complete their degrees substantially faster than regular programs.

Program Overview

The Department of Speech-Language Pathology at UOP’s Stockton campus has two accelerated master of science degree options—students can choose between 15-month and 24-month paths. Students get quality clinical instruction backed by research, which prepares them for work in various professional settings. After graduating, students qualify for the Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential. The results speak for themselves – 100% of UOP graduates find jobs in their field within a year of finishing (3-year average).

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of ASHA has accredited the Master of Science program. The next review will happen in February 2027. Students who graduate meet all requirements for ASHA certification, state licensure, and public school credentials. This accreditation shows that students receive high-quality education.

Tuition & Costs

The Speech-Language Pathology MS program will cost $1,483 per unit for 56-88 units during the 2025-2026 academic year. Students should plan their budget based on their chosen path.

Program Length

UOP gives students two quick paths to graduation:

• A 15-month (4 semester) option for those with speech-language pathology undergraduate degrees
• A 24-month (6 semester) option for students with degrees in other fields

The program’s success rate is clear – 91% of students finish on time (3-year average).

Admission Requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. The application package must include three recommendation letters, a personal essay, and a completed CSDCAS application by February 1st for fall admission. Competition is tough – in 2023, out of 105 applicants, only 28 got into the 15-month program and 8 into the 24-month program.

Unique Features

UOP students start their clinical work right away at the campus clinic. They spend two days each week for seven months working with supervision in northern California public schools. Students finish with a full-time medical externship that lasts one semester. The program’s quality shows in its results – graduates have a 98% pass rate on the Praxis Examination (3-year average).

University of Redlands

The University of Redlands’ Communication Sciences and Disorders program, 50 years old, ranks among California’s top speech pathology schools. Students benefit from customized education and excellent clinical facilities.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Redlands equips you with everything in knowledge and skills needed to help people with speech, language, swallowing, and hearing disorders. Students learn through a mix of classroom teaching and hands-on clinical work to develop professional skills for careers in schools, healthcare facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Graduates meet all requirements for state licensure and ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of ASHA accredits the master’s program. Students who graduate meet academic and clinical standards to receive ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology and California’s regulatory board license. The program also satisfies requirements for the Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Tuition & Costs

Students pay approximately $41,300 annually for the MS program, with costs varying based on enrollment status. New students must pay a one-time $300 fee. Total yearly expenses, including room and board, can reach $80,474.

Program Length

Students can choose between two tracks: a 24-month program for those with communication sciences backgrounds and a 36-month Grad Plus pathway for students without prerequisite courses. Grad Plus students complete their prerequisites during the first year before starting graduate coursework.

Admission Requirements

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required, with no minimum GPA specified. However, applications below 3.0 might not be competitive. Students must apply through CSDCAS by February 1. The program requires five prerequisite courses in speech and hearing science, which can be completed before or during the program.

Unique Features

The Truesdail Center for Communicative Disorders serves the community and acts as a training facility for students. Redlands stands out because of its small class sizes and close student-faculty relationships, which create a more customized learning experience compared to larger schools.

Biola University

Biola University combines faith-based education with strong professional training in its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program. This program stands out among faith-oriented speech pathology schools in California.

Program Overview

Biola’s MS in Speech-Language Pathology program gives students complete academic and clinical training to become licensed, certified speech-language pathologists. Students learn strong theoretical frameworks, excellence in clinical practice, biblical points of view, and effective service. The program helps students become experts at preventing, identifying, evaluating, and treating speech-sound, fluency, voice, language, social communication, cognitive communication, and swallowing disorders in patients of all ages.

Accreditation & Certification

The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association accredits the MS education program (residential). The accreditation runs from 2021 through 2026, with the next review set for February 2025. Students who graduate can get the Certificate of Clinical Competence, California state licensure, and the Speech-Language Pathology Services credential.

Tuition & Costs

MS-SLP students should expect these costs for 2025-26:

Program Length

Most students complete the program in two years. The time needed varies based on transferred courses and course load. Students can also choose an accelerated 3+2 program to finish both undergraduate and graduate degrees in five years instead of six.

Admission Requirements

Students need to:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or complete prerequisite courses
• Maintain minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (3.6 GPA for accelerated program students)
• Submit GRE scores (290+ overall, 145+ verbal, 145+ quantitative, 3.0+ writing)
• Provide three recommendation letters
• Complete an interview with program faculty

Unique Features

Biola stands out by weaving Christian worldview into the curriculum, which leads to a complete understanding of humanity. The program achieves a perfect 100% Praxis examination pass rate and employment rate. Students get extensive clinical experience with 400 supervised hours to earn certification. The accelerated 3+2 program gives motivated students with clear career goals a faster path to graduation.

SLP Schools in California List

Choose an SLP School in California Today

Your first step toward a rewarding career in speech pathology starts with picking the right program. California’s educational landscape offers exceptional options. These programs differ in cost, location, length, and areas of focus. Your choice should match your career goals, budget, and the type of learning environment you prefer.

Program rankings tell only part of the story. The learning environment, faculty expertise, clinical placement opportunities, and program format will shape your educational experience. The cost of these programs is a big deal as it means that you’ll need to plan carefully – public universities charge around $8,000 per year, while private institutions can cost more than $50,000.

California’s SLP programs have proven their worth. Many programs report 90-100% pass rates on the Praxis examination and great job placement numbers. These results show the quality of education these schools provide. Getting admitted can be tough since all but one of these programs are competitive. A strong academic background and relevant experience will make your application stand out.

Clinical experience is vital to becoming a skilled professional. Programs that offer placements in healthcare, educational, and private practice settings prepare you for different career paths. Some programs have specialized clinics that focus on voice disorders, autism, or augmentative communication. These are a great way to get expertise if you have specific interests.

The field of speech-language pathology keeps growing, and California needs qualified practitioners. Graduate school might feel challenging at times. Yet helping patients and seeing their progress makes this career path rewarding. Now that you know more about California’s top SLP programs, you can move forward confidently in becoming a speech-language pathologist.