A speech therapist first understands how humans and language develop. Understanding how the brain and body grow and develop enables one to know how to help injured, deficient, or disabled individuals overcome their setbacks. California offers aspiring SLPs a range of educational opportunities, from bachelor’s through master’s programs, for to develop foundational understanding.

It provides a comprehensive academic experience with many course options along with several professional support networks. The Golden State is proud of its leading professional organization, CSHA, offering many resources and support for all practitioners throughout the state, whereas the licensing process and other issues are regulated by the California Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board. Below are some of California’s master’s programs in speech pathology, from Biola University, California Baptist University, Loma Linda University, San Diego State University, and the University of the Pacific. The overviews below contain program length, modality, tuition, and key features that will help you find the best match for your interests and career goals.

Master’s in Speech Pathology in California (MSLP)

Many schools in the state of California offer a master’s degree in speech pathology. Within the state university system alone, 19 programs are offered, with half of them in that system alone.

Biola University, La Marida, CA – Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology

Biola University is a national Christian university with accolades in multiple areas of academia. Although some schools may be expensive, there are many programs for support at Biola, including scholarships, academic support programs, accelerated programming, and other options available to support pursuing advanced education.

• Located in La Marida
• In-person classes
• The program is four semesters with clinical experience following, based on typical credits taken per semester
• Tuition is roughly $32,000 for students taking full-time credits. Refer to the school’s website for the most accurate information

This program focuses on both the clinical and biblical aspects of treating people with love and compassion. There are many opportunities for clinical internships, service to others, along with scholarship and research programs to explore. The Biblical focus encourages students to learn through the lens of theology and scripture and apply that knowledge to individuals living with language, communication, and learning disabilities.

California Baptist University, Riverside, CA – Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology

BCU is a thriving, beautiful campus with a small-town feel, which allows you to focus on your life-calling journey with academic excellence. By engaging the calling of God and tying this to education, students are provided opportunities to follow a life guided by Christ.

• Located in Riverside
• Classes are in-person
• The program is 6 semesters long in a cohort style, with rigorous academic programming and clinical experiences
• Tuition is roughly $23,000 with additional costs based on housing, food choices, specific school fees, and other options.

California Baptist University’s speech pathology program creates a rich learning environment with an ongoing focus on the love of Christ and serving others. As part of the school’s philosophy, educational programming describes how “the Christian worldview informs the profession and practice of speech-language pathology.”

Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA – Master of Speech-Language Pathology

The speech pathology program at Loma Linda is housed at the Loma Linda University Medical Center. Clinical opportunities for learning and top-level educational coursework are combined to create a program that offers multiple options for learning. Students may have to leave the state for clinical opportunities the last two semesters, so advance notice is given to ensure financial preparation is made.

• Located in Loma Linda
• In-person learning at Burden Hall
• The program is 7 quarters long, with classes often in the afternoon/evening, with a bachelor’s in communication disorders. Additional semesters may be needed if prerequisites are not met.
• Tuition costs for in-state students

The students within the program have opportunities to give back and serve, with one such program being the China Mission Project. Students also participate in the Problem-Based Learning format with most coursework, which is an in-depth group study where a case is discussed and worked on together, researching independently, and bringing conclusions together to discuss the outcomes. All students are eligible for graduate assistantship opportunities as well.

San Diego State University, San Diego, CA – Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology

The in-depth program for speech pathology at San Diego State University is concise and cohort-based. The program is full-time and requires diligence to complete, with both school-based and adolescent treatment clinical opportunities. This program begins in the fall and runs concurrently with structured programming.

• Located in San Diego
• The program is full-time in-person
• There are five semesters of coursework plus the summer between the first and second year.
• Tuition for students is roughly $38,938, with various fees based on housing, residency, and additional factors.

The program offers an additional program for those interested in bilingual treatment opportunities. After passing a language exam, six additional coursework units must be completed in the chosen language. There is also a Spanish certification that can be pursued.

University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA – Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology

The program at the University of the Pacific was founded as a Methodist-affiliated university with graduate programs in Sacramento and San Francisco. With two tracts available to complete the program, a 15-month and a 24-month (based on an undergraduate degree program) it focuses on the commitment “to professional growth through clinical practice, scholarly activity, and service to the profession and the community.”

• Located in Stockton
• Classes are full-time and in-person
• The program for students with undergraduate communication disorders is 15 months with intense clinical and educational experiences.
• Tuition for the first year of the program is shown as $42,806 and the second year is listed as $30,620. There are many variables to the tuition costs and should be researched on the school’s website.

A focus on intense, fast-track education allows students in this program to graduate 9-12 months earlier than other programs. This program also participates in the SPEAK OUT program for Parkinson’s disease, which is an additional educational advantage to the university program.

University of St Augustine for Health Sciences, San Marcos, CA – Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology

This unique program is an online hybrid program that allows students to take classes without relocation. There are an additional 4 on-campus residencies that are completed in three days, four times out of five trimesters, at any of the campuses (Dallas, Austin, or San Marcos). The program is typically completed in 5 semesters.

• Located in San Marcos, Dallas and Austin
• The program is hybrid online with on-campus residencies
• The program runs for 1 year and 8 months, shorter than most programs, start dates are January, May, and September
• Tuition is roughly $14,267.00 per trimester, with a total cost for the program roughly $78,159.00

The program offers access to becoming a speech pathologist that many other programs cannot by classwork being on line. This program does not require the GRE, uses both real and simulated clinical settings, and access to a virtual pro bono clinic to support those in need. Some states may require additional coursework to start a career within the school system.

Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA – Master of Speech-Language Pathology

Known as one of the most beautiful campuses of learning on the West Coast, Pepperdine blends atmosphere with a Christian education focused on purpose, service and leadership. Guided by strong principles, the staff at Pepperdine University focus on learning and engagement to develop strong clinicians.

• Located in Los Angeles
• This program has morphed to a completely online program focused on theoretical and principles of speech-language pathology
• This is a 5 semester full-time program that transitions to an online degree Fall of 2025. For part-time students, or those without a bachelor’s degree in communication disorders may take longer to complete. There is also a 3-week long on campus section required taken at Pepperdine Calabasas Campus.
• Tuition for this program is currently at $1800 per credit hour, with a total of $95,400 for the entire program. Please see current rates and costs at time of application.

California State University System programs,- Master’s of Speech-Language Pathology

The California State University system has multiple programs to complete a Master’s in speech-language pathology. Within each specific program there are some clinical focus differences, and those programs with specific focuses in language development, articulation, or other areas, should search each program specifically.

• Located throughout the state of California
• Classes are mostly in-person, however, some are online or a hybrid program
• The degree usually takes two years to complete with a summer program included as well as an undergraduate degree in Communication Disorders. Additional semesters may be required if there is a different undergraduate degree type.
• Tuition between the programs ranges from $700 – 1000+ per credit depending on the cohorts. There are different fees, housing costs, etc. and each school lists updated costs for each program year.

Students within the CSU learn and live in an atmosphere of education and excellence. Being part of this school community is an enriching experience, with valuable lifelong learning opportunities. With variable class sizes, differing opportunities for research and internships, and varying clinical practicum sites, it is important to review each program for specific interests that fit your needs.

The schools within the CSU system that currently have master’s in speech-language pathology are the following:

California State University at Long Beach

California State University in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the original campus sites, established in 1776. The faculty focuses on teaching and engaging with students. Major building projects are happening on campus to grow capacity and innovation.

• Students choose between a thesis or an exam before graduation
• Offers WellBeingU, a student-supported wellness program to help manage stress and assist with the transition of university programs.
• Tuition is roughly $26,000 for in-state students. Check the school website for current information.

California State University at Monterey Bay

Monterey Bay offers both a coastal outdoor adventure and strong academic programming. The school requires a focus on serving the community while offering engagement with the diverse population.

• The program has five distinct practicum sites
• New heightened focus on medical components of rehabilitation
• Engaging with the linguistic diversity of the community
• Tuition is roughly $11,000 per semester.

California State University at Northridge

Northridge focused its educational program on strong evidence and research alongside faculty expertise to create a rich speech pathology program. Service learning and community outreach are a cornerstone of the Northridge program.

• Offered fully online
• Focus on “opportunity for all with diversity, equity, inclusion and justice”
• Offers both a hearing aid clinic and balance/vestibular clinic alongside the speech and language clinic
• Tuition is roughly $7,700 per semester with additional fees based on degree, program, and residency needs.

California State University at East Bay

East Bay strives to provide social equity in educational opportunities and access to speech pathology treatments. The mission is to use the information and goals of the community to improve the education process.

• The speech-language pathology program is part of Project ASPIRE and Project LISTEN
• Tuition is roughly $33,000 with varied fees and other changes due to program requirements.

California State University at Fresno

Touted as the “Pride of the Valley,” Fresno offers a beautiful landscape of gardens and trails alongside an agricultural system rooted in history.

• A dedicated program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing programs and resources called The Silent Garden
• Offers a bilingual clinic opportunity with linguistic reliability.
• The program has a CSDS Adult Research clinic for adults with communication difficulties
• Tuition is roughly $26,000 with costs varying based on housing, food programs, and coursework fees.

California State University at Fullerton

With amusement parks, fun community events, and a global marketplace, Fullerton is a great place to live and learn. The Fullerton speech-language pathology program is centered in the heart of adventure rooted deeply in the culture of the community.

• Strong creative learning environment with supportive environments for learning
• Faculty and student-driven clinical programs for the community offered in the clinic
• Tuition is roughly $9,000 per year, with additional fees for housing, food, and other requirements.

California MSLP Programs that do not require the GRE

The GRE, or Graduate Record Exam, was created to assess a student’s readiness for advanced academics. Like other school assessments, such as the LSAT, programs use the GRE as part of the record for admission.

The skills assessed by the GRE include Verbal Reasoning (evaluating relationships, and arguments and analyzing written information), Analytic Writing (the ability to evaluate concepts and arguments effectively), and Quantitative Reasoning (problem-solving and information analysis). Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning are scored at 130-170 points, with average scores ranging from 150 to 155 accordingly. The Analytical Writing score is created in half-point increments and then combined with the other scores, creating an overall score of 260 to 340. One notable point is that there are no wrong answers, so answering every question is in the best interest of individuals taking this assessment.

The schools listed currently do not require the GRE for admission, however, this could change at any time and should be checked online.

• Pepperdine University
• University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (San Marcos Campus)
• California Baptist University
• California State University, Los Angeles
• California State University, Northridge
• California State University, Sacramento
• San Francisco State University

Most Affordable SLP programs in California

Some schools are more expensive than others, and the cost is something to consider when looking at different programs. It is important to research all of the included costs and fees that are included in the admission and academic process.

In California, several schools are less expensive than others. These include:

• California State University, Monterey Bay
• San Diego State University
• California State University, Long Beach
• California State University, San Marcos
• California State University, Northridge

Bachelor of Speech Language/Communication Disorders programs in California

A bachelor’s degree is the first step toward becoming a speech pathologist. Although it is not required to have an undergraduate degree in speech pathology or communication disorders to apply to a master’s program. Without those types of degrees, it may take longer to complete the Master’s program, or there may be classes that need to be taken before starting a specific program.

Biola University, La Mirada, CA – Bachelor in Communication Disorders

The speech program at Biola University is a knowledge-based program with clinical mentorships to support your learning. Each faculty member has clinical skills that they use, alongside their Christian values, to develop new clinicians.

• Located in La Mirada
• Classes offered on campus
• The program takes 4-5 years, with a total of 123 credits
• The tuition cost for an undergraduate degree living at home is roughly $61,648, with students living on campus at roughly $67,544. There are additional fees regarding meals, books, and other items that should be reviewed.

There is the opportunity to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree in five years instead of the typical six years. There is some crossover that assists with fast-tracking when dually enrolled.

California Baptist University, Riverside, CA – Bachelor in Communication Sciences and Disorders

California Baptist University (CBU) was created to ensure that each person can follow the path for which they were created. CBU combines a Christ-centered worldview with academic and research-based learning. Students completing the communication disorders program at CBU are well-prepared for entering a master’s degree program.

• Located in Riverside
• Classes are on-campus
• The program is typically 4 years of coursework, depending on how many credits are taken each term.
• Tuition costs for CBU are roughly $53,678 per year, although costs vary based on housing, meals, and other fees. Review current tuition costs on the website.

If you are searching for advanced education that combines a Christian worldview with strong researched-based educational options, CBU is a top choice. The school offers a rich social life, Christ-centered connections, and groups that bring connection and guidance. Find yourself among others searching for education and faith.

California State University System programs

The California State University system offers many Speech Pathology and Communication Disorder programs scattered throughout the state. Although similar in format and educational options, if you have specific areas of interest, such as voice therapy or augmentative communication, review each city-based program specifically.

• Located in multiple cities throughout California
• Classes are often in-person, however, some coursework may be available online
• A bachelor-level degree takes roughly four years but can vary based on credits taken per term, credits earned elsewhere, and program specifics.
• Tuition is variable on each campus. See each campus’s website for specific updates and cost changes.

The California State University system programs have differences in cost, program style specific, such as cohort or independent learning, the focus of the professor’s research, and credit structure. Review each program carefully for academic options.

Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA – Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology

Loma Linda University is part of the Seventh-day Adventist Organization, which focuses on the call to serve others. Following two years of general studies, the speech pathology program takes roughly two years to complete. Serving students from 64 countries, and representing 60 different religions, Loma Linda is a place to develop self-reliance and skills to enter the healthcare world.

As part of the curriculum, there are weekly chapel services and

• Located in Loma Linda
• Classes are in-person for the speech pathology coursework, but often general education classes can be done online
• The speech pathology program credits take two years to complete if all general education credits are completed.
• Tuition for students is roughly $46,800 but varies based on housing, meal programs, and other costs that can impact tuition.

Founded in 1905, Loma Linda promotes a mission of “Transforming lives through education, healthcare, and research. We promote an environment that reflects and builds respect for the diversity of humanity as ordained by God.”

How to become a speech-language pathologist

To become a speech pathologist, one has to start by completing a bachelor’s degree. However, it does not have to be a degree in speech pathology/communication disorders, although it makes the transition to a Master’s degree program easier. Oftentimes, Master’s programs require undergraduate work that has prerequisites to the programs at the Master’s level. Once the degree has been completed, there is also a national exam and required admission into the national board and state licensure requirements. 

It is important to research the best program to attend if you plan to become a speech pathologist.

California Speech-Language Pathology Programs

Program	University Name	City	State	Accreditation
Master's in Audiology (MS)	California State University	Northridge	CA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Northridge	Northridge	CA	ASHA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	San Diego State University	San Diego	CA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	San Diego State University	San Diego	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	San Francisco State University	San Francisco	CA	ASHA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	San Francisco State University	San Francisco	CA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	California State University	Los Angeles	CA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Los Angeles	Los Angeles	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Chico	Chico	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, East Bay	Hayward	CA	ASHA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	California State University	Fresno	CA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Fresno	Fresno	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, San Marcos	San Marcos	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of Redlands	Redlands	CA	ASHA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	San Jose State University	San Jose	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	San Jose State University - SLP Program	San Jose	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Loma Linda University	Loma Linda	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California Baptist University	Riverside	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Monterey Bay	Seaside	CA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	University of the Pacific	San Francisco	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of the Pacific - SLP Program	Stockton	CA	ASHA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	University of Southern California	Los Angeles	CA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	University of Southern California	Los Angeles	CA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	San Diego State University	San Diego	CA	ASHA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	University of California-San Diego	San Diego	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Biola University	La Mirada	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	Chapman University	Irvine	CA	ASHA
Master's in Audiology (MS)	California State University	Long Beach	CA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Long Beach	Long Beach	CA	ASHA
Doctorate in Audiology (AuD)	California State University	Sacramento	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Sacramento	Sacramento	CA	ASHA
Master's in Speech-Language Pathology (MS)	California State University, Stanislaus	Turlock	CA