California is home to more CAA-accredited speech-language pathology (SLP) master’s programs than any other state, spread across research-heavy UC and CSU campuses, faith-based medical centers, and private universities with accelerated or hybrid options.
To narrow the field, we evaluated every in-state program on student outcomes, institutional reputation, clinical depth, affordability, and cohort support, then selected 10 stand-out options. The sections below explain what the Golden State offers as a whole and walk you through licensure, salaries, and common questions.
Key Takeaways
• CAA-accredited SLP master’s programs: 28
• Online / Hybrid options: 3 fully online or hybrid cohorts (CSUN-Online, CSUSM Hybrid, Pepperdine)
• Median resident CSU tuition: ≈ $8,900 per year
• Three-year Praxis pass rate (state median): 97 %
• Licensure snapshot: CAA master’s → Praxis 5331 → 36-week CCC-SLP fellowship → California SLP license
All listed programs meet the academic and clinical standards of the California Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board (SLPAHADB)—meaning graduates are eligible for Praxis testing, Clinical Fellowship, and state licensure.
View our program ranking methodology here.
Best Speech-Language Pathology Programs in California for 2025
Explore California’s top master’s programs in speech-language pathology, and see what salaries and job prospects await SLPs across the Golden State.
1. Master of Arts in Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences – San Diego State University
San Diego, CA – Public University – Campus
Why We Like This Program
We like that SDSU pairs R1-level research with public-school affordability. Students complete a 64-unit plan that offers optional bilingual specialization and earn clinical hours across more than 250 partner sites in hospitals, schools, and private clinics. Outcomes are stellar as SDSU posted a 100 % Praxis pass rate and 100 % on-time completion over the last three years.
Key Highlights
- 64-unit curriculum finished in five consecutive semesters
- Optional bilingual track & joint SDSU–UC San Diego research labs
- 250+ extern placements statewide
Considerations
- Full-time daytime schedule limits outside employment
- Non-resident tuition roughly doubles CSU in-state cost
Program Data Snapshot
| Accreditation | CAA; WSCUC |
| Online Availability | Campus |
| Credits / Length | 64 credits · 2 yrs |
| Tuition | ≈ $4,862 / semester (6.1+ units) |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly reported |
| Student Population | Cohort ≈ 40 / yr |
| Institution Type | Public (R1) |
2. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA – Public University – Campus
Why We Like This Program
CSULB delivers a 60-credit SLP degree with public-tuition pricing and an on-site clinic that serves more than 1,000 clients annually, giving first-year students immediate hands-on experience. Recent cohorts have achieved Praxis pass rates between 98 % and 100 %.
Key Highlights
- Large campus clinic & simulation labs for early skill building
- School-based, medical, and bilingual clinical rotations in LA/Orange counties
- CSU resident tuition ≈ $4,150 per semester
Considerations
- Highly competitive admissions (400+ apps for ~45 seats)
- Full-time schedule; limited online coursework
Program Data Snapshot
| Accreditation | CAA; WSCUC |
| Online Availability | Campus |
| Credits / Length | 60 credits · 2 yrs |
| Tuition | ≈ $4,150 / semester (resident) |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly reported |
| Student Population | Cohort ≈ 45 |
| Institution Type | Public (R2) |
3. Master of Science in Communicative Disorders — California State University, Northridge
Northridge, CA – Public University – Fully Online or Campus
Why We Like This Program
We like CSUN’s flexibility: students can choose the traditional campus cohort or a 63-credit fully online track that serves learners nationwide. Both options share the same faculty, curriculum, and CAA accreditation, and include three supervised externships.
Key Highlights
- 63 credits; cohort completes in 2 yrs (campus) or 3 yrs (online)
- Distance students pay one flat rate—$862 per unit—regardless of state
- Clinical placements arranged near the student’s home community
Considerations
- Online cohort admits every other year and fills quickly
- Higher overall cost than in-state CSU tuition (self-support program)
Program Data Snapshot
| Accreditation | CAA; WSCUC |
| Online Availability | Hybrid / 100 % Online |
| Credits / Length | 63 credits · 2–3 yrs |
| Tuition | $862 / credit; ≈ $54,300 totaltsengcollege.csun.edu |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly reported |
| Student Population | Cohort ≈ 35 |
| Institution Type | Public (R2) |
4. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — University of the Pacific
Stockton, CA – Private Non-profit – Campus (15- or 24-month)
Why We Like This Program
Pacific offers the fastest accredited MS in California: students with a CSD bachelor’s finish in just 15 months, while career changers complete a 24-month track. For 25 consecutive years, graduates have posted a 100 % Praxis pass rate and near-perfect employment within six months.
Key Highlights
- 44-credit accelerated (15-month) or 58-credit (24-month) pathway
- Cohorts of 20–22 students foster tight faculty mentoring
- Weekly on-campus clinic plus two full-time externships
Considerations
- Premium tuition: $1,483 per credit
- Intensive schedule leaves little room for outside work
Program Data Snapshot
| Accreditation | CAA; WSCUC |
| Online Availability | Campus |
| Credits / Length | 44–58 credits · 15–24 mos |
| Tuition | $1,483 / credit |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly reported |
| Student Population | Cohort 20–22 |
| Institution Type | Private (R2) |
5. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — San José State University
San José, CA – Public University – Campus
Why We Like This Program
Situated in Silicon Valley, SJSU combines tech-infused labs (AAC, concussion) with community-focused clinic work. Recent residential cohorts recorded a 96 %–100 % Praxis pass rate, and the full program—academic plus practicum—can be finished in five consecutive semesters.
Key Highlights
- 63-66 total credits (39 academic + 24 practicum)
- Cohort model supports about 35 students per year
- CSU graduate tuition ≈ $9,934 per academic year (6.1+ units)
Considerations
- Daytime, full-time course load; limited evening sections
- Non-resident students add $420 per unit
Program Data Snapshot
| Accreditation | CAA; WSCUC |
| Online Availability | Campus (separate distance track in pilot) |
| Credits / Length | 63–66 credits · 2 yrs |
| Tuition | ≈ $9,934 / yr (resident) |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly reported |
| Student Population | Cohort ≈ 35 |
| Institution Type | Public (R2) |
6. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA – Public University – Campus
Why We Like This Program
CSUF pairs low CSU resident tuition with stellar outcomes: three straight cohorts posted a 100 % Praxis pass rate and a 97 – 100 % on-time completion rate. Students gain early hands-on experience in the university’s Speech and Hearing Clinic and rotate through diverse medical and school sites across Orange County.
Key Highlights
- Consistent 100 % Praxis pass rate
- On-site clinic plus community externships
- Resident tuition under $4,500 per semester
- Cohort model with strong faculty mentoring
Considerations
- Campus-only delivery (no hybrid/online track)
- Highly competitive admissions (single fall cohort)
Program Data Snapshot
- Accreditation: CAA; WSCUC
- Online Availability: Campus
- Credits / Length: 57 credits; ≈ 2 years full-time
- Tuition: $4,497 per semester (CA resident; 2024-25)
- Acceptance Rate: Not publicly reported
- Student Population: Cohort ≈ 30–35 students per year
- Institution Type: Public, Non-profit
7. Master of Science in Communication Sciences & Disorders — Chapman University
Orange, CA – Private University – Campus
Why We Like This Program
Chapman offers a tight-knit private-school atmosphere with a 6 : 1 student-to-faculty clinical ratio and multiple on-site labs. The 61-credit curriculum can be paired with California’s Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential, making the program attractive for students aiming at K-12 as well as health-care settings.
Key Highlights
- Small cohorts and low faculty ratio
- Optional California school-credential track
- Modern clinics and simulation labs in Crean College
- Transparent annual tuition published up front
Considerations
- Higher tuition than public CSU options
- Fully campus-based; no hybrid option
Program Data Snapshot
- Accreditation: CAA; WSCUC
- Online Availability: Campus
- Credits / Length: 61 credits; 2 years full-time
- Tuition: $38,637 per academic year (2025-26)
- Acceptance Rate: Not publicly reported
- Student Population: Cohort ≈ 40–45
- Institution Type: Private, Non-profit
8. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA – Private University – Campus
Why We Like This Program
Located within a major academic medical center, Loma Linda emphasizes medically complex care and interprofessional collaboration. Students rotate through the university hospital network, gaining acute-care and rehabilitation experience, while a faith-based mission underscores service to diverse communities.
Key Highlights
- Direct access to Level I trauma hospital placements
- Cadaver-based anatomy and advanced simulation theater
- Interprofessional coursework with other health-science majors
- Published, detailed cost estimates for each year of study
Considerations
- Tuition notably higher than CSU programs
- Quarter-system calendar requires summer enrollment
Program Data Snapshot
- Accreditation: CAA; WSCUC
- Online Availability: Campus
- Credits / Length: 57 credits; ≈ 2 years (7 quarters)
- Tuition: Year 1 ≈ $34,575; Year 2 ≈ $38,616
- Acceptance Rate: Not publicly reported
- Student Population: Cohort ≈ 35–40
- Institution Type: Private, Non-profit
9. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — California State University, San Marcos
San Marcos, CA – Public University – Campus & Hybrid
Why We Like This Program
CSUSM offers two formats: an accelerated five-semester on-campus track and a part-time hybrid option that blends online coursework with short in-person residencies. The 76-unit curriculum features extensive simulation labs and clinics, with a strong bilingual/bicultural focus reflecting San Diego County’s diversity.
Key Highlights
- 76-unit program with autism and bilingual specialty clinics
- Hybrid track combines online learning with two residencies per term
- Published per-unit tuition simplifies budgeting
- Achieved full CAA accreditation in 2023
Considerations
- Fast-paced schedule demands full-time commitment
- Per-unit tuition higher than standard state-support CSU fees
Program Data Snapshot
- Accreditation: CAA; WSCUC
- Online Availability: Campus or Hybrid
- Credits / Length: 76 credits; 5 semesters full-time
- Tuition: $599 per credit (≈ $45,500 total)
- Acceptance Rate: Not publicly reported
- Student Population: Cohort ≈ 40
- Institution Type: Public, Non-profit
10. Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology — Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA – Private University – Online + 3 Campus Intensives
Why We Like This Program
Pepperdine delivers a flexible 53-credit curriculum entirely online, supplemented by three short Malibu residencies for hands-on labs. Two pacing options (full-time five-trimester or part-time eight-trimester) and three annual start dates cater to working adults. The program integrates evidence-based practice with Pepperdine’s Christian service mission.
Key Highlights
- 100 % online coursework plus three on-campus intensives
- Full-time and part-time pacing; multiple start dates
- Small synchronous classes with individual faculty advising
- Clear tuition pricing at $1,800 per credit
Considerations
- Highest total cost among California programs (~$95 k)
- Currently in CAA Candidate status (first cohorts graduating 2026)
- Travel required for Malibu residencies
Program Data Snapshot
- Accreditation: CAA Candidate; WSCUC
- Online Availability: Hybrid (online courses + residencies)
- Credits / Length: 53 credits; 5 trimesters full-time
- Tuition: $1,800 per credit (≈ $95,400 total)
- Acceptance Rate: Not publicly reported
- Student Population: Not publicly reported
- Institution Type: Private, Non-profit
Licensure Requirements in California
- Earn a CAA-accredited master’s (or doctoral) degree in SLP.
- Pass Praxis 5331 with a score ≥ 162 and have ETS send results to CA Board (code R8544).
- Complete a 36-week (1,260-hour) Clinical Fellowship under a CA-licensed, ASHA-certified mentor.
- Submit application & fees (Form SLP 1, $60) plus official transcripts, Praxis score, CF verification.
- Fingerprint & background check via Live Scan.
- Receive a California SLP License; renew every two years with 24 hours of CEUs (including mandatory ethics course).
Licensing Board
California Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 2100, Sacramento, CA 95815
Salary & Career Outlook for SLPs in California
| Metric (BLS 2024) | California | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Average SLP wage | $107,110 / yr | $92,630 |
| Employment | 19,810 SLPs | 172,100 SLPs |
| 10-yr projected growth (2024-34) | +22 % | +19 % |
California posts some of the nation’s highest SLP wages, driven by cost-of-living and demand in large school districts (LAUSD, SDUSD) and health systems (Kaiser Permanente, UC Health, Dignity Health). Rural counties and the Central Valley also struggle to fill bilingual and medical SLP roles, opening additional loan-repayment and recruitment incentives for new grads.
Frequently Asked Questions about California SLP Programs
Does California accept online SLP master’s degrees?
Yes. As long as the program is CAA-accredited, the SLPAHADB treats online, hybrid, and campus degrees the same for licensure.
How long does it take to finish a CSU master’s?
Most CSU cohorts run five semesters (Fall → Spring → Summer → Fall → Spring). Hybrid CSUSM takes the same 5 terms but uses weekend residencies.
Do I need a CSD bachelor’s to apply?
No. Programs labeled “Leveling” or “2-Year Track” admit out-of-field majors but add 1–2 prerequisite semesters.
What counts as supervised hours for California licensure?
You need 400 clinical hours during the master’s and 1,260 during the Clinical Fellowship. Remote telepractice hours count if they are direct, supervised client care.
Are there California-specific scholarships?
Yes—CSU’s Graduate Equity Fellowship, California State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) for rural placements, and county Office of Education tuition-reimbursement stipends for bilingual SLPs.
Need deeper details about an individual program—or guidance on choosing between two CSU campuses? Let me know!
California SLP Ranking Methodology
To keep our list objective, and useful for applicants comparing very different schools, we built a weighted rubric that scores each program on five data-driven pillars.
Programs with strong outcomes and broad institutional resources rise to the top, while high tuition and missing outcome data drag scores down.
| Scoring Pillar | What We Measured | Weight in Final Score |
|---|---|---|
| Student Outcomes | 3-year Praxis pass rate, on-time graduation, job-placement data | 30 % |
| Institutional Quality | Carnegie classification (R1/R2, Master’s-L), U.S. News tier, endowment per student | 25 % |
| Academic & Clinical Depth | Special tracks (bilingual, medical, AAC), research labs, size of externship network | 20 % |
| Affordability | In-state or standard tuition × required credits; availability of flat-rate or self-support pricing | 15 % |
| Cohort Support & Selectivity | Faculty-to-student ratio, cohort size, mentorship model, admission competitiveness | 10 % |
Programs were scored on a 100-point scale. The ten highest composite scores appear in our “Best in California” list above.
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 |
