To become an SLP in California, you need a master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program with 400+ clinical hours, pass the Praxis exam (score 162+), complete a 36-week clinical fellowship, and obtain state licensure through the Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology Board. The process takes 6-7 years total, with median salaries of $106,410.
- Emerson College - Master's in Speech-Language Pathology online - Prepare to become an SLP in as few as 20 months. No GRE required. Scholarships available.
- Grand Canyon University - Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. - This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders
- Arizona State University - Online - Online Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science - Designed to prepare graduates to work in behavioral health settings or transition to graduate programs in speech-language pathology and audiology.
- NYU Steinhardt - NYU Steinhardt's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders online - ASHA-accredited. Bachelor's degree required. Graduate prepared to pursue licensure.
- Pepperdine University - Embark on a transformative professional and personal journey in the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program from Pepperdine University. Our program brings together rigorous academics, research-driven faculty teaching, and robust clinical experiences, all wrapped within our Christian mission to serve our communities and improve the lives of others.
California has been a leader in making speech-language therapy accessible since at least 2013, when thousands of families gained access to affordable speech therapy services through an agreement between the Department of Managed Health Care and United Healthcare. The demand for licensed SLPs in California has skyrocketed ever since, driven by early intervention programs at the Pre-K level and expanded services in public schools.
The California Employment Development Department projects a 23.5% increase in SLPs during the ten years from 2020 to 2030. California also leads the nation in average SLP salary, at $106,410 per year. If you’re considering this rewarding career path in the Golden State, here’s exactly what you need to know.
Step 1: Earn a Master’s Degree in Speech Therapy (Speech-Language Pathology)
To meet California Board requirements, your master’s program in speech-language pathology must be through an ASHA-accredited school and consist of no less than 60 semester units with a practicum involving 400 hours of supervised clinical practice across at least three different settings.
As of 2025, there are 18 accredited SLP graduate programs available at campus locations in California. Any of these programs will meet state SLP licensing requirements. ASHA-accredited online programs also offer a convenient and flexible alternative to campus-based study for working students. These programs are highly respected by employers and licensing authorities nationwide, offering the same level of academic rigor while allowing you to complete practicum hours in approved clinics and hospitals near you.
Prerequisites and Admissions Requirements
Before starting a master’s degree, you’ll need to complete your undergraduate education. If you hold a bachelor’s in communicative sciences and disorders, you can begin graduate coursework directly. However, if you have an unrelated bachelor’s degree, you’ll first need to complete prerequisite courses foundational to SLP graduate work.
Standard prerequisite courses include:
- Neuroanatomy and Physiology of Communication
- Phonetics and Phonemics of American English
- Introduction to Audiology
- Speech and Language Development in Children
- Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing Mechanisms
- Audiology: Intervention Strategies across the Lifespan
- Science of Language
Admissions departments typically ask for a resume, GRE scores (though some programs have dropped this requirement), and two letters of academic reference. SLP graduate programs can be competitive, with departments looking for undergraduate GPAs of 3.5 or higher. They also value clinical experience or volunteer hours with SLP patients, as well as specific preparatory coursework in physiology and health sciences fundamentals.
Coursework and Practicum
A master’s degree in communicative sciences and disorders involves studying linguistics, psychology, physiology, and physical science.
Core courses typically include:
- Speech-Language Screening of Children
- Clinical Processes
- Clinical Issues in Aural Rehabilitation
- Dysphagia
- Research Methods in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Voice, Resonance, and Fluency Disorders
- Phonology and Phonological Disorders
- Acquired Neuromotor Speech Disorders
- Augmentative Communication
- Language, Cognition and the Brain
This coursework includes everything necessary to become eligible for ASHA’s CCC-SLP certification. You can also boost your knowledge in specific therapies or disorders through elective coursework in areas like Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Craniofacial Anomalies, Language and Communication in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Interdisciplinary Case-Based Dysphagia Management.
Your master’s program also involves supervised clinical experiences through a practicum. In California, you’ll need to complete 400 supervised clinical hours (ASHA’s requirement) across multiple settings during your graduate studies to qualify for licensure.
Step 2: Gain 36 Weeks of Post-Graduate Experience Through a Clinical Fellowship Program
In California, you’ll need to complete 36 weeks of full-time (or 72 weeks of part-time) supervised professional experience under a temporary license issued by the Board. This is your clinical fellowship, a period of intensive, real-world practice under a currently licensed SLP mentor.
Your fellowship experience involves working with the full range of patients and problems that SLPs encounter daily. To apply for a temporary license, you’ll fill out the Temporary License Application from the Board.
Together with the application, you’ll need to include:
- A $35 fee
- A criminal background check requiring fingerprinting
- Transcripts from your graduate program
- Proof of completion of clinical practicum hours during your graduate program
- National exam score
- Professional experience verification detailing who you’ll work for
Schools may help you make connections to start your fellowship, but it’s ultimately your responsibility to line up a placement. Many standard SLP job listings also include fellowship opportunities. Networking through professional organizations, such as the California Speech-Language-Hearing Association (CSHA), can be a great way to find placements.
Step 3: Pass the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology Examination
You’ll register online through Praxis for the Speech-Language Pathology Exam. You need to score 162 to meet the requirement for licensure in California and to qualify for CCC-SLP credentials through ASHA.
For preparation, you can review practice questions in the Speech-Language Pathology Study Companion.
The computer-based test consists of 132 questions to be completed over 150 minutes.
The questions fall into these categories:
- Foundation and professional practice (44 questions)
- Screening, assessment, evaluation, and diagnosis (44 questions)
- Planning, implementation, and evaluation of treatment (44 questions)
The exam tests knowledge in:
- Speech production and fluency
- Voice and resonance
- Motor speech disorders
- Receptive and expressive language
- Social aspects of communication, including pragmatics
- Cognitive aspects of communication
- Augmentative and alternative communication
- Hearing, feeding, and swallowing
California has dozens of Praxis exam centers, often located at universities or educational facilities. Online tests with remote proctors are also available.
Voluntary CCC-SLP Credentialing Through ASHA
Once you’ve passed the national exam, you’re eligible to apply for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) through ASHA. The credential is NOT required for state licensure, but, as a national standard, California recognizes those who hold the credential as meeting all state licensing requirements.
It usually takes about six weeks for the application to be processed. CCC-SLP certification can have a tangible impact on your desirability to employers and is recognized nationwide.
Step 4: Apply for Licensing and Begin Your Career as a Speech-Language Pathologist in California
Once you’ve received your results from the national exam, you’ll be eligible to apply for licensure through the California Board. You’ll need to fill out the online application, provide an RPE Experience Validation form, and pay a $115 application fee.
As a newly-licensed SLP in California, you’ll typically begin your career in one of three ways:
Join the Clinic that Provided Your Supervised Professional Experience
You may want to continue working for the clinic that provided your required professional experience. Clinics often hire SLPs who completed their clinical fellowship there because they’ve already established relationships with patients, families, and staff members.
Start an Independent Practice or Partnership
In California, you can begin an independent practice once you’re licensed. Independent practitioners enjoy flexibility and the ability to work with specific patient populations, such as children or the elderly. This comes with the overhead of marketing, managing, and owning your own business.
Pursue Job Openings
You can pursue jobs through hundreds of other employers throughout the state. Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities often employ SLPs, as well as dedicated speech therapy practices.
If you plan on working in the educational system as an SLP in California, you’ll need to earn your Speech Language Pathology Services Credential from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This requires completing an approved specialized preparation program in addition to your master’s-level SLP training.
Step 5: Keep Your License Current and Complete Continuing Education Requirements
You must renew your California SLP license every two years by completing a renewal form and submitting it to the Board. You can also pay for renewals online.
To renew, you must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education through approved providers. For your first renewal only, you’ll need to complete just 12 hours of CE. You’re not required to provide proof of CE completion when renewing, but you must keep records in case they’re requested.
The following restrictions apply to CE hours:
- A minimum of 20 hours must be directly relevant to the scope of practice of speech-language pathology or audiology
- A maximum of 6 hours may be spent in self-study courses
- A maximum of 4 hours may be taken from related courses or indirect client care courses
- No more than 8 hours may be combined between self-study and related/client care courses
The California Board has approved these CE providers:
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- American Academy of Audiology (AAA)
- California Medical Association – Institute for Medical Quality (CMA)
- Accredited Universities
- Board-approved Professional Development Providers
Speech-Language Pathology Salary in California
California ranks first in the nation for the highest average SLP salary, at $106,410 annually as of 2024. That’s approximately $51 an hour. As you advance in your career with more experience and expertise, SLPs at the higher end of the salary spectrum earn north of $149,680 annually, or nearly $72 an hour.
California is already home to more than 17,200 SLPs, placing the state in the number two spot nationally for highest employment levels. The Los Angeles area alone employs 4,750 SLPs, the 4th highest of any metropolitan area in the country.
Top-Paying California Metro Areas
Seven of California’s cities were among the top ten metro areas in the country for highest average SLP salaries, including San Jose (#1), San Francisco (#2), Napa (#3), Santa Maria (#4), Santa Rosa (#5), Modesto (#6), and Los Angeles (#8).
Salaries for Speech-Language Pathologists Throughout California’s Major Cities
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics provides salary data for speech-language pathologists in major cities throughout California. The table below shows annual and hourly salary ranges from the 10th to 90th percentiles:
| City/Metro Area | 10th Percentile | Median Salary | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $74,500 ($35.82/hr) | $108,375 | $142,250 ($68.39/hr) |
| San Francisco | $82,430 ($39.63/hr) | $119,420 | $156,410 ($75.20/hr) |
| San Jose | $77,610 ($37.31/hr) | $131,650 | $185,690 ($89.27/hr) |
| San Diego | $70,420 ($33.86/hr) | $103,130 | $135,840 ($65.31/hr) |
| Sacramento | $62,730 ($30.16/hr) | $99,220 | $135,710 ($65.24/hr) |
| Riverside-San Bernardino | $62,320 ($29.96/hr) | $103,965 | $145,610 ($70.01/hr) |
| Fresno | $76,010 ($36.54/hr) | $110,995 | $145,980 ($70.18/hr) |
| Modesto | $78,310 ($37.65/hr) | $117,920 | $157,530 ($75.73/hr) |
| Santa Rosa | $78,120 ($37.56/hr) | $120,565 | $163,010 ($78.37/hr) |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks | $62,390 ($30.00/hr) | $104,925 | $147,460 ($70.89/hr) |
| Bakersfield | $75,680 ($36.39/hr) | $103,350 | $131,020 ($62.99/hr) |
| Stockton | $78,110 ($37.55/hr) | $112,390 | $146,670 ($70.51/hr) |
| Santa Barbara | $76,530 ($36.79/hr) | $116,980 | $157,430 ($75.69/hr) |
| Salinas | $81,230 ($39.06/hr) | $106,410 | $131,590 ($63.26/hr) |
| Visalia | $65,580 ($31.53/hr) | $121,030 | $176,480 ($84.85/hr) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become an SLP in California with an online degree?
Yes, you can become an SLP in California with an online degree as long as the program is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). ASHA-accredited online programs meet all California licensing requirements, including the 400 clinical practicum hours, which you’ll complete at approved facilities near your location. California’s licensing board treats online and campus-based degrees equally.
How long does it take to become licensed in California?
The complete process takes 6-7 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2-3 years for your master’s degree (including the 400-hour practicum), and 36 weeks (9 months) for the post-graduate clinical fellowship. If you need to complete prerequisite courses because your bachelor’s wasn’t in communication disorders, add 1-2 years.
What’s the difference between state licensure and ASHA certification?
State licensure is required by law to practice as an SLP in California and is issued by the California Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board. ASHA certification (CCC-SLP) is a voluntary national credential that demonstrates you meet the profession’s highest standards. While California recognizes CCC-SLP holders as meeting all state requirements, you technically only need state licensure to practice. However, most employers prefer or require the CCC-SLP credential.
Do I need continuing education to maintain my California SLP license?
Yes, California requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years to renew your license. For your first renewal only, you need just 12 hours. At least 20 hours must be directly relevant to speech-language pathology practice, with a maximum of 6 hours in self-study courses and 4 hours in related or indirect client care courses.
Can I work in California schools with just my SLP license?
No, to work as an SLP in California’s public school system, you need both your state SLP license AND a Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This credential requires completing an approved specialized preparation program beyond your master’s degree. Private schools may have different requirements.
How much does the California licensing process cost?
The total cost includes: $35 for the temporary license (clinical fellowship), fingerprinting fees (typically $50-$75), Praxis exam fee ($150), and the full license application fee ($115). In total, expect to pay approximately $350-$375 for the licensing process itself, not including your education costs or any travel expenses for the exam. Note that fingerprinting costs vary by provider, and fees are subject to change.
What happens during the clinical fellowship in California?
During your 36-week full-time (or 72-week part-time) clinical fellowship, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed SLP mentor. You’ll provide speech-language pathology services to clients while receiving regular mentorship and feedback. Your supervisor must have at least two years of full-time professional experience and will monitor your clinical skills development. This is essentially a paid professional apprenticeship that transitions you from student clinician to independent practitioner.
Key Takeaways
- Education requirement: Master’s degree from an ASHA-accredited program with 60+ semester units and 400 supervised clinical hours across multiple settings
- National exam: Pass the Praxis Speech-Language Pathology exam with a score of 162 or higher
- Clinical fellowship: Complete 36 weeks of full-time (or 72 weeks part-time) supervised professional experience under a licensed SLP mentor
- Salary potential: California offers the nation’s highest SLP salaries at $106,410 median annually, with top earners making $149,680+
- Job growth: 23.5% projected increase from 2020 to 2030, reflecting strong demand for SLP professionals statewide
- Continuing education: 24 hours of CE required every two years (12 hours for first renewal) to maintain licensure
- Emerson College - Master's in Speech-Language Pathology online - Prepare to become an SLP in as few as 20 months. No GRE required. Scholarships available.
- Grand Canyon University - Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. - This STEM program focuses on training aspiring speech-language pathologists to offer compassionate, effective services to individuals with communication disorders
- Arizona State University - Online - Online Bachelor of Science in Speech and Hearing Science - Designed to prepare graduates to work in behavioral health settings or transition to graduate programs in speech-language pathology and audiology.
- NYU Steinhardt - NYU Steinhardt's Master of Science in Communicative Sciences and Disorders online - ASHA-accredited. Bachelor's degree required. Graduate prepared to pursue licensure.
- Pepperdine University - Embark on a transformative professional and personal journey in the online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program from Pepperdine University. Our program brings together rigorous academics, research-driven faculty teaching, and robust clinical experiences, all wrapped within our Christian mission to serve our communities and improve the lives of others.
Ready to Start Your SLP Career in California?
California offers the highest salaries and strongest job growth for speech-language pathologists in the nation. Explore ASHA-accredited programs and take the first step toward your career in one of the most rewarding healthcare professions.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Speech-Language Pathologists reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2025.