MS, Speech-Language Pathology

Our MS in Speech-Language Pathology gives you the chance to dive deeply into the study of communication and swallowing disorders while preparing for a rewarding career as a speech-language pathologist.

You’ll explore topics such as articulation and phonological disorders, stuttering, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), voice and swallowing disorders, neurogenic communication disorders (including aphasia and dementia), hearing and language disorders, as well as the social and cognitive aspects of communication.

Through coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, you’ll learn how to assess and support individuals across the lifespan using an evidence-based, ethical, and culturally responsive approach.

We offer two pathways to the MS degree so you can choose the option that best fits your life and goals:

  • On-Campus Program – A traditional, in-person experience where you’ll take classes on our campus, work closely with faculty, and participate in clinical placements in the community.
  • Online SPEAKS Program – A flexible, online format designed for students who need to balance graduate study with work, family, or distance. This program includes interactive online coursework and supervised clinical training in your local community.

By the time you graduate from either pathway, you’ll be ready to take the next steps toward professional practice and be eligible to apply for certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), pursue California state licensure, and earn the California Speech-Language-Hearing Services credential.

 

Program Overview

MS in Speech-Language Pathology Programs
Title Format Units Semester Start Program Length
On-campus Program

Full-time, In-person

66

Fall

2 years
On-campus Extended Program

 Full-time, in-person

99 (33 units of leveling classes, 66 graduate courses)

Fall

3 years
Online SPEAKS Program

Full-time, online

66

Fall & Spring

2 years

Curriculum and Roadmaps

  • Core courses - 39 units* (*see roadmap for cohort specific info)
  • Practicum - 24 units
  • Culminating experience - 0-3 units* (*see roadmap for cohort specific info)

For more details about the courses for this program, visit the . Below are samples of roadmaps for students who entered our program in recent years.

On-Campus Program Roadmaps

Online SPEAKS Roadmaps

In your final semester, you’ll complete a culminating experience—your chance to bring together all you’ve learned and showcase your growth as a speech-language pathologist. Both the on-campus and online SPEAKS programs follow the same options and policies.

You’ll choose the path that best matches your goals:

  • Thesis (Plan A – EDSP 299): Conduct original research under faculty mentorship. Perfect if you’re planning for doctoral study or want to contribute to research in the field.
  • Comprehensive Exam (Plan B – EDSP 298): Demonstrate mastery of core knowledge and clinical skills through case-based written and oral responses. A strong option if you want to consolidate your learning without doing independent research.
  • Project (Plan B – EDSP 298): Apply your skills to a real-world challenge by creating a professional product like a clinical tool, training module, podcast, or advocacy resource and presenting it to faculty and peers.

Fieldwork and Observation

As a graduate student in our program, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with people across the lifespan, from infants and toddlers to school-age children, adults, and older adults.

Both our on-campus program and online SPEAKS program provide these opportunities for you to complete your clinical training in a variety of settings under the supervision of ASHA-certified clinicians. SPEAKS students will complete their placements in their local communities.

To meet the requirements for the master’s degree, you’ll complete a minimum of:

  • 375 hours of supervised clinical practicum across at least three different settings
  • 25 hours of guided observation with an ASHA-certified clinician

This rich, diverse clinical experience ensures you graduate ready to serve individuals with communication and swallowing disorders in a wide range of professional environments.

MS - Speech-Language Pathology Requirements

All of our department requirements, including minimum GPA, writing requirements, culminating experiences, additional certifications, and more are outlined on the .

University Graduation Requirements

Students must complete all residency, curriculum, unit, GPA, and culminating experience requirements as outlined in the section of the .

Accreditation, Licensure, and Credential

The Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology {residential and distance} at San José State University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2200 Research Boulevard, #310, Rockville, MD 20850, 800-498-2071 or 301-296-5700).

Our Master of Science program is also an approved program of the and the .

How to apply for a credential