MS, Speech-Language Pathology

Our MS in Speech-Language Pathology offers an in-depth study of communication disorders with an emphasis on articulation and phonological disorders, fluency disorders (stuttering), augmentative and alternative communication, voice disorders, dysphagia (swallowing disorders), neurogenic communication disorders (aphasia, dementia), hearing disorders, language disorders, social aspects of communication, cognitive aspects of communication.

Courses and clinical opportunities place a high priority on assessment and intervention within an evidence-based, ethical, and multicultural framework. Upon completion of the master's degree, students are eligible to apply for certification with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, California state licensure, and California Speech Language Hearing Services credential.

• Program Overview
• Student Outcome Data
• Program Learning Outcomes
• Admission Requirements
• How to Apply
• Curriculum and Roadmaps
• Fieldwork and Observation
• Complete the MS and Credential Requirements
• Additional Student Resources
• Accreditation, Licensure, and Credential
• Upcoming Information Sessions

Program Overview

• Official Title: MS in Speech Language Pathology, with Speech Language Pathology credential
• Format: Full-time
• Units: 66 units
• Start date: Fall semester
• Program length:
  • Two years for students with CDS background
  • Three years for students without CDS background
• Application deadline: January 15, 2025

Student Outcome Data

Students in the MS degree program are expected to demonstrate competence in the Standards for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology set forth by the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In addition, graduate students in the CD&S Department are also expected to demonstrate competence in our Program Learning Objectives. 

Program Learning Outcomes

 Below are the program learning outcomes:

• PLO 1 Apply foundational knowledge of speech-language, hearing, and swallowing disorder in a professional setting.
• PLO 2 Identify types of least-biased assessment, differential diagnoses, and culturally responsive interventions when working with persons and families from diverse backgrounds.
• PLO 3 Provide collaborative, inter-professional, person-centered, and family-centered services to clients.
• PLO 4 Integrate evidence-based practice to guide and inform clinical decisions and service delivery.
• PLO 5 Model professionalism, ethical actions, and advocacy for persons with speech, language, hearing, and swallowing disorders.
• PLO 6 Use spoken and written communication skills appropriate for clinical practice in speech-language pathology.

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 SJSU Catalog website. Below are samples of roadmaps for students who entered our program in recent years.

• 2025 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]
• 2024 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]
• 2023 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]
• 2022 Masters Degree Course Sequence [pdf]

A culminating experience is required for graduation and students have two options.

1. Thesis. Students can conduct a research project under the advisement of a faculty member. Students electing to complete a thesis will enroll in thesis for three credits during Fall semester of the second year; OR
2. Comprehensive exam. Students can successfully complete the comprehensive examination/project - also known as “comps” - during their final semester.

Fieldwork and Observation

Clinical practica occur in a variety of settings, including our Kay Armstead Center for Communication Disorders. Students have clinical opportunities with infants, toddlers, children, adolescents, adults, and elders in a variety of settings, including public, private, and charter schools (preschool, elementary, middle, high schools), rehabilitation agencies, private practices, skilled nursing facilities, and hospitals.

Candidates for the Master’s degree must accumulate a minimum of 375 clock hours in a supervised clinical practicum in three distinctively different settings and 25 hours of guided observation with an ASHA certified clinician.

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 SJSU Catalog website.

University Graduation Requirements

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

Additional Resources

For information about financial aid opportunities, internship and job opportunities, research opportunities, and more, visit our Student Resources webpage.

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 California Licensing Board in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

How to apply for a credential

CDS Online Program Information 

Our spring 2025 application cycle has closed. The online program is only available to those students living in California with a degree in CDS. The deadline to apply for fall 2025 is January 15th, 2025.

CDS is recruiting for fall 2025 CDS Online Graduate Program.
Learn more about our online program and admission process.