Program Overview

MS in Speech-Language Pathology Program

The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at San José State University offers students the opportunity to delve into the study of communication and swallowing disorders, preparing them for a rewarding career as a speech-language pathologist.

Program Overview

The program explores various topics, including articulation and phonological disorders, stuttering, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), voice and swallowing disorders, neurogenic communication disorders, hearing and language disorders, as well as the social and cognitive aspects of communication. Through coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, students learn to assess and support individuals across the lifespan using an evidence-based, ethical, and culturally responsive approach.

Program Formats

The MS degree is offered in two formats:

• On-Campus Program: A traditional, in-person experience where students take classes on 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 the student's local community.

Program Details

The program details are as follows:

• On-campus Program: Full-time, in-person, 66 units, starts in Fall, and takes 2 years to complete.
• On-campus Extended Program: Full-time, in-person, 99 units (including 33 units of leveling classes), starts in Fall, and takes 3 years to complete.
• Online SPEAKS Program: Full-time, online, 66 units, starts in Fall and Spring, and takes 2 years to complete.

Curriculum and Roadmaps

The curriculum consists of:

• Core courses: 39 units
• Practicum: 24 units
• Culminating experience: 0-3 units Samples of roadmaps for students who entered the program in recent years are available, including:
  • 2025 On-Campus Masters Degree Roadmap
  • 2024 On-Campus Masters Degree Roadmap
  • 2023 On-Campus Masters Degree Roadmap
  • Fall 2024 Online SPEAKS Roadmap
  • Spring 2025 Online SPEAKS Roadmap
  • Fall 2025 Online SPEAKS Roadmap

Culminating Experience

In the final semester, students complete a culminating experience, which can be one of the following:

• Thesis (Plan A EDSP 299): Conduct original research under faculty mentorship.
• Comprehensive Exam (Plan B EDSP 298): Demonstrate mastery of core knowledge and clinical skills through case-based written and oral responses.
• Project (Plan B EDSP 298): Apply skills to a real-world challenge by creating a professional product and presenting it to faculty and peers.

Fieldwork and Observation

Students gain hands-on experience working with people across the lifespan, from infants and toddlers to school-age children, adults, and older adults. Both the on-campus program and online SPEAKS program provide opportunities for students to complete clinical training in a variety of settings under the supervision of ASHA-certified clinicians.

MS - Speech-Language Pathology Requirements

All 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.

Accreditation, Licensure, and Credential

The Master of Science education program in speech-language pathology 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. The program is also approved by the California Licensing Board in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board and the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.