Non-Degree Programs

The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders offers non-degree and certificate programs designed to support professional preparation, licensure, and academic advancement.

Master's Preparatory Certificate Program

The Master’s Preparatory Certificate Program in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) at California State University, Fullerton is a post-baccalaureate program designed for students who hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and need prerequisite coursework to apply to graduate programs in speech-language pathology.

This Fall-admit program provides a structured course sequence that builds foundational knowledge in speech, language, hearing, and communication development and disorders. Students complete required CSD coursework and receive guidance on preparing for graduate school applications, including understanding common graduate admissions requirements and planning an academic pathway toward professional training.

Completion of the certificate prepares students to apply to CSUF’s M.S. program in Communicative Disorders and other graduate programs in the field. Please note that earning the certificate does not confer licensure or certification; a master’s degree in speech-language pathology is required to pursue state licensure and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP).

Application to begin this certificate program in Fall 2027 will open on October 1, 2026 and close on January 15, 2027. Submit an application in Cal State Apply.

• Required Courses

If you have questions regarding the certificate program, please contact the Department Chair at [email protected] or (657) 278-1002.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SLP Certification

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certification offers increased opportunities for employment, mobility, career advancement, professional credibility and more, and is recognized by nearly every state's regulatory agency. The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders is fully accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA) of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Graduate study in this program leads to the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) with ASHA.

For more detailed information regarding the coursework for these credentials click the course catalog below:

California SLP Licensure

The speech-language pathology license is required to work as a speech-language pathologist in all settings in California except for the public school and in certain exempt federal employment settings. The license is awarded by the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board (SLPAB) of the Medical Board of California.

For more detailed information regarding the coursework for these credentials click the course catalog below: 

Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential in Language, Speech and Hearing

The Speech-Language Pathology Services Credential in Language, Speech and Hearing (SLPSC) is required of speech pathologists who wish to practice in the public school setting.

The credential authorizes the holder to conduct language, speech and hearing assessments, and provide educational services; provide specific learning disability area services related to speech and language, and special education services to individuals with language and speech impairments across the special education disability areas, to students from birth through age 22.

For more detailed information regarding the coursework for these credentials click the course catalog below: 

Communication Sciences and Disorders Multicultural Certificate

The Communication Sciences and Disorders Multicultural Certificate is for graduate students who wish to specialize in multicultural clinical training. The program provides focused clinical practice with culturally/linguistically diverse clients/communities in students’ clinical practica and research in issues with culturally/linguistically diverse populations within the field of communication sciences and disorders.

For more detailed information regarding the coursework for these credentials click the course catalog below: