Program Description

The CMSD Post-Masters Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology is for individuals who want to increase their depth of knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology while also acquiring academic credits required for advancement in their careers. The program is one of two such programs in the country and is currently the only program in California. Current practitioners will gain advanced knowledge in the field of speech-language pathology, with specific focus on evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Certificate students will become adept at analyzing and synthesizing the existing research literature as they design and conduct their own project related to their place of employment. The completion of their programs will include a capstone presentation for the dissemination of their projects. Four of the courses in this program can be credited toward and used as a ladder into the Speech-Language Pathology Doctorate (SLPD) program. However, this is not an automatic expectation and students would need to formally apply and be accepted into the SLPD program.

Program Length

4 quarters (12 months)

Possible Careers

Public and private schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, short-term and long-term nursing care facilities, community clinics, colleges and universities, private practice offices, state and local health departments, state and federal government agencies, home health agencies (home care), adult day care centers, centers for persons with developmental disabilities, research laboratories.

Application Deadlines

Quarter Application Open Priority Deadline Final Deadline
Summer of 2025 Mar 18, 2025 — Jun 5, 2025

Admissions Requirements

  • Master's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Speech-Language Pathology or equivalent
  • Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA)
  • Complete the LLU application, including values and personal essays
  • Nonrefundable application fee
  • Written statement: Essay describing your interests, your professional experience, why you want to pursue the certificate, and why you want to attend LLU
  • Provide three letters of recommendation that indicate a strong academic and professional background
  • Personal interview

Prerequisites

There are no specific prerequisites. Please reference the Admissions Requirements.
Please refer to other program pages in this link.

Discipline Accrediting Agency

American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA)

State Accrediting Agency

None
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Integrating faith and health
Loma Linda University educates and encourages a balanced life by living our values of humility, compassion, justice, integrity, excellence, freedom and self- control. You will be surrounded by faculty who are committed to healthcare innovation and research while engaging your spirituality.

Expected Cost of Attendance

The following estimated cost of attendance is based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. Estimated amounts may vary based on a number of factors. Students may use these estimates when applying for financial aid.

Required Program Costs

Academic Year 2025-2026

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
12
Tuition & Fees $10,500
Books, Materials, Supplies & Equipment Allowance
(May or may not be purchased through the school) 		$200

Other Educational Costs

Non-required costs that can be funded with scholarships/loans.

Year of Program
Months Enrolled 		Year 1
12
Living Expense (Food & Housing Allowance)
Students will be assigned one of the following Living Expense Budget Options:
  • On Campus Dorm
    		•  $16,020
  • LLU Owned Rental Property
    		•  $26,400
  • LLU Owned Rental w/ Dependents
    		• $27,540
  • Undergraduate Dependent w/ Parents
    		•  $9,720
  • Off Campus
    		•  $26,400
    Transportation Allowance 0
    Miscellaneous Personal Expenses 0
    Federal Student Loan Fees 0
    Cost of Obtaining Professional License 0
    Dependent Care
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request
    Disability-Related Expenses
    (See Budget Revision Request form)     		Available upon Request

    Notes

    • Estimated amounts are for the academic year specified only. Amounts are based on full-time attendance for the number of months enrolled per academic year. International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on these amounts.
    • Amounts are expected to increase each year consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
    • To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half time in an aid eligible program and be taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.