Speech Language Pathology Assistant

The Associate in Science in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant prepares students for employment as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA). A SLPA works with clients/patients with communication disorders, under the supervision of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP).

Communication disorders affect people of all ages, including infants, children, adults, and seniors. Students will be trained to assist SLPs with the assessment and treatment of people with articulation, language, voice, fluency, and other communication disorders. There are a variety of locations of practice which may include educational, natural/in-home, clinical, and medical settings.

Upon successful completion of this degree, students will be eligible to apply to the Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board (SLPAHADB) of the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs for licensure as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. Students will also be eligible to apply to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) for the voluntary Speech-Language Pathology Assistants Certification. 

Students will complete general education courses, specialized courses in speech language pathology, and a minimum of 110 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):

• Recognize and explain the laws and regulations pertaining to state registration as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant.
• Demonstrate skills to provide direct treatment assistance to diverse clients/patients in multiple settings, under the supervision of a Speech-Language Pathologist, by implementing treatment plans, conducting screenings without interpretation, assisting with assessment, and documenting client/patient progress.
• Demonstrate appropriate workplace behaviors as a paraprofessional team member, under the supervision of a Speech-Language Pathologist, by responding appropriately to supervisory feedback, assisting with clerical and operational tasks, and supporting prevention and advocacy efforts.

Degrees & Certificates Offered:

• Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, Associate in Science (AS)