Speech Language Pathology Assistant Advanced Placement Certificate of Achievement

Upon successful completion of the Speech Language Pathology Assistant Advanced Placement certificate, the student is able to apply for licensure with the State of California.  A licensed Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) works under the direction of a supervising Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) and demonstrates skills, knowledge and training to practice in a variety of settings within the parameters of the SLPA scope of practice. A licensed SLPA may work with infants, children, adults and seniors in the educational, clinical and medical settings. Limitations on reimbursement for services provided by SLPAs from potential third party insurers may affect employment opportunities in certain settings.  The graduate will be able to conduct screenings for speech, language and hearing disorders without interpretation, administer treatment as prescribed by the supervising Speech Language Pathologist and assist with clinical documentation. Students who wish to complete this certificate must have completed an undergraduate degree in speech language pathology/communication sciences and disorders. All others must complete the SLPA AS degree.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Provide direct treatment assistance to patients or clients in multiple settings, with diverse populations, under the supervision of a speech language pathologist by implementing treatment plans, completing speech and language screenings without interpretation, assisting with evaluations and documenting patient/client progress.
2. Provide program operational assistance to the supervising Speech Language Pathologist by completing clerical tasks, preparing appropriate therapy materials, scheduling, facilitating public relations and maintaining equipment.
3. Meet the educational requirements for licensure as a Speech Language Pathology Assistant with the State of California, Medical Quality Assurance, Speech Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board.
4. Demonstrate appropriate workplace behaviors related to the American Speech and Hearing Association Code of Ethics and the scope of practice for a Speech Language Pathology Assistant.

NOTE: Please refer to the current catalog for information about Special Admissions Programs.