what is a speech language pathologist assistant

What are Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs)?

Written by Emily Waters

M.S. Communication Disorders @ Emerson University | CCC-SLP

Do you have a passion for helping others communicate and express themselves effectively?If so, then the field of Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) might just be the right choice.

These dedicated professionals play a vital role in supporting speech-language pathologists, making a significant impact on the lives of those who struggle with communication. In this article, we’ll learn about SLPAs and their vital role in helping individuals with communication disorders. So, let’s begin!

Table of Contents

What are SLPAs?

Speech-language pathology assistants, as the name suggests, are assistants that carry out duties prescribed and directed to them by ASHA-certified speech-language pathologists. They are well-equipped with all the required knowledge and practical experience. 

Speech Language Pathologists Assistants are a crucial part of the support staff; they not only help bring out better results but also help maintain better communication between the Speech Language Pathologist and their patients. 

Other support staff also exists, but the definitions of aides and assistants differ from state to state. There are normally two tiers of support personnel: aides and assistants. ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) makes a distinction among these two levels based on the degree of training and duties. 

Aides, for instance, are less responsible for and have a different training background than speech-language pathology assistants. They are not as professionally trained as speech-language pathology assistants are. Depending on the state, support staff in speech-language pathology may be referred to as communication aids, staff members, or program extenders.

Becoming a Speech-Pathology Assistant: A Step-by-Step Guide

An SLPA job necessitates specific training and certification. To become a speech-language pathology assistant, follow these steps:

1. Complete The Educational Requirements

There are various educational paths one can take to become an SLPA. You can pursue the following academic paths, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the top speech-language pathology organization in the country:

SLPA Degree Program

The first alternative is to complete a two-year or longer SLPA program from an accredited institution, like a community college, technical training program, or school for trades. An associate degree is the end result of this program. 

Undergraduate Degree

A bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from an approved university is the second educational route. In order to continue down this path, you must also complete an ASHA-offered online education module or its academic equivalent.

College Education

The last option is to complete ASHA’s online SLPA education module and have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in any discipline from an authorized university. You must additionally finish either an SLPA certificate program or academic courses in the following areas to qualify for this option:

• Communication disorders overview
• Abnormalities of the speech sound
• Language Learning and Language impairments
• Physiology and Anatomy related to the art of speaking and listening

2. Complete the Necessary Training.

In order to become certified as a speech-language pathology assistant, ASHA mandates that you complete specific courses, regardless of the educational path you choose. Your degree program might occasionally fulfill these extra criteria. You can enroll in any of the professional development courses at any time within the two years prior to your application; each one lasts for one hour. The subjects cover

• general safety measures
• training on maintaining patient privacy

3. Finish the Required Fieldwork

ASHA requires candidates becoming Speech Language Pathologists Assistants to complete a minimum of 100 clinical hours, often known as on-the-job hours or a clinical practicum, in addition to education and training. If it happens within five years of the time of your application, you might be eligible to finish your clinical fieldwork while still in college. At least 80 hours of this fieldwork will be spent working directly with patients. These hours could involve duties you carry out under a qualified Speech-language Pathologist’s supervision, like:

• Screenings for speech, language, and hearing
• Patient, customer, or student assessments
• Providing appropriate treatment options after discussion with primary 

You can also do 20 hours or more of indirect clinical fieldwork. These times could consist of:

• Professional meetings to discuss or plan patient treatments with a speech-language pathologist as 
• Appointments with a licensed SLP
• Computer work dealing with billing or coding operations, data entry, etc 
• Keeping treatment records of patients and their overall progress

4. Pass the ASHA Assistants Exam for Certification

You can take the ASHA Assistants Certification Exam once you’ve finished your coursework and fieldwork. The Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology has accepted it as a nationwide test. You can apply, pay for it, and provide the necessary paperwork, such as your official transcripts, in order to take this exam. You can find tools online to help you prepare for the test. Find other people who are giving the exam; make a study group to help you understand better; and pass your exam on the first go. The earlier you clear the exam, the better. 

The test measures your knowledge of the tasks and area of practice of an SLPA as well as your proficiency in the field of speech-language pathology. There are a total of 100 multiple-choice questions. You get two more chances to repeat the exam within a year if you don’t pass on the first try. So don’t get demotivated if you don’t pass it on the first attempt. 

5. Complete SLPA Job Applications

You can start applying for jobs as a Certified Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA) as soon as you pass your exam. Create a résumé that highlights your professional development coursework, fieldwork experience, and certifications. Adjust your resume to the position you are applying for. Make your resume stand out. Make your resume more focused, and do not add unnecessary details. Also, make sure that your resume aligns with the job description. if you are applying to a daycare facility, for example, and you have experience working with children, then make sure your resume highlights that. 

Benefits of Becoming A Speech-Language Pathologist 

The ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist may extend facilities (i.e., increase the frequency and intensity of services to patients or clients on their caseload), concentrate more on work that requires professional judgement, broaden the client’s accessibility to the program, and make better use of their available time and assets by hiring an assistant.

Nearly a third (30%) of those who said they oversaw speech-language pathology assistants said this practice reduced their duties, while 36% of participants said this strategy reduced their caseload, according to the Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) 2018 Schools Survey Report.

Moreover, SLPs get more time to work with clients and patients with more complex needs (36% of speech-language pathologists), and they don’t need to worry about office work (33% of speech-language pathologists). 

About a quarter of speech-language pathologists who said their institution currently has one or more support staff said other implications include increasing the frequency or intensity of service and addressing staff shortages.

Responsibilities of a SLP Assistant

Conduct code for assistants.

To assist certified assistants in their clinical work, ASHA established the Assistants Code of Conduct. For audiology assistants and speech-language pathology assistants (SLPAs) to operate responsibly, the highest ethical and moral standards must be maintained. The Assistant’s Code of Conduct aims to defend the reputation and moral character of professionals as well as the welfare of consumers.

The ASHA Board of Ethics has authority over applicants for the ASHA-Certified Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA) certification and C-SLPA holders to resolve complaints involving the Assistant’s Code of Conduct.

When performing necessary tasks related to the delivery of speech-language services, as stated in the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Scope of Practice (2022), the SLPA should take the following actions provided that the training, supervision, and planning are appropriate:

Delivering services

• Direct therapy services that satisfy treatment objectives created by the supervising SLP to meet the requirements of the student, patient, client, and family;
• Developing and putting into practice activities and materials for teaching and practicing skills to address the goals of the student, patient, client, and family by the plan of care created by the supervising SLP; modifying and documenting the amount and type of support or scaffolding provided to the student, patient, or client in treatment to facilitate progress;
• offering online services to students, patients, and clients that the supervising SLP chooses; delivering care using a variety of service delivery models (such as individual, group, classroom-based, home-based, and co-treatment with other disciplines);
• Creating low-tech AAC materials for students, patients, and clients; programming augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices; instructing students, patients, clients, and families in the use of AAC devices;
• Demonstrating techniques from the SLP’s developed feeding and swallowing plan and sharing knowledge with students, patients, clients, families, staff, and caregivers. Helping students, patients, and clients use feeding and swallowing techniques they have learned under the SLP’s direction when consuming different food textures and liquid consistencies.

Administrative Assistance

The SLPA may help with administrative tasks and site operations (such as scheduling, record-keeping, and maintaining an inventory of supplies and equipment), perform safety checks and equipment maintenance, and prepare materials for screening, assessment, and treatment services, depending on the situation, appropriate training, and direction from the supervising speech-language pathologist.

Protection and Promotion

The SLPA may present primary prevention information to people and groups known to be at risk for communication disorders and other suitable groups, depending on the setting, adequate training, and direction from the supervising SLP. It may also encourage early identification and early intervention activities. Furthermore, 

• It provides information to emergency response organisations for people with communication and/or swallowing disorders; 
• And promote early identification and early intervention activities;
• They can also advocate for people and families through community awareness programs, health literacy, education, and other training programs to promote and facilitate access to full participation in communication—including the elimination of societal, cultural, and linguistic barriers. 

Is It Permissible For SLPAs To Help With TeleHealth Service Delivery?

The following is listed as a duty that falls under the scope of practice for SLPAs in the ASHA’s Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Scope of Practice: “Providing services via telepractice to students, patients, and clients who the supervising SLP selects.”

Consult your supervising speech-language pathologist as well as the departments of education and/or health in your state, as well as licensing agencies, state boards of education, school districts, and particular schools or other workplaces, to find out if there are any laws or requirements in place that address the use of assistants and the acceptability of telepractice. The practices vary by state and by workplace.

You’ll need to verify any payers to see what they say about telepractice and the services that SLPAs provide. 

Who is Qualified to Manage Assistants in Speech-Language Pathology?

Three types of rules and regulations need to be taken into account by supervisors and SLPAs:

ASHA recommendations in addition to the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC) criteria, which are practice recommendations, are state rules that may include licensure or registration for SLPA certification.

The supervising speech-language pathologist must adhere to the following CFCC requirements:

• Possess the required state certifications or the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from ASHA;
• Completion of the 9-month Clinical Fellowship followed by at least 9 months of experience;
• Completion of at least 2 hours of professional development in clinical instruction or supervision and completion of at least 9 months of experience after receiving ASHA certification.
• According to state regulations for SLPA supervision, it is advised that the professional development course completed for clinical supervision or instruction contain material on SLPA supervision.

According to the Assistants Code of Conduct, SLPAs are not independent practitioners and must be under the direction of certified speech-language pathologists by state licensing regulations (state licensed) and/or the ASHA’s Code of Ethics. Additionally, there needs to be enough supervision to guarantee the well-being of the client, patient, or pupil. By using the certification verification site, applicants should confirm that their clinical instructor or supervisor satisfies the aforementioned standards.

Potential Career Opportunities for SLPAs

There are a wide variety of jobs available for SLPAs in the field of speech-language pathology. They are highly employable in a wide range of settings, from public and private schools to hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and private practices, thanks to their extensive training and education.

In educational settings, SLPAs frequently assist speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in helping pupils who have difficulties communicating. Under the direction of a speech-language pathologist (SLP), they may help with tasks including assessment and therapy plan execution. In this capacity, they can greatly affect students’ intellectual and personal growth.

SLPAs might also find satisfying work in hospitals and clinics. They might collaborate with doctors to help people who have suffered strokes or other neurological disorders regain their speech. Therapists in this field can also help those who have trouble swallowing or who have voice issues.

SLPAs can also make a positive impact on their patients’ recoveries by working in rehabilitation clinics. They are useful for helping people whose communication skills have been impaired by stroke, a brain injury, or another medical condition.

Those interested in becoming SLPAs also have the option of working in private practice. Individualized treatment services for patients of all ages may be provided in this setting in collaboration with qualified SLPs.

Career options for SLPAs can range widely and provide rich experiences. These specialists, whether they work in schools or hospitals, are crucial to the success of people with communication problems and to their ability to live fulfilling lives.

Speech language pathologist assistants are like the cherry on top; they will not only improve the outcome and result but will also lessen the burden on the primary. Studies have shown that organizations thrive when they have an assistant group of employees working, just like speech-language pathology assistance.

Can SLPAs diagnose speech and language disorders?

No, SLPAs cannot diagnose speech and language disorders. Only licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) have the expertise and training to assess individuals for communication disorders.

Are there specific certifications or licenses required to become an SLPA?

The requirements for becoming an SLPA vary by state. Some states may require certification or licensure, while others may not have specific regulations in place. It is important for aspiring SLPAs to research the requirements in their respective states before pursuing a career in this field.

 What settings do SLPAs typically work in?

SLPAs can work in various settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, rehabilitation centers, and research facilities. The demand for skilled SLPAs extends across different healthcare sectors where speech and language services are needed.

How much does an SLPA earn?

The salary of an SLPA can vary depending on factors such as experience, education level, geographic location, and employment setting. On average, however, the median annual wage for SLPAs is around $50k according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Speech Pathology Master’s Programs: Which is Right for You?
• What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s in Speech Pathology?
• Speech Pathology Doctoral Programs
• Online Masters in Speech Pathology at Emerson College (sponsored program)
• Online Masters in Speech Pathology at New York University (sponsored program)
• How to Become a Speech Pathologist: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Guide to Applying to Speech Pathology School
• How to Make a Career Change to Speech Pathology
• Is a Speech Pathology Degree Worth It?
• 10 Reasons to Love Being a Speech Pathologist
• What Is a CCC-SLP and Why It’s Important
• CCC-SLP Requirements: Become a CCC-SLP
• Guide to Applying for CCC-SLP Certification
• CCC-SLP Salary and Career Outlook
• The Guide to the ASHA Speech Pathology Certification Standards
• State-by-State Guide for Speech Pathology License Requirements
• 8 SLP Certifications that May Help Advance Your Career
• How to Become an Effective ASHA Clinical Fellowship Mentor
• How to Complete the ASHA Clinical Fellowship
• The Guide to Speech Pathology Job and Salary Negotiations
• What to Expect at Your First Speech Pathologist Job
• Bilingual Speech Pathologist Salary and Careers
• Child Speech Therapist Career and Salary Outlook

Speech Pathology Assistant Careers and Salary Outlook

• How to Choose Your Speech Pathologist Career Setting
• Become a Speech Pathologist in a School Setting
• Become a Speech Pathologist in a Hospital Work Setting
• Opening a Speech Therapy Telepractice: What You Need to Know
• Speech Pathology Internships Guide
• Guide to Speech Therapy Volunteer Opportunities
• Choosing Between Speech Pathology or Occupational Therapy
• How to Become an Audiologist
• Scholarships
• Day in the Life of an SLP Student
• Speech Disorder Resources for College Students
• Common Speech Language Pathology Assessment Tools
• The SLP Guide to Evidence-Based Practice
• When to Take Your Bilingual Child to the Speech Pathologist
• When to Take Your Child to the SLP

Home / Speech Pathology Career Guide / Speech Pathology Assistant Careers and Salary Outlook

Speech language pathologists and their assistants can make a real difference in patients’ lives by improving their ability to communicate with others. Starting your career as a speech language pathology assistant is an excellent way to gain knowledge and experience in the speech language pathology field. Read on to learn more about speech pathology assistant career requirements and salary information.

Sponsored online speech pathology programs

Online MS: Pursue SLP Certification. Study FT/PT

Speech@Emerson enables you to earn an MS online and pursue SLP certification in as few as 20 mos. Learn the same curriculum as the on-campus program. Study FT or PT.

• Prepares you to pursue certification as an SLP generalist
• In-person clinical placements at faculty-approved partner sites
• As few as 20 months to complete

info SPONSORED

Want to Become an SLP? Earn an MS Online at NYU

NYU Steinhardt’s online master of science program in Communicative Sciences and Disorders prepares aspiring speech-language pathologists with a comprehensive professional education.

• Prepares students to pursue SLP licensure 
• Accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation 
• As few as six terms to complete 
• Full-time and part-time plans of study

What Do Speech Language Pathology Assistants Do?

As a speech language pathology assistant (SLPA), you would assist a speech language pathologist (SLP) in assessing and treating patients with language, speech, fluency and voice disorders or impediments. Assistants aid in things like patient care and research, implementing speech and language programs planned by the SLP, and compiling data to assess the quality of the program. 

How Does an SLP Assistant (SLPA) Compare to Related Professions?

Now that you know what an SLPA is and what they do and why you should become one, let’s take a look at a few related professions and how they compare:

SLP vs. SLP Assistant

A speech language pathology assistant aids a speech language pathologist in assessments and research along with putting the SLP’s plans for a particular patient into action. The main difference between an SLP and an SLP assistant is their qualifications. SLPs must receive a master’s degree along with a license from the state in which they wish to practice. SLP assistants, on the other hand, only need an associate degree in a related subject to qualify for a SLPA assistant job.

Audiology Assistant vs. SLP Assistant

Audiology assistants and SLP assistants are both assistants, but they assist different kinds of patients. While SLP assistants assist patients with language, speech, fluency and voice disorders, audiology assistants aid patients with hearing problems exclusively. Also, according to the  American Speech-Language-Hearing Association  (ASHA), you usually only need a high school diploma or GED to apply to be an audiology assistant, while you’ll typically need at least an associate’s degree to be a speech language pathology assistant. However, check specific requirements in your state. 

SLP Aide vs. SLP Assistant

Speech therapy aides and SLP assistants handle similar duties, including assisting the SLP and their patients. However, ASHA says speech therapy aides generally have a narrower training base and more limited responsibilities than assistants. Therefore, aides require direct supervision by an SLP, while assistants are free to perform tasks prescribed by the SLP.

Communication Aide vs. SLP Assistant

In some states, speech language pathologists are  required to register support personnel under certain titles  to differentiate between their experience and educational backgrounds. In some of these states, the term “communication aide” is applied to personnel fitting ASHA’s traditional definition of a speech language pathology aide.

How to Become a Speech Language Pathology Assistant

Keeping in mind that SLPA requirements vary by state, here are three common steps to become a SLPA:

• Earn an associate degree in a related field.  While not all states require SLPAs to earn a degree, ASHA recommends earning an associate degree in an SLP program. Courses cover normal communication processes, communication disorders and workplace behaviors.
• Complete 100 hours of supervised fieldwork.  After completing your degree, go to work shadowing an ASHA-certified SLP.  ASHA recommends completing 100 hours of fieldwork  supervised by a practicing SLP. Without this supervised experience, some SLPAs may not be fully recognized in their profession.
• Check your state’s SLPA licensing guidelines.  Since the requirements for speech pathology support personnel like SLPAs vary around the country, you must check your state’s specific licensing requirements. For example, state licensure boards may require minimum fieldwork hours as well as degree specifications or credit hours. These agencies may also credential speech pathology assistants to work in certain settings, such as schools. There are also a few states that have continuing education requirements for speech therapist assistants.

Speech Pathology Assistant Certification

Earning an ASHA certification is a great way to prove to employers that you have both the knowledge and experience to do your job well.  To be eligible to take the SLPA certification exam  and subsequent certification, you’ll need to complete one of three pathway options that best fits your education background and qualifications. On top of your education, you’ll also need to complete the following mandatory course and experience requirements no more than two years before taking the exam, according to ASHA:

• A one-hour ethics course.
• A one-hour course in universal safety precautions.
• A one-hour patient confidentiality training course (HIPAA, FERPA, etc.).
• 80 hours of direct patient/client/student services under the supervision of an ASHA-certified SLP;
• 20 hours of indirect patient/client/student services under the supervision of an ASHA-certified SLP.

For more information on the certification process, check ASHA’s  Assistants Certification Program page .

Demand for Speech Pathology Assistant Jobs

According to ASHA, it is difficult to discern the demand for Speech Pathology Assistant jobs, but it seems to be on the rise. In 2006, only 20% of schools surveyed by ASHA reported they employed SLP support personnel. However, in 2009,  42% of the schools surveyed in the ASHA Membership survey  had SLPs who reported using support personnel in school settings.

“It appears that use of support personnel may be increasing in health care settings, based on the 32% [of SLPs] in these settings who indicated on the ASHA 2009 membership survey that they employ one or more SLP support personnel,” according to ASHA. That number is up from the  14% of health care-based SLPs who reported they used support staff  in the 2003 ASHA omnibus survey. All signs point to this being a great time for you to become an SLP aide or assistant.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Speech Therapist Assistant?

To become a speech therapy assistant or speech language pathology assistant, many states require at least two years of proper schooling, such as an associate degree in an SLP program. After that, you need to spend at least 100 hours performing supervised fieldwork. So, becoming a speech therapist assistant will take you a little over two years.

What Is the Median Speech Pathology Assistant Salary?

The salary of a speech language pathology assistant can vary depending on many factors. As with  other speech pathology careers , your education and amount of relevant experience directly influence the salary you earn, as does the region of the country in which you live. ONET Online, a division of the Department of Labor, reports the  median salary for a speech language pathology assistant  in 2019 was $18.49 an hour, or $38,460 a year.

Is a Speech Pathologist Assistant Career Right for You?

Working as a speech pathologist assistant is an excellent career for those who want to work in the communication sciences and disorders (CSD) field and help people overcome their speech challenges. It’s also ideal for those waiting to be accepted to a  master’s in speech pathology program . This is because, in most circumstances, anyone with an  undergraduate degree in communication sciences and disorders  can become an SLPA. 

From there, students can participate in “bridge” programs that enable SLPAs to attend graduate school part-time to obtain a master’s degree while working in the CSD field,  ASHA reports . Once you have your master’s degree, you’re on your way to  becoming a fully certified speech language pathologist .

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine[ https://www.onetonline.org/ ] by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0[ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ ] license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.

Information last updated March 2021

• Book a Speaker

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus convallis sem tellus, vitae egestas felis vestibule ut.

Error message details.

Reuse Permissions

Request permission to republish or redistribute SHRM content and materials.

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Job summary:.

The Speech-Language Pathology Assistant will assist speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders, implement speech and language programs or activities as planned and directed by speech-language pathologists, and monitor the use of alternative communication devices and systems.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Duties/responsibilities:.

• Implements treatment plans or protocols as directed by speech-language pathologists.
• Documents clients progress toward meeting established treatment objectives.
• Assists speech-language pathologists in the remediation or development of speech and language skills.
• Performs support duties such as preparing materials, keeping records, maintaining supplies, and scheduling activities.
• Collects and compiles data to document clients performance and to assess program quality.
• Selects and/or prepares speech-language instructional materials.
• Assists speech-language pathologists in the conduct of client screenings and assessments of language, voice, fluency, articulation, and hearing.
• Tests and maintains equipment to ensure performance.
• Conducts in-service training sessions and family and community education programs.
• Prepares charts, graphs, and other visual displays to communicate clients performance information.
• Assists speech-language pathologists in the conduct of speech-language research projects.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent listening and communication skills.
• Strong ability to recognize nuances in speech.
• Basic understanding of the concepts of Speech Pathology.

Education and Experience:

• Training in vocational school, related on-the-job experience, or an Associates degree required.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Related Content

A 4-Day Workweek? AI-Fueled Efficiencies Could Make It Happen

The proliferation of artificial intelligence in the workplace, and the ensuing expected increase in productivity and efficiency, could help usher in the four-day workweek, some experts predict.

How One Company Uses Digital Tools to Boost Employee Well-Being

Learn how Marsh McLennan successfully boosts staff well-being with digital tools, improving productivity and work satisfaction for more than 20,000 employees.

Advertisement

Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace

​An organization run by AI is not a futuristic concept. Such technology is already a part of many workplaces and will continue to shape the labor market and HR. Here's how employers and employees can successfully manage generative AI and other AI-powered systems.

HR Daily Newsletter

New, trends and analysis, as well as breaking news alerts, to help HR professionals do their jobs better each business day.

Success title

Success caption

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Gain the knowledge and practical training you need to be eligible for a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant license with a comprehensive program designed for working adults.

Open the Door to New Possibilities

Cal State East Bay’s Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program is specially designed for those who currently hold a bachelor’s degree in speech language pathology and want to expand their professional options. With tailored curriculum to meet the requirements of the California Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board, you’ll receive the additional coursework and practicum experiences needed to obtain a license as a speech language pathology assistant.

Best in the West

Selected as a "Best in the West" college by The Princeton Review

Faculty Excellence

Taught by educational leaders in CSUEB’s Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

One-of-a-Kind Training

Learn from a combination of both lecture and fieldwork

Unique Training that Puts You on the Fast Track to Success

With the program’s convenient hybrid format, you can look forward to both online and hands-on components while completing your certificate in as little as four to six months.

Explore the career opportunities that await you as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. »

Make a positive impact in the community.

As a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, you’ll conduct speech and language intervention programs under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist. You’ll also have the opportunity to work in both educational and medical settings where you can assist a licensed speech-language pathologist in a variety of ways, including clerical duties, treatment plans, informal documentation, collecting data for monitoring quality improvement, and more.

Occupational Outlook

High demand.

According to The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, more service providers are needed to serve a growing and more diverse client base and an expanding scope of practice.

11.5% Growth

Employment of healthcare support workers is projected to grow 11.5 percent from 2022 to 2032.

—Labor Market Analytics –  Lightcast

Growing Employment Opportunities

42 percent of school-based SLPs and 32 percent of health-care based SLPs reported that there was one or more SLP support personnel employed at their facility.

— The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

How can a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program impact your career? »

Expand your professional reach.

After completing the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program, you’ll be able to combine your academic knowledge and practical training to become a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant and increase your diversity of employment options.

You can look forward to joining the list of successful graduates who are making a positive difference in the health field and work in a variety of settings, including educational services, offices of physical, occupational and speech therapists, and audiologists, and more.

Program Objectives

Upon completion of the program, you’ll have the skills to:

• Discuss ASHA standards/guidelines and the Code of Ethics
• Implement various clinical approaches/procedures
• Gather objective data about client behaviors
• Learn professional report writing
• Summarize client information and present case
• Discuss multicultural considerations
• Develop skills in professional conduct and collaboration
• Discuss professional conduct required of a SLPA and identify scope of practice

Find out what you’ll learn in the program. »

Program format.

The Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program is conveniently offered in a hybrid format. The program includes one online lecture course and fieldwork.

Certificate Requirements

To earn your certificate, you must complete the following courses:

EXTX 650 Clinical Methods and Professional Ethics

This course will provide students with foundational knowledge in providing intervention to clients with disabilities/disorders under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist. Students will learn specific and professionally accepted methods for collecting data and writing progress reports and will learn general treatment methods to treat typical disorders, special populations, groups, and behaviorally challenged clients. Overview of multicultural and ethical considerations will be presented. An overview of scope of practice and professional ethics as guided by the American Speech-Language- Hearing Association’s Code of Ethics will be discussed.

EXTX 651 Fieldwork Experience

Pre-requisite: EXTX 650 Clinical Methods and Professional Ethics

This course will provide supervised clinical practice experience with children and adolescents with a variety of communicative disorders in an educational setting. It will provide opportunities for clinical application of principles learned from coursework and for carrying out speech- language pathology assistant responsibilities of observation, implementation of screening procedures, administration of treatment protocols, maintenance of clinical documentation, and computation of clinical data under the supervision of a licensed and/or credentialed speech-language pathologist.

Our Fieldwork program includes rolling start dates from mid-Fall into Spring semester, and while our goal is to have Fieldwork Placements completed within 3 -4 months, applicants are advised that a significant extension of this time may be needed.

Who will you learn from? Meet your professors. »

Featured faculty.

Shubha Kashinath

Dr. Shubha Kashinath is an Associate Professor of Communicative Sciences and Disorders, and the Department’s Continuing Education Administrator. She received an MS in Speech and Hearing Sciences from the University of Arizona and a PhD in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from Florida State University. Dr. Kashinath’s research is focused on efficacy of communication interventions for individuals with autism, family-centered practices for children with disabilities, and development of innovative personnel preparation programs in speech language pathology. She has over 20 years of clinical experience serving families of young children with disabilities in Florida and California.

Anna Krajcin

Anna Krajcin received both her bachelor’s degree and MS in Communication Disorders from Missouri State University. She has extensive experience providing pediatric speech and language therapy to children with a variety of disorders, including Autism Spectrum Disorder. Krajcin has provided hundreds of instructional workshops to professionals and families throughout the U.S and in Eastern Europe, where she has established three preschools in Bosnia that continue to provide speech, language, and behavior intervention to children. In 2016, she became a dually certified Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Jenny Rosenquist

Jenny Rosenquist joined Cal State East Bay in 2007 as a full-time Clinical Supervisor and intermittent lecturer. She received her BA and MA degrees in Communication Disorders from San Diego State University. After seven years of working with adults in various levels of rehabilitation, including outpatient, acute care, and skilled nursing, she spent the next nine years working with infants and toddlers with developmental delays and Autism Spectrum Disorders. During this time, she worked extensively with families and caregivers in the home environment and frequently supervised interns and clinical fellows in both the home and classroom. Her areas of interest include clinical supervision, Autism Spectrum Disorders, early childhood language, and family centered therapy, and she continues to provide speech therapy to both pediatric and adult clients in their homes.

Shubha Kashinath PhD, Chair, CSD Program Director

Anna Krajcin MS

Jenny Rosenquist MA, Program Coordinator

Learn all about admission requirements and how to apply. »

Admission requirements.

Qualified applicants must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher education in Communication Disorders or Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, or an equivalent program.

How to Apply

To apply to the program, please complete an online certificate application, as well as submit the following documents:

• Two (2) letters of recommendation
• Mail official transcript(s) to: Jenny Rosenquist SLP-A Program Coordinator Cal State East Bay 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, MB 1088 Hayward, CA 94542
• GPA calculator for CD coursework   (emailed to   [email protected] )

Given the high volume of SLPA Certificate Program applicants, p riority consideration will be given to applicants who identify a speech language pathologist with current ASHA CCC's and CA license to supervise their fieldwork experience.

*Please note: if you completed your degree from Cal State East Bay, you do not need to provide official transcripts.

SLP Supervisor requirements

In seeking a SLP to supervise your SLPA Fieldwork experience, please be sure to convey these primary requirements and ensure the SLP is willing to comply with Supervisory guidelines.

The SLPA Internship Supervisor must:

• be licensed by the State of CA and have ASHA CCCs
• have at least 2 years of professional SLP experience
• have (or be willing to acquire before the completion of the internship) at least 6 hours of supervisory training/continuing education, as required by SLPAHB and ASHA
• provide a minimum of 100 hours of supervised SLPA fieldwork experience: a minimum of 90 of these hours must be in direct client contact and 10 hours in indirect/supportive activities
• provide a minimum of 10 weeks of supervised fieldwork experience to the SLPA Intern
• remain on site for all direct contact provided by the SLPA Intern
• directly supervise at least 50% of all direct client contact hours
• supervise no more than 2 SLP or SLPA students at one time
• be flexible in potential start dates throughout the academic year

Admission Deadlines

Still have some unanswered questions visit the support section for additional program information. », support topics, common questions, accessibility services, certificate of completion, search results.

At Cal State East Bay, we pride ourselves on putting students first, from the moment you inquire until you graduate. We hope you've found answers to your questions in this support center, but if not, please get in touch.

Request More Info

At a glance.

Area of study:  Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Ideal for: Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology who have not yet enrolled in, or do not currently wish to enroll in graduate studies in the field.

Program format: Hybrid

Number of courses: 2 courses

Program length:  5-8 months (depending on the duration a student requires to complete their fieldwork experience)

Tuition cost: $5,200 (Tuition fees are subject to change at any time.) Forever Pioneer discount is available for Cal State East Bay alumni.

Please let us know if we can answer any questions about the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program. Many answers can also be found in our online Support Center .

More in This Program

This website requires Javascript.

To continue, enable Javascript in your browser settings and then reload this page.

Speech Language Pathologist Assistant

Learn to identify communication disorders, carry out treatment plans, and make a difference for clients with communication challenges.

As a speech language pathologist assistant, you work in schools, early educational settings, regional and community health centres, hospitals and rehabilitation centres to implement treatment plans, observe and report patient responses, and perform administrative duties and support activities.

Open doors.

Create pathways to better communication.

Admission Requirements

Program & Courses

Your future

• Faculty & Staff
• Graduate Programs
• Parents & Families
• Prospective Students
• Undergraduate Students
• Disabled Students
• International
• Transfer Students
• Architecture, Construction & Operations
• Arts, Entertainment, Fashion, & Multi-Media Production
• Business Management & Administration
• Criminal Justice & Sociology
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance & Accounting
• Health Professions
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Human Services, Education & Nonprofits
• Information Technology & Cybersecurity
• Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing & Communications
• Life Sciences & Engineering
• Create a Resume / Cover Letter
• Expand Your Network / Mentor
• Explore Your Interests / Self Assessment
• Find Funding Opportunities
• Negotiate an Offer
• Prepare for an Interview
• Prepare for Graduate School
• Professional Photo Booth
• Start Your Job/Internship Search
• Explore Career Paths & Current Job Market Data
• Search for Jobs in Our Database
• Meet the Team
• Overview of Services
• Student Outcomes

Denver Public Schools - Talent Acquistion

Speech language pathologist assistant.

• Share This: Share Speech Language Pathologist Assistant on Facebook Share Speech Language Pathologist Assistant on LinkedIn Share Speech Language Pathologist Assistant on X

OFFICE OF SCHOOLS

Traditional 184 work days per year

Salary Range: $25.70 – $29.80/HR

Essential Functions and Objectives:

– Performs various clerical tasks, including filing and copying.

– Accompanies students from classroom to service area.

– Participates in educational facility activities, including committees, meetings, and conferences as requested by the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP).

– Administers and scores screenings for clinical interpretation by the SLP.

– Assists the SLP during assessment of students (e.g., set up the testing environment, gather and prep materials, take notes as advised by the SLP, etc.).

– Implements documented care plans (e.g., Individualized education plan [IEPs]) developed and directed by the supervising SLP.

– Provides direct therapy services addressing treatment goals developed by the supervising SLP to meet the needs of students.

– Adjusts and documents the amount and type of support or scaffolding provided to students in treatment to facilitate progress.

– Develops and implements activities and materials for teaching and practice of skills to address the goals of students per the plans of care developed by the supervising SLP.

– Provides treatment through a variety of service delivery models (e.g., individual, group, classroom-based, co-treatment with other disciplines) as directed by the supervising SLP.

– Provides services via telepractice to students, patients, and clients who are selected by the supervising SLP.

– Documents student performance (e.g., collecting data and calculating percentages for the SLP to use; preparing charts, records, and graphs) and reports this information to the supervising SLP in a timely manner.

– Provides educator coaching (e.g., model and teach communication strategies, provide feedback regarding educator-student interactions) for facilitation and carryover of skills.

– Shares objective information (e.g., accuracy in speech and language skills addressed, participation in sessions, response to services) regarding student performance to students, other service providers, and educators without interpretation or recommendations as directed by the SLP.

– Programs augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.

– Provides training and technical assistance to students and educators in the use of AAC devices.

– Develops low-tech AAC materials for students.

– Documents services delivery for each student according to Denver Public School guidelines.

Knowledge, Experience & Other Qualifications:

– Certificate of completion for Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Program is required.

– Have or be eligible to obtain the Initial School Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Authorization through the Colorado Department of Education.

– Proficiency with Google Suite.

– Effective time management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

– Effective verbal and written communication skills.

– High degree of confidentiality in all aspects of the work.

– Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities with frequent interruptions.

– The ability to take responsibility for one’s own performance.

– Ability to communicate, interact, and work cooperatively with all people, including those from diverse ethnic and educational backgrounds.

– Aptitude for variety and changing expectations in a fast-paced environment.

– High level customer service and public relations skills.

– Ability to diffuse and manage volatile and stressful situations.

– Willingness to contribute to cultural diversity for educational enrichment.

– Ability to recognize the importance of safety in the workplace, follow safety rules, practice safe work habits, utilize appropriate safety equipment, and report unsafe conditions to the appropriate administrator.

– Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus.

Education Requirements:

– Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders with completed SLPA training project is required.

Additional Information:

– Work Year Calendars (including accrued time off): http://thecommons.dpsk12.org/Page/1129

– Benefits (including DPS contributions): http://thecommons.dpsk12.org/Page/1397

– Compensation Structures: http://thecommons.dpsk12.org/Page/244

– Employee must live and work with a permanent home address in Colorado while working for Denver Public Schools

About Denver Public Schools:

Denver Public Schools is committed to meeting the educational needs of every student with great schools in every neighborhood. Our goal is to provide every child in Denver with rigorous, enriching educational opportunities from preschool through high school graduation. DPS, comprised of nearly 200 schools including traditional, magnet, charter and alternative pathways schools, with an enrollment of more than 90,000 students.

DPS has become the fastest-growing school district in the country in terms of enrollment and the fastest-growing large school district in the state in terms of student academic growth. Learn more at dpsk12.org.

Denver Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.