Program Design
The Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Option, Disability Specialist associate degree program is designed to prepare graduates for careers working in elementary and secondary schools with children who have communication disorders. SLPAs work under the supervision of a licensed, certified Speech-Language Pathologist. The SLPA option provides students with a specialized career path as a paraprofessional.
The array of courses and programs offered in this option will help to ensure learner success in the program and will meet local and state workforce demands in a field where there is a great need for qualified staff at the assistant level.
The program is designed for individuals currently working as paraprofessionals who wish to become Speech-Language Pathology Assistants, people seeking a career change, and all students interested in a career as an SLPA.
The SLPA option is guided by the program philosophy and mission statement of the Disability Specialist program. Students will receive specific skill instruction to prepare them to become effective SLPAs coupled with a positive value base that will prepare them to assist individuals with disabilities toward the goals of community inclusion and participation and the attainment of their potential.
Curriculum
The SLPA option is a career program and the academic preparation is at the associate degree level. In addition to General Education and other required courses, SLPA option students will complete specialty courses including a supervised internship.
Students may enroll in this program full- or part-time.