Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant)
Hours: 60 On-Campus Online
About
The Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant) at Fort Hays State University provides focused preparation for students interested in supporting communication and language development across a variety of settings. Students are equipped with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to work alongside licensed speech-language pathologists, particularly in educational environments.
The curriculum develops a strong foundation in speech and hearing anatomy and physiology, language development, and communication disorders through structured coursework and applied learning experiences. Students gain the knowledge necessary to assist with the delivery of speech-language services while developing professional skills that support effective collaboration and client care.
Aligned with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) national certification standards and Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) requirements for SLPA state licensure, the program prepares graduates to sit for the ASHA National Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Certification Exam, earn the C-SLPA credential, and pursue SLPA state licensure where available and required.
Why pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant) at Fort Hays State University?
The AAS in Technology and Leadership (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant) offers a direct pathway into a growing profession focused on helping individuals improve their communication skills and quality of life. Students benefit from a curriculum designed to build career-ready skills while preparing them for national certification and employment in educational and clinical settings.
The program emphasizes applied learning, professional development, and workforce preparation, helping students gain the confidence needed to transition from the classroom to professional practice. With guidance from experienced faculty and a strong record of student success, graduates are well prepared to pursue rewarding careers as speech-language pathology assistants.
Who is this program for?
This program is ideal for students interested in speech-language pathology, education, and communication support services. It may be particularly valuable for:
- Aspiring speech-language pathology assistants
- Educational paraprofessionals seeking certification
- Career changers entering healthcare or education
- Students considering future bachelor's or graduate study in speech-language pathology
- Military-connected and veteran students seeking flexible learning formats
- Individuals interested in serving children and adults with communication disorders
Real-World Applications
The program emphasizes practical learning that prepares students for professional practice. Through supervised clinical experiences in schools, clinics, and community settings, students gain practical experience supporting the implementation of treatment plans developed by licensed speech-language pathologists.
In addition to direct service experience, students develop skills in documentation, preparation of therapy materials, and the day-to-day operations of educational and clinical environments. Coursework also includes community-based learning activities that strengthen students' understanding of communication development, language milestones, and speech-sound production. These experiences help students build the analytical, observational, and professional skills needed to effectively support individuals with communication disorders.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University integrates current trends, emerging topics, and evidence-based practices in speech-language pathology throughout the curriculum. Faculty guide students in exploring contemporary research and evolving approaches to assessment and intervention, helping them develop knowledge that reflects the profession's changing needs.
The program's fully online format provides flexibility for nontraditional students, working professionals, and learners in rural communities. Students also have opportunities to attend professional conferences, such as the Kansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (KASHA) conference, and may participate in research experiences that support continued academic and professional growth.
Hands-on Activities
The AAS in Technology and Leadership (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant) emphasizes hands-on learning through specialized coursework, clinical experiences, and community-based activities. Students develop practical skills related to the speech-language pathology assistant role, including intervention strategies, professional ethics, workplace communication, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.
Throughout the program, students engage in direct observation of treatment sessions, participate in assessment-related activities, and complete a 100-hour clinical practicum in educational, clinical, or community settings. Additional learning experiences, including phonetic transcription activities and community-based projects, help students apply classroom concepts while building the skills needed for professional practice.
What You’ll Learn:
- Speech and hearing anatomy
- Communication disorders foundations
- Phonetic transcription techniques
- Evidence-based intervention strategies
- Clinical documentation and reporting
- SLPA scope of practice
How You’ll Learn:
- Online and on-campus courses
- 100-hour supervised clinical practicum
- Community-based field observations
- Faculty-guided treatment session review
- Personalized advising and mentorship
- Applied technical writing tasks
The core curriculum provides students with foundational knowledge in speech-language pathology and communication sciences, including speech and language development, communication disorders, audiology, and intervention practices. Specialized coursework and a supervised clinical practicum prepare students for certification and employment as speech-language pathology assistants.
SLP 160: Introduction to Communication Disorders
In this course, students explore speech, language, and hearing disorders and gain an understanding of common intervention approaches used to support individuals with communication challenges.
SLP 370: Early Speech and Language Development
This course examines communication development from birth through preschool years, focusing on speech and language milestones and the cognitive and social factors that influence development.
SLP 429: Foundations and Special Skills for SLPAs
This course explores the role of the speech-language pathology assistant, including clinical support skills, professional responsibilities, ethical practice, and current approaches to speech and language intervention.
Discover the full Associate of Applied Science in Technology and Leadership (Speech-Language Pathology Assistant) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are prepared for career opportunities in educational settings, healthcare facilities, and private practices while also building a strong foundation for earning the Certified Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA) credential, meeting state licensure requirements, and pursuing continued study in communication sciences and disorders.
Sleep-Language Pathology Assistant
Speech-language pathology assistants work under the supervision of licensed speech-language pathologists to support speech and language services. They assist with therapy activities, document client progress, and help individuals build communication skills in educational, clinical, and healthcare settings.
Educational Paraprofessional in Communication Support
Educational paraprofessionals in communication support assist teachers and speech-language pathologists in supporting students' communication and language development. They help implement instructional activities, reinforce communication skills, and collaborate with educators and support staff in classroom settings.
Clinical Aide in Healthcare Settings
Clinical aides support speech-language and rehabilitation services in healthcare settings. They prepare therapy materials, document session information, and assist clinicians in supporting patient care and engagement.
Private Practice Assistant
Private practice assistants support speech-language services in private clinical settings. They assist with therapy activities, prepare treatment materials, maintain documentation, and help implement treatment plans under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,237.60* (on-campus) or $4,134.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($215.84/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (275.65/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs that complement this field of study. Additional programs related to this field include:
- B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders
- M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology
- B.S. in Nursing
- B.S. in Medical Diagnostic Imaging
- B.A./B.S. in Psychology
Students can complete this program either fully online or on campus, offering flexibility to fit a variety of schedules and learning preferences. Online students receive the same access to faculty support, academic advising, and student resources as those attending classes on campus.
The 100-hour clinical practicum is completed at approved schools, clinics, or healthcare facilities under professional supervision. Faculty work closely with each student to arrange an appropriate placement, including opportunities within the student's local community, while ensuring all practicum experiences meet program and ASHA requirements.
It includes 80 hours of supervised direct service experience and 20 hours of clinical preparation activities. Clinical preparation may include documentation, development of therapy materials, observation, and other activities that support service delivery in educational or clinical settings.
The associate degree prepares graduates for entry-level employment as speech-language pathology assistants. A master's degree is not required for SLPA positions; however, graduates who wish to become licensed speech-language pathologists may pursue additional education through bachelor's and master's degree programs.
Yes. The curriculum aligns with ASHA national certification standards and Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) requirements for SLPA licensure, preparing graduates to sit for the ASHA National Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) Certification Exam, earn the C-SLPA credential, and pursue state licensure as applicable.
Information about the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
The Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at FHSU is dedicated to preparing students to make a meaningful impact in improving the lives of others. Through applied learning and clinical experiences, both undergraduate and graduate programs equip students to become effective, compassionate collaborators in educational and healthcare settings. With a 100% career placement rate over the past three years, the department’s supportive faculty and comprehensive curriculum ensure graduates are well-prepared to succeed professionally while making a difference.
Students begin their professional development through involvement in student organizations, gain practical experience by working with clients at the Herndon Clinic, benefit from small class sizes, and participate in the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA). The programs also offer opportunities for research, faculty mentorship, and external clinical placements, preparing students for rewarding careers across a variety of healthcare environments. Graduates are highly sought after as speech-language pathologists, equipped to excel in a diverse and global society.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA): This organization holds monthly meetings and engages in service activities, including sponsoring the Ellis County Spelling Bee. Members also have opportunities to attend state and national conventions. For more information, students may contact Ms. Tara Marshall or Dr. Ran An.
- The residential Master of Science (M.S.) education program in speech-language pathology at Fort Hays State University is accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, a division of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
- Associate
- Minor
- Bachelor's
- On-Campus
- Online
