Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Hours: 12-24 On-Campus Online
About
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) work under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists, actively participating in patient treatment and providing essential support in various clinical and educational settings. Students pursuing the Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant focus on communication sciences and disorders, preparing to collaborate effectively with licensed professionals. This certificate offers pathways to educational, healthcare, and private clinical careers.
The Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant covers foundational topics, including language disorders, speech sound disorders, and clinical intervention methods. Students may complete the certificate in as little as 18 months, depending on prior education and state requirements. Applicants must hold an associate’s degree to enroll in the certificate.
The certificate can be integrated within the B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders program with guidance from professional advisors. Individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field may pursue a second one by completing the certificate alongside their existing degree. A Certificate-Only Non-Degree Seeking option is available for those who wish to focus exclusively on SLPA coursework without enrolling in a full degree program. FHSU does not offer an associate’s degree in communication sciences and disorders.
Why pursue a Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University is proud to offer the only SLPA program in Kansas and one of the few online SLPA certificates available nationwide. This flexible online format allows students to pursue SLPA certification while balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
Who is this program for?
This certificate is designed for individuals from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. It offers flexibility for those pursuing or holding a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders, as well as individuals with degrees in other fields. The coursework benefits a wide range of learners, particularly those in the following areas:
- Second-career seekers
- Students with an interest in hearing sciences
- Paraprofessionals in education or healthcare
- Support personnel in speech-language pathology clinics
Real-World Applications
The Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant emphasizes practical experience, offering clinical practicum opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced Speech-Language Pathologists. Upon completing the certificate, students may take the National Assistants Certification Exam administered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Passing this exam awards the C-SLPA credential, a nationally recognized certification that enhances career opportunities as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA).
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University recognizes the vital importance of evidence-based practice in effective communication therapy. The certificate is thoughtfully designed to integrate the latest advancements and trends, ensuring students gain current and relevant knowledge and skills. They are trained to critically evaluate research and apply the most recent findings within their SLPA coursework. Instruction is provided by experienced faculty who actively engage in research, keeping students informed of emerging developments in the field.
Hands-on Activities
This certificate emphasizes practical, hands-on experience to prepare students for immediate entry into the field. Students complete at least 80 hours of direct service delivery under the supervision of certified Speech-Language Pathologists, gaining valuable real-world experience. In addition, up to 20 hours of clinical preparation or indirect experiences provide a well-rounded understanding of the profession. For national SLPA certification, students must complete 100 hours of clinical experience, including 25 hours of observation.
What You’ll Learn:
- Specialization in communication sciences and disorders
- All the essential topics, like language and speech disorders
- Preparation for the National Speech-Language Pathology Assistants Certification Exam
- Critical analysis and using evidence-based practices
- Application of therapy techniques for diverse populations
How You’ll Learn:
- Blending studies with personal and professional commitments.
- Clinical practicum with real-world application
- Consistent updates with advanced research and trends
- Experienced faculty for guidance
The Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant is a standalone credential requiring 12 credit hours (excluding prerequisites for students without or not pursuing a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders). The certificate emphasizes clinical observation and understanding the roles and responsibilities of speech-language pathologists, and includes practicum opportunities to complete the 100 clinical hours required for national SLPA certification. Students may pursue the certificate independently through a leveling or second-degree option or integrate it into a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
SLP 428: Clinical Observation and Application
This course provides an overview of the profession and the assistant's certification process. Students will discuss information regarding the scope of practice and conduct of the Speech-Language Pathologist and Speech-Language Pathology Assistant in the treatment process in various settings. Students will participate in guided therapy sessions, observe clients of different ages with various communication disorders, and gain valuable experience observing and recognizing essential qualities for successful therapy.
SLP 429: Seminar/ Special Topics for the SLPA
This course will cover the role of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) in the workplace, including necessary clinical interventions and related technical skills. Supervision, ethics, and professional practice of the SLPA will be specifically addressed, as well as current topics/research related to best practices in understanding speech/language disorders and interventions.
SLP 490: Clinical Experience Practicum
Students will provide clinical services under the supervision of an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist. Clinical services will follow ASHA’s Scope of Practice for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPA).
Discover the full Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete the certificate gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue diverse career paths within speech-language pathology, positioning them to meet the growing demand for qualified professionals in this vital healthcare field.
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) work under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to provide comprehensive speech and language services across the lifespan. Their responsibilities include assisting with assessments, implementing treatment plans, and supporting therapy sessions.
Certified Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)
Certified Speech-Language Pathologists independently assess, diagnose, and treat speech and language disorders across various settings, including schools, hospitals, and private practices. Students completing the certificate may choose to further their education to pursue this professional role.
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 $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/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 online SLPA programs, allowing students to complete their coursework from the convenience of home. Some related areas of study include:
To become a licensed Speech-Language Pathology Assistant, you need an SLPA certificate. Depending on your state requirements, students could become certified speech-language pathology assistants after completing the required courses for the Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant.
Clinical experiences and clock hours can be obtained for both in-person and online students. For on-campus students, clinical experiences will be provided in the local community with FHSU faculty or community-based Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) providing appropriate supervision. For online students, FHSU will work with the students to build relationships with the school (and other appropriate settings) and community SLPs, so that students can complete their clinical experience within their home community. This flexible approach will provide an opportunity for students who want to further their education and careers, but cannot leave their current jobs or places of residence.
The certificate itself consists of a minimum of 12 credit hours focused on providing you with clinical observation hours, information about the roles and responsibilities of SLPAs, and practicum opportunities designed to help you earn the 100 hours required for national certification as an SLPA. The certificate can be embedded into your bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders or added on through a leveling/certificate or a 2nd-degree program.
No, you don’t need to complete all required courses for a bachelor's degree. Suppose you want to take the courses necessary for the Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant and to be eligible to apply for national certification. In that case, you need 12 hours of core CSD courses as required by ASHA and 12 hours of clinical preparation courses to meet the clinical experience criteria for the SLPA certificate.
Suppose you are interested in a 2nd degree plus SLPA certification. In that case, you must complete the 21 core credit hours, the 12 clinical preparation hours, and any required cognates not previously earned, such as Statistics or Biology. A second degree can typically be earned with approximately 30 hours; individual plans may vary depending on the hours already obtained.
For more information about the Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant and its requirements, please get in touch with Dr. Kaylan Evans.
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.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
