Program Title
Speech Language Pathology Assistant Advanced Placement
TOPs Code
Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (122000)
Projected Start Date
2018-06-01
Program Description
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.
Program Learning Outcomes
1. The certificate completer provides 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. The certificate completer provides 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. The certificate completer meets 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. The certificate completer demonstrates 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.
Special Admissions
In order to be eligible for admission to the SLPA program with Advanced Placement
Status the student must:
• Be admitted to San Joaquin Delta College, in good standing with no holds on college records.
• Students must have completed a BA/BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders or Speech Language Pathology with a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Complete all health and safety requirements necessary for admission to clinical practice sites (detailed instructions will be provided in the SLPA Information Packet for those accepted) including:
a. Background Clearance for criminal history
b. Physical Exam
c. Immunizations, TB, and hepatitis and other disease screening
d. Drug Screen
e. Professional Liability Insurance
f. HIPPA Training
Enrollment Completer Projections
An estimated 10 certificate completers are expected annually once the program is active.