The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) prepares students to work with speech and language disordered adults and children, including those from cultural and linguistically diverse populations. A speech-language pathology assistant works under the direct supervision of Alaska licensed, American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) certified speech-language pathologists to provide clerical support, administer speech, language and hearing screenings, assist in communication assessments, provide speech and language therapy services, and assist with documentation of such services.
Licensure and/or Certification
Successful completion of the program provides students with eligibility to sit for the American Speech-Language Hearing Association's Certification Exam for SLPA's and to apply for Alaska state licensure.
This program is designed to meet the educational requirements for professional licensure or certification in the State of Alaska. However, the program might not meet the educational requirements for professional licensure or certification in other states. Please see UAA’s Licensure and Certification website for more information.
Admission Requirements
- Complete the Admission Requirements for Associate Degrees.
Graduation Requirements
- Complete the General University Requirements for Associate Degrees.
- Complete the General Education Requirements for Associate of Applied Science Degrees.
- Complete the following major requirements with a minimum grade of C:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ANTH A200 | Alaska Native Cultures | 3 |
| BIOL A111 & A111L | Human Anatomy and Physiology I and Human Anatomy and Physiology I Lab | 4 |
| CSD A104 | Speech and Language Development for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 3 |
| CSD A105 | Phonetics for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants | 2 |
| CSD A106 | Anatomy & Physiology of Speech & Hearing for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 2 |
| CSD A201 | Foundations of Communication Disorders | 3 |
| CSD A211 | Speech Disorders and Intervention for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 3 |
| CSD A212 | Language Disorders and Intervention for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 3 |
| CSD A213 | Clinical Methods, Documentation and Professional Issues for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 2 |
| CSD A220 | Communication Disorders in Low Incidence Populations for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 2 |
| CSD A221 | Assistive & Augmentative Communication for the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant | 2 |
| CSD A295 | Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Practicum 1 | 3 |
| MATH A104 | Technical Mathematics 2 | 3 |
| PSY A111 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| PSY A150 | Lifespan Development | 3 |
| Complete at least 9 credits from the following: | 9 | |
| Anatomy and Physiology of Speech and Hearing 3 | ||
| Phonetics 3 | ||
| Language Development Across the Lifespan 3 | ||
| Introduction to the Field of Early Childhood Education | ||
| Child Development and Learning | ||
| Breaking Trail on Your Health and Social Services Career | ||
| Introduction to Population Health Sciences | ||
| Medical Terminology | ||
| Elementary Statistics | ||
| Diversity, Equity and Inclusion through Community Service Learning | ||
| Total | 50 | |
- 1
CSD A295 must be taken twice in 2 different settings for a total of 6 credits.
- 2
Or any MATH class that also satisfies the AAS Quantitative Skills GER.
- 3
For students pursuing a baccalaureate degree, this course meets the requirement for the Minor in Speech-Language Pathology.
A minimum of 60 credits is required for the degree.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Students graduating with an Associate of Applied Science in Speech- Language Pathology Assistant will be able to:
- Accurately select and administer screening instruments and calculations, taking cultural-linguistic factors into account, and report results to the Alaska licensed SLP
- Effectively assist an Alaska licensed SLP with regard to establishing and sustaining a culturally responsive environment for screening and intervention
- Comply with the Code of Ethics of the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and the Statutes and Regulations of the State of Alaska professional license for SLPAs
- Demonstrate intermediate to advanced skills performing as a speech language pathology assistant by following documented treatment plans, assisting a speech language pathologist in service delivery, accurately documenting client performance, accurately recording data and preparing materials, demonstrating appropriate written and oral communication, interpersonal skills, ethical behaviors and health and safety precautions