Communication disorders can arise in childhood, manifest in adulthood, or be caused by trauma. Students in this certificate program will explore the broad scope of history, etiology, anatomy, physiology, and clinical skills pertaining to the role of Speech-Language Pathology Assistant.
This program, presented in conjunction with the College of Health Professions, offers classes in Speech-Language Pathology Assistance (SLPA) completely online. The SLPA certificate meets the minimum technical coursework requirements recommended by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Students must recognize that an academic certificate awarded by NAU following completion of required academic credits is not a license to practice as a speech language pathologist-assistant.
A certificate focuses on practical training and workforce skill development in a particular field.
To receive an undergraduate certificate of 12 or more units at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject matter areas with a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. Approximately 75 percent of the credits must be earned through coursework at NAU (specific unit requirements may be found in the Details Tab).
Federal financial aid may not be available for certain certificates when they are completed as standalone programs (i.e., not pursued at the same time as a degree). Refer to the 'Details' tab for more information.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 30 |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
Purpose Statement
The overall purpose of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Undergraduate Certificate is to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills that will prepare them to work under the supervision of a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in the screening and treatment of communication disorders. Courses provide students with a foundational knowledge of the role of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) in the screening and treatment of communication disorders. Courses provide instruction in the development of communication in children, phonetics, professionalism, ethics, scope of practice for the SLPA, methods of screening for speech, language, and hearing disorders and in following written protocols designed to remediate individual communication disorders.
Completion of the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Undergraduate Certificate is not a license to practice as a SLPA. However, students who complete the certificate will have the necessary coursework to complete clinical practicum experiences and apply for a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant license in Arizona as well as other states where licensing is available. Licensing requirements vary by state.
Student Learning Outcomes
Take the following 30 units:
This certificate may be pursued and completed concurrently with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. Under both circumstances, federal financial aid can be used for this certificate.
Students enrolled in this certificate may not enroll in or pursue the following:
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.