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Speech Language Pathology Paraprofessional

Program Description

An Associate in Applied Science in Speech-Language Pathology Paraprofessional was launched in 2004 to address the critical shortage of SLPP in school settings. The curriculum was designed with assistance from the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, and the faculty of the Communication Disorder Department of Minot State University.

This career choice is for people who possess good communication skills, are patient, can follow directions, have good observation skills, and like working with children in a school setting. A growing, exciting profession, Speech-Language Pathology Paraprofessionals (SLPP) are in very high demand. SPLPs work one-on-one and in groups with children and adults in clinics and in school settings, to enhance communication skills.

An additional application for admission into the SLPP program is required and due by November 1st of each year.

A Speech-Language Paraprofessional performs the following services:

  • screen without interpretation following specified protocols
  • perform established tasks
  • document student progress
  • prepare materials
  • maintain equipment and more

Program Curriculum

Program Prerequisites
BIOL 115 Human Structure and Function with Lab 4
CD 110 Survey of Communication Disorders 3
CSCI 101 Introduction to Computers 3
ENGL 110 College Composition I 3
Program Curriculum  
CD 210 Introduction to Speech-Language Pathology Paraprofessionals 3
CD 220 Applied Phonetics for the SLPP 3
CD 221 Language Theory and Treatment for the SLPP 3
CD 222 Articulatory Phonological Disorders for the SLPP 3
CD 224 Techniques for the SLPP 3
CD 225 Language Disorders and Intervention for SLPP 3
CD 241 Practicum (minimum 100 hours) 4
COMM 110 Fundamentals of Public Speaking 3
ENGL 120 College Composition II 3
PSYC 111 Introduction to Psychology 3
PSYC 250 Developmental Psychology 3
SOC 110 Introduction to Sociology 3
SPED 110 Introduction to Exceptional Children** 3
SPED 120 Introduction to Behavior Management** 3
General Education Physical Education (HPER/University 101) 2
MATH MATH 100 or higher 3
TOTAL AAS CREDITS 61

Apply for SLPP

Application Deadline: November 1st

  1. Students are accepted to this program, annually, after meeting LRSC admission requirements and program application guidelines.
  2. Letter of application (typed, double-spaced, one to two pages) including the following:
    • Reason(s) for applying to the program
    • Work experience
    • Brief biographical sketch
  3. Two letters of reference. Employers and teachers are preferred. Letters should be sent directly from the reference to the program coordinator.
  4. Completed Admission File. This includes: copies of your high school and/or college transcripts and assessment scores. Transcripts must be on file in the Admissions Office at Lake Region State College by the application deadline. See your “To-Do List” in the Student Center of Campus Connection for details.
  5. Completion of the grade sheet indicating the grade earned. Current grades (midterm or later) are acceptable if currently enrolled in courses. An email from the instructor to the program coordinator is acceptable.
  6. An overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 in the required support courses:
    • ENGL 110 – College Composition I
    • BIOL 115 - Human Structure & Function
    • CD 110 – Survey of Communication Disorders
    • CSCI 101 – Introduction to Computers

*NOTE: A higher level anatomy course may substitute for BIOL 115. 

Application Packet available upon request from the LRSC Admissions Office or from the program coordinator. 

Faculty

Thomas Linares
Thomas.Linares@lrsc.edu 
Mikala Schmitz
Mikala.Schmitz@lrsc.edu

Advising

Andy Wakeford, SLPP Program Coordinator
Andy.Wakeford@lrsc.edu