Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Effective July 1, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is implementing a new license for Speech-Language Pathology Assistants. per the requirements of Minnesota Statutes, sections 148.511 to 148.5196.
What is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant?
A Speech-Language Pathology Assistant is a licensed person who meets the qualifications under Minnesota Statutes, section 148.5181 and provides speech-language pathology services under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist.
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant licensure requirements
To qualify for licensure as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant in Minnesota, individuals must meet all the requirements.
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Submit a completed application and all required fees.
- Submit to a criminal background check.
- Provide a transcript demonstrating completion of one of the following education and training requirements, as outlined in Minnesota Statutes, section 148.5181.
- An associate degree from a speech-language pathology assistant program that is:
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, or its equivalent as approved by the commissioner AND
- Completion of at least 100 hours of supervised field work experience in speech-language pathology assisting.
- A bachelor's degree in the discipline of communication sciences or disorders and a speech-language pathology assistant certificate program that includes:
- Completion of coursework in an introduction to speech-language pathology assisting, adult communication disorders and treatment, speech sound disorders, and language disorders.
- Completion of at least 100 hours of supervised field work experience in speech-language pathology assisting.
- Submit a signed waiver authorizing the commissioner to obtain access to the applicant's records.
Supervision and practice
Speech-Language Pathology Assistants must practice under the supervision of a Minnesota licensed speech-language pathologist, and supervision must meet requirements set by statute, including minimum contact hours, documentation, and scope limitations.
License renewal and continuing education
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant licenses must be renewed every two years. Continuing education is required to maintain active licensure.
How do I apply for a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant license?
Please visit the Minnesota Department of Health Licensing System, Speech-Language Pathology Assistant.
Need help? Tutorials for common tasks are available on the Minnesota Department of Health Licensing System Help page.
If you have questions about the new credential, please contact us at health.slpa@state.mn.us or 651-201-4200.