Dear Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board,

We, the undersigned, are writing to request that students who complete a post-baccalaureate (prep programs) in SLP qualify to apply for SLPA programs in the state of California.

There is a high demand for Speech-Language Pathologists and Speech-Language Pathology Assistants in the United States. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the speech-language pathology profession is projected to grow 21% over the 2021–2031 decade—much faster than the average (5%) for all occupations. This growth translates to 34,000 new SLP jobs over the course of 10 years.

Given this high demand and the limited number of SLP MS programs, it should be that any student with coursework and qualifications to enter the workforce as Speech-Language Pathology Assistants should be eligible to apply for a SLPA program. This will not only benefit the students but also help address the growing need for qualified professionals in this field.

With a prep certificate in SLP, the job outcomes are extremely limited. While a bachelor's in science in SLP will allow for SLPA program, the prep programs do not allow for SLPA. The only option for SLP prep students is to apply for master's programs which are highly competitive. There should be another option. Students preparing for bachelor's degrees are preparing for the master's in SLP and the prep program students are doing the same, they should be eligible for SLPA just like the BS students. Technically, prep program students have done more schooling, holding a BS degree and three additional semesters.

We urge you to consider our request and take immediate action to ensure that students who complete SLP prep programs are qualified to apply to SLPA programs in this state.

Sincerely,
Jessica Beck

SLP Prep Cohort 15

CSU San Marcos