Speech pathology assistant

[ohdeerme]

Im in the process of getting my undergrad in communication disorders this upcoming fall. However i am unsure whether i should A) get my certification to become an SLPA or B] continue on with grad school after getting my BA. Are SLPA's generally needed? Or would getting certified be considered a waste of time..I also wanted to know if SLPA predominantly work in school settings? Any advice appreciated!

Edited September 2, 2015 by ohdeerme

[mr479]

Waste of time. Won't make you a more competitive applicant. Don't do it. 

[ohdeerme]

generally speaking, my area (ventura county) is in need of SLPA'S. my train of thought was: get certified to be an slpa to make a little bit more money that I would need to attend grad school. any school in California is ridiculously expensive, so I thought this would give me time to acquire a little bit more money. I have every intention of pursuing grad school, just maybe not right away.

[twinguy7]

Experience in the field is valuable to some schools.  I'd say it is worth it.  Another avenue is to apply to be a full fledged SLP in California.  The school districts can hire you and get you a credential waiver for a year.  You will be an actual SLP for a year which would be even better experience than an SLPA.

[Crimson Wife]

Don't do it in lieu of going to grad school, but it's a decent Plan B in case you don't get in.

[dalyx25]

I agree. I would apply for graduate school and keep the SLPA as an option. In NYC slpas don't even exist. Once you're in grad school, you'll be officially on the road to becoming a licensed speech language pathologist . Always nice to keep your options open though.