| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Communicative Disorders Assistant program is a one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate that prepares students to support Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in various settings. The program emphasizes clinical and professional skills through hands-on field placements and a curriculum delivered by practicing clinicians. Graduates are eligible for membership with the Communicative Disorders Assistants Association of Canada and pursue careers in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private clinics.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Program Title:
Communicative Disorders Assistant
Campus:
Online Campus
Program Code:
1005
Credential:
Ontario College Graduate Certificate
Program Length:
1 Year (3 semesters)
Delivery:
Full-Time
Objectives:
- Graduates will have a comprehensive understanding of normal and abnormal communication functioning.
- Graduates will gain an introductory understanding of Applied Behaviour Analysis and its relevance in the field of communication disorders.
- Graduates will acquire the skills to apply various intervention approaches for communication disorders across diverse populations, including adults and children.
- Graduates will effectively collaborate with speech-language pathologists and audiologists in an assistive capacity, implementing recommended intervention programs.
- Graduates will demonstrate strong communication and teamwork skills, effectively collaborating with professionals in related disciplines.
- Graduates will be eligible for membership with the Communicative Disorders Assistants Association of Canada (CDAAC).
Program Description:
This program prepares students to support registered Speech-Language Pathologists or Audiologists in various service settings and with diverse populations. The program focuses on developing students' clinical and professional skills through hands-on, real-world learning experiences. The curriculum is delivered by practicing clinicians in the fields of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology, ensuring students receive practical and up-to-date knowledge. The program incorporates a dynamic and engaging teaching style, providing students with a strong theoretical foundation in the anatomical and physiological aspects of speech, language, and hearing disorders, as it relates to the daily work of a Communicative Disorders Assistant. Students complete two full-time field placements (490 hours), gaining invaluable practical experience and developing teamwork, collaboration, organization, and communication skills. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers as Communicative Disorders Assistants in various agencies, including hospitals, preschool speech and language programs, children's rehabilitation centers, stroke and brain-injury rehabilitation programs, school boards, and private speech and hearing clinics.
Outline:
Program Structure:
The program consists of three semesters, with each semester comprising a variety of courses and modules.
Semester 1:
- CDAP 100: Articulation and Phonology: This course explores the treatment of articulation, phonology, and oral-motor function disorders.
- CDAP 101: Child Language Acquisition and Related Disorders 1: This course focuses on language acquisition and related disorders in children, covering assessment, intervention techniques, and specific considerations for various populations.
- CDAP 110: Audiology 1: Introduction to Audiology: This course introduces the fundamentals of sound, the human auditory mechanism, audiological pathologies, and audiological assessment measures.
- CDAP 1000: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): This course explores AAC systems and their use for individuals with disabilities, covering various AAC systems, intervention activities, and literacy development in AAC.
- PROF 1000: Clinical and Professional Issues 1: This course introduces students to guidelines and legislation governing Speech Language Pathologists, Audiologists, and Communicative Disorders Assistants.
Semester 2:
- INTN 100: Field Placement 1: This field placement allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in clinical settings under the supervision of Speech-Language Pathologists or Audiologists.
- CDAP 301: Child Language Acquisition and Related Disorders 2: This course focuses on language disorders associated with diagnoses such as autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, and hearing impairment.
- PROF 300: Clinical and Professional Issues 2: This course covers ethical issues, current trends, service delivery models, and professional communication skills relevant to Communicative Disorders Assistants.
- REHA 1000: Adult Neurogenic Disorders and Rehabilitation: This course explores acquired neurogenic language disorders, including aphasia, dementia, and dysarthria, and their intervention approaches.
Semester 3:
- CDAP 340: Fluency and Voice Disorders: This course focuses on the treatment of voice disorders and stuttering in children and adults.
- CDAP 350: Audiology 2: Amplification Systems and Aural Rehabilitation: This course explores hearing instrument candidacy, earmolds, amplification options, hearing instrument verification, and aural rehabilitation strategies.
- INTN 200: Field Placement 2: This field placement allows students to further apply their knowledge and skills in clinical settings and build on the experience gained in INTN 100.
Assessment:
Assessment methods in the program may vary depending on the course but typically include:
- Examinations: Written exams assess students' understanding of theoretical concepts and application of knowledge.
- Assignments: Assignments may include case studies, research papers, presentations, or practical exercises.
- Clinical Performance: Students' clinical performance during field placements is assessed by supervising Speech-Language Pathologists or Audiologists.
- Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities is also considered in the overall assessment.
Teaching:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Lectures present foundational knowledge and theoretical concepts.
- Seminars: Interactive seminars encourage discussion and active learning.
- Case Studies: Analyzing real-world case studies provides students with practical application of knowledge.
- Guest Speakers: Practicing professionals share their expertise and insights with students.
- Simulation Activities: Students engage in simulated clinical scenarios to develop their skills.
- Clinical Supervision: Students receive individual and group supervision from experienced speech-language pathologists and audiologists during field placements. The program boasts a faculty composed of experienced professionals in the fields of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. The instructors are passionate about their areas of expertise and committed to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.
Careers:
Graduates of the Communicative Disorders Assistant program pursue careers in various settings, including:
- Hospitals: Assisting speech-language pathologists with patient care in inpatient and outpatient settings.
- Preschool Speech and Language Programs: Working with young children with speech and language delays or disorders.
- Children's Rehabilitation Centers: Providing support to children with a variety of communication disabilities.
- Stroke and Brain-Injury Rehabilitation Programs: Assisting individuals with communication difficulties resulting from stroke or brain injury.
- School Boards: Working with students with communication impairments in school settings.
- Private Speech and Hearing Clinics: Supporting speech-language pathologists in providing services to individuals with communication disorders. Many graduates relocate to different cities across and outside of Ontario to find employment, demonstrating the program's strong reputation and employability rate.
Other:
- The program is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum entrance requirements does not guarantee admission.
- Students are responsible for obtaining a Criminal Background Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening before starting field placements.
- The program prepares students for membership with the Communicative Disorders Assistants Association of Canada (CDAAC).
- Graduates are encouraged to pursue further education, such as a Bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology or a related field.
St. Lawrence College
Overview:
St. Lawrence College is a public college in Ontario, Canada, offering a wide range of full-time and part-time programs across its three campuses in Kingston, Brockville, and Cornwall, as well as online. The college boasts over 100 programs, including fast-track delivery, graduate certificates, and four-year degrees.
Services Offered:
St. Lawrence College provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic & Student Success:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Athletics & Recreation:
Intramural sports, fitness facilities, and recreational activities.Campus Services:
Information technology services, libraries, parking, and other essential services.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.Housing:
On-campus residence options for students.Indigenous Services:
Support and resources for Indigenous students.International Services:
Support for international students, including visa assistance and cultural adjustment programs.Student Life:
Student clubs and organizations, social events, and other activities to enhance the student experience.Student Wellness & Accessibility:
Counseling services, accessibility resources, and support for student well-being.Student Life and Campus Experience:
St. Lawrence College offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with opportunities for students to connect with their peers, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop their leadership skills. The college provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Wide Range of Programs:
St. Lawrence College offers a diverse selection of programs across various fields of study, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations.Flexible Learning Options:
Students can choose from full-time, part-time, online, and blended learning options to suit their individual needs and schedules.Industry-Relevant Curriculum:
The college's programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for success in their chosen fields.Strong Industry Partnerships:
St. Lawrence College has strong connections with local businesses and organizations, providing students with valuable internship and job placement opportunities.Supportive Campus Community:
The college fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel supported and encouraged to succeed.Academic Programs:
St. Lawrence College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts, Media & Design:
Graphic Design, Photography, Music, and more.Business:
Business Administration, Marketing, Human Resources, and more.Community and Social Services:
Social Work, Child and Youth Care, and more.Graduate Certificates:
Specialized programs for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.Health Sciences:
Nursing, Paramedicine, and more.Hospitality & Culinary:
Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, and more.Justice Studies:
Criminal Justice, Law and Security, and more.Science & Technology:
Computer Programming, Engineering Technology, and more.Skilled Trades:
Carpentry, Electrician, and more.Other:
St. Lawrence College is committed to sustainability and has been awarded a Silver designation in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System (STARS) by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). The college also has a strong focus on internationalization and welcomes students from around the world.
Entry Requirements:
Canadian Students:
Additional Requirements for All Applicants:
- Completion of the Immunization - Communicable Disease Form (mandatory for clinical/practical placement).
- Completion of SLC Placement requirements and agency-specific requirements.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English language proficiency is required for all applicants.
- International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through an English language test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Specific requirements for English language proficiency will vary depending on the applicant's country of origin and the program of study.
