It is the aspiration of professionals and paraprofessionals in the field of Speech-Language Pathology to positively influence the most powerful tool offered to mankind, communication. In the words of the late Maya Angelou, “Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.” 

Fayetteville Technical Community College embraced this concept and established its Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program in 1997. FTCC is proud to be one of two schools in North Carolina that continues to offer this type of program. 

A speech-language pathology assistant is a person who assists a licensed speech-language pathologist in a variety of areas, including conducting screenings, implementing therapy in the areas of receptive and expressive language, articulation, fluency, augmentative and alternative communication and oral motor skills. They also prepare materials for therapy, schedule patients for therapy and maintain files and equipment, to say the least. Students who complete the two-year competitive health program graduate with an Associate in Applied Science in Speech-Language Pathology Assisting.

When asked what sets this program apart from other health programs, a few students shared the following comments: 

“Our program is one that is designed to impact a person’s way of life — which is communication.”

“We as humans rely on communication as our driving tool for conveying detailed descriptions of our innermost thoughts and emotions.” 

“The SLPA Program works to help give those who are hampered by speech and language difficulties the chance to improve if not overcome those obstacles. It allows them the chance to gain self-confidence and stand tall when they have something to say.” 

“The SLPA Program is well put together, and the professors genuinely care about the future of their students.” 

“This program has made me feel very confident in my ability to emerge in the workforce upon graduation, and it has inspired me to further my educational journey, as well…” 

“The adviser goes above and beyond to make sure you’re educationally, professionally and clinically prepared for the program and what’s to come afterward.”

Speech-language pathology assistants are currently in high demand with career opportunities in school systems and private agencies. If you’re ready for the challenge and ready to embark on a great journey in the field of health care, we invite you to join us at FTCC. Registration is currently underway for summer classes and fall classes. FTCC not only offers a high-quality education at an affordable price, it offers opportunities to grow through leadership and community involvement with many clubs and organizations available for students. FTCC also recently completed its first year of opening up new athletics opportunities for students in the areas of basketball and golf. Your opportunities for personal growth through a great education and positive relationships are plentiful at FTCC. 

For more information on Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Program, call (910) 678-8492 or email gaineyc@faytechcc.edu.