Applications open for new Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Program

HANCEVILLE, Ala. — Wallace State Community College is currently accepting applications for summer admission to its new Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SPLA) program and is the only community college in the state to offer the program.

“Wallace State is proud to be the first and only community college in Alabama to offer the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program,” said Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics. “This innovative program reflects our commitment to meeting workforce needs and to providing students with opportunities for meaningful careers that make a difference in people’s lives, especially children. We are especially grateful to Mr. Rodney Green and Dr. Shane Barnette, Blount and Cullman County school superintendents, for helping to address the severe workforce shortage that impacts children’s early learning and success, and to Representative David Standridge, Representative Terri Collins, and Senator Garlan Gudger for assuring that Wallace State has the opportunity to develop the workforce to help our children succeed in school. Additionally, this SLPA program provides a clear pathway to a future career as a Speech and Language Pathologist, which is also experiencing a severe shortage in the state of Alabama.”

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants work under the direction of licensed speech-language pathologists to help individuals of all ages improve speech and communication skills. The program combines classroom learning with clinical experience to develop practical skills in therapy implementation, data collection and client interaction.

With completion of prerequisite courses, the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program can be completed in three semesters, with students earning an associate in applied science.

Graduates of the program are prepared to apply for SLPA licensure and enter the workforce in schools, rehabilitation centers and private practices. They may also choose to transfer to four-year institutions to work toward a bachelor’s degree. With strong job prospects and opportunities for advancement, Wallace State’s SLPA program provides a solid foundation for a meaningful career helping others find their voice.

"The demand for speech-language services continues to grow, and Speech-Language Pathology Assistants play a vital role in supporting licensed professionals,” said Dr. Jim Malone, Dean of Health Sciences at Wallace State. “Our program combines rigorous academic preparation with hands-on clinical experience, ensuring graduates are ready to enter the field and help individuals improve communication and quality of life."

The program’s instructor will be Chante Nelson, M.S., CCC-SLP, of Guin, a speech-language pathologist and owner Eat Talk Play Therapy in Jasper. Nelson is a graduate of the University of Alabama, earning both bachelor’s in communicative disorders and Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology.

“I’m so excited and thrilled to be a part of this program at Wallace State,” said Nelson. “I look forward to meeting all the students and hope to make an impact on their lives just like my clinical instructors made on my life.”

Applications will be accepted through April 1. Applicants should meet the minimum program admission requirements for consideration. Those include a minimum 20 ACT composite score, a minimum 2.5 GPA on general required pre-SPLA courses and other requirements. Summer classes will begin on May 26.

For more information, visit www.wallacestate.edu/speechlanguage or contact Jennifer Craig at 256.352.8307 or jennifer.craig@wallacestate.edu.

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About Wallace State

Wallace State Community College (Ala.), a member of the Alabama Community College System, is a comprehensive community college in north central Alabama offering more than 200 options in academic, health and technical programs of study leading to an associate degree, certificate or transfer, as well as workforce-credit training and adult education. An Achieving the Dream Leader College, nationally recognized by the Aspen Institute as a Rising Star for the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, ranked by Southern Business and Development among the Top 3 institutions in the South for workforce development, named a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing and the National Security Administration, rated the Top Online Community College in Alabama, a Military Friendly Institution and an All-Steinway School, Wallace State is an outstanding place for students to pursue their education and career goals. Classes are offered online and on campus, day, evening and on weekends, with numerous start dates each year. Visit Wallace State’s beautiful main campus located on 300-acres in Hanceville, Ala., our satellite location in downtown Oneonta, Ala., find us online at www.wallacestate.edu, or call 256.352.8000.