Program Quick Facts
C-SLPA Certification Ready
Meet educational requirements for Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA) certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
100% Online
Flexible, online classes make it easier to reach your goals while balancing work and family life.
Affordable Tuition
NMSU Global Campus offers competitively priced tuition and scholarship opportunities.
An Alternative Path Toward Graduate Study and Certification
The online Graduate Certificate in Communication Disorders at NMSU Global Campus is designed for individuals ready to take the next step toward a career in speech-language pathology or audiology. It’s an ideal option for those who lack the academic background required for graduate study and are seeking a purposeful path into this growing and rewarding field.
Through this pre-master’s certificate, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge typically covered in an undergraduate communication disorders program — preparing you for admission to a master’s program and/or for certification as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA) through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Courses are taught by expert faculty with diverse clinical and research experience and a shared commitment to student success, providing the support you need to advance with confidence.
Apply NowCareer Pathways in Communication Sciences and Disorders
Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Communication Disorders from NMSU Global Campus are prepared to pursue advanced study or begin working in support roles within the field of speech-language pathology or audiology.
With foundational coursework aligned to industry standards, students can explore a variety of professional opportunities in clinical, educational, and healthcare settings. Many go on to earn a master’s degree, while others use this certificate to qualify for certifications in their state.
Here is a sampling of your professional career options:
- Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA)
- Apprentice in Speech-Language (ASL)
- Classroom Assistant
- Communication Aide
- Early Intervention Specialist
- Rehabilitation Assistant
“During my research, I saw how affordable it was for out-of-state students. For those that have family or full-time jobs, NMSU Global Campus is the only place to go.”
Raven A., Class of 2023
The online pre-master’s Graduate Certificate in Communication Disorders offers a comprehensive foundation in the core areas of human communication, preparing students to support individuals with speech, language, and hearing challenges — and work confidently in healthcare, educational, or community settings.
Through the thoughtfully designed curriculum, you’ll explore the biological, developmental, and clinical aspects of communication across the lifespan.
What you’ll learn:
- How the brain, body, and environment influence speech, language, and hearing.
- Typical and disordered patterns of communication across different stages of life.
- Strategies for assessing and supporting individuals with communication disorders.
- Fundamentals of audiology and hearing rehabilitation.
- Clinical methods used to assist licensed professionals in real-world settings.
This certificate fulfills educational requirements for admission to graduate programs in communication disorders. It also meets the coursework requirements for certification as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA) through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). If you’re seeking New Mexico licensure as an Apprentice in Speech-Language (ASL), you can review requirements on the New Mexico Regulations & Licensing Department website.
Delivery Format: 100% online
Program Credits: 30 credits
Program Length: 1-2 years
Cost Per Credit Hour: $444.40*
Active Military Cost Per Credit Hour: $250*
College: Health, Education, and Social Transformation
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The online Graduate Certificate in Communication Disorders consists of 30 credits of required courses designed to give you a strong, well-rounded foundation in the field. This coursework-only program requires no practicum or thesis, and allows you to transfer up to 15 credits that align with program requirements and carry a grade of B or better.
| Sample Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| SPHS 4610: Language Acquisition | 3 |
| SPHS 4710: Speech Disorders Across the Lifespan | 3 |
| SPHS 4715: Language Disorders Across the Life Span | 3 |
| SPHS 4810: Clinical Methods and Procedures | 3 |
| SPHS 4830: Aural Rehabilitation | 3 |
Admission Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in a field other than communication disorders from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in undergraduate coursework
- Letter of interest
- Resume or CV
- Two letters of recommendation
At NMSU Global Campus, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU and NMSU Global Campus students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: globalFA@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.
*Terms and conditions apply.
**For NMSU Global Campus programs and courses, the per credit hour cost is listed above. Special tuition agreements (Western Undergraduate Exchange, Descubre, etc.) are not applicable to NMSU Global Campus programs. Course fees still apply and are charged separately. Textbooks, uniforms, equipment, etc., are additional program costs. Additional per credit costs might be charged by the program, department or college.
***In addition to standard NMSU tuition cost per credit hour, there is an additional tuition differential of $39 per credit hour for engineering courses.