The new licensing requirement represents a major step forward in establishing professional standards and ensuring quality care for Minnesotans receiving speech-language pathology services. All current and prospective SLPAs must now obtain state licensure to practice legally in Minnesota.

ATCC's Role in Advancing Professional Standards

Alexandria Technical and Community College has played a pivotal role in both establishing SLPA education in Minnesota and advocating for professional licensure. As the state's only Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program, ATCC's fully online format serves students throughout Minnesota and across the United States.

The college's journey toward this licensure milestone began in 2012 when ATCC received approval from Minnesota Higher Education to develop the state's first online SLPA program. The inaugural class started in 2013, marking the beginning of formal SLPA education in Minnesota.

Recognizing the importance of professional recognition and standardization, ATCC and the Minnesota Speech Hearing Association began lobbying for SLPA licensure in 2014, just one year after launching the program. This collaborative advocacy effort, led in part by ATCC instructor Nancy Thul, spanned over a decade of dedicated work to establish professional standards for the field.

The program expanded in 2015 with the addition of a certificate option. The advocacy efforts achieved initial success in May 2024 when legislation was passed to license SLPAs working in medical settings, followed by comprehensive legislation in June 2025 that extended licensing requirements to all practice settings and established "SLPA" as a protected title in Minnesota.

ATCC Graduates Well-Positioned for Transition

ATCC Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program graduates are uniquely positioned to navigate this transition successfully. The college's associate degree program already meets all educational requirements outlined in the new state statute, including the required 100+ hours of supervised fieldwork experience.

"Our graduates should feel confident that their education has thoroughly prepared them for this professional milestone," said ATCC program officials. "The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training they received through our accredited program aligns perfectly with the state's new licensing standards."

Once licensed, SLPAs must renew their license every two years and complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credential. Licensed assistants will continue to work under the supervision of Minnesota-licensed speech-language pathologists.

Professional Impact

This licensing requirement represents the culmination of over a decade of advocacy work and establishes "SLPA" as a protected title in Minnesota, providing important professional recognition while ensuring all practitioners meet rigorous educational standards.

Current practitioners and recent graduates are encouraged to begin the licensing process immediately, as the requirement is already in effect.

How to Apply: Click here. Or visit the Minnesota Department of Health Licensing System and search for "Speech-Language Pathology Assistant" to begin your application.

Need Help?

• Online tutorials: Available on the MDH Licensing System Help page
• Questions about the credential: Contact health.slpa@state.mn.us or 651-201-4200
• Additional information available in the latest MN Dept. of Education bulletin https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNMDE/bulletins/3e88e62?reqfrom=share
• Visit http://www.alextech.edu/programs/slpa for more information about the program and requirements