Graduate Certificate in Augmentative and Alternative Communication

This graduate-level certificate is designed to prepare highly qualified professionals to provide Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) services for children, youth and adults with complex communication needs (CCN) in school and community settings within the context of an interdisciplinary team. Through participation in coursework that includes concurrent field experiences, candidates will acquire a working knowledge of best practice in assessment and intervention to support communication through the application of AAC systems for children, youth and adults to access learning, socialization and vocational opportunities in society. 

Admission to the Program

SF State students currently enrolled in graduate programs in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Special Education, or a related field may apply in the first semester of graduate enrollment or thereafter. To apply for the Graduate Certificate Augmentative and Alternative Communication, enrolled graduate students should contact their degree advisor and complete the Certificate Admissions Application.

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Assessment: Demonstrate culturally and linguistically affirming/inclusive AAC assessment.
  2. Language and Literacy: Demonstrate culturally and linguistically affirming/inclusive AAC interventions in support of language and literacy skills.
  3. Access to General Education: Demonstrate application of AAC systems for students to access the general education curriculum (culturally/linguistically inclusive general education).
  4. Collaboration and Professionalism: Demonstrate professional collaboration with the school team, families, and community members to advance AAC practices to benefit all students.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Graduate Certificate – 9 units minimum

Core (6 units)

SLHS 764Evidence-Based Practice in Augmentative and Alternative Communication3
SLHS 765Augmentative and Alternative Communication in the Schools3

Fieldwork (3 units minimum)

Select one in consultation with an advisor:

SLHS Students
SLHS 880
& SLHS 713		Advanced Communication Therapy
and Seminar in Therapy		3
SLHS 881Interprofessional Internship in Alternative and Augmentative Communication3
SLHS 882Advanced Internship6
SPED Students
SPED 730Student Teaching: Special Education9
SPED 731Special Education Field Experience3
SPED 821Advanced Fieldwork with Students with Extensive Support Needs3