Certificate in Speech and Language Therapy

This course contains the use of artificial intelligence.

Communication affects how people learn, build relationships, express needs, participate in education, and connect with the world around them. The Certificate in Speech and Language Therapy introduces the key principles behind speech, language, voice, fluency, and communication development. Learners will examine how communication skills develop from early childhood and how different challenges may influence confidence, education, social interaction, and daily life. The course also explains the important role of observation, early recognition, supportive communication, and appropriate referral.

Speech and language needs affect a significant number of people across the United States. Approximately 1 in 14 U.S. children ages 3–17 has experienced a voice, speech, or language disorder, while around 5% of children have experienced a speech disorder. Developmental language disorder also affects approximately 1 in 14 children, showing the need for greater awareness among educators, caregivers, healthcare workers, and support professionals.

Throughout this course, learners will study typical speech and language development before examining common communication disorders. Topics include speech sound difficulties, language delays, fluency challenges, voice conditions, social communication needs, and communication differences connected with developmental or neurological conditions. Learners will also explore how age, environment, health, education, family involvement, and individual needs may influence communication. This foundation can help learners recognize when additional support or professional evaluation may be appropriate.

The course also introduces structured observation and assessment principles. Learners will examine how communication behaviors may be recorded, how information may be gathered from clients and families, and how communication strengths and areas of concern can be identified. The curriculum then moves into therapy planning, goal setting, intervention approaches, progress monitoring, and communication support strategies. These topics are presented for educational development and do not authorize learners to diagnose communication disorders or provide licensed speech-language pathology services.

Speech and language support is required across schools, hospitals, rehabilitation services, community programs, early childhood settings, and residential care. More than 17.9 million U.S. adults have reported experiencing a voice problem, while approximately 2 million people in the United States live with aphasia. The course examines communication needs across childhood, adulthood, aging, disability, neurodiversity, and different care environments.