The Certificate of Clinical Competence for Speech-Language-Pathologists (CCC-SLP) is the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA) certification for speech-language pathologists. The certification is used to set the licensure requirements for speech-language pathologists in most states. Holders of the CCC-SLP have demonstrated knowledge and competency to fulfill an independent speech-language pathologist’s role successfully.
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CCC-SLP for Speech-Language Pathologists
Speech-language pathologists assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Some work in schools, while others work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.
To help increase opportunities for employment, mobility, career advancement, and professional credibility, future speech-language pathologists may want to earn their CCC-SLP. It’s recognized by nearly every state’s regulatory agency. Plus, it builds trust with consumers, clients, health care professionals, employers, state licensure boards, and third-party payers—participating in the continuous professional development means that holders of the CCC-SLP keep up with the rapid changes in the speech-language pathologist scope of practice.
The first step in getting the ASHA CCC-SLP is to complete at least a master’s degree. Although these speech pathology master’s programs do not require a particular undergraduate degree for admission, certain courses must be taken before entering a program. Required courses vary by institution.
According to the BLS, all states regulate speech-language pathologist competence. Though requirements vary by state, most of them will require a speech-language pathologist to be licensed. Licensure typically requires at least a master’s degree from an accredited program, supervised clinical experience, and passing an exam, as well as completion of a clinical fellowship and other additional state requirements.
Certification typically satisfies some or all of the requirements for state licensure and may be required by some states as well as employers. To earn CCC-SLP certification, candidates must graduate from an accredited program, pass an exam, and complete a fellowship under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist.
Who Sets the Certificate of Clinical Competence for Speech Pathologists?
Speech-language pathologists who are members of the ASHA’s Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (CFCC) set the standards for the certificate of clinical competence for speech-language pathologists. This group defines the competence standards for clinical certification and applies those standards to anyone applying for the CCC-SLP.
The ASHA CFCC consists of 15 voting members from the public and professional communities. This council is intentionally formed with the following proportionate membership requirement:
- At least five people hold a certificate of clinical competence in audiology.
- A minimum of five people hold a certificate of clinical competence in speech-language pathology.
- At least four members should be practitioners outside of an academic setting, two speech-language pathologists, and two audiologists.
- The council also includes at least two people who are certified in two different specialties.
- And finally, two members from the public.
Additionally, there are non-voting members of this group. This includes two student members (one studying audiology and the other studying speech-language pathology), an ex officio member from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), and a national office ex officio member, and the commitment term is four years. All members, with the exception of the public members and two ex officio members, must hold current ASHA certification in the appropriate areas.
Explore These CCC-SLP Topics
- What is a CCC-SLP, and Why Does it Matter: Learn more about the CCC-SLP and why it may be a beneficial certification to earn. From career advancement to mentorship opportunities, the CCC-SLP has many potential benefits.
- CCC-SLP Requirements: Find detailed information about CCC-SLP education, clinical experience and exam requirements. This guide also provides a step-by-step overview of how to become a CCC-SLP and lists states that require the certification for licensure.
- CCC-SLP Salary and Career Outlook: Discover CCC-SLP salaries and potential career paths based on the setting you’d like to work in. If you’re interested in a specific area of speech pathology, such as fluency disorders or child language, there may be an advanced CCC-SLP certification available—read about advanced certifications here.
Information last updated September 2020
Sponsored Online Speech Pathology Programs
Online MS: Pursue SLP Certification. Study FT/PT
Speech@Emerson enables you to earn an MS online and pursue SLP certification in as few as 20 mos. Learn the same curriculum as the on-campus program. Study FT or PT.
- Prepares you to pursue certification as an SLP generalist
- In-person clinical placements at faculty-approved partner sites
- As few as 20 months to complete
SPONSORED
Want to Become an SLP? Earn an MS Online at NYU
NYU Steinhardt’s online master of science program in Communicative Sciences and Disorders prepares aspiring speech-language pathologists with a comprehensive professional education.
- Prepares students to pursue SLP licensure
- Accredited by ASHA’s Council on Academic Accreditation
- As few as six terms to complete
- Full-time and part-time plans of study
SPONSORED