Graduate Certificate - Communicative Disorders Assistant (CODA) at Georgian College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-05-27

Program overview

Program Overview

The Communicative Disorders Assistant program at Georgian College is designed for those passionate about helping others communicate effectively. This Ontario College Graduate Certificate program focuses on the study of physiological and functional speech, language, and hearing disorders. Students will learn various techniques to assist individuals in overcoming communication challenges. A key feature of the program is the on-site clinic, which provides hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Program Structure

The Communicative Disorders Assistant program is structured to be completed in 1 year of full-time study. The program is delivered in person, ensuring that students receive direct interaction with faculty and peers. Key components of the program structure include:

Hands-on experience through an on-site speech, hearing, and language clinic.
Field placement opportunities to gain practical experience in relevant settings.
Completion of clinic rotations during both fall and summer semesters.
Focus on developing programming skills and intervention techniques.

Students will engage in a variety of learning experiences, including clinical placements that enhance their understanding of communication disorders and prepare them for future employment in the field.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on learning in the Harmonize for Speech, Hearing and Language Clinic, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment.
Completion of 56 hours of clinic placements and 490 hours in two separate seven-week field practicum placements.
Opportunity to observe and participate in speech-language and audiological treatment sessions.
Field placement component that allows students to gain experience in real-world settings relevant to their studies.
Experienced faculty members who provide guidance and support throughout the program.

Career Options

Graduates of the Communicative Disorders Assistant program have a variety of career opportunities available to them in Canada. Potential job roles include:

Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Support speech-language pathologists in implementing therapy plans and conducting assessments.
Audiology Assistant: Assist audiologists in conducting hearing tests and managing patient care.
Communication Support Worker: Provide support to individuals with complex communication needs in various settings.
Clinical Assistant: Work in hospitals or clinics, assisting with patient care and administrative tasks related to communication disorders.
Educational Assistant: Support students with communication challenges in educational settings, helping them to engage and succeed in their learning.

These roles allow graduates to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals with communication disorders, providing essential support and assistance in their daily lives.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Georgian College official website

Last updated on 2025-05-27

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Communicative Disorders Assistant program at Georgian College, prospective students must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Completion of an Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Degree, or equivalent with a specialty in communication disorders, linguistics, human anatomy and physiology, social sciences, or human services curricula.
Applicants with a diploma or degree outside the specialty listed above will be considered if they have volunteer and/or work experience in a clinical setting with a speech-language pathologist, audiologist, and/or communicative disorders assistant.
This is a highly competitive program. Applicants will be assessed and ranked based on academic grades. The overall minimum GPA is determined annually.

In addition to the academic requirements, students must fulfill the following prerequisites:

Proof of completed TB screening and vulnerable sector screening prior to the commencement of client contact.
Proof of a current standard First Aid, C.P.R. BLS certification, and verification of immunization as outlined on the clinical preparedness permit before the start of semester 2.
Some clinical placements may require updated flu shots, Hepatitis B vaccination, and a Vulnerable Sector Screening Police Record Check, including a check of the Pardoned Sex Offender Database.

It is important to note that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all requirements and deadlines.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

At Georgian College, the language of instruction is English. Therefore, all applicants whose first language is not English, or who come from countries where English is not an official language, must provide proof of English language proficiency.

Applicants must meet ONE of the following criteria to satisfy Georgian’s language proficiency requirements:

Must have completed three full years of study at the secondary school (high school) level in English in a country where English is a primary language.
Must have completed one full year of study in an accredited postsecondary program in English in a country where English is a primary language.
Must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or Canadian provincial equivalent) and English credit (Grade 12 U, M or C) issued by a public or Catholic school board.
Provide proof of graduation from one of the authorized Georgian College partner school pathway programs.
Must have completed three years of study at a secondary private school in Ontario and received an Ontario Secondary School Diploma and English credit (Grade 12 U, M or C).

Acceptable language tests include:

Examinations	Graduate certificate
Duolingo Language Test	130
TOEFL internet-based test (IBT)	89
IELTS Academic only	6.5
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)/CAEL Online	60*
Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE)	61
Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE)	175

Note: English language tests older than two years will not be considered. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!