Overview
The CAA of ASHA
The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), the semi-autonomous accrediting arm of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), is the sole accreditor of U.S. graduate programs in these two fields. It accredits the clinical-doctorate AuD (audiology) and the master’s in speech-language pathology (SLP). Recognized by USDE and CHEA; roughly an eight-year cycle.
The Gate
CAA accreditation, the CCC, and licensure
Graduating from a CAA-accredited program is the education requirement for the profession. It satisfies the academic and clinical-practicum requirements for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-A in audiology, CCC-SLP in speech), it prepares you for the Praxis exam, and it is required for state licensure in most states. In practice, a CAA-accredited graduate degree is essential to enter either profession.
Two Professions
AuD and SLP
- Audiology (AuD)The clinical doctorate is the entry-level degree for audiologists; a CAA-accredited AuD leads to the CCC-A, the Praxis, and licensure.
- Speech-language pathology (master’s)A CAA-accredited SLP master’s leads to the CCC-SLP, the Praxis, and licensure — the gold-standard path into the field.
Do It Yourself
Verify a program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits audiology and speech-language pathology programs? The Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), the accrediting arm of ASHA — the sole accreditor of AuD and SLP graduate programs. It is recognized by USDE and CHEA.
- Do I need a CAA-accredited program to become an SLP or audiologist? Effectively yes. A CAA-accredited graduate degree satisfies the academic and clinical requirements for the CCC, prepares you for the Praxis, and is required for licensure in most states.
- What is the CCC? ASHA's Certificate of Clinical Competence — CCC-A for audiology and CCC-SLP for speech-language pathology — the gold-standard credential, which requires a degree from a CAA-accredited program.
- What degree does each profession require? Audiologists need the clinical-doctorate AuD; speech-language pathologists need a master's — both from CAA-accredited programs.
- What exam do these professionals take? The Praxis examination in the respective field, alongside the CCC requirements and state licensure.
- Is CAA recognized by the government? Yes. CAA is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.
- How long does CAA accreditation last? Programs are reviewed on roughly an eight-year cycle.
- How do I verify a program's CAA accreditation? Search the ASHA/CAA accredited-programs directory and confirm licensure requirements with your state board.