(a)
A person applying for approval as a speech-language pathology assistant shall have graduated from a speech-language pathology assistant associate of arts degree program, or equivalent course of study, approved by the board. A person who has successfully graduated from a board-approved bachelor’s degree program in speech-language pathology or communication disorders shall be deemed to have satisfied an equivalent course of study.
(b)
On or before June 1, 2003, a person who has in the last five years performed the functions of a speech-language pathology aide on a full-time basis for a minimum of one year, or on a part-time basis equivalent to a minimum of one year of full-time work, may make application for registration as a speech-language pathology assistant based upon the board’s recognition of that aide’s job training and experience and the performance of functions and tasks similar to the speech-language pathology assistant category. For purposes of this subdivision, “full time” means a minimum of 30 hours per week.