Clinical Educator Guide for
St. Bonaventure University
Online M.S. Speech-Language Pathology
Jump to:
- Welcome and Thank You
- Our Franciscan Foundation
- Clinical Educator Role
- Link to ASHA Supervisor Verification
- Introduction and Access to CALIPSO
- Opportunities for Continuing Education
- Online MS - SLP Curriculum
- FAQs
- Resources
- Contact Information
WELCOME AND THANK YOU FOR PARTNERING WITH OUR PROGRAM
Welcome, and thank you for partnering with us in the clinical education of our speech-language pathology graduate students. We are deeply grateful for your willingness to serve as a clinical educator for St. Bonaventure University’s Online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (M.S. SLP) program.
The success of our students depends on access to exceptional speech-language pathologists like you—dedicated professionals who generously share their time, expertise, and guidance to help shape the next generation of clinicians. Your support and mentorship are critical to their development and readiness for entry-level clinical practice.
Our external clinical educators collaborate closely with our program faculty to ensure meaningful learning experiences for students and positive, collegial partnerships for all involved.
- This online guide is designed to support you in your role. Inside, you’ll find:
- Foundational information about supervising graduate students at SBU
- Links to the Student Clinical Manual and the Clinical Educator Manual
- Answers to frequently asked questions
If you have any questions not addressed here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Director of Clinical Education or your student’s assigned faculty instructor. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
OUR FRANCISCAN FOUNDATION
At St. Bonaventure University, our Franciscan tradition is at the heart of everything we do—including how we educate and accompany our students on their journey to becoming speech-language pathologists.
Inspired by the values of compassion, service, humility, and community, our approach to clinical education is grounded in relationship and mutual respect. We believe that forming skilled clinicians goes beyond technical training—it requires nurturing the whole person. As clinical educators, you are vital partners in this process.
In the spirit of accompaniment, we walk alongside our students—not just as instructors, but as mentors who support their growth, celebrate their progress, and challenge them to become thoughtful, ethical, and empathetic professionals.
Your role as a clinical educator reflects our shared commitment to:
- Respect for the dignity of every person, including those we serve and those we teach
- Learning in relationship, where knowledge is shaped through dialogue, feedback, and trust
- Service to others, through meaningful, compassionate, and evidence-based clinical care
By welcoming our students into your clinical settings, you help them integrate classroom learning with real-world practice in a way that reflects the Franciscan values of humility, integrity, and care for all creation.
We are honored to have you as part of this mission, and we thank you for your partnership in forming the next generation of clinicians who will serve with both skill and heart.
CLINICAL EDUCATOR ROLE
The MS-SLP Program at SBU has chosen to adopt the term clinical educator in lieu of clinical supervisor given the nature of the role. A clinical educator provides supervision, training, education, mentorship, and much more in the student/educator relationship.
A clinical educator in the online MS-SLP program at SBU is an experienced speech language pathologist who meets and maintains the 2020 Standards (V-E) for supervision which includes:
- Holds ASHA Certification (CCC-SLP)
- Has completed a minimum of nine-months (9 mo) of full-time professional practice post certification
- Has earned at least two hours (2 hrs) of professional development in the area of supervision and/or clinical instruction post certification.
(Source: 2020 Certification Standard V-E)
ASHA CLINICAL EDUCATOR VERIFICATION
Clinical educators can check their eligibility to supervise students by visiting ASHA’s Certification verification page. Please visit https://www.asha.org/certification/cert-verify/ for more information. We recommend checking your status yearly.
In addition to meeting the Certification Standard V-E, clinical educators must also be licensed in the states in which they practice. Clinical educators must maintain the ASHA CCC and state license throughout the time they have clinical students.
INTRODUCTION AND ACCESS TO CALIPSO
We utilize CALIPSO (Clinical Assessment of Learning Inventory of Performance Streamlined Office Operations), a web-based application specifically designed to manage clinic documentation and resources. As a clinical educator, you'll use CALIPSO to:
- Review and approve student clinical clock hours. com+5calipsoclient.com+5Communication Sciences and Disorders+5
- Complete and submit student performance evaluations.
- Access important documents and resources related to clinical education.
This streamlined platform ensures efficient management of clinical education requirements and fosters effective collaboration throughout the supervisory process.
Access to CALIPSO: LINK HERE
CONTINUING EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
St. Bonaventure University is proud to be an ASHA-approved Continuing Education (CE) provider. As part of our commitment to supporting the professional growth and development of our clinical educators, we offer complimentary continuing education opportunities throughout the academic year.
Each academic year, we host two Clinical Educator Workshops designed to enhance supervisory skills, explore current topics in clinical education, and provide a space for shared learning and collaboration. These workshops are free of charge and offered virtually to accommodate your schedule and location.
We are also open to partnering with you to support the continuing education needs of your organization. Whether you're interested in tailored CE opportunities or collaborative training initiatives, we’re happy to explore how we can serve and support your team.
Have an idea for a CE topic?
We welcome suggestions for future workshop topics and would love to hear what would be most helpful or meaningful to you.
Need a CE certificate from a previous session?
Please feel free to reach out to the CE Administrator, and we’ll be happy to assist.
We are grateful for the role you play in preparing the next generation of speech-language pathologists, and we’re honored to walk alongside you in your own professional journey.
ONLINE M.S. SLP CURRICULUM
A detailed review of etiologies and characteristics of speech sound disorders including phonological process analysis, formal and informal assessment strategies, differential diagnosis, treatment planning, and selection of targets. The use of culturally responsive practices for a diverse society will be emphasized.
Principles and practices of diagnostic evaluations in speech-language pathology for individuals with suspected speech and/or language impairments. Students will practice taking case history information, development assessment plans, conducting evaluations, writing diagnostic reports, and developing treatment goals.
This course focuses on breadth of formal and informal diagnostic skills utilized in speech-language pathology. Virtual, simulated clinical practicum experiences will be supervised and debriefed by licensed, certified speech-language pathologists. Students will also gain introductory information related to the clinical practicum sequence and expectations across the M.S. SLP program. A minimum of 25 clinical clock hours will be gained in this course toward ASHA Certification requirements.
This virtual practicum focuses on foundational treatment skills useful across the scope of practice such developing goals, determining treatment targets, and using data to make treatment decisions. Virtual client cases will be supervised by licensed, certified speech-language pathologists who meet the ASHA supervision requirements. Students will gain a minimum of 25 clinical clock hours in this practicum experience.
The first of a two-part course sequence of dysphagia study designed to meet the breadth and depth of knowledge and skill required by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association for clinical practice in dysphagia. This course includes the study of normal swallow physiology, characteristics and etiologies of swallowing disorders. Students will be introduced to clinical and instrumental evaluation procedures across for children and adults.
Assessment, intervention, and service models for children with language disorders from preschool through adolescence. Federal laws and regulatory issues across practice settings will be discussed. Providing culturally sensitive, client and family-centered care within an interdisciplinary, collaborative environment will be emphasized.
The second of a two-part course sequence of dysphagia study designed to meet the breadth and depth of knowledge and skill required by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association for clinical practice in dysphagia. This course focuses on evidence-based evaluation and treatment of swallowing disorders across the lifespan. Interprofessional considerations will be discussed.
Students will develop knowledge and skills in identifying sources of research, critical evaluation of various research methodologies in speech-language pathology, and integration of research to improve efficacy and effectiveness of clinical practice.
Study of current theories and models of aphasia as applied to differential diagnosis, assessment, and rehabilitation from a clinical case perspective. Culturally responsive practices and interprofessional roles in case management are included.
This course focuses on the science and art of innovation in speech-language pathology. Students will use frameworks of innovation that integrate research evidence, creativity, and critical thinking to challenge their own assumptions and consider ways to strengthen the profession. All students complete a foundational knowledge module and then choose two additional modules to create an individualized elective that aligns with areas of professional interest.
The study of normal and abnormal processes of voice and resonance. Application of instrumental and perceptual evaluation strategies to assess vocal function. The functional, organic, neurogenic, and psychogenic etiologies will be explored in children and adults. Client-centered practices in treatment will be emphasized and counseling of individuals with laryngectomy and other pathologies will be addressed.
Examine communication and swallowing practices in evaluation and intervention within the context of a diverse society. Apply foundational information in cultural awareness to determine client differences versus client disorders.
This course provides a foundation in the science of stuttering, cluttering, and other fluency disorders. Etiologies, characteristics, assessment, and treatment of fluency disorders in children and adults will be included. Specific considerations in adolescents including counseling and interprofessional collaboration will be discussed.
This asynchronous course is designed to support in-depth learning in an area of special interest. With guidance from a faculty mentor, students choose an area of clinical or professional interest and develop a comprehensive review of past, present, and future clinical practice trends. Students will also develop a continuous learning professional development plan that includes exploration and identification of opportunities for additional professional development/credential in the selected area of interest.
The assessment and treatment of cognitive communication disorders through in-depth review of theoretical, neurological, and clinical perspectives. Right hemisphere dysfunction, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disorders of cognition will be covered. Ethical and culturally sensitive practices will be emphasized.
Applied clinical and practical issues related to assessment and treatment of individuals with complex communication needs who require augmentative or alternative communication strategies to meet communication needs. Emphasis on culturally appropriate, client-family centered care across the lifespan.
This course focuses on current issues that affect speech-language pathology. Instruction will include information about certification, specialty recognition, licensure, and other credentialing requirements across practice settings. Regulatory affairs and legal issues in educational, healthcare, and private practice settings will be included. Professional association memberships such as ASHA and state level associations will be discussed along with opportunities for advocacy to support continual improvement of the profession.
This course focuses on assessment and intervention of the mutually exclusive disorders of autism spectrum disorder and social communication disorder. Differential diagnosis and evidence-based assessment and treatment strategies will be discussed in relation to the role of the speech-language pathologist as part of an interprofessional team. Culturally appropriate, client/family-centered strategies that value diverse perspectives will be emphasized.
This course will explore the neurological bases, assessment, differential diagnosis, and treatment of motor speech disorders in adults and children. The course will introduce students to the principles of neuroplasticity and principles of motor learning. Contemporary issues and approaches to the rehabilitation and management of motor speech disorders will be emphasized.
Practicum placement in an educational, clinical, hospital, home health, hospice, private practice, early intervention, or other community site in which speech-language pathology services are provided and supervision by a licensed, certified speech-language pathologist is available. Each week, students meet in small groups with the Clinical Director for a weekly clinician meeting. This ensures consistent communication between the students and Clinical Director.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
How do I log into CALIPSO?
You will receive an email with login credentials from CALIPSO once your student is assigned. If you haven’t received login information or are having trouble accessing the system, please contact the Director of Clinical Education for support.
What are my responsibilities as a clinical educator?
Clinical educators are expected to provide direct supervision, complete midterm and final evaluations in CALIPSO, and verify student clinical clock hours. More detailed expectations can be found in the Clinical Educator Manual.
How many hours should the student be present at the site?
Student schedules will vary depending on the placement type and semester. Each student will collaborate with you to establish a schedule that meets ASHA requirements and program expectations. If you have any questions, reach out to the student’s faculty instructor.
What if I have concerns about my student’s performance?
We encourage open communication. If any concerns arise regarding a student’s performance, professionalism, or progress, please contact the Director of Clinical Education or the student’s faculty instructor as soon as possible. We are here to support both you and the student.
Will I receive CEUs for supervising a student?
Supervising a student does not automatically qualify for CEUs; however, we offer free continuing education opportunities for clinical educators, including workshops that are eligible for ASHA CEUs.
Can I request verification of my service as a clinical educator?
Yes! We are happy to provide a letter or documentation verifying your role as a clinical educator. Please email the Director of Clinical Education with your request.
Can I suggest topics for future continuing education workshops?
Absolutely! We welcome your input. Please email your ideas to the Director of Clinical Education—we want our offerings to be meaningful and relevant to your work.
How do I contact the university if I have questions or need support?
You can reach out directly to the Director of Clinical Education or the student’s assigned faculty instructor. We’re always happy to help!
Have a question that’s not listed here?
We’re always updating this guide to better support you. If you have a question you'd like to see included in future FAQs, please reach out, we’d love to hear from you.
Additional Resources
Here are a few resources that may support your role as a clinical educator and enhance your experience working with students from St. Bonaventure University:
- Clinical Educator Manual (PDF) – Outlines responsibilities, expectations, and evaluation procedures
- Student Clinical Manual (PDF) – Provides students' policies, procedures, and expectations
- ASHA Supervision Requirements & Verification Check– https://www.asha.org/certification/supervision-requirements/
- ASHA Scope of Practice in SLP – https://www.asha.org/policy/sp2016-00343/?srsltid=AfmBOorZFKXutmWF0X1RRsM11sSswDtxbw3_qO4J2z-5inQmEd6AlPEX
- ASHA Code of Ethics – https://www.asha.org/siteassets/publications/code-of-ethics-2023.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOoraVUFRwLz66eOKwEjy6gIIPQ1hUZrL3z9uhBzJGwDv57ox7ZHY
- CALIPSO Login Page – calipsoclient.com
- SBU’s MS-SLP Homepage - https://online.sbu.edu/programs/master/speech-language-pathology
We may add additional resources as new tools or policies become available.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Director of Clinical Education: Shatonda Jones
Graduate Program Director: Pam Hart
SBU’s ASHA CE Administrator: Shatonda Jones
DSHP Administrative Assistant: Jean Benson
Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA):
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
2200 Research Boulevard, #310
Rockville, MD 20850
800-498-2071
I certainly could have done self-study and pursued a certification in one or more of the cybersecurity disciplines, but one of the components of education that I really value is interaction. I learn more when I talk with other people and share experiences, and the instructors at SBU have emphasized interaction. That's the type of experience I wanted – to learn and form professional relationships.
Scott Russell
Director of Customer Support
MS in Cybersecurity, 2021, Panasas
