Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Certificate Program 2026
The AAC Certificate Program at Stockton University is designed to provide participants with advanced knowledge and applied competencies in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). This program emphasizes evidence-based practice, implementation of AAC systems, and integration of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles across clinical and educational settings.
Dates: Beginning the week of August 10, 2026 concluding the week of December 21, 2026
Instructor: Jennifer Drenchek-Christiano MA, CCC-SLP/L
Audience: Speech Language Pathologists
Continuing Education Credits: Courses 1-5 are registered for 7.15 ASHA CEUs. (Intermediate level , Professional area)
Cost: $1499 before August 1, 2026-Early Bird Price
$1699 after August 1, 2026
Disclosures
Jennifer Drencheck-Christiano, MA, CCC-SLP/L
• Financial: Jennifer Christiano receives a speaking fee for presentation of this course
• Nonfinancial: Stockton University for Volunteer -Offsite Clinical Supervisor
This 15 week program uses online instruction only. The program is comprised of five modules.
Course participants can expect spend at least 3.0 hours per week (on average) participating in learning activities for each weekly topic. Some topics may require more time, while others less based on the participant’s professional background and prerequisite knowledge and/or familiarity with the topic.
Students will be required to complete an online competency assessment. In addition, video based instruction will be included for topics. At the end of the 15 weeks, each participant must complete the final competency test online. Participants may take the test up to 3 times and must complete the test with a grade of 80% or better.
Module I:
Introduction to Augmentative Communication and Alternative Communication
Module II:
AAC Evaluation for Systems and Supports
Module III:
AAC Implementation, Planning, and Ethical Practice Across Environments
Module IV:
Alternative Access Systems for AAC Devices
Module V:
Language Systems, Vocabulary, Competency Domains, and Literacy
Courses cannot be taken individually.
Jennifer Drenchek-Cristiano, M.S., CCC-SLP, earned her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University at Buffalo, where she worked at the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Technology Transfer, focusing on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and assistive technology solutions.
She began her career in a private school serving students with complex communication needs before joining the Technology for Life and Learning Center's Assistive Technology Evaluation Team (ATEAM), where she conducted assistive technology evaluations throughout the State of New Jersey.
From 2004 to 2024, Jennifer owned and operated Technology for Education and Communication Consulting, Inc., a private practice specializing in speech-language pathology, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and assistive technology (AT). Throughout her career, she has worked with individuals from birth through age 21 and has extensive experience integrating technology-based supports and communication systems into educational programs.
Jennifer specializes in supporting students with complex communication needs, including those with Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and other developmental and physical disabilities. She has presented nationally on topics related to assistive technology, augmentative communication, and the application of technology within the field of speech-language pathology.
In collaboration with Stockton University, Jennifer helped develop an advanced AAC training program designed to provide practicing speech-language pathologists with specialized education in augmentative and alternative communication. She currently serves on the American Board of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ABAAC) Specialty Certification Board as Chair of the Application Committee, supporting the advancement of professional standards and specialized certification within the field.
Lauren Padula, M.S., CCC-SLP, ATP, is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Professional with a deep commitment to supporting individuals with complex communication needs. She holds a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and maintains her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). In addition, she is a certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP), demonstrating her expertise in evaluating and implementing technology solutions for individuals with disabilities.
Lauren has extensive experience in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), working across school, clinical, and home settings. She specializes in AAC evaluations, device implementation, and team collaboration to ensure that each client receives personalized, meaningful support. Her approach emphasizes empowering users to communicate authentically across environments, with a strong focus on literacy development and language acquisition.
She is also a passionate educator and presenter, offering trainings and consultations for school teams, families, and fellow clinicians. Lauren is dedicated to evidence-based practices and believes in the power of collaboration to create inclusive, communicative communities.
Lauren’s work is driven by a belief that every individual deserves a voice and the opportunity to participate fully in their world.
