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Speech Pathology

Speech Pathology

The University of Canberra's Master of Speech Pathology course allows you to become one of the new breed of researcher-practitioners who are committed to making a difference in others’ lives; irrespective of age, ability, illness, cultural, linguistic or social backgrounds.

Explore the science underlying speech, language, swallowing and other communication disorders. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills required for speech pathology practice, for individuals, families and their communities. Examine client-centred treatment and management strategies as well as service delivery models.

Extend your research skills. You’ll understand, critique, and undertake research that will inform your practice.

You will graduate with the knowledge and competencies to practice as an entry level speech pathologist in Australia.

Study a Master of Speech Pathology at UC and you will:

  • attain entry-level speech pathology competencies across a range of practice areas
  • deliver culturally and socially appropriate speech pathology services
  • communicate and work effectively with diverse partners in health, education and the community
  • critique, synthesise and apply evidence from research and consumer perspectives to inform speech pathology practices
  • critically evaluate information required for effective service delivery
  • develop in-depth research skills and be recognised as a competent researcher-practitioner
  • be able to participate, collaborate and contribute to policy development and industry knowledge
  • contribute to building stronger research evidence for clinical and life outcomes
  • gain a deeper understanding of the social issues of speech pathology and how it relates to a different age, linguistic and cultural demographics.

Professional recognition

Speech Pathology Australia have awarded the Master of Speech Pathology full accreditation. Graduates are eligible for membership to Speech Pathology Australia.

Inherent requirements

To determine your suitability for becoming a speech pathologist, please read the inherent requirements.

Work Integrated Learning (WIL)

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is an integral part of this course, giving students an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience through clinical placements.

To facilitate your clinical learning, you will participate in various experiential learning simulations before undertaking any placement activities while having access to industry trainers and mentors throughout the entire process. Clinical placements will take place at numerous health and educational facilities such as the state of the art UC Health Precinct and UC Public Hospital; as well as various regional and remote locations around Australia.

WIL allows you to gain a wide range of clinical skills to complement your theoretical knowledge; while also creating an environment where you can form strong networking opportunities with industry professionals and both internal and external stakeholders. Clinical practice placements are essential to the program, and participation and completion of each WIL placement will contribute to your overall assessment.

Clinical placements are fulltime (4 days per week) for either 25 or 30 days.

Career opportunities

Work as a speech pathologist in:

  • public and private hospitals
  • rehabilitation centres
  • aged care facilities
  • community health clinics
  • schools and disability organisations
  • private practices.

Course

Contact us

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People

NamePosition
Asst Prof Jacqui McKechnie Discipline Lead
Dr Helen Southwood Associate Professor
Ms Leah McManusProfessional Practice Convener
Jolin EdmondsonLecturer
Ms Leah HanleyLecturer