301592 v.2 Master of Science (Speech Pathology)

MSc(Curtin)

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Introduction
This masters entry level qualification for speech pathologists is an alternative to the Bachelor of Science (Human Communication Science) for those with a bachelor degree. The academic coursework and clinical practice integrate contemporary theory and research in human communication science, cognitive neuroscience, speech science, rehabilitation science, behavioural science and clinical practice. Throughout the course, access is provided to well-equipped clinical education facilities and state-of-the-art technology. It develops an integrated understanding of Human Communication Science as well as the professional competencies for providing clinical services to people with communication and swallowing disorders. Speech Pathologists provide specialist services for people with a wide range of communication disorders. Communication may be impaired by neurological damage, hearing impairment, physical dysfunction, psychological disturbance and intellectual impairment, as well as unidentified causes for disturbance in normal development.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites
An honours degree or a bachelor degree with a semester weighted average of 65 or greater; or a bachelor degree plus two years of relevant post-bachelor degree work experience. Work experience is assessed on the basis of level of seniority and responsibility, job description, work based referee support, publications or other written reports, short courses or conference attendance.

Specific Requirements
Students are required to complete a Senior First Aid Certificate as soon as possible upon entering the course. Applicants for this course should refer to the Communicable Diseases and Criminal Record Screening/Clearance Section of this publication.

Recognition of Prior Learning
Applications for recognition of prior learning are assessed on an individual basis.

Duration and Availability
This fee paying course is two years full-time study.

Course Organisation
Participation is required in clinical practice during vacation periods of both years of the course, including a country placement.

Professional Recognition
Graduates are eligible for membership of the Speech Pathology Association of Australia.

Additional Course Expenses
Students may be expected to purchase a number of textbooks, readers and other vital study materials. In addition, students may also need to contribute some of the cost of consumables, which varies depending on the area of study.

Course Structure				Hrs/Wk	Credit
Year 1 Full Year
301593	v.2	#	Human Communication Science 570	5.0	50.0
					50.0
Year 1 Semester 1
301594	v.2		Cognitive Neuroscience 571	6.0	25.0
301595	v.2		Professional Competencies 571	4.0	50.0
					75.0
Year 1 Semester 2
301643	v.2		Professional Competencies 572	4.0	25.0
301644	v.2		Professional Issues 572	2.0	25.0
301699	v.2		Human Communication Science 572	6.0	25.0
					75.0
Year 2 Full Year
301700	v.2	#	Human Communication Science 670	3.0	50.0
301701	v.2	#	Speech and Hearing Science 670	4.0	50.0
301702	v.2	#	Professional Competencies 670	14.0	100.0
					200.0
#	This is a full year unit completed over both semester of an academic year. No result is given until the end of semester two.