301592 v.5 Master of Speech Pathology

Introduction

This graduate entry master (GEM) qualification for speech pathologists is an alternative to the Bachelor of Science (Speech Pathology) 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, students will participate in supervised clinical education in a variety of contexts. This Graduate Entry Master of Speech Pathology (GEM) develops an integrated understanding of the science of human communication as well as the professional competencies for providing speech pathology services to people with communication and swallowing disorders. Speech pathologists provide specialist services for people with communication and / or swallowing problems. Communication and / or swallowing may be impaired by neurological damage, hearing impairment, physical dysfunction, psychological disturbance and intellectual impairment. Some causes of disturbances in normal development may be unidentified.

Course Entry Requirements/Prerequisites

An honours degree or a bachelor degree with a course 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. Evidence of successful tertiary level study of human biology and statistics is required. Applicants who have not studied human biology and statistics at a tertiary level will be required to undertake studies in this area before commencing the course.

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 and 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

This graduate entry masters degree provides an entry level qualification in speech pathology. It enables students to develop an understanding of normal communication development, developmental and acquired communication, swallowing disorders, speech pathology clinical practice, clinical measurement and research. Students primarily focus on four areas: behavioural sciences, cognitive neuroscience, rehabilitation science and speech science. Studies are supported by extensive clinical practice. Participation is required in clinical practice during vacation periods of both years of the course, including a country placement.

Professional Recognition

The course is accredited by Speech Pathology Australia. Graduates are eligible for membership of the Speech Pathology Association of Australia.

Career Opportunities

Graduates readily find employment in a range of public, not-for-profit and private services throughout Australia.

Course Structure Disclaimer

Curtin University reserves the right to alter the internal composition of any course to ensure learning outcomes retain maximum relevance. Any changes to the internal composition of a course will protect the right of students to complete the course within the normal timeframe and will not result in additional cost to students through a requirement to undertake additional units.

The information displayed above refers to study periods and locations where the course is available for first time entry. Students are normally only offered or admitted to a course once.

* The course itself may not be available either solely internally or externally but individual units may be offered in either or both of those modes. Prospective students should contact the Course Coordinator for further information.

^ Course and associated units are offered in this mode permitting International Onshore student enrolment.

# Course and associated units are offered in this online only mode and DO NOT permit International Onshore student enrolment.