Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours)

Speech pathologists study, diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders, including difficulties with speech, language, fluency and voice. You will work with people who have difficulty communicating because of developmental delays, stroke, brain injuries, learning disability, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, dementia and hearing loss, as well as other difficulties that can affect speech and language. People who experience difficulties swallowing food and drink safely can also be helped by a speech pathologist.

Throughout the course you will develop knowledge and core practical skills in anatomy and neurophysiology behind communication and swallowing impairments, science of speech and hearing, linguistics, language and healthcare. You will also learn how to identify and implement appropriate therapeutic treatments and management options. You will study foundation units in year 1 and 2 and specialise in one of two streams in year 3 and 4: Professional and Research. Both streams enable you to work as a Speech Pathologist in Australia. The Professional stream offers an honours project allowing you to pursue speech pathology interests in health or education disciplines. The Research stream also offers a research project in health or education disciplines, however eligibility for entry requires a high grade pass average (GPA). The clinical practice placement throughout the program will provide valuable and relevant workplace experience.

Our on campus and blended learning approach through face-to-face delivery in Berwick, and face-to-face and flexible delivery in Ballarat and Gippsland, offer tutorials, online engagement activities and practical learning. Our students have access to equitable support, facilities and resources across all delivery locations, ensuring the best experience no matter where you choose to study with us.

As a Speech Pathologist you may work as a clinician, educator, researcher, policy advisor, manager, advocate or consultant in a variety of industries including government and non-government organisations, education, health, welfare, policy development, community-based organisations and private practice.

Academic entry requirements

Same as domestic students or equivalent program of study and English Language requirements. The applications will be individually assessed to determine equivalency in their international studies as outlined in admissions policy and procedures.

English language requirements

IELTS minimum score of 8.0 in all components or English Language Proficiency declaration on enrolment.

Extra requirements

Students need to take note that in accordance with the Speech Pathology Australia Board’s/ AHPRA requirement.

ATAR

Guaranteed ATAR: This course has a guaranteed ATAR of 85 English: Units 3 and 4, a study score of at least 30 in English.Other: A study score of at least 25 in one of the following: Maths (any from units 1 -4), Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Health education or Physical Education.

Lowest Adjusted ATAR 75.00

Applicable to onshore international students applying for undergraduate/bachelor degree programs only.

Speech pathologist

Entry requirements vary from program to program, but generally require completion of an Australian bachelor degree, or overseas equivalent, with specified minimum grades (or marks) in relevant subjects. A period of work experience, following graduation, may also be required for some programs. For information on the entry requirements for your chosen program, please refer to our International Program Guide or our Course Finder.