Programme details

Master of Speech and Language Pathology

The Master of Speech and Language Pathology (MSLP) program at UC is a graduate-level professional qualification that prepares individuals to work as speech language pathologists or therapists.

Course description

The Master of Speech and Language Pathology (MSLP) is a graduate-level qualification designed for those seeking to pursue a career as a speech-language pathologist or therapist. Candidates typically come from diverse academic backgrounds, including science, linguistics, engineering, psychology, education, or health sciences, making this program an ideal pathway into the speech-language field. The MSLP curriculum encompasses a range of subjects, including clinical linguistics, evidence-based methodologies, introductory neuroscience, and the study of speech and language development and disorders throughout various stages of life.

It also addresses both typical and atypical hearing, swallowing, fluency, voice, and the principles of professional practice. This program is characterized by its emphasis on experiential learning through clinical practice.

Occupational Registration

Certain occupations require registration by law in New Zealand. This programme leads to registration with New Zealand Speech-language Therapists’ Association.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

Pursuing a Master of Speech and Language Pathology opens up a wide range of career opportunities in healthcare, education, and research. Graduates can work in various settings, helping individuals with speech, language, and communication disorders. Some of the career prospects include:

Speech-Language Pathologist
School-Based Speech Therapist
Private Practice Speech Therapist
Speech Therapy Consultant
Voice Therapist

Entry requirements

To be eligible for enrollment in the MSLP, candidates must possess either a bachelor’s or master’s degree, achieving a minimum Grade Point Average of B or an equivalent qualification.

Additionally, it is required that applicants have successfully completed at least one Statistics course at the 100-level or higher.

For those whose first language is not English, it is necessary to submit evidence of an IELTS (Academic) score with an average of no less than 7.0, ensuring that no individual score falls below 6.5.

Furthermore, prospective students must obtain approval for enrollment from the Amo Matua, Pūtaiao | Executive Dean of Science or an authorized representative. The selection process will consider academic performance, a statement of interest, and an interview with members of the department.