Childhood Speech, Language, and Communication Needs

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 8.15 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 16 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jun 1, 2026
StudyQA ranking:5119 Duration:1 year

Photos of university / #nuigalway

The Bachelor of Science in Childhood Speech, Language, and Communication Needs at the National University of Ireland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in supporting children with speech, language, and communication difficulties. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to make a positive impact in educational, clinical, and community settings. Throughout the course, students explore the development of communication skills in children, examining the factors that influence speech and language acquisition and disorders. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including linguistics, psychology, educational practice, and speech pathology, providing a well-rounded understanding of childhood communication needs. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based approaches, assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and the application of innovative technologies to support children effectively. The program also offers opportunities for hands-on experience through placements in schools, clinics, and community organizations. These practical components are integrated with academic studies to ensure students gain real-world skills that meet the needs of diverse populations. Graduates of this program are equipped to work as speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, special education needs coordinators, or other roles supporting children's communication development. The program is delivered by experienced faculty members who are experts in child development, speech-language therapy, and education. Graduates emerge as knowledgeable, compassionate, and competent professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children with communication challenges. The university's commitment to research and innovation ensures that students are exposed to the latest advancements in the field. Overall, this program aims to nurture skilled practitioners capable of fostering inclusive, supportive environments where all children can achieve their communication potential.

The programme is comprised of 5 core modules (compulsory) plus a minor dissertation. The core modules are:

  • Advanced Research Methods
  • Narratives in Childhood
  • Using Evidence in Practice
  • Cultural, Linguistic, & Social Diversity in Health & Education
  • Supporting children with SLCN
  • Dissertation (thesis) (year long)

Requirements

  • Primary degree with at least second class honours OR an equivalent qualification.
  • Applicants must be eligible to register with their appropriate professional or regulatory body.
  • Minimum Grade Required: 3.8 CGPA
  • All applicants, whose first language is not English, must present one of the following qualifications in the English language. IELTS 6.5. TOEFL 92
  • Statement of intent
  • Transcripts
  • CV
  • Academic letters of recommendation

The financing of the Childhood Speech, Language, and Communication Needs program at the National University of Ireland is primarily supported through a combination of government funding, student tuition fees, and additional financial aid mechanisms. As an undergraduate program, funding is largely derived from the Irish government’s education budget, which allocates resources to ensure high-quality training in speech and language therapy, including specialized courses that address childhood communication disorders. Tuition fees are set according to the national standards for undergraduate studies and vary depending on the student’s residency status. Irish and EU students benefit from government-subsidized fees, making the program more accessible, while international students might be subject to higher tuition rates.

In addition to government funding and tuition fees, the university offers several financial aid options to help students manage the costs associated with their studies. These include scholarships based on academic merit or financial need, which are awarded on a competitive basis. There are also student loan schemes available to eligible students, designed to support those who require financial assistance during their course of study. Furthermore, the university may provide access to grants or bursaries specifically aimed at students pursuing health science programs, including speech and language therapy, to promote equitable access to education.

The program's financing model emphasizes the importance of ensuring that future speech and language therapists are well-trained without financial barriers impeding access. As part of the overall university funding strategy, partnerships with healthcare organizations and clinics may also facilitate clinical placements, which are essential components of the program. These placements may be subsidized or funded through public health initiatives, helping to cover some costs associated with practical training. Overall, the NUI’s approach to financing ensures that students are supported financially throughout their education, helping to meet the demand for qualified professionals in childhood communication disorders across Ireland.

The Bachelor of Science in Childhood Speech, Language, and Communication Needs at the National University of Ireland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in speech and language therapy, with a specific focus on childhood communication disorders. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating aspects of linguistics, psychology, education, and healthcare to equip students with the necessary skills to assess, diagnose, and manage speech, language, and communication difficulties in children. Throughout the course, students gain a strong foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of speech-language pathology, including developmental communication disorders, intervention strategies, and evidence-based practices. The curriculum includes modules on child development, phonetics, language acquisition, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), and ethical considerations in clinical practice. Practical placements are a crucial part of the program, providing students with hands-on experience working with children in hospital, school, and community settings under the supervision of qualified professionals. The program also promotes research skills, encouraging students to engage with current literature and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to work as speech and language therapists with a particular focus on children, or to pursue postgraduate studies or research opportunities. The program aligns with national and international standards for speech and language therapy education, ensuring graduates are eligible for registration with relevant professional bodies. With a commitment to inclusive education and early intervention, the program aims to improve the quality of life for children with speech, language, and communication needs, supporting them to reach their full potential.

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