Speech and Language Pathology

‌Over the four years of this degree, students gain the knowledge and skills to assist a wide variety of people with communication and swallowing disorders. The Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology with Honours (BSLP (Hons)) is a highly regarded, professional degree with a strong practical focus. UC students are able to utilise excellent onsite resources including clinics and research facilities.

Features of the Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology(Hons) at UC

• Qualification recognised in Australia and the United Kingdom, Ireland and Canada
• Accredited by the New Zealand Speech–Language Therapists' Association
• Highly employable graduates
• Fieldwork accounts for 25–50%, depending on year of study
• Students have the opportunity to undertake work with people of all ages at clinics on campus, nationally and overseas.

The Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology with Honours requires a total of 480 points.

The Intermediate Year

Your first year, also known as the Intermediate Year, comprises a minimum of 120 points or eight compulsory 15-point courses (or equivalent). The Intermediate courses may be taken in one full-time year of study or accumulated over more than one year.

The Professional Years

• First Professional Year courses focus on speech and language development and disorders, evidence-based practice and audiology. You have the opportunity for practical experience, working with a range of clients.
• In the Second Professional Year you continue studying different types of communication disorders, work with practising therapists and complete coursework in a hospital setting.
• In the Third Professional Year you take more advanced courses and research work is also included. About half of your year will be based in the field, with you spending more time taking responsibility for the assessment of clients and the planning, management and evaluation of therapy programmes.

Fieldwork

Fieldwork accounts for about 25% of the year's work in the second year, 30% in the third and 50% in the final year. You have the opportunity to undertake work with people of all ages at clinics in Christchurch and throughout New Zealand and overseas.

Entry requirements

Admission to UC with University Entrance, or equivalent, is required to enrol for a Bachelor's degree. Domestic applicants over 20 who do not hold University Entrance, or equivalent, may gain admission by providing evidence of their ability to complete tertiary study successfully. For information on gaining admission to UC please see how to apply for undergraduate qualifications.

You are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements.

Specific requirements

Entry into the Intermediate Year

The Intermediate Year is open to all students with University Entrance. A background in science is recommended.

It is possible to take five of the Intermediate Year courses at other universities. Please note that no other university offers the equivalent of CMDS161 Anatomy & Physiology of the Speech & Hearing Mechanism, CMDS113 Introduction to Communication Disorders and CMDS162 Neuroscience of Swallowing & Communication. If you intend to do this you should seek approval of your course of study from UC's College of Science Student Advisor in advance.

Entry into the Professional Years

The first year is followed by the Professional Years. Entry into the Professional Years is limited and is based on completion of the compulsory 100-level courses (or equivalents), academic merit (normally a B+ or better grade average) and fluency in English. Relevant work experience may also be considered.

Applications for entry to the First Professional Year close on 1st October. Late enrolments will be considered if places are still available.

If you are unsuccessful in gaining a place in the First Professional Year, your completed courses can usually be credited to a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Health Sciences or Bachelor of Arts.

The Master of Speech and Language Pathology at the University of Canterbury typically offers a range of financing options to support enrolled students throughout their studies. Students are encouraged to explore both internal and external funding sources to assist with tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs. The university provides information on scholarships and bursaries specifically designed for health sciences students, including those pursuing speech and language pathology. These opportunities are often competitive and may require application early in the academic year. Additionally, students can consider government student loans and allowances, which are available to domestic students meeting certain criteria, to help cover tuition fees and living costs. International students enrolled in the program should investigate alternative funding options, such as external scholarships, sponsorships from health organizations, or loans available in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance on funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. For students undertaking the program through specific pathways or part-time arrangements, there may be tailored financial plans or installment options to make payments more manageable. The university also recommends planning early for financial sustainability during the course of study, including budgeting for expenses such as textbooks, equipment, and placement-related costs. It is important for prospective students to thoroughly review eligibility requirements and application deadlines to maximize their chances of securing financial support. Overall, financing studies at the University of Canterbury involves a combination of scholarships, government aid, external funding, and personal budgeting to ensure that students can complete their Master of Speech and Language Pathology successfully without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology at the University of Canterbury is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a career in speech-language therapy. The program provides students with a solid foundation in communication sciences, including speech, language, and swallowing disorders, and explores the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of communication. Coursework covers core areas such as linguistics, psychology, physiology, and audiology, enabling students to develop a multidisciplinary understanding essential for diagnosing and treating communication impairments.

Throughout the degree, students engage in both theoretical learning and practical training. The program includes supervised clinical placements that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, working with diverse populations including children, adults, and individuals with acquired or developmental communication disorders. These placements are integrated into the curriculum to ensure students gain hands-on experience under the supervision of qualified speech-language therapists.

The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and effective communication skills, equipping graduates to provide high-quality assessment and intervention services. It also offers opportunities for research and specialization in areas such as pediatric speech therapy, neurological disorders, or voice therapy, preparing students for a range of professional roles within healthcare, education, and community settings.

Admission to the program typically requires meeting academic prerequisites in sciences and humanities, along with a demonstrated interest in communication sciences. Graduates of the Bachelor of Speech and Language Pathology are eligible to register with regulatory bodies in New Zealand and internationally, enabling them to work as licensed speech-language therapists. The program aligns with national and international standards for speech and language therapy education, ensuring a quality learning experience that prepares students for lifelong professional development.

Additionally, the university supports research initiatives and partnerships with healthcare providers, which enrich students' learning and research opportunities. Alumni of the program go on to work in hospitals, community health organizations, schools, and private practice, contributing significantly to the health and wellbeing of individuals with communication disorders. The program’s combination of academic rigor, practical training, and professional preparation makes it a highly regarded pathway for those interested in making a positive impact in the field of speech and language pathology.