Speech Pathology (Honours)

Speech pathologists are allied health professionals responsible for the assessment and treatment of children and adults with communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. When you undertake a Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours) at the University of Newcastle, you'll have the opportunity to study with award-winning researchers and gain an understanding of the profession through substantial clinical experience.

What you will study

This degree is an interdisciplinary program. Throughout the degree, you will study linguistics, human bioscience, statistics, psychology as well as speech pathology specific courses. You will develop competencies and skills to confidently assess, diagnose and treat a range of conditions including, but not limited to developmental speech and language disorders, swallowing and feeding disorders, stuttering, voice disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions such as cerebral palsy, acquired conditions such as stroke and head injury, and neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease.

Practical experience

Develop impressive real-world skills with more than 20 weeks of clinical placement and a comprehensive range of practical experiences. Opportunities exist for placements in local, metropolitan, regional and rural clinics within Australia and internationally. Additionally, some clinical placements are completed within the University of Newcastle’s on-campus speech pathology clinic. Students must meet all the Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Hons) requirements including a National Criminal Record Check, and meet all the NSW Health Verification requirements. For more information visit the University of Newcastle website.

Career opportunities

The strong practical focus of this degree, and professional accreditation, prepares graduates for immediate professional employment. Diverse work opportunities exist in hospitals, community health centres, schools, private practice and aged care facilities. As well as working as a speech pathologist, there are opportunities for graduates to work in other related roles in health promotion, research and health services. Fluency in other languages enriches the skills and services provided by professional speech pathologists. Concurrent enrolment in the Diploma in Languages unlocks unique opportunities and career pathways in Australia and around the world.

Professional recognition

Accredited by the Speech Pathology Association of Australia. Accreditation is recognised in Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and the United States of America. This degree is also recognised by Ministry of Health, Singapore.