The academic study of clinical linguistics is concerned with how language is affected by a range of acquired and developmental communication disorders, and the role of language in the subsequent assessment and management of these conditions. There is a focus on how language can break down or be changed by these conditions, and an examination of good quality evidence that evaluates interventions designed to ameliorate well-being and skills of affected individuals. There is a focus on how specialists assess, diagnose and differentiate between communication disorders. There is a focus on the role of Speech and Language Therapists working with patients throughout the lifespan, and also how educational psychologists work with children to improve educational outcomes for those with communication disorders.
You will develop an advanced understanding of techniques and processes applicable to your own research or advanced scholarship. You will also complete a dissertation on a topic related to a subject which is of interest to you. You will be taught by our team of Language & Linguistics experts and become part of our expanding Languages & Linguistics community.
The academic study of clinical linguistics is concerned with how language is affected by a range of acquired and developmental communication disorders, and the role of language in the subsequent assessment and management of these conditions. There is a focus on how language can break down or be changed by these conditions, and an examination of good quality evidence that evaluates interventions designed to ameliorate well-being and skills of affected individuals. The programme focuses on how specialists assess, diagnose and differentiate between communication disorders. There is a focus on the role of Speech and Language Therapists working with patients throughout the lifespan, and also that of educational psychologists work with children to improve educational outcomes for those with communication disorders.
The MSc Clinical Linguistics also provides the research training and subject knowledge to enable you to continue your studies to doctoral level (at YSJ and in other institutions).
The programme would be attractive for those who have previously studied Linguistics at undergraduate level who wish to continue to develop their studies in the field of Clinical Linguistics.
The programme is designed to be studied either full-time over 12 months or part-time over a maximum of five years. If you are unable to complete the full Master’s degree or are interested in certain modules, you may work for the intermediate awards of Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Linguistics or Diploma in Clinical Linguistics.
The full Master’s programme comprises taught modules and a dissertation.
Research in Language & Linguistics (30 credits/Compulsory)
This module introduces you to a range of research methods commonly used in the study of language and linguistics at postgraduate level and beyond. It is designed to enable you to develop an in-depth knowledge of research techniques relevant to your discipline and to develop your critical abilities in analysing, evaluating and synthesising research findings on a range of topics within language and linguistics. You will be taught how to develop research questions in the execution of a small-scale research project and how to evaluate current issues and research in language and linguistics.
Acquired Communication Disorders (30 credits/Compulsory)
This module provides a detailed examination of acquired communication disorders occurring throughout the lifespan and their impact on speech, language and literacy. You will be equipped to critically evaluate theoretical standpoints and clinical evidence and how it can be applied in practice when working with individuals with a range of acquired communication disorders. You will analyse cases and present their observations to their seminar group for discussion and formative assessment.
Developmental Communication Disorders (30 credits/Compulsory)
This module provides a detailed examination of developmental communication disorders and their impact on speech, language and literacy throughout the lifespan. You will be equipped to critically evaluate theoretical standpoints and clinical evidence and how it can be applied in practice when working with children and adults with these communication disorders You will also gain experience of collecting data from children or adults to inform a piece of project work for the module assessment. You will analyse cases and present their observations to their seminar group for discussion and formative assessment.
Assessment, Diagnosis & Management of Communication Disorder (30 credits/Compulsory)
This module looks at how clinicians work with patients presenting with communication disorders. You will focus on the process that clinicians go through when working with patients, and will work with a range of assessment tools that are used in educational and clinical practice when assessing children and adults presenting with communication disorders. You will examine clinical data, and explore how diagnoses are reached, and what kinds of interventions clinicians may advise. You will also consider current debates in relation to communication disorders such as looking at terminology, the basis of diagnosis, evaluating interventions, when and whether to continue intervention and inclusion.
Dissertation (60 credits/Compulsory)
Your final module will be a dissertation on a topic that you will agree with your supervisor. It is an opportunity for you to explore in depth an area of interest or particular area of Language and Linguistics. You will gain experience in formulating ideas and hypotheses, devising sound research methodology, collecting and evaluating data, and presenting your findings in a dissertation of 10,000 -12,000 words.
Further information on this course is available in the programme specification. Please note that the programme specification relates to course content that is currently being studied by students at the University. For new programmes, the programme specification will be made available online prior to the start of the course.
York St John University works hard to create an inclusive environment for all our students. We offer a range of learning support services to assist students throughout their studies.
On the programme, you will have opportunities to develop an advanced understanding of concepts, information and theory relevant to the field of contemporary linguistics and language study. You will develop an advanced understanding of techniques and processes applicable to your own research or advanced scholarship. You will also complete a dissertation on a topic related to a subject which is of interest to you.
You will be taught by our team of Language and Linguistics experts and become part of our expanding Languages and Linguistics community.
The academic study of language and linguistics focuses on analysing language in contexts of use and investigating its applications and implications. Teaching on the programme draws on the expertise of specialist staff who are considered major contributors to research and the development of subject knowledge in their fields. The Department of Languages and Linguistics has particular research strengths in the following areas which are reflected in the content of the programme: language, identity and power; language learning and teaching; language variation and change; language meaning and cognition. You can choose three optional modules from a range which reflects these areas of expertise. This flexibility enables you to cover a range of areas within language and linguistics, or to specialise in a particular strand.
The MA also provides the research training and subject knowledge to enable you to continue your studies to doctoral level (at York St John University and in other institutions).
Our MA in Language & Linguistics draws from state-of-the-art teaching approaches derived from TESOL research and practice, an area of expertise at York St John University. This MA would be attractive to those who have previously studied Language and Linguistics at undergraduate level and who wish to develop their study of the subject to Master’s level, but without the applied/professional focus offered by other programmes in the Taught Postgraduate Linguistics suite (TESOL, Clinical Linguistics, Translation, Japanese Language Teaching).
The programme is designed to be studied either full-time over 12 months or part-time over a maximum of five years. If you are unable to complete the full Masters degree or are interested in certain modules, you may work for the intermediate awards of Postgraduate Certificate in Language & Linguistics or Diploma in Language & Linguistics.
Further information on this course is available in the programme specification. Please note that the programme specification relates to course content that is currently being studied by students at the University. For new programmes, the programme specification will be made available online prior to the start of the course.
York St John University works hard to create an inclusive environment for all our students. We offer a range of learning support services to assist students throughout their studies.
Further entry requirements: International applicants should be aware that full registration with the RCSLT entails completion of a probationary period of clinical practice in the UK after the successful completion of the degree. It may be necessary to confirm with the professional body in your home country that this qualification is recognised and that full registration in the UK will entitle you to practice in your home country.
This course is for people with a relevant degree seeking to refocus their studies into the area of speech and language therapy. It will enable you to register with the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) to practise as a speech and language therapist in the UK.
As a speech and language therapist, you will assess, diagnose and treat children and adults with a wide range of communication difficulties. This will include developmental disorders and speech and language problems resulting from injury, stroke and disease. You will also develop strong practical skills as well as a sound understanding of the theory of speech and language therapy.
There is a major clinical studies (ie placement) element to this course and clinical work is underpinned by modules in linguistics, psychology and biological and medical sciences. Although every effort is made to arrange summer block placements to suit students’ circumstances, this is not always possible and students must be prepared to be flexible about placement location and timing. Students are responsible for any travel and/or accommodation costs incurred during placements.
Teaching will include a mix of lectures, tutorials, student-led seminars, clinical placement experience, case study analysis and individual project work. Emphasis will be placed on integrating clinical and university based learning opportunities and on independent study. Your performance will be assessed by a combination of course work including essays, reports, presentations, vivas and examinations, as well as clinical practical assessments.
Each module which you study on campus will require you to attend classes and carry out independent work. Your attendance at placement is compulsory and your attendance at QMU-based modules is expected. Classes will be spread over the whole week, except for placement days when you will be off campus. This is a full-time course, with the expectation that classes, independent study and placement together require 35 - 40 hours of dedicated time each week.
The course provides graduates, including those who complete the PgDip, with eligibility to register with the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the Health and Care Professions Council to practice in the UK.
Foundations for Speech and Language Therapy/ Linguistics 1: Introduction to Linguistics/ Neurology for SLT and Audiology/ Adult Acquired Language and Cognitive Communication Disorders/ Linguistics 2: Clinical Linguistics/ Disorders of Speech and Fluency/ Manual Handling/ Dysphagia (Developmental and Acquired)/ Within-Semester Clinical Placement 1/ Professional Practice for SLT 1/ Biological and behavioural Science for SLT: Typical Processes/ Developmental Disorders of Language and Communication/ Intellectual Disability, Physical and Sensory Impairment/ Linguistics 3: Linguistic Processing and Variation/ Within-Semester Clinical Placement 2/ Motor Speech Disorder, Voice Disorder, Cleft Lip and Palate/ Clinical Contexts/ Within-Semester Clinical Placement 3/ Professional Practice 2/ Research Methods
If studying for the MSc, you will also complete a dissertation (60 credits).
Most graduates work within the NHS in community clinics, schools and hospitals. Some graduates have gained research posts and some have gone on to achieve higher degrees. Some graduate Speech and language therapists may wish to seek employment outside the UK. For further information about how and where this qualification can be used outside of the UK please contact the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.
This course is for speech and language therapists/pathologists, linguists, psychologists or others with a relevant background who have an interest in acquired communication disorders such as aphasia, dysarthria and the communication difficulties secondary to dementia or traumatic brain injury.
The MSc will provide you with an up-to-date understanding of the main theoretical and clinical issues and approaches in this field and the implications of these findings for clinical intervention.
Your masters will give you the skills and knowledge to make a difference. Our MMedSci course provides the necessary training to meet the requirements of the UK Health and Care Professions Council which is the accreditation body for UK speech and language therapy. Our other courses provide professional development training. They can also lead to careers in university teaching and research.
We have a reputation for high quality research in the field of human communication and its disorders. That research informs our teaching. We offer professional training for students who are considering speech and language therapy as a career. If you’re interested in a research career, we can prepare you for a PhD.
We also run professional development courses for students already working in the field, so you can study alongside your current job. We have links with the NHS, special schools and specialist charities to ensure that what we teach you is in line with current developments in the field.
We work with other departments across the University including the School of Education, the Department of Psychology, the Department of Computer Science and the School of English Language and Linguistics.
PGCert
PGDip
MSc
Students on the PGDip and MSc also take optional modules, from a range offered both within the department and across other departments in the University.
The programme provides training in postgraduate level research skills in English language and linguistics. The programme is specifically designed to develop students' knowledge in the various areas of language and linguistics (e.g. syntax, semantics, langauge acquisition, discourse among others), and also to afford students the opportunity to focus the development of their research skills on and within their chosen sub-discipline.
Based within the School of Communication, the programme is distinctive in its breadth, offering modules in core theoretical generative linguistics as well as modules in conversation and discourse analysis with special focus on the study of English. The programme team includes experts in the various areas of linguistic research with PhDs from top universities in the world. The members of the team are all actively involved in research on a variety of topics. Language acquisition and multilingualism are core overlapping research interests of the group as a whole. The team also benefits from links to research groups in other universities in the UK, Australia and the US and has established a series of research seminars which bring in speakers from the UK, Ireland and overseas. The programme team has strong links with speech and language therapy and several of the team members are involved in research with clinical applications regarding language and communication disorders.
The programme will thus be particularly relevant to:
The course is taught during the day and it normally requires attendance to classes over 2 or 3 days a week. The timetable changes every year and the course director can be contacted to gain more information about this.
The programme develops students knowledge in the study of languge and can hence lead to the following career options:
Many of our past graduates have chosen this course as a first stepping stone towards a career in Speech and Langauge Therarpy.
There are also other generic and transferable skills that the student will develop from studying a linguistics degree. They include:
Develop your knowledge and skills of working with clients with developmental speech and literacy difficulties. This course is designed for speech and language therapists, and other professionals with a special interest in communication difficulties.
You can study part-time by distance learning or full-time.
Your masters will give you the skills and knowledge to make a difference. Feedback from our past students has confirmed that our module content is very relevant to practice in a speech and language therapy service or in schools and has enhanced job opportunities.
We have a reputation for high quality research in the field of human communication and its disorders. That research informs our teaching. If you’re interested in a research career, we can also prepare you for a PhD.
We also run professional development courses for students already working in the field, so you can study alongside your current job. We have links with the NHS, special schools and specialist charities to ensure that what we teach you is in line with current developments in the field.
We work with other departments across the University including the School of Education, the Department of Psychology, the Department of Computer Science and the School of English Language and Linguistics.
Different ways to study
The MSc Speech Difficulties is available part-time or full-time. It consists of a mix of online learning and blocks of intensive study in Sheffield. We work with you to develop your own interests through optional modules and a choice of dissertation topics.
Criminal records disclosure.
If you would like to take part in clinical observation opportunities, you will require a UK criminal records disclosure from the UK Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you are unsure whether you need one, please contact us for advice.
PGCert
Cleft palate pathway (subject to university approval):
PGDip and MSc
Part-time students study online via distance learning plus optional attendance at study blocks lasting 2-3 days. These take place at regular intervals throughout the academic year. Full-time students may also attend lectures, seminars and practical workshops offered in the department. Each module is assessed by a written assignment.
This course provides a fast-track route to an audiology qualification for individuals who hold a degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline (linguistics, psychology, physics, behavioural science, biomedical science, speech and language therapy or some combination of these).
Audiologists work with patients to identify and assess hearing and/or balance disorders, recommending and providing appropriate rehabilitation and management. An audiologist will assist in the promotion of normal communication as well as the prevention, identification, assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of the following: hearing and/or balance disorders that arise in the peripheral and/or central auditory and/or vestibular systems; functional hearing disorders; and central auditory processing disorders.
An audiologist should also be able to identify developmental or acquired disorders of speech, language and language processing caused by a hearing loss, and make referrals to an appropriate professional.
The course is organised in three broad strands. You will study supporting subjects such as linguistics, anatomy, physiology, psychology, neurology and research methods. You will learn theoretical audiology knowledge relating to hearing and balance, and you will carry out an element of professional practice through placement-based and university-based learning of practical clinical skills, clinical decision-making, reflection and professional issues. Knowledge, understanding and skills acquired in the theoretical modules are integrated and applied to clinical practice throughout the course.
The course is taught using a variety of interactive learning methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, laboratories, group work, role-play and interactive computer sessions. The development of interpersonal skills and professional skills and attitudes is also a major focus of the learning and teaching programme. Learning activities are guided using web-based programmes. A variety of assessments are used for example essays, individual presentations, electronic portfolios, group discussions, case studies, practical skills as well as a final dissertation. Class sizes are normally 10 - 15 students.
Each module which you study on campus will require you to attend classes and carry out independent work. Your attendance at QMU will depend on which module you are studying. In most instances, the taught elements of this course occur over three consecutive days. It is suggested that students use the other days for independent study.
The course provides graduates with eligibility to register with the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists (RCCP) in the United Kingdom/ Academy of Health Care Scientists.
15 credits: Neurology for Speech Therapy and Audiology/ Linguistics and Culture in Signed and Spoken Languages/ Advanced Audiological Assessment/ Multidisciplinary Working
30 credits: Audiological Assessment/ Aural Habilitation and Rehabilitation/ Technology for Hearing Impairment/ Vestibular Assessment and Rehabilitation/ Research Methods
Level 10 credits
20 credits: Audiological Clinical Skills/ Professional Practice for Audiology 40 credits: Clinical Audiology 1,2 & 3 (placement modules) If studying for the MSc you will also complete a dissertation (60 credits).
Graduates may work within the National Health Service and private sector. A further assessment is required in order to work as a registered Hearing Aid Dispenser. There are also career opportunities for research in universities and research institutes.
The MSc in Speech & Language Therapy is designed for students who are committed to a rewarding career in speech and language therapy.
As a graduate with a first degree from a discipline outside healthcare, this course provides you with a fast-track route into health, enabling you to gain a pre-registration health qualification in two years as opposed to the usual three to four.
Ruth is a current Speech and Language Therapy student. Watch her video to find out more about her experiences and thoughts on life as a postgraduate student at City, University of London.
City's MSc Speech and Language Therapy has an excellent reputation and is based within the largest, teaching, research and clinical division in the UK for language and communication science.
The MSc will help you:
The MSc in Speech & Language Therapy is accredited by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which is the UK-wide regulatory body for healthcare professions.
On successfully completing the MSc Speech and Language Therapy you are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and practise as a speech and language therapist in the NHS and other settings.
The MSc Speech and Language Therapy course provides you with many opportunities for clinical practice, including attendance at health centres, schools, departmental clinics, special educational settings and hospitals throughout the London area.
As an MSc student, you will have access to specialist labs and equipment, such as ultrasound and laryngographs to help you understand speech production and audiological equipment when learning about hearing and deafness.
The Roberta Williams Speech and Language Therapy Centre, opened in January 2016, is our specialist speech and language therapy clinic. The Centre contains state-of-the-art equipment to enable staff within the Division of Language and Communication Science to deliver cutting-edge research and services to patients.
Moodle is an enhanced Virtual Learning Environment which provides you with access to online course materials, resources, interactive activities, assessment and communication tools and is a key element of our blended learning approach, combining face-to-face teaching with online activity.
City's MSc Speech & Language Therapy has an excellent reputation and is based within the largest, teaching, research and clinical division in the UK for language and communication science.
You will learn with expert staff who are leaders in the field of speech and language therapy. The innovative and research-informed curriculum is supported by a busy in-house speech and language therapy clinic led by specialist staff. It is considered to be one of the leading educational environments in the world.
We also have close links with speech and language therapy services throughout London, with many practitioners from these services acting as clinical tutors on our courses.
The MSc in Speech & Language Therapy is a very intensive programme which requires full-time study by attending lectures, small-group problem-solving sessions, practical classes and tutorials. You will also have access to the most up-to-date equipment in the Speech Acoustics Laboratory and innovative online learning materials.
During your clinical placements, you will benefit from the supervision of a qualified therapist.
Modules are assessed through a diverse range of assignments and examinations. Your clinical progress will also be monitored by supervising clinicians.
During the MSc Speech and Language Therapy course you will learn about the foundations of speech and language, about how children learn to talk and about disorders that affect communication.
A number of subjects equip you for the analysis of speech, language and hearing difficulties, such as phonetics, linguistics and audiology. You will also develop research skills and the ability to apply evidence based practice. You will undertake weekly and block clinical placements in both years of the course.
Modules
When you have successfully completed 13 modules totalling 240 credits you will qualify for an MSc Speech and Language Therapy.
On successfully completing the MSc Speech & Language Therapy, you will be able to join a profession that makes a real difference to people’s lives.
On successfully completing the MSc in Speech and Language Therapy, you will be eligible to register with the Health and Care Professions Council and practise your profession within the NHS or in a range of other settings, including schools, hospitals, community clinics and charities.
A career in speech and language therapy offers opportunities to work with clients of all ages in settings such as:
Increasingly, many graduates also work in the private sector as independent speech and language therapists.
This course leads to a professional qualification to practice as a speech and language therapist. This enables the individual to work in a diverse range of settings and roles, from schools and hospitals to higher education and research. The course is approved by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the Health and Care Professions Council.
What will you learn?
You will investigate a range of subjects, including biomedical sciences, psychology, linguistics, communication and research methods. You will learn how to assess and manage a range of communication and swallowing disorders. Your skills will be put into practice through a series of clinical placements throughout the course.
We're one of only a few departments of our kind to run an in-house clinic. So as an MMedSci student at Sheffield, you’ll benefit from specialist facilities and training. To maximise your clinical skills, you’ll go on placements in our clinic and in settings throughout Sheffield and surrounding areas.
The course follows six main themes:
The course provides an interactive learning experience involving active participation, case-based and inquiry-based learning and small group teaching with an overall emphasis on integrating theoretical knowledge with
clinical expertise.
Some practical teaching takes place in the University’s human pathology laboratories. You will learn from a team of clinical and research specialists including speech and language therapists, psychologists, audiologists, linguists, information technologists, and medical practitioners.
Throughout the course, you will be working closely with your peers and tutors in a supportive environment.
Assessment of your knowledge and skills uses a variety of methods. These include exams, coursework and evaluation of clinical work. Your dissertation comprises a research-based systematic review of a clinically relevant topic in the second year of the programme.
