Masters Degrees in Speech Science, United Kingdom

The Division of Language and Communication Science in City’s School of Health has an established reputation for teaching and research excellence. Join the MSc Speech and Language Therapy course and join a profession that makes a real difference to people’s lives.

Students starting PG Dip courses in September 2017 will receive a NHS Tuition Fee Bursary to cover the full tuition fees for the duration of their course.

Who is it for?

Our graduate-entry courses allow graduates with a first degree from disciplines other than healthcare to gain a pre-registration health qualification in two years as opposed to the usual three to four - providing a fast-track route into health.

The MSc in Speech and Language Therapy is designed for students who are committed to a career in speech and language therapy. You will need to have:
-Good listening and communication skills
-Good problem-solving skills
-Good organisational skills
-An ability to learn a range of academic subjects and to apply your learning to clinical practice
-An enthusiasm for working with children and adults and as part of a team.

Objectives

The MSc Speech and Language Therapy course leads to work in a challenging and varied field - you could be working with autistic children, people who stammer or adults who have lost their speech following a stroke.

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 programme is taught by 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 and is considered as one of the leading educational environments in the world.

At City we have close links with speech and language therapy services throughout London, with many practitioners from these services acting as clinical tutors on our courses.

Placements

The MSc Speech and Language Therapy course provides many opportunities for clinical practice, including attendance at health centres, schools, departmental clinics, special educational settings and hospitals throughout the London area.

Academic facilities

Speech and language therapy students have access to specialist labs and equipment such as ultrasound and laryngographs to help them 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 students 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.

Teaching and learning

The MSc in Speech and 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. On 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.

Modules

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
-Articulatory Phonetics, Phonology and Speech Development
-Bio-medical Sciences
-Life Span Psychology and Research Methods
-Speech Disorders, Dysfluency and Augmentative and Alternative
-Dysphagia, Voice, Motor Speech Disorders, Dementia
-Language Sciences: Linguistics and Language Development
-Professional Studies A
-Evidence Based Practice and Data Analysis
-Acoustic Phonetics, Audiology and Deafness
-Acquired and Developmental Language Disorders
-Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disability, Child Mental Health, Cerebral Palsy, Cleft Palate
-Professional Studies B
-Research Project

When you have successfully completed 13 modules totalling 240 credits you will qualify for an MSc Speech and Language Therapy.

Career prospects

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.

A career in speech and language therapy offers opportunities to work with clients of all ages in settings such as:
-Health centres
-Hospitals
-Schools
-Charities
-Universities
-You can also work abroad and in the private sector.

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The MSc has been designed in conjunction with one of the world's leading forensic speech laboratories, JP French Associates. The director of the laboratory, Professor Peter French, will deliver some of the taught components and will supervise some research projects.

Students are given the opportunity to go on site visits that will allow them to observe the working practices of the laboratory, as well as those of cognate institutions such as courts. They will carry out analyses of recordings from real forensic cases and will have the opportunity to develop expert witness communication skills by undergoing cross-examination from a practising barrister in the University’s moot court.

Areas of the MSc overlap with those central to speech and recording technology and students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience of the latest generation of automatic speaker recognition software used in banking and law enforcement, made available through the Department’s partnership with Nuance.

Aims

The MSc in Forensic Speech Science provides a comprehensive foundation in the aims, practices, and principles of speech analysis for forensic purposes. The course will:
-Provide a thorough grounding in the theoretical underpinnings of forensic speech analysis, especially in phonetics, acoustics, and sociolinguistics/language variation
-Introduce students to the practical techniques used in forensic speech and audio analysis
-Provide students with an appreciation of theoretical and methodological problems in performing forensic speech and audio analysis
-Enable students to apply their skills and knowledge to recorded materials from real criminal cases
-Enable students to perform original research in speaker comparison and speech content analysis
-Impart understanding of the role and responsibilities of the forensic speech scientist as expert witness

Applicants

The course will be of interest to:
-Graduates with a background in linguistics, acoustics, English or other language-based disciplines
-Graduates in law, criminology or psychology
-Professionals in legal practice, government agencies, law enforcement agencies or other branches of forensic science
-Potential practitioners of forensic speech science

Careers

The MSc is not intended as a stand-alone vocational qualification. However, successful completion of the programme will provide students with the requisite skills, understanding, and knowledge to work effectively and increase their employability in forensic domains as well as in related fields such as the police, prison service, emergency call services and security services.

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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, learning and assessment

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.

Teaching hours and attendance

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.

Links with industry/professional bodies

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 practise in the UK.

Modules

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).

Careers

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.

Quick Facts

- The diploma course is the only postgraduate pre-registration course of its kind in Scotland.
- This course is the only one in the UK whereby speech and language therapists and audiologists are in the same department.
- Both these awards qualify you to register to work as a speech and language therapist in the UK.

Other useful information

Entry for International students: NB 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.

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The content for this programme, which is offered by the University of Greenwich and Canterbury Christ Church University, is applied closely to the practice of speech and language therapy. The programme gives students a detailed understanding of the changes that occur and difficulties that can arise for the individual who seeks the help of a speech and language therapist.

Speech and language therapists work in hospital wards and outpatient departments, mainstream and special schools, day centres and clients' homes, and courtrooms, prisons and young offenders' institutions. Practice placements are organised to give experience of a number of these settings.

The programme aims to develop speech and language therapists who are autonomous, accountable practitioners, competent and confident to contribute their evidence-based profession-specific skills and knowledge in the delivery of health, education and social care for users of speech and language therapy services and their families.

The programme is structured to maximise opportunities for learning how to work in an interprofessional and multi-agency context and within a changing workforce. A wide range of assessments are used including written assessments, presentations and assessment of placement education.

Please note that there are no tuition fees payable as places are commissioned by the NHS. Eligible students can apply for a means tested bursary for the duration of the programme. For more information please see http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk

The aims of the programme are:

- To acquire and satisfactorily demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills and competencies to meet the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency for Speech and Language Therapists, QAA benchmarks statements and to practise autonomously, interprofessionally, safely, competently and within the scope of practice, Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)

- To develop a range of clinical skills and the confidence to employ them in practice contexts appropriately

- To develop and comprehensively demonstrate critical understanding of a range of communication and other disorders relevant to Speech and Language Therapy (SLT), and the holistic and interprofessional management of these.

Visit the website http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/courses/pg/hsc/slt

Health and Social Care

With over 20 years’ experience as a trusted provider of health and social care training and education, we are committed to providing our students with the knowledge and skills to become valued members of the community and to the continuing professional development of qualified professionals.

We are at the forefront of research and innovation in the field of health and social care and our teaching staff have both practical know-how and academic expertise.

What you'll study

Full time
- Year 1:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Orientation to Speech & Language Therapy (20 credits)
Biological Sciences for Speech & Language Therapy (20 credits)
Developmental Communication Disorders (20 credits)

- Year 2:
Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Biological Sciences for Speech & Language Therapy (20 credits)
Developmental Communication Disorders (20 credits)
Acquired Communication Disorders (20 credits)
Professional Development Module (20 credits)
Psychological Science and Human Development (20 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Find out more about our fees and the support available to you at our:
- Postgraduate finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/pg)
- International students' finance pages (http://www.gre.ac.uk/finance/international)

Assessment

Students are assessed through case studies, essays, situational analysis, oral presentation, unseen papers, a portfolio and reflection.

Professional recognition

Graduates from this programme are eligible to register with the Health and Care Professions Council and become members of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

Career options

Graduates can pursue careers as speech and language therapists.

Find out about the teaching and learning outcomes here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/643842/Post-Graduate-Diploma-in-Speech-and-Language-Therapy.pdf

Find out how to apply here - http://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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Are you a graduate who likes working with people? Would you like to become a registered Speech and Language Therapist within two years? If you are keen to become an allied health professional and want to shape the future of speech and language therapy, read on to find out how we can help you achieve those objectives.

Speech and language therapists work with people of all ages who experience communication and swallowing difficulties, enabling them to maximise their independence in their social, academic and working lives. Successful completion of our course leads to eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a speech and language therapist; a pre-registration course is essential to begin a career in this area of therapy.

This is a two-year fast-track programme for graduates with a related degree (psychology; language and linguistics; social science; biological sciences; medical sciences or equivalent). It is a client-focused programme which uses problem-based learning methods to integrate theory and clinical practice. You will undertake day visits and blocks of practice education with speech and language therapists in the workplace.

Our course is continuously developed to reflect contemporary health and social care practice, and clients and voluntary groups, other allied health professionals and speech and language therapy clinicians and service managers continue to be involved, in order to ensure that changes in speech and language therapy practice are incorporated.

You will share some learning experiences with Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Adult Nursing and Mental Health Nursing students on similar two-year accelerated pre-registration programmes. The learning experience at this level includes interprofessional collaboration; studying alongside other health professionals means that you also have the opportunity to gain expert knowledge from them.

Placement Opportunities

In order to prepare you for the workplace, opportunities are provided in practice placements, where you work with speech and language therapists and their teams in a wide variety of settings.

This workplace learning provides essential practical experience of working with service users with communication and swallowing problems, and teams around the clients.

Professional accreditation

We are committed to embedding the NHS Constitution Values (which are strongly reflected in our University values) into everything we do. They define the behaviours and expectations of all our staff and students, underpinning the work we do in the university, clinical arena and other workplaces.

We understand that not all of our students and staff are employed within the NHS, but these values uphold the underlying principles of excellent care as a standard and as such we expect that anyone who has any aspect of their work which ultimately cares for others, will aspire to uphold these values.

For us, involving not only our students but service users, experts by experience, carers and NHS/non NHS professionals in the creation and delivery of all programmes is vital.

Specialist facilities

The School of Health and Human Sciences is located at two sites; in the Kimmy Eldridge building at our Colchester campus and in the Gateway Building at our Southend campus.

Within our School of Health and Human Sciences, we have a range of specialist clinical laboratories and IT facilities to assist you with the effective learning and acquisition of new skills; for students of our MSc Speech and Language Therapy, we have two specialist labs with equipment for researching speech including aided simulations and speech recognition.

We offer excellent physical and online resources in terms of libraries, computer labs, datasets, archives and other research materials. You can take advantage of our links with the Institute of Social and Economic Research (ISER), which conducts large-scale survey projects, many for government, EU and other public agencies, and has its own library.

The UK Data Archive is also based at our Colchester Campus and stores national research data.

Your future

We currently have graduates working in both clinical and management positions in local trusts, hospitals and care organisations, as well as in local and county councils.

Although the majority of speech and language therapists are employed by the NHS they are increasingly being employed in a wide variety of contexts including education and health and social care.

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About the course

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 career

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.

How we teach

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.

Core modules

PGCert
Spoken and Written Language; Developing an Evidence-Based Practice; Speech Difficulties I: nature and investigation; Speech Difficulties II: intervention and management.
From 2017-18 We now also offer core modules in cleft palate speech.
PGDip
Same four modules as for the PGCert; Research Methods; Two option modules.
MSc
Same four modules as for the PGCert; Spoken and Written Language; Developmental Speech Difficulties: Nature and Investigation; Developmental Speech Difficulties: Intervention and Management; Developing an Evidence Base for Practice; Research Methods; Two optional modules; Research Dissertation.
Examples of optional modules
Developmental Language and Communication Disorders (single or double option); Special Topics in Human Communication Sciences (two option modules); Cleft Palate (single or double option); Methods in Clinical Linguistics; Acquired Language Disorders; Acquired Speech Disorders.

Part-time students study online via distance learning plus optional attendance at the study blocks. Full-time students may also attend lectures, seminars and practical workshops offered in the department.

Assessment

Each module is assessed by a written assignment. Masters students are also assessed on their research dissertation.

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The combined specialisation in Speech and Hearing Sciences provides a thorough multidisciplinary introduction to modern knowledge and current research in the inter related aspects of human spoken communication. It prepares students from different backgrounds for work in the rapidly developing fields of speech and hearing research, and their technological applications.

Degree information

Students take a core set of modules and then have the opportunity to specialise in speech and hearing sciences. In selecting the modules for their specialisation, students will be able to take full advantage of the breadth of expertise in language research in the UCL Division of Psychology & Language Sciences.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (45 credits), three specialisation modules (45 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

Core modules
-Introduction to the Brain and Imaging the Brain
-Research Methods: Principles, Skills and Applications
-Students select three specialisation modules from those below:
-Development of Speech Perception and Production
-Introduction to Speech Sciences
-Experimental Phonetics
-Phonetic Theory

Optional modules - students select two modules from all those offered within UCL Psychology & Language Sciences, subject to availability and agreement with the Programme Director. Options include:
-Deafness, Cognition and Language
-Second Language Speech Learning
-Web Programming for Psychology and Language Sciences
-Stuttering
-Advanced topics in Speech Perception
-Current Issues in Production, Perception and Neural Processing of Speech

Not all modules will run every year, some modules may require a minimum number of registered students.

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project in an area of language science which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group teaching and a virtual learning environment. Some modules also involve workshops or practical classes. Student performance is assessed through coursework, examinations and the research dissertation.

Careers

The majority of students who graduate from Language Sciences MSc programmes go on to further study or research. Recent graduates have gone on to PhD study in UCL, other UK institutions and overseas institutions. Others have gone to work in related industries (for example in speech technology industries, cochlear implants manufacturers) or in education. The skills that the MSc develops – independent research, presentation skills, statistics – are transferable skills that are very highly sought after outside academia.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The UCL Division of Psychology & Language Sciences undertakes world-leading research and teaching in mind, behaviour, and language. Staff and students benefit from cutting-edge resources including extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, and cognition.

Opportunities for students to work with world-renowned researchers exist in all areas of investigation. The division offers a supportive environment including numerous specialist seminars, workshops, and guest lectures.

The Language Sciences MSc provides the opportunity for in-depth study of one or more areas of the language sciences. The programme is an 'umbrella degree', with a number of specialisation strands that follow a common structure.

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This interdisciplinary MRes is aimed at applicants whose interest in language spans more than one discipline. Building on a first degree in linguistics, speech sciences, psychology, cognitive science, or a cognate discipline, students plan their own programme of study, selecting from a range of courses in several different UCL departments.

Degree information

Students are introduced to academic and key skills essential for all fields of research in Speech, Language and Cognition, gain research training with relevant supervisors from the UCL Centre for Human Communication, and are able to assess and critically appraise theoretical and applied research relevant to speech, language and cognition.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (30 credits), four options (30 credits), a research project (105 credits) and plan (15 credits).

Core modules
-Foundation Course in Research
-Research Methods
-Theoretical Frameworks
-Research Plan

Optional modules - as part of Theoretical Frameworks, students follow teaching in a total of four modules across the Division of Psychology and more widely at UCL. These modules are chosen from at least two from the following fields of study:
-Auditory Processing
-Speech Processing: Perception and Production
-Phonetics and Phonology
-Syntax and Morphology
-Semantics and Pragmatics
-Language Development
-Language Processing and Pathology
-Cognition and Communication
-Neurobiology of Language
-Theory Construction and Modelling

There is no set list for these modules and students will choose modules which complement their intended research in consultation with the Programme Director.

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project on an aspect of speech, language and cognition which culminates in a research plan of 3,000–6,000 words and a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of small group teaching, seminars, student-led research tutorials, self-study materials, supervised laboratory placement, lectures and computer-based practical classes. It is largely assessed by coursework, with only the statistics component being assessed by exam. The research project is assessed by dissertation.

Careers

A large proportion of our students go on to study for a PhD and pursue a career in academia. The MRes is excellent preparation for a PhD degree and we have been very successful at getting candidates onto funded programmes. A number of graduates have returned to clinical practice as specialised speech and language therapists, or have gone on to work as researchers. Others go on to work in other fields ranging from business to education. The skills that the MRes develops – independent research, presentation skills, and statistics – are very highly sought-after outside academia.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Teacher, Queen Mary University of London (QML)
-Researcher, University of Cambridge and studying PhD Autism, University of Cambridge
-PhD Researcher, Universiteit van Amsterdam (University of Amsterdam)
-MPhil/PhD Speech Hearing and Phonetic Sciences, University College London (UCL)
-PhD Education, University of Oxford

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL Psychology & Language Sciences undertakes world-leading research and teaching in mind, behaviour, and language.

Our work attracts staff and students from around the world. Together they create an outstanding and vibrant environment, taking advantage of cutting-edge resources such as a behavioural neuroscience laboratory, a centre for brain imaging, and extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, and cognition.

Opportunities for graduate students to work with world-renowned researchers exist in all areas of investigation, from basic processes to applied research. The division offers a supportive environment including numerous specialist seminars, workshops, and guest lectures.

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The PGCert in Augmentative and Alternative Communication supports practitioners from across a number of disciplines to lead AAC assessment and intervention in the workplace. The units that make up this award have already supported the academic development of practitioners from speech and language therapy, psychology, education, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, clinical science and IT.

This award enables the student to study an assessment and an intervention based unit at level 7 before completing an independent study unit. The independent study unit will facilitate students’ use of their knowledge and skills to develop a work based project that will be unique to their practice/workplace.

Features and benefits of the course

-Delivered by a national and internationally known expert in AAC
-The content reflects contemporary practice at an advanced practitioner level
-Multidisciplinary-opportunities to share practice with people from a range of disciplines

Assessment details

An assignment of 4500 words or equivalent, appropriate to the student’s field of practice.

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This MSc is a joint programme of City, University of London and UCL Institute of Education (IOE). It brings together speech and language therapists, teachers and other graduate school-based practitioners for collaborative study.

Degree information

Taught modules address current research and debates on educational contexts and children's language; social, emotional and behavioural development; and needs. They also enhance students' understanding of research methods and skills in critical analysis, preparing them to undertake a research project in their chosen area.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (90 credits), either one IOE or two City electives (30 credits in total) and a dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules - there are four taught core modules - two at the IOE and two at City University, and the MSc Speech, Language and Communication Needs in Schools: Advanced Practice dissertation. For the dissertation module students can choose to be supervised at either institution.
-Concepts and Contexts of Special and Inclusive Education
-Foundations of Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis (City University)
-Language, Learning and Development (City University)
-Social, Emotional and Behavioural Development

Optional modules - students choose either one IOE optional module or two City optional modules to the total value of 30 credits.
-Autism: Research and Practice
-Child and Adolescent Mental Health: Early Identification and Assessment
-Cognitive Communication Impairments
-Developmental Language Impairments
-Inclusive Pedagogy
-Literacy Development
-Literacy Practice in Writing and Comprehension
-Promoting Child and Adolescent Psychological Development
-Psychology for Special Needs
-Reading and Spelling Difficulties
-Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia)

Dissertation/research project
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning
Modules are taught in different ways: a conventional lecture-based approach predominates, supplemented by a variety of activities, for example, group/pair discussions, case study analysis, role play, the use of simulations. Assessment is by written assignments and a dissertation. Some assignments may require data analysis, or written work and a presentation.

Careers

This MSc qualification raises graduates' profiles as specialists and leaders in speech, language and communication needs in the school setting. It is an advantage for teachers and clinicians seeking higher grade specialist and managerial posts. Graduates are also eligible ro apply for a research degree (MPhil/PhD) and some research posts.

Please note: this MSc does not lead to professional qualification as a speech and language therapist or teacher.

Employability
Depending on their prior experience, graduates of this programme might expect:
-Entry into employment relevant to SCLN.
-Promotion, e.g. to a management position for students with several years' prior experience.
-Progression to higher degrees, e.g. MPhil/PhD for students with a consistently high academic profile.
-To deliver training to other practitioners at their host institution.
-Publication in professional journals in the fields of language and communication for exceptional students.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The MSc Speech, Language and Communication Needs in Schools: Advanced Practice will enhance your knowledge and provide you with a detailed understanding of children's speech, language and communication needs (SCLN). It will broaden your awareness of how children develop speech, language, literacy and numeracy.

This programme provides a springboard for fresh stimulation and reflection on support for children with speech, language and communication needs in a community of fellow students, practitioners and research experts.

There are opportunities within all modules to share theory and professional practice across the disciplinary boudaries of health and education. Participants explore the needs of children with speech, language and communication difficulties from a range of perspectives. The programme seeks to promote effective collaboration between educational practitioners and speech and language therapists.

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This MSc is an accredited professional programme leading to qualification as a speech and language therapist (SLT). The programme integrates theory with work-based clinical placements with adults and children with a range of communication and swallowing difficulties. The programme has an excellent reputation, and over 90% of graduates are working in SLT-related posts within six months of qualifying.

Degree information

Students learn to apply knowedge from a range of academic subjects to speech and language therapy practice. Innovative and authentic learning methods develop necessary skills such as team-working, assessment and therapy, self-evaluation. The research-based curriculm promotes strong research skills, enabling students to evaluate and add to the evidence-base for the profession. The programme prepares students well for future leadership roles.

Students undertake modules to the value of 360 credits.

The programme comprises twelve core modules. Students register for six modules in year one (totalling 165 credits) and six modules in year two (195 credits, including a 60-credit research project). There are no optional modules for this programme.

Year One core modules
-Management of Communication Disorders 1: Language and Cognition (developmental)
-Management of Communication Disorders 2: Speech and Hearing
-Phonetics and Phonology
-Linguistic and Psychological Perspectives
-Research Methods 1

Year Two core modules
-Professional and Clinical Studies II
-Management of Communication Disorders 3: Language and Cognition (acquired)
-Management of Communication Disorders 4: Speech, Swallowing and Voice
-Brain, Mind and Health
-Research Methods II
-Research Project

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 8,000–10,000 words. Students also present their project orally to a group of peers.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, small group tutorials, workshops, supervised clinical placements, practical classes and self-directed learning. Collaborative peer-working features strongly throughout. A variety of assessment methods are used, including coursework, presentations, clinical vivas, written examinations and practice-based assessment on placement.

Placement
Students attend both weekly and block placements, from the start of course working alongside qualified SLTs in a wide range of settings including hospitals, community, schools and charities. Placements are organised such that each student gains a breadth of experience. Students undertake over 700 hours of supervised clinical practice over the two year course, well above RCSLT recommendations.

Careers

Most graduates work as speech and language therapists with adults and children with a range of communication and swallowing difficulties, such as people with autism spectrum disorder, specific language or learning difficulties, people who have had strokes or head injuries. They work in the NHS, for example in hospitals, community health centres, specialist centres or domicilairy services. Many graduates work in education settings, such as mainstream or specialist schools and children's centres. Emerging areas of work are youth justice and dementia services. Graduates are well placed to take up further research and to develop into specialist SLTs.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Speech and Language Therapist, King's College Hospital (NHS)
-Speech and Language Therapist, North Middlesex University Hospital (NHS)
-Speech and Language Therapist, St George's Healthcare NHS Trust
-Speech and Language Therapist, Whittington Health NHS
-Speech and Language Therapy Assistant, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust

Employability
The programme is highly regarded by employers. As a professional training programme, this MSc develops a range of transferable skills relevant to employability, such as: interpersonal and communication skills, oral and written presentation skills, collaboration and teamworking, critical evaluation, integration and sythesis of information, report writing, behaviour management and change. Workplace learning in clinical placements enables students to apply their knowledge from a range of disciplines - including linguistics, phonetics, psychology and neurology - to assessing and managing communication difficulties in real life speech and language therapy contexts.

Why study this degree at UCL?

Students will benefit directly from UCL's world-leading research and teaching in language, mind and behaviour, supported by facilities such as cutting-edge laboratories, the on-site national SLT library and our in-house clinic.

You will be taught by experts in the field including specialist speech and language therapists, psychologists, linguists, neurologists. Our strong partnership with SLT services across London ensures the high-quality and currency of the curriculum.

This programme is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). This qualification allows you to practise as a SLT in the UK.

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About the course:
-Accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council and recognised by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists
-Develop your communication, clinical and research skills within professional settings
-Focus on clinically related topics
-Apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council to work as a speech and language therapist upon graduation

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY?

Modules include:
-Advanced Professional Development
-Communication impairment 1, 2, 3
-Clinical phonetics & phonology
-Clinical Practice 1, 2
-Disorders of fluency
-Foundations of grammar
-Medicine 1, 2
-Multilingualism and Impairment Across the Lifespan
-Oropharangeal Dysphagia
-Personality and social psychology
-Phonetics and Phonology
-Research and Dissertation
-Typical and Atypical Development 1, 2

EMPLOYABILITY

Our MSc Speech and Language Therapy programme is recognised by The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council. Speech and language therapists work with adults and children with a range of communication and swallowing difficulties.

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Fostering critical reflection, specialist knowledge, and joint professional practice between school-based professionals supporting children with speech, language and communication needs.

Who is it for?

This course is suitable for school-based professionals who provide support for children with speech, language and communication needs.

It is designed for students looking to gain high level knowledge and analytical skills, share their professional experience and perspectives and access current research in their field.

Students will be aiming to raise their profile as a specialist and leader in speech, language and communication needs in the school setting.

Objectives

The MSc in Speech, Language and Communication Needs in Schools is jointly run by City, University of London and UCL Institute of Education. It brings together speech and language therapists, teachers and other graduate school-based practitioners for collaborative study. The programme is designed to enable students to:
-Understand and critically reflect on research and professional practice across both education and health.
-Develop high level knowledge of educational contexts and children’s language, social, emotional and behavioural development and needs.
-Enhance students’ understanding of research methods and skills.
-Complete a research project in a chosen area under expert supervision.
-Enjoy stimulation and fresh thinking in a community of fellow students, practitioners and research experts.
-Gain recognition as a specialist in the field.

Teaching and learning

Modules are facilitated by experienced clinicians, teachers and leading researchers, using a variety of direct and interactive methods. Some modules take place in large groups supplemented by small group discussion or laboratory sessions that provide hands-on experience of statistical analyses. Specialist modules take place in small groups combining lecturing with student-led discussion and workshop activities often drawing on participants' professional experiences. Moodle, the virtual learning environment at both institutions, provides an online platform for sharing module information and interactive learning. These methods support and are supported by self-directed study.

Assessments

Modules are assessed through a diverse range of assignments that may include essays, literature reviews, oral presentations, poster presentations, case studies, and data analyses. Assessments require critical evaluation of the research on key issues; selective application of theory and research to a particular setting, group or individual in the student's experience; understanding of research methods; and skills in statistical analysis.

Modules

The taught programme comprises:
-Four core modules
-Either one elective module worth 30 credits or two elective modules each worth 15 credits
-A research dissertation.

Teaching takes place in three 10-week terms: autumn, spring and summer. Students will normally take one module per term part-time or two modules per term full-time.

Each module runs over 3-5 whole days, 10 evenings or 10 half days. In addition, students will be expected to spend approximately half a day a week reading around the taught sessions, preparing for discussion, or completing short exercises. Students have up to one year to complete the research dissertation.

Core modules
-Concepts and Contexts of Special and Inclusive Education (30 credits)
-Social, Emotional and Behavioural Development (30 credits)
-Language Learning and Development (15 credits)
-Foundations of Research Methods and Applied Data Analysis (15 credits)

Elective modules - Elective modules are chosen from many available at both institutions and timing depends on module choice. Popular electives at UCL IOE include:
-Literacy Development (30 credits)
-Developmental Language Impairment (30 credits)
-Child and Adolescent Mental Health (30 credits)
-Reading and Spelling Difficulties (30 credits)
-Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia) (30 credits)
-Autism: Research and Practice (30 credits)

At City, University of London:
-Cognitive Communication Impairments (15 credits)
-Developmental Language Impairment (15 credits)
-Dysphagia and Disorders of Eating and Drinking (15 credits)
-Child and Adolescent Mental Health: Early Identification and Assessment (15 credits)
-Promoting Child and Adolescent Psychological Development (15 credits)

Career prospects

This MSc qualification raises graduates’ profile as a specialist and leader in speech, language and communication needs in the school setting. It is an advantage for teachers and clinicians seeking higher grade specialist and managerial posts.

Graduates are also eligible to apply for a research degree (MPhil/PhD) and some research posts.

Please note that this MSc does not lead to professional qualification as a speech and language therapist or teacher.

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As a postgraduate researcher in Speech and Language Sciences you will carry out a major research project working with supervisors who are experts in your field.

We offer expert supervision in the following research areas:
-Links between the production and perception of speech
-Monolingual/bilingual speech and language development in children for a range of language(s), particularly Arabic
-Early years policy with a focus on language and communication
-Relation of socio-economic factors to language development
-Assessment, diagnosis and intervention for speech, language and communication impairment, including: primary speech and language impairment in children (including specific language impairment); verb and sentence processing deficits in people with aphasia; memory disorders following stroke; effectiveness of interventions for speech and language impairments; the psycholinguistics of word production; computational modelling of word retrieval

Our website provides further information on research areas. Our supervisors' current research interests, projects and publications are available from our staff profiles. The majority of our staff have hands-on professional experience in speech and language therapy, teaching, or English language teaching prior to entering academia.

We advise that you contact Carolyn Letts, Director of Postgraduate Research, or a member of our staff as a potential supervisor before applying. You will be asked to submit a short research proposal (1000 words max).

Delivery

Your attendance at Newcastle is flexible, depending on your field work or if you are away collecting data. You will have regular meetings with your supervisory team, supported by email and Skype.

You can choose to enter the annual competition for ESRC funded studentships through the ESRC Northern Ireland/North East (NINE) Doctoral Training Partnership. You should contact us well in advance of the February deadline if you are planning to apply.

You will be based in the School of Education, Communication and Language Sciences, which is very diverse with a high number of international students. You will have opportunities to attend seminars across the disciplines of speech and language sciences, education and applied linguistics and to engage with staff and fellow-students from all over the world. Many of our students already have well-developed professional careers and are inspired to explore research questions arising from their experience.

If you are based in the UK and wish to maintain your professional employment, part time study is a flexible option.

Our links with research centres and institutes provide opportunities for collaboration and cross-disciplinary seminars and interest groups. Our most important connections are with:
-Institute for Health and Society
-Centre for Research in Linguistics and Language Studies
-Centre for Research in Learning and Teaching

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This new programme is an NHS funded training programme and reflects the values of the NHS constitution. The programme will offer Psychology graduates the opportunity to prepare for practice as a speech and language therapist and to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

Speech and Language Therapists are concerned with the management of disorders of language, speech, fluency, voice, communication and swallowing in children and adults. This programme will focus in particular on creating research-active graduates who will contribute to evidence-based practice within the profession.

Applicants must have Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) with the British Psychological Society
The recruitment process for this programme includes assessing applicants by interview for the core values of the NHS Constitution.

Features and benefits of the course

-Accelerated master's programme for Psychology graduates wishing to gain certification to work as speech and language therapists
-Mix of university based and practice placement learning
-Opportunity to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions council upon successful completion of the course

About the Course

Commissioned by Health Education England, this programme will run over two years with 45 weeks of study per year as required by the professional body, the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

There will be a mix of university-based and placement-based learning throughout the programme, drawing upon students' previous undergraduate Psychology studies to develop confident and knowledgable practitioners over an accelerated period of professional study.

Students will take a range of units across two years of study. Some units are taken in year 1 and others in year 2 as indicated below, but in addition the following units will be taken across both years of study:
-Professional Competency in Speech and Language Therapy
-Research Methods and Dissertation

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