COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Speech Pathology program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of speech pathology theory, clinical practice, and professional skills over four years. In the first year, students establish foundational knowledge through units such as Introduction to the Speech Pathology Profession, Foundations of Speech Pathology Practice, Phonetics and Linguistics for Speech Pathology, and Communication Development Across the Lifespan. Complementary courses in Anatomy and Physiology, Health Psychology, Interprofessional Health Practice, and Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples build the academic, scientific, and cultural knowledge essential for effective practice.The second year focuses on assessment and intervention skills for both children and adults. Students undertake units including Assessment of Speech, Language and Literacy in Childhood, Intervention Speech, Language and Literacy in Childhood, Assessment of Adult Speech and Language, and Speech Pathology Practice 1. Core science and evidence-based practice are reinforced through units such as Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology of the Head and Neck, Neurology for Speech Pathology, and Foundations of Evidence for Health Science Practitioners. Students also gain practical experience in clinical settings through Work Integrated Learning in Speech Pathology 1.In the third year, students continue to develop advanced clinical skills through Work Integrated Learning in Speech Pathology 2 and 3, Speech Pathology Practice 2, and Intervention for Adult Speech and Language. Electives, including education or university-wide units, allow for personalised learning and broader professional development.The fourth year consolidates students’ learning through advanced practice and professional integration. Units include Work Integrated Learning in Speech Pathology 4 and 5, Advanced Practice in Speech Pathology, Critical Reflection in Speech Pathology, Transition to Practice, and Health Promotion and Project. Extensive clinical placements ensure students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, refine their clinical reasoning, and develop the professional competencies required for entry into the speech pathology workforce. Overall, the program combines rigorous academic study, practical experience, and reflective practice to prepare graduates as competent, confident, and ethical speech pathology professionals.