COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc (Hons) Clinical Speech and Language Studies is a four-year integrated program combining academic theory with practical clinical training. The curriculum is built around key areas including speech and language pathology, swallowing disorders, clinical practice, linguistics, psychology, research, and basic sciences such as anatomy and physiology. In the first year, students focus on foundation studies to understand normal communication and swallowing processes. In the second year, the emphasis shifts to understanding and assessing the strengths and needs of individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties, while continuing to study speech sciences, psychology, and linguistics. In the third year, students apply their knowledge to clinical intervention and study advanced topics such as neurology, psychiatry, discourse analysis, and research methods. In the fourth year, students integrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program, preparing for professional practice and research, while completing a major Capstone research project. Clinical activities and placements are a vital part of the course from the beginning, with placements in hospitals, schools, clinics, and rehabilitation centres organised by the department. On average, one day per week during term is dedicated to clinical work, with additional practice required outside term time. Teaching and assessment methods include lectures, practical work, continuous assessment, and end-of-semester examinations, ensuring students develop both professional competence and academic expertise.