Speech and Language Therapy MSpchLangTher

Queen Margaret University

This new four year integrated master’s course will equip you with all the knowledge and skills that you need to start a rewarding career as a speech and language therapist. You’ll learn the theory of speech and language therapy, and placements will immerse you in a variety of clinical environments. We are passionate about original research and you’ll have the chance to specialise in an area that inspires you.

Our ability to communicate with others is a vital part of who we are as individuals, and how we fit in with society. Speech and language therapists play a vital role in assessing and treating people who have communication and swallowing difficulties, both developmental and acquired. Clients can be of all ages, from newborn to the elderly. If you are passionate about applying scientific principles to support communication and want to make a difference to others’ lives, we can help you forge a fascinating career.

On this course, you will develop a strong theoretical understanding of speech and language therapy through modules in linguistics, psychology, biological and medical sciences, and research methods. Regular clinical placements will build your practical skills.

Year One will provide a grounding in development across the lifespan in the areas of physical sciences, linguistics and psychology. To facilitate your transition into university there will be a focus on academic writing and how to access appropriate information. You will develop knowledge and apply it at observational placements in local early years settings and primary schools and with older people, usually in a social care setting.

Year Two focuses predominantly on childhood and developmental speech, language and communication disorders. You will continue to build your knowledge in physical sciences, linguistics, psychology and research methods with increased application to clinical areas. You will develop your clinical skills though weekly placements in local clinics in Semester One.

Year Three will provide an opportunity to develop research and critical thinking skills. You will enhance your clinical decision making skills (assessment/goal setting/management planning/outcome evaluation) through case studies and in-class discussions. You will focus on disorders of communication acquired in adulthood and related to sensory, cognitive and physical impairments. You will explore different areas of practice through clinical masterclasses. You will continue to link theory to practice as you attend clinical placements during the semesters and a block placement during the summer.

Year Four will provide the opportunity to enhance, consolidate and reflect on your learning to date. You will continue to develop your skills in research, professional development, and current and advanced clinical skills enabling a smooth transition to working life. You will explore leadership skills and gain an understanding of key skills for collaboration and training. You will complete your academic learning by undertaking a focused research dissertation. This year includes 20 days of clinical placement. You’ll continue to attend clinical placement during the semester.

We aim for all of our graduates to be confident in their own professional identity and have the additional skills that will allow them to work as an effective multidisciplinary team member. This is the reason why we have implemented an interprofessional focus within all of our healthcare courses; including this one.