Master of Speech and Language Pathology
MSLP
Duration
2 years full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
2 years full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 (February)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
The Master of Speech and Language Pathology (MSLP) is a graduate-entry professional qualification to practice as a speech language pathologist/therapist. Students generally have a background in science, linguistics, engineering, psychology, education, or health sciences, and this programme provides an opportunity to enter the speech-language profession.
In the MSLP, you will study the areas of clinical linguistics, evidence-based practice, introductory neuroscience, speech and language development and disorders across the lifespan, typical and atypical hearing, swallowing, fluency and voice, and professional practice.
This hands-on programme includes experiential clinical practice.
- To enrol in the MSLP you must have completed any bachelor's or master's degree, with a minimum of a B Grade Point Average, or other qualifications of an equivalent standard.
- In addition you must have passed one course in each of the two following disciplines at 100-level or above: Statistics, and Anatomy and Physiology of the Speech, Hearing and Swallowing Mechanism (SPSC161 or equivalent).
- If English is not your first language, you must provide proof of IELTS (Academic) average of at least 7.0, with no score lower than 6.5.
- You will also need approval to enrol by the Amo Matua, Pūtaiao | Executive Dean of Science or a delegate. Selection is based on academic merit, a statement of interest, and an interview with departmental representatives.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Speech and Language Pathology or use the admission requirements checker.
One or more courses or research may require vaccination
The final vaccination mandate ended at 11:59 pm on Monday 26 September 2022 which applied to health and disability workers. Some employers/placement sites may still require workers to be vaccinated due to health and safety. As such, some clinical placements may be restricted for those students who are not fully vaccinated.
How to apply
Entry into the Master of Speech and Language Pathology is limited. You will need to submit a separate application form to Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing by 1 October. Late enrolments will be considered if places are still available.
Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The MSLP includes courses to a total of 240 points from Part I and Part II. You will need to complete all courses in Part I before proceeding to Part II.
The MSLP can be completed in 2 years full-time, or up to 4 years part-time.
Part I:
- SPSC661 Clinical Linguistics and Phonetics
- SPSC662 Fluency Disorders
- SPSC664 Professional Studies and Clinical Practice I
- SPSC665 Speech and Language Disorders in Children
- SPSC666 Voice Disorders
- SPSC667 Neuroscience of Communication and Swallowing
- SPSC668 Evidence-Based Clinical Practice 2
- HEAR663 Audiologic Assessment and Management
Part I must be completed before moving onto Part II.
Part II:
- SPSC669 Dysphagia and Related Disorders – Diagnosis
- SPSC670 Aphasia and Related Disorders
- SPSC671 Applied Research and Clinical Practice 3
- SPSC672 Spoken and Written Language Disorders in Educational Settings
- SPSC673 Motor Speech Disorders
- SPSC674 Dysphagia and Related Disorders: Management
- SPSC675 Evidence-based Practice for Complex Communication Disorders
- SPSC676 Professional Studies and Clinical Practice 4
UC offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Speech and Language Sciences.
Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits, such as specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2021 | 240 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $18,532 |
| 2022 | 240 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $18,036 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) | Fees (NZD) Excl GST |
| 2022 | 240 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $75,000 | $65,217 |
| 2023 | 240 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $76,000 | $66,087 |
Contact us
For full requirements see the Regulations for the Master of Speech and Language Pathology.
For study planning help contact Te Kura Mahi ā-Hirikapo | School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing.
Te Kaupeka Pūtaiao | Faculty of Science
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 4141
Email science@canterbury.ac.nz