Curtin University

What you'll study

This honours-level programme combines foundational sciences, clinical skills and a research component. Core study areas include anatomy and physiology of the speech, language and swallowing systems; phonetics and phonology; child and adult language development; assessment and differential diagnosis of speech, language, voice and fluency disorders; dysphagia (swallowing) assessment and management; augmentative and alternative communication (AAC); and multicultural and bilingual practice.

Research methods and evidence-based practice are integrated throughout the degree, culminating in an honours research project or thesis in the final year. The course features progressive clinical education: simulated clinical practice, supervised placements in a variety of settings (paediatric and adult hospitals, community clinics, schools, and private practice) and reflective case-based learning. Interprofessional learning with related disciplines is embedded to develop collaborative practice skills.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and typically requires completion of secondary school qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12, including a strong academic record and demonstrated achievement in English. Additional selection elements may include a personal statement, referee reports, or an interview/selection process depending on the intake pathway. International applicants need equivalent secondary qualifications and English language proficiency demonstrated by recognised tests or prior study in English.

Because the programme includes clinical placements, offers are conditional on meeting professional suitability checks such as criminal history screening, immunisation requirements and relevant health checks. Specific articulation or advanced-standing arrangements may be available for applicants with prior tertiary study; prospective students should consult Curtin admissions for individual assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for professional membership and accreditation with the national speech pathology profession and work as speech pathologists across diverse settings. Common employment destinations include:

• Public and private hospitals and rehabilitation services
• Early childhood services, preschools and primary/secondary schools
• Community health and non‑government organisations
• Private practice and telehealth services
• Aged care facilities and palliative care teams
• Specialist services for speech, language and communication disorders, including AAC and voice clinics
• Research institutes, policy roles and academic careers following further postgraduate study

Graduates typically work in multidisciplinary teams, designing and delivering individual and group interventions, conducting assessments, providing family and carer education, and contributing to service development and research.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin offers a practice-focused speech pathology degree with extensive clinical education supported by simulated clinics and real-world placements across metropolitan and regional health and education settings. The university has dedicated facilities for allied health training and established links with hospitals, schools and community providers to give students a wide range of placement experiences.

Students benefit from research-active academic staff, opportunities for honours research projects, and interprofessional learning with other health disciplines. Curtin’s emphasis on contemporary, evidence-based practice and cultural responsiveness prepares graduates to meet diverse community needs, including work with multilingual and Indigenous populations.

Prospective students should contact Curtin’s admissions or the School of Allied Health for detailed advice on entry pathways, professional requirements for clinical placements, and available support services.