Curtin University

What you'll study

The programme combines coursework, clinical education placements and applied projects to develop core competencies in assessment, diagnosis and intervention for communication and swallowing disorders. You will study across the lifespan, addressing developmental, acquired and progressive conditions.

• Foundations of communication and swallowing – anatomy and physiology of speech, language, voice and swallowing; normal development and lifespan changes.
• Communication disorders in childhood – language delay and disorder, phonology and literacy, autism spectrum conditions, paediatric feeding and swallowing.
• Adult and acquired communication disorders – aphasia, motor speech disorders, cognitive‑communication impairment following brain injury, dysphagia management in adults and older people.
• Specialist topics – voice disorders, motor speech disorders, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), multicultural and Indigenous communication issues.
• Assessment and evidence‑based intervention – standardised and functional assessment, goal setting, intervention planning, outcome measurement and contemporary therapeutic approaches.
• Professional practice and ethics – clinical governance, interprofessional practice, service delivery models, cultural safety and professional ethics.
• Clinical placements – supervised practicum in a range of settings (hospitals, community health, schools, private practice) to consolidate clinical skills and prepare for professional registration.
• Research and scholarship – research methods, critical appraisal and a capstone or minor research project to inform evidence‑based practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Preference is given to applicants with prior study in related disciplines such as health sciences, education, psychology or linguistics. Specific entry components commonly include:

• Completion of an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution; academic performance at a competitive level.
• Evidence of prerequisite or background knowledge in areas such as human biology, communication, psychology or developmental studies may be required or recommended.
• Demonstrated English language proficiency for applicants whose prior study was not in English (international applicants will need to meet Curtin’s English language requirements).
• Additional selection steps may include an interview, provision of referees, and submission of a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience.
• If offered a place, students must satisfy professional and clinical requirements prior to placement, such as immunisation, first aid/CPR certification and police or working with children checks.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to seek registration with the national professional body and work as speech pathologists across a wide range of settings. Typical career pathways include:

• Clinical positions in public and private hospitals, rehabilitation centres and allied health services.
• School‑based roles supporting children with communication, learning and literacy needs.
• Community health and early intervention programs, including services for children with developmental delays and families.
• Private practice, offering assessment and therapy for speech, language, voice and swallowing disorders.
• Specialist roles in aged care, palliative care and services for people with neurodegenerative conditions.
• Research, policy and program development positions in universities, government and non‑government organisations.
• Opportunities in telepractice, multicultural services and work with Indigenous communities, particularly in regional and remote contexts.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin’s Master of Speech Pathology is delivered within a health‑focused learning environment with strong links to clinical partners across Western Australia, providing a variety of supervised placement experiences. The programme emphasises hands‑on clinical training, interprofessional collaboration and culturally responsive practice. Students benefit from access to simulation facilities and labs, experienced academic staff engaged in applied research, and placement opportunities that include metropolitan, regional and community settings. Completion positions graduates to apply for professional recognition and to enter a dynamic allied health workforce.