Massey University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational biological and social sciences with specialist speech-language therapy theory, assessment and intervention. Early years focus on anatomy and physiology of speech, language development, phonetics, linguistics, and principles of communication. Core professional subjects cover articulation and phonological disorders, language disorders in children, adult neurogenic communication disorders (including aphasia and traumatic brain injury), voice and motor speech disorders, dysphagia (swallowing disorders), augmentative and alternative communication, and multicultural and bilingual practice.

Clinical skill development is progressive: practical workshops, simulation labs and small-group tutorials build assessment, intervention planning, counselling and interprofessional teamwork skills. The honours year emphasises research methods and statistics and culminates in a supervised research project (thesis) that develops skills in evidence-based practice and critical appraisal. Throughout the degree, students complete multiple supervised clinical placements in community, education and health settings across New Zealand, gaining direct client contact and professional practice experience.

Typical modules and components

• Foundations in human biology, neuroanatomy and developmental psychology
• Phonetics and spoken language structure
• Assessment and intervention for paediatric speech and language disorders
• Adult communication disorders and rehabilitation
• Dysphagia assessment and management
• Augmentative and alternative communication
• Clinical placement blocks and simulated clinical practice
• Research methods, statistics and an honours thesis
• Professional practice topics: ethics, cultural competence and reflective practice

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and applicants are expected to meet university entrance standards or hold an equivalent qualification. Typical entry requirements include a strong record in secondary school subjects (literacy/English and preferably a science subject such as biology) or a prior degree for graduate entry. Selection may be based on academic performance, a programme-specific application, and an interview or selection exercise to assess communication skills and suitability for clinical practice.

Because the programme leads to clinical work, successful applicants must be able to meet professional requirements such as satisfactory police vetting, health screening and immunisation, and have fitness to practise. International applicants should hold an equivalent qualification and meet Massey University’s English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are trained for registration and employment as speech-language therapists (also known as speech-language pathologists) in a wide range of settings. Common workplaces include public and private hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools and early-intervention services, private practice, community health organisations, and aged-care facilities. Many graduates work with children with developmental language needs or literacy difficulties, or with adults who have stroke, traumatic brain injury or progressive neurological conditions affecting communication and swallowing.

Career paths also extend to research, policy and advocacy roles, clinical education and specialisation (for example in paediatrics, voice, dysphagia or augmentative communication), and telepractice services. Graduates who complete the honours year are well placed to pursue postgraduate study (master’s or doctoral research) and academic careers.

Why study at Massey University

Massey’s programme emphasises hands-on clinical training supported by simulated clinics, strong links with regional health and education providers, and a balance between applied practice and research. The honours year provides a structured pathway into research and postgraduate study. Students benefit from interprofessional learning opportunities across health disciplines, access to experienced clinical educators, and placement opportunities across diverse communities in New Zealand, including rural and remote settings.

Massey’s teaching approaches focus on culturally responsive practice and preparing graduates to work effectively with Māori, Pacific and other multilingual communities. The programme’s combination of applied experience, research training and professional preparation equips graduates to enter the workforce as confident, reflective practitioners.