Massey University

What you'll study

This professionally accredited master’s provides a broad clinical curriculum covering communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. Core study areas include anatomy and physiology of speech and swallowing, clinical phonetics, language acquisition and disorders, voice and fluency disorders, neurogenic communication impairment, dysphagia assessment and management, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and multicultural practice including Te Ao Māori perspectives on health.

The programme blends taught coursework, clinical skill development and a substantial component of supervised clinical practice across community, school and hospital settings. You will study research methods and evidence-based practice and complete a clinically relevant research project or capstone that integrates academic learning with clinical decision-making.

• Foundations of speech, language and swallowing science
• Assessment and intervention across the lifespan (paediatric and adult practice)
• Clinical practicum placements with progressive responsibility
• Professional issues, ethics and interprofessional collaboration
• Research methods and a practice-linked research/capstone project
• Specialist topics such as AAC, dysphagia, neurorehabilitation and voice

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a relevant undergraduate degree with a substantial background in human biology or health sciences, linguistics, psychology or a closely related subject. A minimum academic performance (such as a recognised bachelor’s degree with a competitive GPA) is typically required; applicants without a directly related degree may be considered if they can demonstrate sufficient prerequisite knowledge and clinical suitability.

Additional requirements commonly include a personal statement, curriculum vitae, academic references, and evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English. Prior experience working with children, people with disabilities or in health settings is an advantage. Successful applicants must also be able to meet professional suitability checks (such as police disclosure and health/immunisation requirements) and participate in clinical placements which may require travel.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify to work as speech-language therapists in a variety of settings. Typical roles include positions in public and private hospitals, community health services, early intervention and education services, specialised rehabilitation centres, private practice, and non-government organisations. Graduates also work in schools supporting children with language and learning needs, in aged-care settings for dysphagia and communication support, and in multidisciplinary teams for neurorehabilitation.

Other career pathways include clinical leadership, community programme development, policy and advocacy, research, and academic teaching. Increasing opportunities exist in telepractice and in services addressing the needs of diverse and indigenous populations, where culturally responsive practice and language revitalisation initiatives are priorities.

Why study at Massey University

Massey University’s programme combines strong clinical training with research-informed teaching and close links to health providers across New Zealand, providing varied placement opportunities in urban, rural and specialist settings. The school emphasises culturally competent practice, including engagement with Māori and Pasifika health perspectives, and prepares graduates for work in the New Zealand regulatory environment.

Students benefit from simulated clinical teaching facilities, interprofessional learning with other health disciplines, and access to academic staff engaged in applied speech and language research. The programme is designed to meet professional standards for graduate entry into speech-language therapy, supporting graduates to move directly into professional practice or further research and leadership roles.