Keele University

What you'll study

This full-time, pre-registration degree combines theoretical study with progressive clinical experience. Core teaching covers speech, language and communication development; phonetics and phonology; anatomy and physiology relevant to speech, language and swallowing; neurogenic communication disorders; stammering, voice and resonance problems; dysphagia (swallowing difficulties); and alternative and augmentative communication (AAC).

• Year 1: Foundations in anatomy and physiology, phonetics, typical language development, introduction to assessment and intervention, professional practice and research methods; introductory supervised clinical placements and simulated practice sessions.
• Year 2: Developmental and acquired communication disorders across the lifespan, swallowing disorders, clinical reasoning and evidence-based practice; extended clinical placements in community and hospital settings, interprofessional learning with other health programmes.
• Year 3: Advanced assessment and intervention, complex cases, service delivery and management, research project or dissertation, and consolidation of clinical skills with final, longer placements preparing students for registration and employment.

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, practical lab sessions (including clinical simulation), supervised placements in local NHS settings, tutorials and a research project. Assessment is by coursework, observed clinical assessments, practical exams and written examinations.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a strong secondary school or equivalent qualification profile. Typical offers are based on A-levels, BTEC, Scottish Highers or Access to Higher Education Diplomas, with subjects such as Biology, Psychology or English considered helpful but not always mandatory. Universities also accept equivalent qualifications and recognised international qualifications.

• Successful applicants must be able to meet the professional standards required for clinical practice, including satisfactory occupational health checks and a clear disclosure and barring check (DBS).
• Evidence of relevant experience of working or volunteering with children or adults who have communication or swallowing needs is strongly recommended and often assessed at interview.
• Applicants should demonstrate good communication skills and literacy in English; evidence of competence in English language may be required for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Mature applicants and those with non-traditional qualifications are considered; selection typically includes a written application and interview to assess suitability for a clinical profession.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the professional regulator and for membership of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, enabling practice as qualified speech and language therapists. Typical early-career roles are within the NHS in acute hospitals, community teams, schools and specialist services (paediatrics, neurology, voice clinics, head and neck cancer, dysphagia management).

• Other career paths include posts in the independent sector, education and social care settings, roles in research, specialist clinical practice (e.g. augmentative and alternative communication), service management, and roles in charities and policy organisations.
• Many graduates continue with postgraduate study and professional development (for example clinical specialist roles, MSc courses, or research degrees) to develop advanced practice or academic careers.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a clinically focused Speech and Language Therapy programme with strong links to local NHS trusts, ensuring regular, supervised placements across a range of settings. Teaching is research-informed and delivered in small-group formats that emphasise practical skills development and interprofessional learning with other health and social care students.

• Accreditation: the programme follows the professional standards required for pre-registration education, preparing students for professional registration and practice.
• Facilities and support: students benefit from dedicated clinical skills and simulation facilities, library and learning support, and student wellbeing and careers services on campus.
• Clinical experience: the course integrates early and progressively longer clinical placements, enabling students to build hands-on experience with supervision from practising clinicians.
• Location and community links: Keele's campus environment and established partnerships with regional health services provide varied placement opportunities and exposure to diverse clinical populations.