Speech and Language Therapy (Hons) University of Reading

Overview

Key features

• Throughout the Speech and Language Therapy (Hons) MSci degree from the University of Reading , you will benefit directly from our world-class research into subjects, such as linguistics, language development, language pathology, and bilingualism. 
• You will also be able to take advantage of our in-house speech and language therapy clinic, observational facilities, speech research laboratory and new sound recording room. We are one of the first departments in the UK to host NHS clinics in our purpose-built speech and language therapy facility on site.
• The course has recently changed to an Undergraduate entry integrated Masters from a BSc degree. We are currently working towards accreditation from the RCSLT and in the Approval Process for the Health Care Professions Council to be completed when the course begins later this year. 
• Once you graduate, you can apply for professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council and go on to work as a speech and language therapist. The MSci has been identified by our students, local employers and other stakeholders as the best way forward to maintain quality and enjoyment of the programme and to support future employment.
• This course combines theoretical knowledge with clinical practice and you will gain hands-on experience right from the start. For example, in year one, during our "Child Development Assignment", you will be assigned a baby and go to home visits in order to observe its development over approximately 18 months. 
• This will allow you to observe how a typically developing child develops, and enable you to develop your professional skills of interacting with parents and engaging with young children.
• Throughout the course you will study core modules in linguistics, psychology, medical sciences and language pathology. You will also cover therapy and management, that is, how to assess, diagnose  and treat (or manage) communication disorders. You will also have the chance to gain valuable experience of working within a large range of professional settings through a combination of weekly and block placement opportunities. The majority of our staff are practising speech and language therapists, and they will give you a direct insight into the latest developments in clinical practice.
• During the final year you will be able to pursue your own interests through optional subjects such as autism spectrum disorders or specific language impairments. Additionally, you will carry out an original piece of research and write a dissertation.

Career opportunities:

• As a graduate of this course you can apply to work as a speech and language therapist. The integrated master’s element of the course develops further your analytical and critical thinking skills preparing you for your career path and provides a unique degree once you graduate. Most of our graduates choose this career path and go on to work within the NHS, education or the independent sector.
• In hospitals, Speech and Language Therapists provide services to clients on an in-patient and out-patient basis, with an increasing focus on outreach and intermediate care. They also work in a range of other sites in the community such as health centres, day nurseries, schools and colleges, training centers, and care homes. Some speech and language therapists are employed directly in education, the voluntary sector or work in private practice. Alternatively you may decide to move into research or postgraduate study