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Our ability to communicate with others is a vital part of who we are as individuals, and how we fit in with society. Speech and language therapists play a vital role in assessing and treating people who have communication and swallowing difficulties, developmental and acquired. Clients can be of all ages, from newborn to the older population. If you are passionate about applying scientific principles to support communication and want to make a difference to others' lives, we can help you forge a fascinating career.

On this course you will:

• develop a strong theoretical understanding of speech and language therapy (SLT) through modules in linguistics, psychology, biological and medical sciences, and research methods; and
• carry out regular clinical placements that will build your practical skills. You will be placed in various settings including hospitals, schools and clinics to ensure you gain a range of experience.

Structure

During your first two years, you’ll join a diverse cohort of students, exploring the fundamental principles of speech and language therapy and gain hands-on practice experience through placement-based learning.

As you progress, you will move on to either the BSc (Hons) or the undergraduate master’s pathway depending on your aspirations and performance. Both pathways develop professional skills, knowledge and attributes through a combination of university and placement-based learning. The undergraduate master’s offers an opportunity to delve deeper into areas such as leadership, service improvement, research and public health, at a higher level.

Upon graduation, both pathways lead to eligibility for registration with the HCPC, opening doors to a fulfilling career in speech and language therapy.

Find out about the benefits of studying an undergraduate master’s.

Teaching, learning and assessment

You will be taught in lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and laboratories. Outside these timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning through self-study. You will be assessed by a range of assessments throughout the course.

Placements

Practice placements are invaluable in consolidating theoretical study into practical expertise by working directly with patients and qualified staff. You will attend placements across Scotland in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, and clinics to ensure you gain a range of experience at various locations. ɬÂþÌìÌà manages the sourcing and allocation of placements for each student.

Typically, in Years One and Two you will complete lifespan placements in early years and primary setting and a community placement in the voluntary/third sector. You will complete practice placements in Years Two, Three and Four. In addition, you will have an opportunity to attend a Peer Enhanced E-Placement. A simulated clinical placement experience, undertaken with your peers and supervised by a practice educator. You will attend a block placement in the summer period between Years Three and Four that is typically completed within four weeks. Summer placements take place across Scotland and the majority of students are required to travel outside the local area unless they have exceptional circumstances such as caring responsibilities. It is, therefore, likely that students will have to arrange alternative accommodation for the three-week duration of their placement.

Specialist facilities

ɬÂþÌìÌà offers a specialist speech and psycholinguistic laboratory facility for use by both our Master of Speech and Language Therapy and MSc Speech and Language Therapy (pre-registration) courses.
This includes a recording studio, workstations with specialised software and associated hardware for the analysis of speech and speech production. We also provide access to software for design and delivery of online perceptual experiments.

Additionally, our extensive Clinical Resource Library houses the latest editions of commonly used professional assessments and intervention packages to support students’ clinical learning. Located in the Learning Resource Centre, students have 24/7 access to this recently updated resource.

Teaching staff, class sizes and timetables

You can read more about the teaching staff on this course at the bottom of this page. Please note that teaching staff is subject to change.

For more information, please also visit ‘How we teach and how you’ll learn’.

Year One

You will:

• gain a grounding in development across the lifespan in the areas of physical sciences, linguistics and psychology;
• focus on academic writing and how to access appropriate information; and
• develop foundational professional and clinical skills.

Modules

• Foundations of Linguistics: This module introduces students to the concepts and methods of those areas of linguistics that are of particular relevance for speech and language therapy.
• Biological and Medical Sciences 1: Students will gain foundational knowledge in anatomy and physiology, as well as the impact of abnormal anatomy and/or physiology on speech, language, and swallowing. This knowledge will serve as a basis for further learning in subsequent years, laying the groundwork for their professional journeys.
• Clinical and Professional Capabilities: This module introduces students to professional and regulatory bodies (RCSLT and HCPC), national and international contexts in which SLTs work and the WHO’s framework for describing and measuring health and disability (ICF). It also focuses on the development of core clinical skills.
• Language Structure, Processing and Variation: This module builds on the Foundations of Linguistics module. It continues and extends the introduction of areas of linguistics that are of particular
  relevance for Speech and Language Therapy
• Lifespan: The module provides an overview of typical human functioning across the lifespan, and its variation between individuals with a particular emphasis on linguistic development. This
  overview incorporates perspectives from human biology, psychology, sociology and linguistics
• Lifespan Placement: This module provides a practical exploration of typical human development across the lifespan and the natural variation between individuals. Through experiential
  placements in early learning and childcare settings, nurseries, and primary schools, students will gain hands-on experience in real-world environments.
• Cognitive Sciences and Research Methods 1: This module helps students to develop the skills needed to convey information and evidence and covers topics from cognitive sciences that are relevant for clinical practice. It also provides an introduction to the various research methods that might be used in SLT, including experimental design and scientific study.

Year Two

You will:

• focus predominantly on childhood and developmental speech, language and swallowing disorders; 
• you will continue to build your knowledge in physical sciences, linguistics, psychology and research methods with increased application to clinical areas; and 
• you will develop your clinical skills through weekly clinical placements in Semester One. 

Modules

• Biological and Medical Sciences 2: This module covers essential neuroanatomy and neurophysiology for Speech and Language Therapy. Students develop a strong foundation in how neuroanatomy and
  neurophysiology relate to communication and swallowing. A range of neurological conditions will be covered, equipping future therapists to recognise and address related difficulties.
• Developmental Language Disorder: This module focuses on helping students to build the clinical and professional skills needed when working with individuals who have Developmental Language Disorder. Developmental Language Disorder is a common language disorder which develops in childhood and affects 2 children in every school classroom. The module aims to
  ensure students gain the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills essential for effective practice in this area.
• Foundations for SLT: Advanced Phonetic Analysis: This module will introduce students to more advanced aspects of phonetic analysis, based on the knowledge they acquired in two previous linguistics modules.
• Practice-Based Learning 2: This module aims to develop clinical and professional skills in line with professional and registering body requirements. As well as on campus teaching, students typically attend a 10-day inter-semester placement and an online peer placement.
• Specific Speech Disorders: This module focuses on developing clinical and professional skills needed when working with children with speech sound disorders. Students will be introduced to current theoretical issues and will
  develop an understanding of approaches to assessment, differential diagnosis and intervention. Students will be encouraged to engage with and critically evaluate the evidence base to support
  clinical decisions.
• Developmental and Acquired Dysphagia: This module focuses on helping students to build the clinical and professional skills needed when working with individuals who have developmental or acquired
  dysphagia (swallowing problems). It aligns with the RCSLT Eating, Drinking and Swallowing (EDS) Competencies Framework, ensuring students gain the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills essential for effective practice in this specialised
  area.
• Cognitive Sciences and Research Methods 2: This module is a continuation of module 'Cognitive Sciences and Research Methods 1. The module focuses on more advanced content from cognitive sciences and research methods, including statistics. Students will put their knowledge into practice and will conduct their own research project in small groups.

Year Three

You will:

• develop research and critical thinking skills;
• enhance your clinical decision-making skills (assessment/goal setting/management planning/outcome evaluation) through case studies and in-class discussions;
• focus on conditions acquired in adulthood and related to sensory, cognitive and physical impairments where communication is impacted;
• explore different areas of practice through clinical masterclasses; and
• continue to link theory to practice as you attend clinical placements during the semesters and a block placement during the summer.

Modules

• Social Communication (Developmental): This module aims to develop clinical and professional skills required for effective speech and language therapy practice with neurodivergent individuals with a focus on autism, and social communication differences. The content will be taught with reference to the emerging neurodiversity paradigm.
• Delivering Services to Reflect Diversity: This module aims to develop clinical and professional skills in line with the RCSLT core capabilities and the HCPC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics by providing students with the knowledge and critical understanding required to deliver services to diverse populations. Students also typically attend a 15-day block placement in the summer.
• Organic Speech Impairments and Voice Disorders: This module supports students to develop clinical and professional capabilities by facilitating students’ acquisition of the knowledge, understanding and clinical skills required for effective practice with the following conditions: acquired motor speech disorders (dysarthria and apraxia of speech); voice disorders; cleft lip and palate; and
  head and neck cancer/trauma.
• Acquired Language and Neurogenic Communication Impairments: This module explores acquired language and communication disorders, including aphasia, cognitive-communication difficulties, and dementia. Students will examine each condition’s characteristics and relate them to theoretical models. They will engage with evidence-based assessment, differential diagnosis, and intervention
  while developing clinical decision-making skills. The module also addresses the
  broader impacts of these disorders and the significant challenges they present.
• Practice-Based Learning 3: This module aims to develop clinical and professional skills in line with professional and registering body requirements. Students typically attend two 10-day inter-semester
  placements.
• Investigative Methods: In order to consolidate the links between research, evidence and clinical practice, the module further develops an understanding of subject-specific investigative methods
  (including statistics), building on Cognitive Sciences and Research
  Methods 2, and gives students an opportunity to apply their understanding in
  developing a research proposal.

Year Four

You will:

• enhance, consolidate and reflect on your learning to date;
• continue to develop your skills in research, professional development, and current and advanced clinical skills enabling a smooth transition to working life;
• explore leadership skills and gain an understanding of key skills for collaboration and training;
• complete your academic learning by undertaking a focused research dissertation; and
• prepare for clinical practice as you develop your skills through attending clinical placements during the semesters.

Modules

• Physical, Sensory and Intellectual Impairment: This module aims to develop clinical and professional capabilities in line with RCSLT core capabilities by facilitating students’ acquisition of the knowledge, understanding and clinical skills required for effective speech and language therapy practice for clients with sensory and hearing impairments (including deafness), learning disability and cerebral palsy.
• Training and Leadership: This module aims to develop clinical and professional skills by providing students with an applied and critical knowledge and understanding of leadership, training, collaboration and communication with others, and innovative and evolving practice.
• Practice-Based Learning 4: This module aims to develop clinical and professional skills in line with professional and
  registering body requirements. Students typically attend two 10-day inter-semester
  placements.
• Research Project: This module aims to facilitate an enhanced understanding of the research process through independent engagement in the detailed design and/or execution of an
  independent research project that is of relevance to the field.
• Applied Clinical Decision Making: This module aims to develop knowledge of the principles of clinical decision-making to support assessment, diagnosis and management. This includes evidence-based
  practice, person-centred approaches, and clinical decision-making in interprofessional
  and multi-agency contexts.

NB The modules listed here are correct at time of posting (Feb 2024) but may differ slightly to those offered in 2025. Please check back here for any updates.

Career prospects are generally excellent. Many of our graduates work within the NHS in community clinics, hospitals and schools across the UK. Some graduates have travelled to work abroad, chosen to study further or taken up research posts.

This course meets the professional standards of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and is accredited by the HCPC. Successful completion enables you to apply for registration with the HCPC as a speech and language therapist, which is a requirement for employment in the UK.

Entry requirements

Scottish Higher: Standard - AABBB, Minimum - ABBBB

A Level: AAB

Irish Leaving Certificate: H1 H2 H2 H2 H3

International Baccalaureate: 32 points

International: IELTS of 8.0 with no element lower than 7.5. Applications from international students are welcomed. The required standard of spoken and written English (specified by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists) for those whose first language is not English is an IELTS (British Council English Language Testing Service) score of 8 with no individual element score of less than 7.5. This reflects the level of English required for professional practice as an SLT. 

Required subjects: The following subjects are preferred at Higher/A Level or equivalent: English, Languages, Psychology and Sciences. Subjects involving analytical skills (eg Modern Studies, RMPS, History, Geography, Classics, Music) may be accepted as an alternative to science, where a good level of science is demonstrated at Nat 5/ GCSE level.

In addition, English and Maths at Nat 5/GCSE (B) (equivalent to O3 or H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate) is required. Biology at this level is desirable.

Am I a Widening Access student?: We apply the minimum entry criteria to applicants who meet one or more contextual factor. To see if this would apply to you, please refer to the access and application page.

Mature/Access: Many mature students enter the course with non-standard qualifications, including previous degrees and from Access Courses (Access to Health Care). Applicants with Access qualifications must demonstrate a strong academic profile. 

We welcome applications from mature students with other relevant qualifications and/or experience. All mature students are asked to show evidence of recent study. See Related Access Course.

Direct Entry: Not available. Relevant HN qualifications may be considered for entry to Year One.

Other requirements

• Applicants are encouraged to acquire a good understanding of the nature of speech and language therapy practice, and, if possible, should gain some experience of interacting or working with people with communication difficulties. It should be noted that in most parts of the UK it is not possible to arrange direct observation or work-shadowing within Speech and Language Therapy clinics; however, many areas arrange introductory sessions for potential students. In addition, many charities working with and for people with communication needs welcome volunteers who are willing to support people with communication difficulties.
• A satisfactory criminal records check from the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme, an occupational health check and personal indemnity insurance (normally through membership of the professional body) are required.
• All applicants are expected to be free of any health problems which could affect their ability to practice safely and effectively. All first-year students are required to undergo health clearance checks and up-to-date information will be provided as part of the entry/induction process.
• If you are offered a place, you should be aware that acceptance onto the course cannot be taken as a guarantee that you satisfy the requirements for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Speech and Language Therapist.

Disability/health conditions 

If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or learning disability, it should not stand in the way of your studying at ɬÂþÌìÌÃ. However, if you are not sure whether your disability might be a barrier in your studies or in relation to the professional standards, please contact the Disability Service who will be able to have a conversation with you about reasonable adjustments and supports available to you. 

Fee information

Fees: Please follow the link in the 'Course Overview' box for information on fees for 2026 entry.

Special note on RUK and ROI fees: Students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland, who are subject to Rest of UK fees will be charged for the first three years of study only. The fourth year is free. 

Other costs: 

• The cost of professional indemnity insurance is the responsibility of the student. 
• The additional costs associated with placement travel and accommodation are the responsibility of the student. Students who receive SAAS funding may be able to claim for some of these expenses to be reimbursed.
• Uniform, PVG and badge costs
• For more information on this, visit the UG 2026 fees page on our website.

Application information

How to apply: Application for this course should be made through . More application information is available in the 'Start your Application' box at the top right of this page.

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Email Admissions. You can also email the Speech and Language Therapy Team.

• The delivery of this course is subject to the terms and conditions set out in our 2026/27 Entry Terms and Conditions (Undergraduate).
• The course information on this page is correct at the time of posting (Feb 2025) but may differ slightly for 2026 entry. Please check back here for updates.