Course details

Summary

The Master of Science in Speech and Language Sciences degree is a one-year, full-time postgraduate programme that provides students with specialization in a topic area of their choice. In addition to the completion of a thesis, students have the option of advanced study in clinical theory and supervision or coursework in research design and statistics. A two-year part-time distance learning option is also available for students who, because of work or family obligations, are not able to commit to postgraduate study on a full-time basis or who are not able to relocate to the Canterbury region. Participation in this part-time programme requires prior approval by the Head of Department and the Dean of Science.

The Curriculum

Two pathways through the MSc are available:

Pathway 1

Research Methods (CMDS 604, Semester 1 or Semester 2, 0.125 EFTS)

MSc Thesis (CMDS 696, Semesters 1 & 2, 0.875 EFTS)

Pathway 2

Advanced Clinical Practicum, Supervision and Administration (CMDS 605, Semesters 1 & 2, 0.125 EFTS)

MSc Thesis (CMDS 695, Semesters 1 & 2, 0.875 EFTS)

Prospective students are encouraged to explore each pathway and discuss their research ideas with a member of staff in their particular area of interest (e.g. clinical supervision, dysphasia, child language, speech motor disorders, voice, fluency, speech science) before applying.

Career opportunities

Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.

Entry criteria

Applicants must hold a four-year undergraduate degree, or a three-year undergraduate degree with the first year of a two-year MSc completed.

Other English language requirements: TOEFL PBT with a minimum score of 575 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5; CCEL EAP Level 2 with a minimum B+ grade; CAE or CPE score of 176 with a minimum of 169 in reading, writing, listening and speaking; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE with an overall score of 64 and no PTE communicative skills score below 58.