Speech Pathology is an allied health discipline focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. In Australia, qualified speech pathologists work with children and adults experiencing a wide range of conditions — including developmental speech and language delays, stuttering, voice disorders, cognitive-communication difficulties, and dysphagia (swallowing problems). The course draws on foundations in linguistics, anatomy, psychology, neuroscience, and social science to produce graduates who are capable of delivering evidence-based, person-centred care in diverse clinical and community settings. Programs are accredited by Speech Pathology Australia (SPA), ensuring graduates meet national competency standards for professional practice.

Australian Speech Pathology degrees are offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Undergraduate pathways are typically four-year Honours degrees, while postgraduate entry-level programs (Masters) are available for students who hold a relevant bachelor's degree in health, science, education, or a related field. Coursework combines theoretical study with substantial clinical placements, and graduates are eligible to apply for Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) membership with Speech Pathology Australia upon completion. Employers span public hospitals, community health centres, schools and early childhood services, disability organisations (including NDIS providers), aged care facilities, rehabilitation centres, private practices, and research or academic institutions.

For undergraduate entry into a Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours), domestic students typically need an ATAR ranging from the low 70s to the mid-90s depending on the institution and campus location, with more competitive programs at larger urban universities requiring higher scores. Some programs specify prerequisite subjects at the Year 12 level, which may include English, Biology, or other sciences. Students who do not meet the ATAR threshold directly from high school may be eligible to transfer from a related undergraduate degree (such as a science or health sciences degree) after completing one year with a satisfactory Grade Point Average. Alternative entry pathways, including foundation programs and vocational qualifications, may also be considered by some providers.

For postgraduate (Masters) entry, applicants must hold a completed bachelor's degree, typically in health sciences, social sciences, education, psychology, or a closely related discipline. Many programs require completion of specific prerequisite undergraduate subjects such as linguistics, anatomy, psychology, or biology, and applicants are ranked competitively based on their Weighted Average Mark (WAM). Some institutions also assess personal attributes, relevant work or volunteer experience, and in some cases require applicants to attend an interview or submit a personal statement.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, with most programs requiring an IELTS score of at least 7.0 with no individual band score below 7.0, achieved in a single sitting. All programs must be accredited by Speech Pathology Australia to ensure graduates are eligible for Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) membership. Students must also satisfy police check, Working with Children Check, and immunisation requirements before commencing clinical placements, as mandated by health and education sector legislation.