Master of Speech Pathology

No, you do not have to have a background in allied health. Many successful speech pathologists come from fields such as communications, education and biological sciences. The Master of Speech Pathology is perfect for those seeking a career change or articulating from an undergraduate degree in a related discipline. While undergraduate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology is a prerequisite, Deakin offers HBS109 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology as a single unit prior to commencement for those who do not meet this requirement.

Prior to your first practice-based learning opportunity, you are required to complete a Police Record Check, a Working with Children Check, an NDIS Worker Screening Check, and provide evidence of immunisation status covering hepatitis B, measles, mumps and rubella, varicella (chicken pox), pertussis (whooping cough), tuberculosis, influenza and COVID-19. Students who fail to obtain these checks prior to the required dates will not be able to undertake their mandatory practice-based learning experiences, which will impede progression in the course.

Students must complete 2 credit points of course electives, and can choose between two pathways. The research pathway involves enrolling in Minor Research Project A (HSH731) and Minor Research Project B (HSH732), which supports applying to enrol in a higher degree by research (PhD). The coursework pathway requires completing Community-Based Speech Pathology Project (HSP740) plus one credit point from a list of electives covering areas such as inclusive education, disability, public health, and health promotion. Students who meet the prerequisite requirements can choose either pathway.

Placements have been designed alongside speech pathology services in the Barwon South West region, providing opportunities to work with people from diverse populations and to establish local career connections. Students complete four credit points of supervised placements in various services and settings, as well as specialised simulation-based placements in a dedicated on-campus learning facility at the Geelong Waterfront campus. In-practice observations in the first trimester support foundational knowledge development, with placements increasing in independence as students progress through the course.

The Master of Speech Pathology takes 2 years of full-time study or 4 years of part-time study. The course is available at the Geelong Waterfront campus with a Trimester 2 (July) intake. Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close on 21 June 2026. You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.