Key facts
Duration
2 years of full-time study or 4 years of part-time study
Locations
Course overview
Learn to work in partnership with people living with communication or swallowing difficulties, and their carers, families and communities, to support them to achieve their goals and to reduce the inequalities they face. With Deakin’s Master of Speech Pathology, delivered at our Geelong Waterfront campus, you will gain the knowledge, skills and practical experience to confidently and collaboratively work with people of any age experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties, including people with developmental or acquired speech, language or communication disorders, people with complex communication needs, people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and people with swallowing difficulties resulting from age, impairment or disability.
Co-designed with people with disability, as well as parents, carers and advocates, and informed by local services, our Master of Speech Pathology provides a unique focus on understanding and working with people with disability, which means you will bring in-demand specialised perspective and skills to the workforce, setting you apart from other graduates.
Are you passionate about working with individuals and communities to facilitate accessible and effective communication and safe, enjoyable eating and drinking?
Perfect for those seeking a career change or articulating from an undergraduate degree in a related discipline, this professional entry-to-practice degree will provide you with the skills and competencies to work as a speech pathologist in Australia.
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. While undergraduate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology is a prerequisite for the course, we offer HBS109 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology as a single unit prior to commencement for those who do not meet this requirement.*
Based at our Geelong Waterfront campus, our hands-on, collaborative approach to learning throughout the course ensures that you will graduate ready to practice. Coursework includes carefully constructed learning experiences to prepare you to work meaningfully and effectively with clients in speech pathology practice. Realistic cases help you to develop and apply your understanding of communication and swallowing development and disorders, and the assessment and intervention processes that speech pathologists use. You will learn to work effectively with people with complex communication needs, including those who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and to practice competently in deaf communities, including using Auslan (Australian sign language). You will also undertake critical learning around Australian Aboriginal health and wellbeing so that you can provide culturally appropriate support, and will work alongside students from other courses to develop strong interprofessional practice and teamwork skills. The course also provides you with a solid foundation in research literacy, which is essential to effective practice.
Our practical experiences take you on a scaffolded journey from novice learner through to competent, independent practice. Developed in partnership with local services, these experiences are designed to allow you to experience, understand and demonstrate speech pathology practice in a range of settings and services. In-practice observations in your first trimester support the foundational knowledge you develop during this time. As you progress through the course you will complete a further four credit points of supervised placements in various services and settings, as well as specialised simulation-based placements in our dedicated on-campus learning facility.
In addition to graduating with work-ready skills, you will also be able to leverage Deakin’s strong partnerships, opening the door to future career opportunities.
In line with Deakin’s commitment to redressing the health disparities faced by those living in regional and rural areas compared to those in major cities, our placements have been designed alongside speech pathology services in the Barwon South West region. This provides you with an opportunity to work with people from diverse populations, and the potential to establish local career connections that will allow you to support people in the Barwon South West community.
The Master of Speech Pathology at Deakin offers you the unique opportunity to dive further into an area that interests you by selecting either a research project or a combination of an elective in public health, disability or inclusive education, and a community-based project.
As a graduate of Deakin’s Master of Speech Pathology you will be ready to address the health and wellbeing of people who have communication or swallowing difficulties. Hands-on experience, an extensive network of partners, and a unique understanding of working with people with disability ensure that you will be entering into the growing disability, health and community services and education sectors with in-demand knowledge and skills. For those wishing to further a career in research, our research pathway supports access to higher degree by research training (PhD).
*Please note: completion of this unit does not guarantee entry into the Master of Speech Pathology.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2026 close 21 June 2026
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Master of Speech Pathology
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- H765
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 120131B
- Level
- Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
ACHIEVE WORK-LIFE BALANCE AT THE #1 VICTORIAN UNI FOR COURSE SATISFACTION
Course structure
To complete the Master of Speech Pathology, you must pass 16 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- 14 credit points of core units
- 2 credit points of course elective units
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
Note:
- When choosing course electives, students who meet the prerequisite requirements for pursuing a minor thesis can choose a research pathway by enrolling in the two thesis course electives (HSH731 Minor Project A and HSH732 Minor Project B) which support applying to enrol in a higher degree by research.
- Students who don’t meet the prerequisites or who don’t want to undertake the thesis units must undertake the coursework pathway which includes HSP740 Community-based Speech Pathology and one further course elective from a given list.
Students must complete 14 credit points of core units and 2 credit points of course electives.
Plus either 2 credit points of research units:
OR
2 credit points of course electives, comprising
And 1 credit point selected from the following list:
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Geelong Waterfront
Course duration
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.
Fees
Limited Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are available in the course.
Mandatory student checks
Students are required to undertake the checks outlined below prior to their first practice-based learning opportunity (placement). Details and required dates for completion of these checks can be found on the course page on Cloud Deakin. Students are encouraged to organise these checks as soon as possible, in order to ensure that they are completed in time.
Police Check
In accordance with the policies of health and human services organisations, all students are required to undertake a Police Record Check prior to undertaking external practice-based learning experiences. Students who fail to obtain or renew a Police Record Check prior to the date indicated on the course page will not be able to undertake their mandatory practice-based learning experiences, and this will impede progress in the course.
Working with Children Check
In accordance with the Worker Screening Act 2020, all students are required to undertake a Working with Children Check at the commencement of their course. The check lasts for five years and only needs to be undertaken once at the start of the course. Students who fail to obtain a Working with Children Check prior to the date indicated on the course page will not be able to undertake their mandatory practice-based learning experiences, and this will impede progress in the course.
NDIS Worker Screening Check
Students are required to undertake a NDIS Worker Screening Check to comply with requirements of organisations that include NDIS participants. This is an assessment of whether a person poses risk to NDIS participants. Students who fail to obtain a NDIS Worker Screening Check prior to the date indicated on the course page will not be able to undertake their mandatory practice-based learning experience, and this will impede progression in the course.
Immunisation Status
Students are a potential source of infection for service users and colleagues and are required to provide evidence of immunisation status. This includes immunisation for hepatitis B, measles, mumps and rubella, varicella (chicken pox), pertussis (whooping cough), tuberculosis, influenza and COVID-19. Details of the requirements are outlined on the course page. Students who do not provide required evidence prior to the date indicated on the course page will not be able to undertake their mandatory practice-based learning experiences, and this will impede progression in the course.
Other requirements
Students may also be required to undertake mask fit testing, hand hygiene, infection control or other certification, and to provide evidence of this, prior to undertaking placements in some settings. Further information about other requirements can be found on the course page on Cloud Deakin.
Inherent requirements
All prospective applicants should review the Inherent Requirements of the course, which describe the skills, values and behaviours that students need to achieve. Students should consider whether they may need reasonable adjustments in order to meet these requirements.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, on-site professional experience (placement), simulated placement and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information.
This course requires a high level of engagement with learning in all units, and students are expected to undertake self-directed learning and complete assessment tasks in addition to scheduled learning activities.
Participation requirements
This course is offered in person at Waterfront, Geelong. Students are expected to attend lectures, seminars and classes which are interactive and require active student participation. In person attendance for some activities, including placement, is compulsory for all students.
Refer to the individual unit details in the University Handbook for more information about in-person attendance requirements for specific units.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. Adjustments need to reflect the expectations of speech pathology practice as outlined in the Professional Standards for Speech Pathologists in Australia.
Deakin seeks to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all students. If you have questions about adjustments that may be possible or applicable in your situation, we encourage you to reach out to Future Students Domestic students / international students or Disability Resource Centre for a confidential discussion. You will be connected to a staff member who will be able to discuss your circumstances and how the School and University can help to put reasonable accommodations in place. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career, and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.
Work experience
This course includes practice-based learning (placement). Students will undertake two days of observation and four placements of 18 to 20 days each in external services. They will also undertake two on-campus simulated placements. Placement provides students with an opportunity to practice skills, gain experience and apply their learning, under the supervision of a qualified speech pathologist. Attendance and demonstration of competency within placement is a mandatory requirement for successful progression in and completion of this course. Further information about the timing of placements throughout the course can be found on the Course page on Cloud Deakin.
Pre-placement seminars are considered part of the placement experience and attendance at these is also mandatory. Requirements for mandatory seminars are outlined in individual unit descriptions.
Students will be allocated to placements by the University. Students should be aware of the requirement for travel to placement sites. Travel time up to 2 hours each way is considered acceptable. It is also likely that students will have to attend at least one rural placement during the course.
Deakin University does not require any student to have a driver’s licence and access to a car, but encourages students to organise this if possible. Many placements are not accessible without this, which may limit the opportunities available to students. We also encourage students to carpool to placements where possible.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
Please note, there are limited places in this course and entry is competitive, therefore only full and completed applications will be considered. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a full and completed application as soon as possible. Applications for this course may close prior to the published closing date if all places are filled.
To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor degree in a relevant discipline*
- An undergraduate level (AQF level 7) unit in human anatomy and physiology equivalent to HBS109 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
*Relevant disciplines for speech pathology include but are not limited to: linguistics, biomedicine, health sciences, nursing, midwifery, neuroscience, public health, psychology, education, allied health, arts with relevant specialisations (e.g., social sciences, psychology, social inclusion and equity, human pathology, communications, journalism, linguistics, brain and behaviour).
Applicants who do not meet the human anatomy and physiology requirement are able to enrol into HBS109 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology as a single unit enrolment. Alternatively, applicants can choose to undertake an equivalent subject at another university.#
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 8.0 (with no band score less than 8.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn't have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you're able to commit to your study.
Recognition of prior learning
Recognition of prior learning is not granted for this course.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place
$37,000 for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$8,938 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
Learn more about fees.
The available fee places for this course are detailed above.
This course has full fee-paying places and limited Commonwealth supported places available. Tuition fees are determined by your enrolment:
- If you are offered a full fee paying place, your tuition fees are calculated based on your course
- If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are calculated depending on the units you choose.
The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical tuition fees for students completing this course within the same year they started. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together four credit points of study. Four credit points is used as it represents a typical enrolment load for a Graduate Certificate. Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together four credit points of a typical combination of units for your course. You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the handbook. Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Higher Education Loan Program
Take the next step towards your ultimate degree with a Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loan to help pay your tuition fees. You may be eligible for a HELP loan - including FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP - depending on your course, type of fee place, and your citizenship or residency status. Check your eligibility and learn more about Government HELP loans.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.
Postgraduate bursary
We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Need more information on how to apply?
For more information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage. If you're still having problems, please contact us for assistance.
Pathways
H765 Master of Speech Pathology is a qualifying degree and does not have a formal pathway to further study. Students who complete the research pathway, including two credit points of research, may consider applying to enrol in a higher degree by research (PhD).
Career outcomes
Ageing populations are driving a global demand for speech pathologists, while in Australia we are seeing a particular demand for specialised services for people living with disability. Not only will you be making a meaningful difference to the lives of those experiencing communication or swallowing difficulties, you can also be confident you are securing your future in a growing field – with a 34.7% increase in job opportunities expected over the next 5 years.*
As a speech pathologist you will work with people across all ages who experience a range of communication difficulties including speaking, using and understanding language, voice difficulties, people who stutter, people with cognitive difficulties that impact on communication, as well as those who have difficulty swallowing, eating and drinking.
You may find work across a number of settings, including:
- Community settings, including community health centres
- disability services
- education settings (kindergartens, primary and secondary schools and special developmental schools)
- hospitals
- mental health services
- private practices/clinics
- rehabilitation services
- residential aged care facilities.
With Deakin’s Master of Speech Pathology unique and specific focus on disability, you will be well-placed to secure work within the NDIS including private, not-for-profit, and public service providers.
*seek.com.au/career-advice/role/speech-pathologist
Professional recognition
The Master of Speech Pathology is accredited (with conditions) by Speech Pathology Australia (SPA). Conditions are expected to be lifted in due course.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Apply theory and evidence-based knowledge and skills to identify needs and provide safe and effective services that support optimal communication and swallowing and facilitate access to human rights. |
| Communication | Use verbal and nonverbal communication skills flexibly and responsively to develop strong professional relationships with clients, families, communities, peers and others; identify, describe and advocate for communication and swallowing needs; and use inclusive and accessible communication to provide effective speech pathology services to clients and communities. |
| Digital literacy | Select, use and critically evaluate digital technologies to promote client participation and effective speech pathology practice, recognising limitations, affordances and future possibilities. |
| Critical thinking | Critically integrate evidence and contextualise decision-making within the broader picture of people's lives, in order to provide relevant and effective speech pathology services. |
| Problem solving | Work with clients, families and communities to creatively and flexibly problem-solve approaches to support effective communication and swallowing, bringing a future-focussed lens; and plan an conduct ethical and inclusive projects, such as research, quality improvement and advocacy initiatives. |
| Self-management | Actively identify and transfer skills and knowledge across practice contexts and clinical areas, and continuously reflect on practice, identifying learning needs and sources of support and advice. Reflect on and implement strategies that make this profession personally sustainable. |
| Teamwork | Build relationships and trust with clients, families, communities, other professionals and team members, and contribute as an active member of teams and professional communities. |
| Global citizenship | Work safely, ethically, and effectively with diverse communities and cultures, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, within a framework of human rights advocacy; and critically reflect on global trends, challenges and environments as they relate to speech pathology. |
* Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
# The Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology unit meets the human anatomy and physiology prerequisite requirements for our Master of Speech Pathology. Take the first step towards your career in speech pathology – for more information, take a look at our single units page.
