Speech and Language Therapy BSc
Study of communication, speech, and swallowing disorders - combining linguistics, psychology, and health sciences to prepare for a career as a Speech and Language Therapist.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Want to help people communicate
Are patient and empathetic
Enjoy working with people
Want a healthcare career
Are detail-focused
Popular Career Fields
Healthcare & Public Health
Education
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Patient communicator
Education
Problem-solver
Creative thinker
What is it?
What Is a Speech and Language Therapy Degree?
Speech and Language Therapy focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and treating people with speech, language, communication, and swallowing difficulties. You’ll study how language develops, why problems occur, and how therapy supports children and adults to communicate effectively.
Why Study Speech and Language Therapy?
If you enjoy language, science, and helping others, this degree offers a rewarding and people-centred career. You’ll work with individuals from all ages and backgrounds, helping to transform lives through improved communication and confidence.
Course Summary
Study of communication, speech, and swallowing disorders - combining linguistics, psychology, and health sciences to prepare for a career as a Speech and Language Therapist.
What you'll study
Most Speech and Language Therapy degrees cover:
Linguistics and phonetics
Anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing
Psychology and child development
Communication and swallowing disorders
Clinical assessment and intervention techniques
Cognitive and neurological disorders
Professional ethics and multidisciplinary practice
Later in your degree, you may specialise in areas such as autism, stammering, stroke rehabilitation, or augmentative communication (AAC).
Degree Type
BSc (Bachelor of Science) or BSc (Hons) - both lead to eligibility for registration as a Speech and Language Therapist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Skills You'll Gain
Speech and Language Therapy builds both scientific and interpersonal skills, which could include:
Clinical Assessment Skills – evaluating speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders.
Therapeutic Intervention – planning and delivering evidence-based therapy sessions.
Communication & Counseling – supporting clients and families with clear, empathetic communication.
Anatomy & Linguistics Knowledge – understanding speech production, phonetics, and neurological processes.
Multidisciplinary Teamwork – working alongside teachers, doctors, and therapists in healthcare or education settings.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
After graduation, you can register as a Speech and Language Therapist with the HCPC and work in:
NHS hospitals and community health services
Schools, nurseries, and special education settings
Private healthcare and rehabilitation centres
Charities and research organisations
Work Experiences & Placements
All Speech and Language Therapy degrees include clinical placements, where you’ll work under supervision in real healthcare or educational settings. Typical placements include:
NHS hospitals and community clinics
Schools and nurseries
Rehabilitation and stroke units
Care homes and mental health services
Charities and private practices
Placements develop your confidence, communication skills, and understanding of professional practice.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects but Psychology, Biology, English Language, or Linguistics are beneficial. Some universities prefer at least one Science or Social Science.
Personal Statement Tips
Explain why communication and helping others inspire you.
Mention relevant experience, such as volunteering in education, healthcare, or community support.
Highlight empathy, patience, and problem-solving skills.
Show understanding of what speech and language therapists do.
Universities may also hold interviews or assessment days, including group discussions or scenario-based tasks.
What to do Next
Gain experience through volunteering with speech, language, or disability support organisations.
Attend open days to explore university clinics and simulation labs.
Read about language development and speech disorders.
Learn about NHS and community services supporting communication needs.
Wider Reading
Small Talk by Nicola Lathey and Tracey Blake – A practical guide to early language development.
Speech and Language Therapy: Issues in Professional Practice by Carolyn Letts – Overview of the field and its challenges.
The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks – Fascinating case studies on communication and the brain.
How Language Works by David Crystal – An engaging exploration of how we speak, write, and understand language.