Undergraduate Degrees

BSc Speech and Language Therapy ( B620 )

UCAS Course Code:: B620
Duration:: 3 years
Attendance:: Full Time
Award:: Degree of Bachelor of Science
School of Study:: Allied Health Professions
Brochure:: Allied Health Professions Undergraduate Brochure (PDF)
Typical A-Level Offer:: Grades ABB required (Excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking)

Overview
Why Choose Us
Course Profile
Requirements
Fees and Funding
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Why choose a Speech and Language Therapy degree?

This degree combines academic study with clinical practice and leads to a professional qualification. Speech and language therapists work with people of all ages. There are 2.5 million people in the UK who have a communication disorder of some kind. Speech and language therapists aim to maximise the communication potential of the people with whom they work and improve their quality of life.

Speech and language therapists assess, diagnose, and provide intervention for a wide range of speech and language difficulties. In doing so they integrate knowledge from a number of complex disciplines such as neurology, linguistics, phonetics, psychology and physiology, as well as evidence from clinical practice. This requires commitment, motivation, and an ability to solve problems. In the National Student Survey 2012, Speech and Language Therapy ranked joint 2nd in the UK for teaching, and 4th overall with a satisfaction rate of 96%.

Career opportunities for Speech and Language Therapists are varied and exciting - from the NHS to schools, the armed forces, and other providers of health and social care.

Speech and Language Therapy degrees at the UEA – our commitment to you

When you study on our Speech & Language Therapy course,you will be using a problem-based learning approach to the curriculum. This ensures that your learning from the different underpinning disciplines is integrated and focused around specific client groups. Our staff are passionate about their subject and aim to ensure that your knowledge and skill is the best it can possibly be. The university staff are also involved in research, which means they are at the cutting edge of developing the practices and techniques that are relevant to the profession.

Much of the teaching and learning occurs in small groups, which encourages a close-knit student body and a supportive learning culture. All students are allocated a Personal Advisor who offers academic and pastoral support. Development of skills required for clinical practice begins in Year 1 with the Conversation Partner Placements, and is continued in Years 2 and 3 with 8 week block placements in a clinical environment.

UEA is a fantastic place to study. For five years running we have been placed in the top five universities in the UK for student satisfaction and you will love being here, learning and making lasting friendships. By studying for a Speech and Language Therapy degree at the UEA you are opening the door to a hugely worthwhile and successful career which can help change lives for the better.

Course Organiser:Mrs. Jennifer Vitkovitch

If you are interested in a career in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy or Speech & Language Therapy, we offer a wide range of both pre and post-registration courses that will ensure you are fully prepared to practice in these rewarding and challenging professions.

When you study in the School of Allied Health Professions (AHP) you will receive an academic and clinical education which is second to none. We are very proud of our innovative teaching methods and the passion and dedication of our staff will inspire you to be the best you can be.

Students have told us our courses are dynamic and fascinating. That’s because our approach is based on problem-solving, evidence-based learning and early patient contact. The courses include the following elements:

Interprofessional Learning – You will meet up with students from other health-related disciplines to exchange knowledge, practice and ideas.
Research – The teaching staff are continually involved in research, which means you will benefit from their knowledge of the very latest practices and techniques.
Supportive Culture – Teaching groups are small, which encourages a close-knit student body and a supportive learning culture. You will be assigned your own personal mentor and qualified professional who will be there every step of the way to guide you through the course.
Elective Placement – You will have the opportunity at the end of your course to put into practice what you have learned in the clinical environment of your choice.

This interactive and highly effective method of teaching means that AHP is continually recognised for its excellence and ranks highly in both student surveys and league tables:

In 2012, the School of Allied Health Professions achieved an overall satisfaction rate of 96% in the National Student Survey (NSS).
Furthermore, in the NSS 2012, Occupational Therapy ranked joint 1st in the UK for teaching, and 1st overall with a satisfaction rate of 100%. Speech and Language Therapy ranked joint 2nd in the UK for teaching, and 4th overall with a satisfaction rate of 96%.

The University of East Anglia is a fantastic place to study and has a unique atmosphere. You will love being here, learning and making lasting friendships. Studying in the School of Allied Health Professions will ensure you fulfil your full potential and get the best possible start in your chosen career.

Compulsory Study (120 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:

Name	Code	Credits
DEVELOPMENTAL SPEECH AND LANGUAGE DIFFICULTIES	AHP-1DS2	30
this module will build upon knowledge and skills acquired during Foundations and Disorder of Fluency modules to develop key theoretical and practical considerations when working with children with developmental speech and language difficulties. Students will address: �� key principles of developmental, linguistic, phonetics, psychological, sociological, biological and educational frameworks in which to consider developmental speech, language and communication difficulties in children; �� current theories and approaches to classification, assessment and intervention of developmental speech, language and communication difficulties in children; �� decision making processes in the cycle of intervention within the relevant theoretical frameworks; �� the impact of speech, language and/or communication difficulties and disorders in relation to profiles of typically developing children.
DISORDERS OF FLUENCY	AHP-1DF2	20
Within the degree��s integrated, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) structure, this module will build upon knowledge and skills developed during the Foundations to introduce the key theoretical and practical considerations when working with children and adults with fluency disorders. Students will address: The impact of different disorders of fluency in relation to profiles of speech & language development in childhood and beyond; The contribution of the disciplines of linguistics, phonetics and psychology to this area, and the integration of this knowledge within the context of the client group; Assessment, clinical decision-making and intervention in speech & language therapy practice ; Assessment and management of disorders of fluency.
FOUNDATIONS	AHP-1FN1	30
This module will introduce students to the core disciplines of linguistics, psycholinguistics, phonetics, psychology and biology, which are so fundamental to speech and language therapy. The module will also provide students with an introduction to the scope and practice of work carried out by speech and language therapists. Students will: �� study phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, discourse & pragmatics, as applied to normal and disordered communication �� begin to consider the sociolinguistic dimension of communication �� explore the psychological systems that are responsible for the production and comprehension of words and sentences �� learn about the typical development of speech, language, cognition as part of life-span development �� explore the main structures and functions of the human body
PRACTICE EDUCATION (SLT) 1	AHP-1SPY	20
Within this year-long module students will have the opportunity to learn about, develop, and reflect on their communication skills in both adult and child environments. This is a non-clinical placement and students will be supported during the year by teaching sessions, and fortnightly tutorials. In weeks 1-26 students will visit adults with an acquired communication disability on a weekly basis and act as ��conversation partners��. In weeks 32-35 students will be placed in a school or nursery setting for 3 days per week in the role of a conversation/play partner.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 1	AHP-1PDY	20
This unit prepares occupational therapy and physiotherapy students for success on the course. Transferable academic, professional and clinical skills are introduced. The three threads of transferable skills, health and social care contexts and preparation for safe practice are integrated through problem-solving. Reflective practice and use of portfolios and other tools for continuing professional development are introduced.

Compulsory Study (120 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:

Name	Code	Credits
COMMUNICATION & LANGUAGE SCIENCES 2	AHP-2CLY	20
This unit develops students' knowledge of how language and communication are used in social contexts, both monolingual and multilingual, via lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical lab work. Building on the foundations of phonetic analysis introduced in CLS1, students will also extend their analytical skills to include acoustic phonetics. Within the PBL framework, concepts will be closely integrated with those covered in AHP-2LSY and AHP-2SLY.
LIFE SCIENCES 2	AHP-2LSY	20
This unit builds on the foundations established in LS1. There is an increased focus on pathology and disorders, in particular disorders of ear, nose and throat and the central nervous system. The discipline of Audiology is introduced, covering hearing problems, investigations and interventions. Psychology continues with a focus on disorder across the lifespan with particular attention paid to identity, self-image and the advent of communication and swallowing disorders in the individual life course. Consideration is given to factors of influence with regard to speech, language & communication. The strand of sociology and education continues in greater depth.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2	AHP-2PDY	20
This unit focuses on methods of enquiry and continues to develop students' use and understanding of reflective practice through taught sessions and individual tutorials. The research component will introduce qualitative and quantitative methodologies using activities to develop skills in conducting primary research and critical appraisal of research.
SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPY PRACTICE 2	AHP-2SLY	60
This unit will develop further the students' understanding of the frameworks and processes of SLT. Students will be introduced to defining intervention within a conceptual framework. Particular attention will be paid to the construction of intervention and the process of clinical decision-making. Relevant theories and mechanisms for change will be explored in the context of therapeutic approaches. Students are introduced to the spectrum of augmentative & alternative communication strategies, with focus on low tech assistive communication. The focus on communication & swallowing disorders expands to include acquired language disorder, learning difficulties and deafness & hearing impairments.

Compulsory Study (120 credits)

Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:

Name	Code	Credits
LIFE AND COMMUNICATION SCIENCES	AHP-3LCY	20
This year-long unit synthesises study from discrete academic disciplines formerly covered under ‘Communication & Language Sciences’ and ‘Life Sciences’ in years 1 and 2. These are embedded within this unit, and as such students continue to develop the clinical applications of linguistics and phonetics and to draw on psychology, neurology and audiology in addressing clinical issues
RESEARCH AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT	AHP-3RPY	40
In this unit students will complete a final year research project on a professionally relevant topic. Students will operate as a researcher in a small group research project where the lead investigator is a member of faculty. They will also be prepared for their imminent move to professional careers in the health and social care sectors by addressing key issues relevant to this transition to practice.
SPEECH & LANGUAGE THERAPY PRACTICE 3	AHP-3SLY	60
This unit will develop further the students' understanding of the frameworks and processes of SLT. Students will be introduced to defining intervention within a conceptual framework. Particular attention will be paid to the construction of intervention and the process of clinical decision-making. Relevant theories and mechanisms for change will be explored in the context of therapeutic approaches. Students are introduced to the spectrum of augmentative & alternative communication strategies, with focus on low tech assistive communication. The focus on communication & swallowing disorders expands to include acquired language disorder, learning difficulties and deafness & hearing impairments.

Disclaimer

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.

Entry Requirements

A Level:: Grades ABB required (Excluding General Studies and Critical Thinking)
International Baccalaureate:: 32 points to include 6 6 6 at higher level.
Scottish Highers:: AABBB
Scottish Advanced Highers:: ABB
Irish Leaving Certificate:: AABBBB
Access Course:: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3, 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
HND:: BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (18 Units) - Distinction, Distinction, Merit

Entry Requirement

To undertake this Speech and Language Therapy course, for School Leavers the minimum entry requirements for University matriculation, and the requirement of the professional body, are five GCSEs at grade c or above which must include English Language, Mathematics and a Science subject.

Those studying the Access to Higher Education Course will also require GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade C or above if these subjects are not covered by the Access Course.

Successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory occupational health check, an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure and two satisfactory references

Additional Requirements

All Successful applicants will be required to complete a satisfactory enhanced police check, a satisfactory Occupational Health check and to provide a satisfactory second reference.

1. A satisfactory police screening - like other Higher Education Institutions, we ask all candidates for certain undergraduate courses to obtain evidence from the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) that they do not have a criminal record. This procedure is necessary because students on these courses will be dealing with vulnerable adults (under the recent POVA guidelines) and children. If you decide to accept our offer the CRB Team at UEA will contact you later in the cycle to begin this process. Please visit www.uea.ac.uk/crb for further information.

2. A satisfactory health screening - please note that the purpose of this screening is to find out whether you have any special needs and, if so, to enable us to assess whether the University and clinical placement areas would be able to provide the support that you need. Once you have been made an offer you will need to visit our Occupational Health website at: http://umsuea.co.uk/occhealth in order to download an Occupational Health Assessment Form. The deadline for this is 30 July prior to registration.

3. A second reference. Once you have been made an offer you will need to download the Reference Request form. The deadline for this is 30 July prior to registration.

All Applicants who are invited for interview will be required to undertake a numeracy and literacy test on the interview day. These tests will not form part of the selection process but are a requirement of the Strategic Health Authority.

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

IELTS: 8.0 overall (minimum 7.5 in any component)
TOEFL: Internet-based score of 115 overall (minimum 23 in Listening and Writing components, 24 in Reading and Speaking components)
PTE: 82 overall (minimum 76 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

Applicants submitting a UCAS application and passing initial screening will be invited to a selection interview at the University http://www.uea.ac.uk/ahp/Interviews

Gap Year

Intakes

September

Alternative Qualifications

Applicants will be expected to show evidence of study skills and academic study within the last five years in the form of nationally recognised qualifications such as an A-level in a relevant subject, Access course in Science or Health Sciences or an Open University 60 credit courses in a relevant subject. GCSE Mathematics and English Language at grade C or above is required. Applicants are advised to contact the University to discuss their individual situation.

A full list of FAQ's can be found here

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Course Open To

Please note that, at this time, we are unable to accept international applications for this course.

Fees and Funding

Eligible students residing in the UK, studying BSc Speech and Language Therapy will not pay tuition fees; these will be covered by the NHS. In addition eligible students will normally receive a small non- means tested NHS Grant, currently £1,000 per annum, and may apply for a means tested Bursary. Students can also apply for a reduced rate non-means tested Living Cost Loan (also known as a Maintenance Loan) from Student Finance England.

NHS students are not eligible to apply for Living Cost Grant or a UEA bursary. Eligibility for bursaries is at the discretion of the NHS Business Services Authority and further information and criteria is available from http://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students

For more information please visit: http://www.uea.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/finance/Health+related+courses

The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships for Home/EU students. To check if you are eligible please visit http://www.uea.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/finance/university-financial-support

Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.

UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.

The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.

Further Information

If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:

Undergraduate Admissions Office (Allied Health Professions)
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk

Please click here to register your details online via our Online Enquiry Form.

International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.