Most of us take communication for granted, but for people with a disorder, it's a daily challenge. Thankfully, a trained Speech Pathologist can make a huge difference to the quality of someone's life.
Speech Pathologists provide diagnostic assessment and management of disorders of communication and swallowing for people of all ages, from babies to the elderly. They work with a wide range of problems like stuttering, voice problems, language disorders and physical and intellectual disabilities. If you are passionate about communicating, have an interest in helping people across the lifespan, this might be a career for you. Speech Pathology includes science, communication and being creative in planning therapy. One of the best things about studying Speech Pathology at ECU is starting your practical experience in your first year. And with our smaller student cohort and greater personal attention you’ll receive from our experienced lecturers, it’s the best way to start your new career.
Course Learning Outcomes
- Apply broad discipline knowledge and theory to a range of speech pathology contexts.
- Communicate knowledge and ideas clearly, coherently and with independence.
- Demonstrate a global outlook with respect for cultural diversity, including developing capabilities in delivering culturally secure services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, families and communities.
- Demonstrate autonomy, accountability and self-awareness for own learning.
- Think creatively to anticipate challenges and generate solutions in complex speech pathology contexts.
- Think critically to analyse, interpret and conceptualise complex communication and swallowing conditions.
- Use digital technologies to access and evaluate information and to enhance speech pathology practice.
- Work collaboratively to initiate social, sustainable and ethical practices to achieve positive client outcomes.
Career Opportunities: Speech pathologists are employed in child development centres, schools, hospitals, private practice, disability organisations, in the performing arts, or in universities.
Possible future job titles
Speech Pathologist