Speech and Language Therapy - Pre-registration

This MSc gives you the expertise to diagnose communication and swallowing difficulties in babies, children, and adults, as well as design and implement treatment plans to improve quality of life for individuals with conditions such as autism, cleft palate, hearing impairment, stammering, and stroke.



You will develop the skills to build strong relationships with patients, addressing the mental health challenges they may face, and apply your learning through practical experience during placements.



This foundation enables a patient-centred, evidence-based approach to speech and language therapy practice, which can be further developed through ongoing professional development and reflective practice.



Our expert tutors, who are practising clinicians and experienced educators, will guide you throughout the programme. You’ll receive personalised support from an academic tutor, ensuring you achieve your best.



This pre-registration program is designed to develop highly skilled, evidence-based therapists, equipping graduates to qualify and practice as Speech and Language Therapists.



Upon successful completion of this programme, you will be awarded an MSc Speech and Language (Pre-registration). This is awarded by Health Sciences University and is aligned to level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).

*CATS Credits Displayed. 2 CATS points = 1 ECTS point.



Year 1

*CATS Credits Displayed. 2 CATS points = 1 ECTS point.



Human Science for Speech and Language Therapy 30 Credits

Professional Practice in Speech and Language Therapy 10 Credits

Adult Speech and Language Therapy 20 Credits

Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy 20 Credits

Advanced Skills in Speech and Language Therapy 10 Credits

Practice Placement 1 40 Credits



Year 2

*CATS Credits Displayed. 2 CATS points = 1 ECTS point.



Human Science for Speech and Language Therapy 30 Credits

Professional Practice in Speech and Language Therapy 10 Credits

Adult Speech and Language Therapy 20 Credits

Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy 20 Credits

Advanced Skills in Speech and Language Therapy 10 Credits

Practice Placement 1 40 Credits

Advanced Conditions and Disorders 20 Credits

Mental Health 10 Credits

Research Methods in Health Science 20 Credits

Speech and Language Therapy Dissertation 40 Credits

Practice Placement 2 40 Credits

Entry to this course is by direct application to Portobello Institute.

A minimum of a 2:2 (Hons) degree in a relevant subject. Examples of relevant subjects include psychology, language, linguistics, biological science, medical science and childhood or education studies. Alternatively, have significant recent relevant work experience (e.g., working as a Speech and Language therapy assistant).



Entry is interview based with a 15-minute interview conducted via MS Teams. We will look holistically at each applicant’s undergraduate degree, experience to date, interest in the subject and commitment to completing this programme and working in the space in the future.



Applicants for whom English is not their first language must demonstrate ability to communicate in English to the standard required by HCPC. Equivalent to level 8 of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), with no element below 7.5 is required. For the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the minimum scores are 118/120. For the Occupational English Test (OET) the minimum score is 1800 with no elements below 400. If applicants choose to undertake a different test from these three, the alternative test certificate must be accompanied by a statement from the test provider which confirms that the result achieved is comparable to the required IELTS level set for speech and language therapy.

2 Years In Person Week Days

Start Date: 22nd September 2025



Applications for the Autumn 2025 course are now open. The next round of interviews for applicants will be held on 24th July 2025, closing date to secure your interview is 18th July 2025.