Qualification Purpose

General Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to provide South Africa with skilled Speech-Language Pathologists to ensure effective, efficient, and accessible speech-language pathology services in both public and private sectors, such as hospitals, special schools, and private practice. These services will encompass assessment and treatment of various disorders including Speech Sound System Disorders, Voice Disorders, Cleft Palate and other Cranio-facial Disorders, Fluency Disorders, Developmental Language Disorders, Language Learning/Disability, Neurologically Acquired Speech and Language Disorders in children and adults, as well as individuals with specific disorders like cerebral palsy, autism, and mental handicap.

1. Knowledge and Skills: Provide graduate-level knowledge, specific skills, and applied competence in Communication Pathology for personal growth, economic activity, and societal contributions.

2. Graduate Output: Produce a significant number of Communication Pathology graduates to broaden the local leadership base in economic and scholarly activities.

3. Specialist Cadre: Equip South Africa with specialists in all Communication Pathology domains to act as professionals with a deep understanding of methods and advancements in the field.

Specialisations

1. Bachelor of Communication Pathology (Audiology):

   • Purpose: To provide in-depth knowledge of hearing processes, causes of abnormal hearing, and interventions for individuals with hearing disorders. This can include one-on-one therapy, group sessions, multidisciplinary teamwork, or community-based interventions.
   • Applied Competence: Practical skills to enhance aural and communication abilities for individuals with hearing disabilities.
   • International Compliance: Align with international academic standards.

2. Bachelor of Communication Pathology (Speech-Language Pathology):

   • Purpose: To offer detailed knowledge of normal speech and language processes, causes of speech and language disorders, and interventions for affected individuals. Interventions can be through various settings like one-on-one therapy, group sessions, multidisciplinary teams, or community interventions.
   • Applied Competence: Practical skills to improve speech and language abilities for individuals with disabilities.
   • International Compliance: Meet international academic requirements.

3. Bachelor of Communication Pathology (Speech-Language Pathology Audiology):

   • Purpose: Provide comprehensive knowledge of human communication, including hearing, speech, and language. Focus on causes, symptoms, and interventions for communication disorders. Interventions can be tailored for individuals or groups, within multidisciplinary teams, or community settings.
   • Applied Competence: Practical skills to enhance communication abilities for those with communication disorders.
   • International Compliance: Comply with international academic standards.