Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Health Sciences and Social Services - Preventive Health

Purpose and Rationale

This course aims to provide the graduate with a wide range of specialized knowledge and skills to assess, manage, and research speech and language disorders. Graduates will also be able to apply screening and basic assessment techniques for hearing disorders. The qualification will be registerable with the HPCSA, allowing for self-employment or employment in health and education sectors, including higher education, research centers, and specialized units in the public or private sector.

Graduates will be able to plan, resource, and manage all aspects of speech-language therapy, working with individual clients, groups, families, communities, and professionals. This includes prevention, identification, evaluation, treatment, counseling, consultation, research, education, management, and raising awareness of speech and language disorders. The approach emphasizes critical problem-solving and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Furthermore, graduates will be skilled in using a variety of standard, non-standard, and specialized equipment, procedures, and programs in clinical and research settings. They will also have the ability to work with diverse, multilingual, and multicultural populations across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare levels.

Outcomes

Demonstrate a holistic problem solving approach to all learning and tasks relating to the management of Speech-Language disorders in a manner that acts as a springboard to lifelong learning
Communicate effectively using all forms of oral and written communication including information technology b). General outcomes (contextually demonstrated general knowledge, skills and values of the programme) c). Specific outcomes, including professional outcomes, contextually demonstrated
Demonstrate the required levels of competency to independently select and apply a wide range of screening and specialised speech and language assessment approaches and materials and to record and interpret the findings
Demonstrate the ability to utilise screening and basic assessment and rehabilitation approaches to disorders of hearing
On the basis of assessments, plan and execute, together with clients family, community and other professionals, appropriate prevention, promotion and intervention programmes in Speech-Language skills for individuals, groups and communities
Plan and provide individual and group counselling regarding Speech and Language disorders and their effects, as well as monitoring clients' compliance and progress
Critically and continuously monitor the effectiveness of own and other interventions against expected outcomes in order to modify, continue or terminate interventions
Impart specific professional knowledge to stakeholders and plan and implement education programmes about the profession for individuals, groups, caregivers, organisations and public in general
Demonstrate the ability to identify local, regional and national research needs, develop and execute suitable strategies to research these needs and practically apply the knowledge gained
Act professionally, empathetically and ethnically in all professional interactions
Demonstrate the ability to independently manage all aspects of practice in the public or private sector in a manner based on outcomes measurement and continuous quality management
Demonstrate the ability to use a range of specialised equipment, procedures and programmes in providing relevant services
Demonstrate the ability to develop and implement management programmes that are culturally and linguistically appropriate and to empower individuals and communities
Demonstrate the ability to work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community and to make appropriate referrals for those needing them

Assessment Criteria

a) Professional Practice Skills

The professional demonstrates the ability to critically evaluate and integrate material from various sources into practical situations. They maintain accurate records, write clear reports, and contribute to policy statements effectively using electronic and visual media.

c) Clinical Assessment and Intervention

The professional can independently select and use screening and assessment tools, adapt them as needed, and integrate findings for analysis. They understand audiometric testing and rehabilitation procedures, can interpret audiograms, and plan and evaluate management programmes effectively.
The professional assesses counselling needs, plans programmes, provides counselling, monitors progress, and collaborates with other professionals as needed.
The professional continuously monitors interventions, quality appraisal, and departmental referral sources. They educate clients and communities, disseminate knowledge, and engage in professional development.
They can write research grants, plan and implement research designs, gather and analyse data, and apply research knowledge judiciously.
The professional practices within their scope, complies with legislation and ethics, respects clients' rights and values, and manages tasks, budgets, and functions effectively.
They demonstrate familiarity with assessment tools, therapy programmes, and equipment used in speech-language therapy and audiology.
The professional can perform needs analysis, understand the South African population's linguistic and cultural complexities, apply primary healthcare principles, and consult effectively with team members.

Integrated Assessment

Eligibility for qualification is based on successful completion of all courses/modules.
Assessment includes tests, assignments, evaluations, and examinations.
Clinical competence is evaluated continuously through clinical assessments and reports.
Final evaluation includes comprehensive OSCEs covering all years of study.
The overall pass mark is 50%.

Qualification Details

Type: National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level: 08
Min. Credits: 480
SAQA Source: More Information

Education Cost Calculator

Select Province

University of Cape Town

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is a prestigious public research university located in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1829, it is the oldest university in South Africa and has consistently been ranked as the top university on the African continent. UCT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and commerce. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and social impact. UCT's campus is situated on the slopes of Devil's Peak, providing stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain. The university attracts a diverse student body from South Africa and around the world, fostering a vibrant and multicultural learning environment.

Learn more

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.