Melbourne Master of Speech Pathology FAQs

The University of Melbourne‘s Master of Speech Pathology course is designed to provide comprehensive training in all aspects of speech pathology and to produce graduates who are ready to enter the profession. Check out the most commonly asked questions about this program!
How many applicants does Melbourne Speech Pathology School accept?
The Melbourne Speech Pathology School accepts approximately 45 applicants into each course.

How many applications do they receive each year?
For the 2015 selection round, the university received 315 local applications and approximately 30 international applications.
How will my application be assessed?
The Melbourne Selection Committee will consider applications from individuals with a science, biomedical science, health-related or other relevant degree that is equivalent to a three-year bachelor’s degree from an Australian university. The selection process will involve consideration of the following:

• the applicant’s complete academic record, with emphasis on the final year/s of the undergraduate degree;
• any postgraduate study;
• the relevance of previous studies to the field of speech pathology;
• the applicant’s personal statement.

The University of Melbourne is committed to attracting students of the highest calibre. Entry to these courses is highly competitive and selection is made by a ranking process.
Can you give me an idea of the Weighted Average Mark required for entry?
The WAM changes each year with the pool of applicants. Some years see a higher average than others but it’s reasonable to assume that if you have an average of less than 70% it is unlikely that you would be offered a place.
What is considered a “relevant” degree?
While preference is given to students from a science/health/linguistics/psychology background, the University of Melbourne has accepted students from engineering, music, and some arts and education programs. Each application is assessed on its merits and other factors such as highly relevant work experience may be considered in some cases.
What can I do to improve my chances of getting into the course?
Put simply, the higher your marks, the better your chances are of being offered a place. If you don’t have the marks to be shortlisted you may wish to consider taking further studies to boost your weighted average mark. A postgraduate certificate or diploma in a relevant area is a good place to start. Melbourne does not make recommendations on a study plan or provide advice on courses, but any science or human health-related area is relevant, (including psychology and linguistics).
Does Melbourne speech path require referees?
Yes. Please include the contact details of employers, lecturers or any suitable person who can comment on your personal attributes and ability to undertake the course.
Should I learn Auslan?
It is not necessary to know Auslan or sign language to be an audiologist or a speech pathologist. If you have a client who is a member of the signing deaf community, an interpreter will usually attend the appointment.
I’m a mature age applicant and finished my degree some time ago. Can I still apply?
Yes. Your application will be assessed equally regardless of how long ago you studied.
I won’t have my transcript by the closing date. What can I do?
You should include the transcripts you do have and forward your final one to your agent when you receive it.
Can I apply for Advanced Standing or RPL?
Some subjects in Master of Speech Pathology may be granted credit and each application for Advanced Standing is assessed on its merits. Advanced Standing applications will only be assessed when you have commenced your course.
If I’m offered a place can I defer?
No. You should apply for the year you would like to begin study. If you decline your offer you are welcome to apply again the following year, but as the pool of applicants changes from year to year, there is no guarantee you will be offered a place again.

University of Melbourne Master of Speech Pathology

Program: Master of Speech Pathology
Location: Melbourne, Victoria
Semester intake: February
Duration: 2 years
Application deadline: TBA. For the 2016 intake, the application deadline was October 31, 2015.
You should also include your Grade 12 results if you have them. The Selection Committee may also request an interview or contact the applicant’s referees to assess the applicant’s suitability for a clinical career. Entry into this program is highly competitive and selection is made by a ranking process. Based on past successful applicants, it is recommended that candidates have a 75% cumulative average or above.

Apply to the University of Melbourne Speech Pathology School!

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Find out more about the Melbourne Master of Speech Pathology. Contact OzTREKK’s Australian Speech Pathology Schools Admissions Officer Krista McVeigh at krista@oztrekk.com.