What Will You Learn as A Speech and Language Therapy Student?

If you’re considering studying the MSc Speech and Language Therapy (Pre‑registration) at Portobello Institute, you may be wondering exactly what you'll learn over two years of study.

This blog explains the academic content, practical experience and professional skills you’ll develop, so you can make an informed decision to choose the course for the career you want.

Overview of the MSc Programme

This MSc is designed to prepare you as a highly skilled, evidence‑based therapist, ready to practise as a qualified Speech and Language Therapist (SLT).

The course leads to an MSc awarded by Health Sciences University, aligned to level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications .

You’ll gain the expertise to diagnose communication and swallowing difficulties across patients of all ages from babies to adults, including conditions like autism, cleft palate, hearing impairment, stammering, stroke and more .

Students also learn to design and implement treatment plans aimed at improving quality of life.

Year 1: Foundations of Knowledge & Practice

In the first year you’ll study core modules totalling 130 CATS/65 ECTS credits:

• Human Science for Speech and Language Therapy (30 CATS/15 ECTS): biological and linguistic foundations.
• Professional Practice in Speech and Language Therapy (10 CATS/5 ECTS): groundwork in ethics, professionalism and patient‑centred care.
• Adult Speech and Language Therapy (20 CATS/10 ECTS) and Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy (20 CATS/10 ECTS): condition‑specific assessment and intervention skills.
• Advanced Skills in Speech and Language Therapy (10 CATS/5 ECTS): clinical tools and advanced techniques.
• Practice Placement 1 (40 CATS/20 ECTS): six‑week block placement giving real‑world experience.

Year 2: Advanced Practice, Research and Specialisms

Your second year doubles down on expertise, with modules totalling 130 CATS/65 ECTS credits:

• Advanced Conditions and Disorders (20 CATS/10 ECTS): deeper clinical knowledge across more complex cases.
• Mental Health (10 CATS/5 ECTS): understanding psycho‑social aspects and working holistically with patients.
• Research Methods in Health Science (20 CATS/10 ECTS): designing and conducting evidence‑based studies.
• Dissertation (40 CATS/20 ECTS): substantial original research project reflecting your interests.
• Practice Placement 2 (40 CATS/20 ECTS): two further placements during spring and summer.

Teaching & Learning Methods

Whether you opt for in‑person weekday delivery or blended learning, the programme combines:

• Lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops
• Practical classes and case‑based, problem‑based learning
• Guided independent study and project supervision
• Placement preparation and clinical skills application in real contexts

Blended learning includes evening and weekend delivery ideal for those working alongside study, while in‑person delivery runs over typical weekday timetabling.

Across both modes you must maintain at least 80% attendance in all modules.

Practice Placements: Real‑World Professional Experience

You will complete three mandatory blocks of work placement:

• In year 1: one six‑week placement
• In year 2: two more placements (spring and summer), each four days per week, with one day set aside for independent study or tutorials.

These placements allow you to apply academic learning to real patient care and build strong relationships with clinical supervisors and service users.

Professional Development & Personal Growth

Throughout the course, expert tutors, many of whom are practising clinicians provide personalised academic support. You’re encouraged to develop a reflective, patient‑centred practice grounded in evidence.

The programme also helps you develop:

• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Clinical reasoning and diagnostic ability
• Empathy and emotional resilience to support patients through mental health challenges

Career‑Ready Knowledge and Broad Industry Relevance

Upon completion, you’ll be fully equipped to pursue roles as an SLT in various settings, including healthcare, schools and private practice. You’ll feel confident in supporting individuals with a wide range of communication and swallowing disorders.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

The MSc starts in September 2025 (and February 2026 for blended delivery). The fee is €16,896 per year, and entry requires a 2:2 degree in a relevant subject or relevant work experience, and an interview conducted via MS Teams. If English is not your first language there are specific minimum score requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or OET).

If you’d like to learn more or speak with a course advisor, please visit the course page here.