Master of Science in Educational Speech-Language Pathology and Learning Disabilities

Those who wish to embark on a professional career in speech-language pathology.

The programme comprises 81 credit points (cps) and requires two years of full-time study. Participants will be required to study a full load of subjects 12-18 cps per semester. Courses will be delivered face-to-face, involving a combination of lectures and tutorials.

The curriculum is modelled on that of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the professional and credentialing association for audiologists, speech-language pathologists and scientists in the field. The programme is more than just a medical study of speech-language pathology; it is designed to focus on supporting students in educational settings. The integration of the two disciplines of speech-language pathology and learning disabilities makes this programme a unique, innovative and comprehensive postgraduate training.

Professional Study includes a spectrum of professional courses to help participants build a strong knowledge of typical and disordered human communication, learning and swallowing processes in individuals (from infancy to late adulthood), and principles and methods of assessment and intervention.

Practicum is an integral part of the MScESLPLD curriculum, and a bridge between classroom learning and the realities of practice. Practicum sessions will be conducted to give participants the opportunity to apply subject knowledge, assessment and intervention skills. Participants will have access to different facets of the community, and work with diverse client communities.

Research Methods provides an in-depth study of research design, methods and applications to foster participants’ critical thinking and problem-solving. Participants will undertake research and investigatory analysis that help in their research project and future professional practice.

The Evidence-based Capstone Project enables participants to work on a specialised topic related to their study in the MScESLPLD under the guidance of a supervisor. It requires participants to demonstrate their subject knowledge and skills through developing an individual project. This will help participants develop research and academic writing skills, as well as the scientific attitudes and values required to advance in their future career.

The medium of instruction is English.

Tuition Fee: HK$500,000     (provisional and subject to adjustment)
The tuition fee is HK$6,173 per credit. Tuition fees paid are normally not refundable or transferable. Needy local students may apply for financial assistance scheme from the government or from non-government organisations.

1. Applicants should hold a recognised Bachelor’s degree and/or a postgraduate diploma in education or other disciplines related to psychology, linguistics, speech and hearing sciences or other disciplines the selection panel deems appropriate.'
2. Applicants whose entrance qualifications were obtained from an institution in a non-English speaking system should have attained one of the following minimum English proficiency requirements:
   • IELTS 6.0; or
   • Grade C or above in GCSE/ GCE OL English; or
   • a TOEFL score of 80 ((internet-based test) ; or
   • Band 6 in the Chinese Mainland’s College English Test (CET) (a total score of 430 or above and the test result should be valid within two years); or
   • Other equivalent qualifications.

   • The results of IELTS/TOEFL provided should be within two years (i.e., for the 2024/25 intake, the IELTS/TOEFL test must be obtained on or after 1 Jan 2022); and

     The results of IELTS/TOEFL should be “taken in test centres” (i.e., tests taken online such as IELTS indicator/IELTS Online and TOEFL Home Editions are NOT accepted). 

3. Applicants should have attained one of the following Chinese language proficiency requirements:
   • Level 3 or above in Chinese Language from The Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE); or
   • Grade E or above in Chinese Language from The Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination (HKCEE); or
   • Grade E or above in Chinese Language & Culture (Advanced Supplementary level, AS-level) from The Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE).
   • Other proof of Chinese language proficiency will be considered on an individual merit basis.
4. Applicants should be proficient in Cantonese.

Shortlisted applicants are required to attend an admission interview and take a test. The success of the application will depend heavily on the performance of the interview and the test.

The programme is an eligible programme of the UGC’s “Targeted Taught Postgraduate Programmes Fellowships Scheme” for 2023 intake. Meritorious students may receive a maximum of HK$120,000 to subsidise their tuition fees.