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Program Preview Day

Learn about Western's graduate programs in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology at Professional Program Preview Day.  Learn more and register.

• Friday, Nov. 24, 2023
• 10 a.m. - 2:30 pm.
• Virtual Presentations

Speech Language Pathology

What is speech-language pathology? Speech-language pathologists focus on the assessment and treatment of a broad range of speech, language, voice, swallowing, and cognitive-communication impairments. Such impairments may result from structural or functional causes and may have developed over time or have resulted from stroke, head injury, or cancers of the head and neck.

Western University’s Speech-Language Pathology program is an international leader in the profession and has played important roles in the development of innovative language, speech, swallowing and voice therapies. Individualized learning happens through laboratory experiences and teaching clinics, and access to state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities. The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders is home to Canada's largest on-site speech and hearing clinic, the H.A. Leeper Speech and Hearing Clinic .

MClSc Program Structure and Requirements

The MClSc program in speech-language pathology is designed to provide a comprehensive, professional education focused on the development of Essential Skills and Competencies and prepare students to seek licensure to practice speech-language pathology in Canada. The program consists of:

The program consists of:

• Full-time, two-year (6 terms), in-person, intensive study, with no traditional academic ‘reading’ weeks
• Integration of pre-determined academic curriculum and clinical practicum components

Courses offered: Year 1 courses   |  Year 2 courses

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Graduate Studies

Speech-language pathology.

Speech-Language Pathologists are autonomous rehabilitation health professionals with specialized knowledge, skills and clinical training in the prevention, screening, identification, assessment, and management of communication and swallowing disorders.

Faculty of Health Sciences

Program Contact

Degree Options

Speech-language pathology (msc).

Anchored within the innovative and renown School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University, this SLP program will add to the inter professional mix of health care disciplines within the Faculty of Health Sciences. With its problem-based learning curriculum, grounded in self-directed and small group learning, McMaster’s SLP program offers a unique learning and training opportunity within Canada for students interested in a career in Speech-Language Pathology.

The goal of this program is to prepare SLPs with the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours needed to practice in a variety of Canadian health care and community settings. The MSc (SLP) program will prepare you to be eligible to register to practice speech-language pathology, and will meet professional accreditation and practice standards.

Association of Canadian Universities for Northern Studies (ACUNS) Varied values

Varied values

ACUNS established its scholarship program, the Canadian Northern Studies Trust (CNST) in 1982 to advance knowledge and understanding of Canada’s North. The purpose of the CNST is to develop a cadre of scholars and scientists with northern experience and, at the same time, to enhance the educational opportunities available for northern residents.

For a list of scholarships and funding available, as well as eligibility criteria, award values, application details, and deadlines, visit the ACUNS website.

Canada-U.S. Fulbright Program

The bi-national program is an educational exchange, with a mandate to enhance mutual understanding between the people of Canada and the people of the United States of America. Available to graduate students, faculty, professionals and independent researchers, successful applicants conduct research, lecture, or enroll in formal academic programs in the United States. Fulbright Canada offers various scholarship awards within this program, with further information on the various award opportunities made available through the Canada-US Fulbright Program website.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the Fulbright website.

CIHR Postdoctoral Fellowship $$$$

Deadline Date:

September 25, 2024

Postdoctoral research opportunities funded through CIHR. E-Approval done through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

Fellowships provide support for highly qualified applicants in all areas of health research at the post-PhD degree or post-health professional degree stages to add to their experience by engaging in health research either in Canada or abroad.

Valued at up to $60,000 per annum for up to five years.

CSA Group Graduate Scholarship $$

March 31, 2024

The purpose of the CSA Group Graduate Scholarship is to support graduate students in the pursuit of knowledge generation related to standards. Full-time graduate students at the Masters level studying at a publicly funded, accredited Canadian university are eligible to apply.

The research can be conducted in any field (e.g. engineering, social sciences, health sciences) and must include standards as a component of the research. The topic does not need to be related to an area in which CSA Group already has standards. The research may investigate aspects of an existing standard or may explore an area for future standards development.

Dr. J. A. Campbell Young Investigator Award $$

April 30, 2023

The Dr. J. A. Campbell Young Investigator Award of $5,000 for any kind of research into celiac disease and / or gluten sensitivity is available to students and those who have recently completed degrees.

Eligibility criteria, application details and deadlines available on the Canadian Celiac Association website.

Dr. John Thomas Memorial Bursary $

Dr. John Thomas Memorial Bursary was established in 1996 in memory of Dr. John Thomas by family, friends and colleagues. The bursary fund will assist graduate students enrolled in the department of philosophy or the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate financial need. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies with preference given to students studying medical or applied ethics.

E.B. Eastburn Fellowship $$$$

March 3, 2025

Under the terms of a bequest to Hamilton Community Foundation by the late Eugene B. Eastburn, a two-year Fellowship will be awarded for full-time postdoctoral studies in engineering or sciences (Natural or Physical sciences, including Health Sciences).

The fellowship will be awarded for 24 months for a total value of $90,000.

Note: The 2025 competition will be announced in late fall 2024.

Fulbright canada student awards $ – $$$.

November 15, 2023

Traditional Fulbright Canada Student awards are intended for Canadian citizens who are graduate students, prospective graduate students, or promising young professionals who wish to study and/or conduct research in the United States. Awards may be held at any university, research centre, think tank, or government agency in the United States.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the Fulbright Canada website.

GSA Travel Award $

The GSA Travel Assistance Grants are funded from the proceeds of the Graduate Students Association Development Fund, which receives contributions from graduate students and the University. The GSA Travel Assistance Grants fund is administered through the School of Graduate Studies. The GSA Travel Assistance Grants are designed to enable graduate students to travel to undertake research or present at conferences relevant to their field of study. There are a fluctuating number of awards available each semester.

The successful recipients will be determined randomly by selecting one recipient from each faculty (Health Sciences, Engineering, Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business) and the balance of the awards left in a given period will be randomly selected from a list of the remaining applicants from all faculties combined.

Application dates:

• Fall competition for September to December travel: Opens September 1, 2023 and closes October 2, 2023
• Winter competition for January to April travel: Opens January 2, 2024 and closes February 5, 2024
• Summer competition for May to August travel: Opens May 1, 2024 and closes June 3, 2024

H.G. Hilton Master’s Scholarship $$

The H.G. Hilton Master’s Scholarships were established by the income from a bequest in the estate of Hugh G. Hilton, at one time Chief Executive Officer of Stelco and member of the McMaster Board of Governors support a Master’s scholarship. The scholarship is tenable for one year, and is awarded annually to incoming Canadian citizens, permanent residents or, international students from departments which offer full-time Master’s graduate studies. Priority will be given to students intending research in Canadian industry or industrial problems. Other things being equal, preference will be given to deserving children of employees or former employees of Stelco Ltd.

Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship $$-$$$

March 14, 2024

The Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship for First Nation, Inuit, and Métis Students was established in 2009 in honour of Harvey E. Longboat, and in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to McMaster University and to the broader community. The School of Graduate Studies, in consultation with the Indigenous Studies program and the Indigenous Education Council, will award the scholarship annually to a First Nation, Inuit, or Métis student(s) who has demonstrated high academic achievement and exceptional promise.

The scholarship is tenable for one year, although previous award winners may re-apply.

Incoming students are eligible to apply.

Health Research Postdoctoral Opportunities

A comprehensive list of funding sources and agencies for postdoctoral fellows in the Faculty of Health Sciences and those doing health-related research can be found in McMaster’s funding database.. On the site, you will find a variety of filters to help you in your search.

Health Sciences Graduate Scholarship for Indigenous Scholars $$

All incoming Indigenous graduate students who are studying in a graduate program located within the Faculty of Health Sciences, are eligible to apply for this award.

Applicants who are completing a FIAP application for a facilitated graduate program, will be automatically considered for this award.

For full eligibility criteria, application details and deadlines, visit the Faculty of Health Sciences website. (Link below.)

Iranian Student Memorial Scholarship $

Established in honour of McMaster Faculty of Engineering PhD students Iman Aghabali and Mehdi Eshaghian, and a former Faculty of Health Science Post-Doctoral Fellow, who lost their lives on the downing of Ukrainian International Airlines Flight PS752. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Associate Deans responsible for graduate studies, to international graduate students from Iran who demonstrate academic excellence.

John Charles Polanyi Prize $$$

December 2, 2024

In honour of the achievement of John Charles Polanyi, recipient of the 1986 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, the Government of the Province of Ontario has established a fund to provide annually up to five prizes to outstanding researchers in the early stages of their career who are continuing to postdoctoral studies or have recently started a faculty appointment at an Ontario university.

Lyle Makosky Values and Ethics in Sport Fund $

April 30, 2024

This award is through the True Sport Foundation of Canada. Open to applicants who are

• high-performance athletes enrolled at a Canadian university, community college or other post-secondary educational institution.
• post-secondary students active in sport at a non-high-performance level.
• sport practitioners active/working in sport as an official, administrator or high-performance coach.
• educators working in a sport, sports sciences, sport management/administration or other applicable discipline.

All questions should be directed to the True Sport Foundation of Canada.

Visit their website for all details and contact information.

MacDATA Graduate Fellowship $$

March 15, 2021

The advent of large collection of data and ensuing development in data analysis techniques has made collaboration between data scientists and content experts necessary for cutting-edge research. Furthermore, there is a need for trainees to be exposed to both aspects of such research, namely for data science trainees to learn about real life practical projects and for content expert trainees to gain experience in data analysis and management. The aims of the MacDATA Graduate Fellowship Program are:

• To provide trainees with an opportunity to acquire practical and theoretical skills in data science.
• To facilitate exchange of expertise and knowledge in data science across faculties.

Mackenzie King Memorial Scholarships $$-$$$

February 1, 2024

The Mackenzie King Scholarships were set up under the will of the Rt. Hon. W.L. Mackenzie King (1874-1950), who was Prime Minister of Canada 1921-26, 1926-30, and 1935-48.

Two types of the Mackenzie King Scholarship are available to graduates of Canadian universities: the Open Scholarship and the Travelling Scholarship . Both are to support graduate study.

Manulife Life Lessons Scholarship Program $$

March 31, 2023

Manulife has introduced the first Life Lessons Scholarship Program in Canada, for students who’ve experienced the death of a parent or guardian with little to no life insurance. The Scholarship Program helps combat the financial burden of paying for post-secondary education during an emotional time and recognizes the perseverance that so many youth show in such adversity.

The next application call for this scholarship opens on February 1, 2024. Visit the Manulife website for details on that date.

Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security $$$

February 23, 2024

Four scholarships open to master’s and PhD students who are conducting research on determinants, impacts, and policy or program interventions into food insecurity in Canada.

Visit Maple Leaf Centre for Food Insecurity to learn more and apply.

Questions can be directed to [email protected] .

Mary Buzzell Graduate Scholarship for Resilient Aging $

December 1, 2024

The Mary Buzzell Graduate Scholarship for Resilient Aging will be awarded to an outstanding student enrolled in any Master’s Degree program at McMaster University who is preparing for a career in the multidisciplinary field of Aging. This award is sponsored by Hamilton Aging in Community.

About Mary Buzzell

Mary Buzzell, a McMaster University faculty member in Nursing, was recognized by McMaster with an honorary doctorate as a pioneer in resilient aging, especially through innovative educational and community programs.

McMaster Graduate General Bursary $

What is a bursary.

A bursary is based solely on financial need. In most cases, information from your OSAP application is used to determine your financial need (some students who don’t receive OSAP can still apply for a bursary).

The McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program application opens mid-August in AwardSpring. Funding is paid out in mid-February.

Who can apply?

Graduate students who demonstrate financial need can apply for the McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program.

Please note: The McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program is not open to international students enrolled in graduate studies, MBA, medicine or physician assistant programs.

Bursary eligibility requirements:

• Be enrolled at McMaster
• Submit a completed application by the bursary deadline
• OSAP students who receive an income update request must complete it by the income update deadline
• Continue to demonstrate financial need throughout the study period
• Indigenous students
• students with OSAP government aid restrictions include:
• academic progress restriction
• income verification restriction
• provincial and/or federal default restriction
• credit check restriction
• students with a disability taking a reduced course load
• students with out-of-province student aid
• part-time students
• students receiving social assistance

McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA) Postdoctoral Fellowship $$$$

July 15, 2020

Prospective postdoctoral fellows are invited to submit a research plan that focuses on interdisciplinary, impact-driven approaches in the study of optimal aging through one or more of the following research areas:

• the impact of exercise on mobility;
• the interrelationship between psychological function and social function;
• causes and consequences of multimorbidity, frailty, and polypharmacy;
• the role of caregiving, equity, economics and transportation in optimal aging;
• the understanding of the biological mechanisms of diseases of aging;
• evaluating approaches to knowledge translation to improve optimal aging; and
• the use of technology to promote optimal aging and aging in place.

The applicant and principal supervisor are expected to involve at least two other researchers from two different McMaster faculties (outside of the principal supervisor’s faculty) as mentors in the development of an interdisciplinary research plan.

MIRA Graduate Student Travel Awards $

March 15, 2020

The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging funds up to 10 graduate student travel awards per year – five in each round – valued at $500 each for students working with MIRA researchers.  Graduate students travelling to an academic conference to present an accepted abstract in aging research are eligible for up to $500 in travel funding.

For details about this and other funding opportunities, visit MIRA .

Deadlines for 2020: March 15 and September 15

OGS for Indigenous Graduate Students $$$

Two OGS-I scholarships are awarded to Indigenous graduate students at McMaster University who face significant financial hardship, with particular priority given to women with family responsibilities.

This criteria has been established in consultation with the Indigenous Education Council (IEC) and is adjudicated by a committee chaired through the Indigenous Studies Program.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarships in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) $$$

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and The Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) programs provide funding to full-time students at the master’s and doctoral levels. They are merit-based scholarships for students with an A- or above average.

Psychology Foundation of Canada Varied values

Various grants and travel supports available. Visit the Psychology Foundation of Canada for all details.

Rainbow Fund $

To be granted to graduate students enrolled in any program who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ students and demonstrate financial need.

Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada Graduate Student Award of Merit $$

At least three awards, each in the amount of $4000, will be awarded annually to the women graduate students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in the university or general community while maintaining exemplary academic records.

Women registered in master’s or PhD programs within a designated region. Regions and number of awards rotate each year. SWAAC has designated Ontario as the region for this 2023 competition. There are five awards available for this competition. Each university may nominate one person for the award.

Read about McMaster PhD student Liza-Anastasia DiCecco, who received the 2023 SWAAC Award of Merit .

The Barkleys of Avonmore Scholarship $

The Barkley’s of Avonmore Scholarship was established in 1977 through the generosity of Fred Barkley to assist a student from a developing country to pursue advanced studies at McMaster University.  Each year the Dean of Graduate Studies will identify a worthy graduate student from one of the developing countries to receive the award.

The Dr. Colin Webber Graduate Scholarship $$

Established in 2013 to honour the memory of Dr. Colin Webber, McMaster University professor, physicist, radiation safety expert, teacher, mentor, and leader in the field of bone research. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to master’s or doctoral students. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate interest in bone research.

Value: Minimum $1,600

The Edna Howard Bursary $

Established in 2022 by the family of Edna Howard, this bursary honours the support Edna offered graduate students through her work as a cook at The Phoenix Bar and Grill, owned and operated by the Graduate Students Association. Her food warmed the hearts of the McMaster campus community for many years until her retirement. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies to full-time students in any program who demonstrate financial need.

The Graduate Students Association Bursary $

The Graduate Students Association Bursary was established in 1999 by the Graduate Students Association at McMaster University under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund initiative. To be granted to a full-time or part-time graduate student in one of the following faculties: Engineering, Health Sciences, and Humanities, Science, Social Sciences, or the PhD program in Business. The bursary will be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Graduate Students Association.

The H. Vincent Elliott Memorial Travel Bursary $

The H.Vincent Elliott Memorial Travel Bursary was established in 2010 by Dr. Susan J.Elliott (MA `97 and PhD`92), esteemed former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, professor of Geography and Earth Sciences, and senior research fellow at the United Nations Institute on Water (UNU-IWEH), Environment and Health, in memory of her father, H.Vincent Elliott. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation on the program director of ‘Water Without Borders’ to students registered in a Master’s or PhD program will be given to students in financial need.

The James F. Harvey and Helen S. Harvey Travel Scholarships $

Established in 1995 with funds from the estate of Helen S. Harvey.  James F. Harvey was a member of the first McMaster graduating class in Hamilton in 1935.  This travel scholarship will enable students to engage in research requiring travel.  To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence.

The Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada Graduate Award

Established in 2022 by the Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a graduate student who is currently enrolled in their first year of any program who identifies as a member of the queer, trans community and is Black, racialized, or Indigenous.

The Myra Baillie Academic Grant $

Established in 2005 by the Surgical Associates in memory of Myra Baillie. To be granted to a graduate student in any degree program who attains and “A” average and demonstrates financial need. Preference will be given to a female graduate student.

Award Value: 2 awards of $1,000 each

The School of Graduate Studies Grant in Aid for Research Travel $-$$

March 8, 2024

The SGS Grant is intended to be a grant in aid of research; students should not expect the grants to cover the full cost of travel or field work.

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Grant is not intended for conference or course work travel .

It is not meant to replace sources of funding already available from the tri-agencies (CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC), other external granting sources, or internal scholarships and bursaries.

It is not intended to fund the research itself, but the travel to do the research.

Application Date

The application will open in Mosaic on January 8, 2024, and close on March 8, 2024.

Wilson Leadership Scholar Award $$-$$$

March 28, 2022

The Wilson Leader Scholarship Award for graduate students is different. Valued at $12,000 in direct funding and up to $2,000 for experiential funding, it’s a leadership development and career launcher program that builds on your studies. It involves about 15 hours/month, including time for synchronous group events between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.

Awarded to up to three graduate students annually.

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University Programs

Currently, twelve Canadian universities provide entry-to-practice education in speech-language pathology and six also provide entry-to-practice education in audiology.  The entry-to-practice degree requirement in Canada is a Master’s degree.

The six universities that offer programs in both audiology and speech-language pathology are: University of British Columbia, Dalhousie University, Université Laval, Université de Montréal, Université d’ Ottawa and Western University. Six universities offer a speech-language pathology program solely: University of Alberta, Université Laurentienne, McGill University, l'Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, University of Toronto, and McMaster University.

Programs at six universities are offered in French: Université Laurentienne, Université Laval, Université de Montréal, Université d'Ottawa, and l'Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières. The remainder are offered in English.

For more information about these programs please visit their websites at the links below.

University of Alberta

University of British Columbia

Dalhousie University

Université Laval - audiologie

Université Laval - orthophonie

Université Laurentienne

McGill University

McMaster University

Université de Montréal

University of Ottawa

Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières

University of Toronto

University of Western Ontario

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Join us on:

We are Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC), a membership-driven organization that supports, promotes and elevates the professions of our members and associates. We are the only national organization passionately supporting and representing speech-language pathologists, audiologists and communication health assistants inclusively. Through this support, we champion the needs of people with communication disorders.

Our members and associates are why we exist. When you’re an SAC member or associate, you can get down to work knowing that we are there supporting and fighting for you, every day. Here’s what we bring:

• You get louder:  With more than 6,400 members and associates across the country, our numbers do the talking. As the largest association of its kind in Canada, we are able to advocate effectively and fiercely for you, bringing greater bargaining power and a stronger voice to negotiations, advocacy and policy discussions. And our national mandate means that our efforts to raise your profile and your profession are heard across the country.
• You get together:  We like to share. Our members and associates are our family and our personal connections help keep us strong. Our members and associates participate in committees, surveys, boards and focus groups and our biennial conference offers working groups, networking, professional development and the opportunity to interact with leading industry experts.
• You get more: As an SAC member or associate, you can take advantage of the broadest suite of benefits available, including national clinical certification, professional development tools, position papers and research, powerful advocacy, our biennial conference, deep discounts on insurance and other services and much more. Most importantly, we’re here when you call. We take care of our own.

The result?

• Our broad suite of benefits and services means that you feel supported and your day-to-day professional life is made easier.
• Our strength and advocacy mean that you benefit from our promotion of the professions: your profile and value is raised and you are more in demand.
• Through clinical certification and professional development, your profession itself is elevated by SAC, improving skills and raising professional quality and reputation.

Join SAC now.

Learn more about the benefits of joining SAC for: 

• speech-language pathologists
• audiologists
• communication health assistants

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Becoming an SLP

What is an slp.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are professionals who have training and expertise in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders. SLPs work with people of all ages, from newborns to seniors. We work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, elementary and secondary schools, private clinics and centres, health units, child development centres, rehabilitation centres, and research facilities.

Useful Resources

The College of Health Disciplines at UBC provides information on all the healthcare professions to help prospective students choose a career.

The only speech-language pathology program in British Columbia is the School of Audiology and Speech Sciences (SASS) at the University of British Columbia (UBC), which offers a “solid academic foundation, valuable opportunities for practical experience, and a stunning location in which to study.”

Speech-Language and Audiology Canada provides a list of all the Canadian University Programs in Speech-Language Pathology.

Thinking about becoming an SLP? Our members share why they became, and love being, an SLP:

“I have been an SLP for more than 23 years and I believe it is the best job on earth.”

“I had planned on being a pediatrician until I took a linguistics course in my undergraduate program at UBC and realized that the field of speech-language pathology combined my love of science, teaching, counseling and creativity all in one. Many years later, after working in a variety of settings, I discovered that this “job” is flexible, rewarding (both financially and intrinsically.) You will never get bored! I have 3 daughters who watch me work. Guess what they want to be when they grow up?”

“I was 22 and had never heard about the field ‘til a friend shared with me that she had visited a friend who was an SLP. I was captivated… that was 40 years ago. It has been the most amazing, challenging and rewarding career that I could have wished for and I’m still working and learning and contributing to others constantly. My work keeps engaging me in new ways over and over. I love it.”

“I wanted to work with children but did not want to be a teacher. I shadowed an SLP which made up my mind. That was more than 40 years ago. I still love my job.”

“The best job in the world. We are lifelong learners as are our audiology colleagues”

“I was planning to be a physiotherapist and got a summer job in the PT department of the local hospital…sitting in the hydrotherapy tub with a gentleman with aphasia, I had to find ways to communicate and we succeeded. I changed my major the following year.”

“On career day in high school my mom (a teacher) asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wanted a job that would challenge me, was unique and would be fun. She suggested I look into speech-language therapy …13 years into my career and it has proved to be everything I valued that day and more. Thank you, Mom.”

“As a child I had difficulties speaking and saw an SLP at school for help. He did such a great job making me feel successful and capable that I rarely felt excluded or embarrassed by the fact that I had to leave class to see the ‘speech teacher’. This positive experience stayed with me well into adulthood and when I was faced with a career change I decided to return to school to become an SLP. I have never regretted the choice to enter such a rewarding profession full of skilled, motivated, and caring individuals.”

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Speech‑Language Pathology (MSc)

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• Audiology (MSc)
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The speech-language pathology program at Dalhousie University involves three years of full-time study allotted to course work, clinical practica, and a research project or thesis. The program leads to a Master of Science (MSc) degree.

Upon completion of the program, students meet the requirements for application for certification by Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) and for licensure in any of the provinces with government regulation of speech-language pathology.

Program overview

The profession, links & resources.

• MSc Speech-Language Pathology program
• MSc Human Communication Disorders (Speech-Language Pathology) program

Speech-Language Pathology curriculum map

• S-LP Curriculum Course Connections [PDF - 140kb]
• Foundation Course Linkages [PDF - 168kb]
• Post-foundation Course Topic Summaries [PDF - 140kb]

Course Sequences

• Speech-Language Pathology

Speech-language pathologists are health care professionals who work with both children and adults to prevent, assess, diagnose and manage (through treatment and counselling) speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders.

More specifically, speech-language pathologists:

• provide consultative and intervention services for speech and language disorders from infancy to adulthood
• use specialized procedures to assess and diagnose communication and swallowing disorders
• develop and implement treatment plans for language, speech, voice and/or swallowing disorders
• design and employ alternative communication strategies and devices
• counsel clients and families regarding communication and swallowing disorders
• consult with and advise other health professionals regarding communication disorders
• consult with educators regarding inclusion, communication, speech and language stimulation and teaching strategies for students with communication disorders
• educate and supervise students
• conduct research aimed at expanding knowledge about processes underlying communication disorders and effective strategies for diagnosis and treatment

Career paths

Speech-language pathologists often work in collaboration with medical and rehabilitation personnel, educators, social workers, psychologists, audiologists and other speech-language pathologists.

Speech-language pathologists work in a variety of environments, including hospitals, community health centres, child development centres, private clinics, schools, rehabilitation centres, and universities. 

Moreover, speech-language pathologists can choose to specialize in assessment and treatment of specific types of communication disorders. Specialization areas can include developmental language, articulation/phonology, voice, fluency, swallowing, or neurogenic speech and language disorders.

Speech-language pathologists enjoy excellent employment opportunities. Dalhousie's speech-language pathology graduates have always been very successful at securing employment soon after graduation.

From a total of 200 professions and jobs, CareerCast.com (2014) ranked speech-language pathology in the top 10, based on job prospects and income. Chances of employment are enhanced by the willingness of the candidate to relocate.

Go to the Links Page to obtain more information on communication disorders and the profession of speech-language pathology.

Practicum refers to the development of skills through:

• application of academic concepts to the clinical setting;
• observation of clinical activities;
• participation in simulated activities; and
• participation in client care through practicum placements.

Students move through these activities in incremental steps, eventually achieving greater responsibility for the care of clients. At the end of the first year of the program, students participate in a speech-language and hearing screening program of pre-school children at community pre-schools and other facilities. During the second year fall and winter terms, practicum placements are arranged within the Nova Scotia Hearing and Speech Centres metro sites, in a public school setting within Halifax , at the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, or at private clinics. Students are responsible for transportation to these placements. In addition to clinical placements, students are required to attend practicum preparation clinical meetings. During the summer of the second year of the program, students are assigned to facilities on a full-time basis for a 12-week internship within the Atlantic Provinces. One of the options for the internship placement is with the InteRACT program. This placement provides 6-8 students per year with intensive exposure to aphasia rehabilitation in an interprofessional context. In the final externship placement in the winter term of the third year, students are placed outside the Halifax area. Students may be placed in sites across Canada. Placements outside of Canada will be considered if appropriate clinical supervision is available.

• Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC)
• Nova Scotia College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists (NSCASLP)
• Nova Scotia Hearing and Speech Centres (NSHSC)
• Halifax Regional Regional Centre for Education (formerly Halifax Regional School Board)
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority (APSEA)

To pursue studies in our Master's programs in Speech-Language Pathology, visit the Admissions section of our website.

School of Communication Sciences and Disorders Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building 5850 College Street 2nd Floor, Room 2C01 PO Box 15000 Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4R2 1.902.494.7052

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School of Graduate Studies

Speech-language pathology (practitioner), program overview.

The  Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Speech-Language Pathology is a full-time professional graduate program. The primary aim of the program is to prepare practitioners for entry into the practice of speech-language pathology. Graduates are prepared to assume varied professional responsibilities including the assessment, treatment, and management of speech, voice, language, and swallowing disorders. Coursework and clinical internships are integrated and sequenced in a unique modular curriculum. Additionally, students participate in the interprofessional education (IPE) curriculum for 11 health science programs at the University of Toronto.  There is a strong research-to-practice focus and students complete a comprehensive portfolio requirement in their final year.

Students cannot apply to the MHSc program from the SGS website. For application information, fees, and guidelines to apply to the MHSc clinical program, please consult the Ontario Rehabilitation Sciences Programs (ORPAS) website .

For students interested in pursuing research: visit the Speech-Language Pathology (Research) program page.

Quick Facts

MHSc. Admission Requirements

The Department of Speech-Language Pathology will admit approximately 60 students to the MHSc program for the 2024-2025 academic year. Applications are submitted through the Ontario Rehabilitation Sciences Programs Application Service (ORPAS). Please refer to the ORPAS Application Guide for complete application details and instructions. The deadline to apply to the MHSc program for the 2024 – 2025 academic year January 6, 2025 .

Overview of Requirements

Undergraduate degree.

Applicants must hold the equivalent of a four‑year University of Toronto bachelor’s degree from an approved university (which includes the most recent 10 full course credit equivalencies (or 20 half course credits),  but does not necessarily need to be an honours degree) with at least a mid‑B standing in the final year (or in the last five full course credits equivalents ).

Important: The University of Toronto uses the ORPAS sub-grade point average (GPA) to determine eligibility for the MHSc program and the sub-GPA is part of the overall assessment process. The sub-GPA is calculated using the most recent ten full course equivalents. If an applicant is currently enrolled in the fourth year of a baccalaureate program, this calculation will start with the final fall grades (completed December 31) and will move back in chronological order, based on the transcript. Where grades must be extracted from a term to achieve the equivalent of ten full courses, the weighted average of that year (e.g., the second year) will be used. Please refer to the ORPAS website and the ORPAS Application Guide for additional details.

For students with a three‑year degree, additional coursework must be in accordance with the structure for a four‑year degree at the University of Toronto.

All applicants are required to be either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (landed immigrant) of Canada at the time of the application. International students are not accepted.

Prerequisite Courses

Applicants are also required to complete the stated prerequisite undergraduate university level courses with a final grade of B+ in each course in order to be considered for the MHSc program. The prerequisite courses include:

• Child development (one half course);
• General linguistics (one half course);
• Phonetics (one half course);
• Elementary statistics (one half course);
• Human physiology (one full course); and
• Research methods (one half course).

To determine whether a particular course meets a prerequisite requirement, consult the MHSc program website . If a course is listed on the website, then it has been approved and will satisfy the specified prerequisite course. Please note that course offerings are subject to change and not all courses listed on the MHSc prerequisite section of the website are necessarily offered at any given time. It is the applicant’s responsibility to confirm course offerings with the institution of interest.

To claim a course as a prerequisite if that course is not listed on the MHSc prerequisite section of the website, students must obtain pre-approval from the department and include it as an attachment in the application . For more information on this pre-approval process please contact the Student Affairs Office at [email protected].

Confidential Assessment Forms and Academic Reference Letters

Applicants must arrange to have two academic referees complete the Confidential Assessment Form and write an academic reference letter on university letterhead . Referees must be full‑time faculty members (normally with a rank of lecturer, sessional lecturer, assistant professor, or higher) at an accredited university. Please note that college instructors are NOT considered to be appropriate academic referees. Forms may be downloaded directly from the ORPAS Application .

Academic references are those professors, assistant professors and/or sessional lecturers who know you well enough to write an insightful reference that speaks to your academic capabilities, knowledge and skills.

For mature applicants who have been out of the university environment for five years or more, one letter from an employer will be accepted. However, applicants will still need to obtain at least one reference letter from a full-time faculty member who can evaluate the applicant’s academic skills.

Clinical Experience

• In recognition of the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have waived the volunteer requirement (including the clinical letter) for the 2024-2025 admission cycle (entry Fall 2025). Applicants will not have the opportunity to submit a clinical reference. While clinical hours or work experience in a clinical setting may still be included with the application and discussed in the statement of intent, they will not be given weight in the review process.

A minimum of 14 hours of experience supervised by a speech-language pathologist in a communication disorders setting in a volunteer, educational, or paid capacity is required to apply to the MHSc program. Relevant experience may be sought at any facility where services are supervised by a qualified speech‑language pathologist. A qualified speech‑language pathologist will hold licensure, registration and/or certification from an appropriate regulatory body and/or professional association.

The clinical experience should involve direct interaction with individuals with communicative disorders. It might also include observation of speech‑language pathologists working with individuals with communicative disorders or discussions with speech‑language pathologists about the profession.

Clinical Reference Form and Reference Letter

A clinical reference form and letter from the primary supervisor of the speech‑language pathology clinical experience is required as part of the application package. Letters from program directors who were not directly involved in supervision of the applicant and letters from communication disorder assistants are unacceptable.

Applicants who have completed more than one supervised clinical experience in a speech‑language pathology setting and had an additional experience where the clientele differed in either population or age group from the first experience, are strongly encouraged  to submit a Clinical Reference Form and letter for each site. All Clinical Reference Forms and letters will be considered during the admissions process. Forms are available on the ORPAS website .

Statement of Intent

All applicants must complete a Statement of Intent and there are two components to the Statement of Intent. The first section should be a maximum of 3,000 characters (this incudes spaces) and should address the following topics, in particular the first four items:

• Outline reasons for choosing speech‑language pathology as a career;
• Highlight specific personal attributes that would be relevant for the profession;
• Emphasize academic and non‑academic accomplishments;
• Outline reasons for choosing the MHSc program in speech‑language pathology at the University of Toronto; and
• Demonstrate current knowledge about the profession of speech‑language pathology.

Applicants may also wish to use this statement to explain irregularities in their application and to outline any research experiences.

The second section of the Statement of Intent is a summary of volunteer experiences and should list:

• Volunteer experiences in the field of speech‑language pathology and/or audiology in point form, including dates, duration, total hours, populations, and the nature of activities in which the applicant participated; and
• Other relevant volunteer experiences, including dates, duration, populations, and activities.

 Other Application Information

Education outside of canada.

Applicants must be either a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (landed immigrant) of Canada to apply. International students are not accepted. For education completed outside of Canada, applicants must send ORPAS all official academic records, including an official transcript of any completed courses or diplomas that have been conferred.

Language Requirement

All applicants to the MHSc program must have excellent oral and written English skills. This proficiency is required for both the academic and the clinical aspects of the program.

Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate facility in the English language by completing one of the English proficiency tests listed on the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies website.

The Department of Speech‑Language Pathology strongly prefers that the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) be used to satisfy this requirement. With respect to the internet‑based version of the TOEFL, applicants must achieve a minimum overall score of 100/120, with a minimum of 22/30 in the speaking section, and a minimum of 22/30 in the writing section. TOEFL candidates should use the institution code for the University of Toronto, which is 0982.

If it is impossible for an applicant to take the TOEFL, the department will accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (minimum score of 8.0 Academic).

The program may include interviews for selected candidates as part of the application process. Additionally, when the submitted documentation requires clarification, applicants may be invited for an interview at the Department of Speech‑Language Pathology. The meeting provides the opportunity to explore in‑depth issues, such as spoken and written language ability and areas of academic performance or interpersonal communication skills. For applicants who live outside of Toronto and are unable to attend a personal meeting, they may be invited to participate via teleconference or video conference.

Health Requirements

All applicants to the MHSc program are expected to be in a state of health that allows for full participation in the academic and clinical programs without posing a risk to oneself or others.

Applicants who have been offered admission to the program are required to submit medical certification that confirms immunization against polio, diphtheria, tetanus, rubella, measles, mumps, chicken pox and hepatitis B, as well as medical certification confirming a negative tuberculosis test result. Other vaccines may also be required. Please note the following items:

• Tuberculosis certification must be by skin test or chest x‑ray.
• If a skin test yields a positive result, a follow‑up chest x‑ray is required and must be dated no earlier than one year prior to beginning the program. This must be repeated annually.
• In addition, many clinical sites require annual flu shots that can be obtained at no additional cost from the University of Toronto health services, community flu shot clinics, and any doctor’s office in Ontario.

Police Record Checks

Many placements (e.g., school boards, social service sites) request police record checks. If admitted, applicants are strongly encouraged to complete and pay for this service. Failure to obtain a satisfactory police record check may result in an alternative or delayed placement that may also delay a student’s graduation date.

Indigenous Applicants

The department reserves one place annually for an Indigenous applicant who satisfies all admission requirements as outlined in the ORPAS Application Guide  and on the department website. To apply under this category, contact the department directly at [email protected] , before the application deadline to self-identify.

Contact Information

Student Affairs Office Department of Speech‑Language Pathology Temerty Faculty of Medicine

University of Toronto #160‑500 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1V7 E-Mail: [email protected]   Fax: (416) 978‑1596

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MSc(A) in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Non-Thesis; Speech-Language Pathology

A New MSc (Applied) in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Non-Thesis; Speech Language Pathology  Designed for YOU

What is an "s-lp".

Speech-Language Pathologists (S-LP) are communication health professionals in charge of the assessment, analysis, intervention and prevention of disorders related to:

• the voice (aphonia, dysphonia, laryngectomy, etc), fluency (stuttering);
• speech (articulation, dysarthria, etc);
• language (aphasia, dyslexia, specific language impairment, autism, language delay, etc); and
• oropharyngeal function (swallowing).

S-LP's are also involved with the deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in close collaboration with the audiologist, and provides Augmentative and Alternative Communication tools to individuals with severe communication disorders who have lost their capacity to communicate.

S-LP's serve a diverse clientele: preschoolers and school age kids, adolescents, adults and the elderly. They can work in school boards, special education facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, long-term care facilities, CLSCs, and in private practice.

McGill's Approach

The McGill School of Communication Sciences and Disorders offers a personalized and supportive learning environment to complete your professional training, leading to a Master of Science (Applied) degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders with specialization in Speech-Language Pathology. McGill has retained its small class size to ensure that all learners benefit from individualized attention and strong mentorship.

Accreditation and Licensing

In Canada, those wanting to practice as Speech-Language Pathologists must have at least Master's-level training in Communication Sciences and Disorders from an accredited university program. Requirements for professional certification necessary for clinical practice are set by provincial regulatory bodies. Speech-Language and Audiology Canada (SAC) conducts an annual examination for those wishing to qualify for national certification.

The School’s professional program meets the requirements necessary for certification of graduates not only with the provincial regulatory body (the Ordre des Orthophonistes et Audiologistes du Québec [OOAQ]), but also with SAC. It’s important to note that, as of 1998, SAC and ASHA (the US equivalent) recognize one another's certification.

For more information about the profession of Speech-Language Pathology ( Orthophonie ), please contact the « Ordre des orthophonistes et Audiologistes du Québec » or Speech-Language and Audiology Canada .

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Job requirements speech therapist in canada.

• Description
• Requirements
• Competencies

Find out what you typically need to work as a speech therapist in Canada. These requirements are applicable to all Audiologists and speech-language pathologists (NOC 31112).

Employment requirements

This is what you typically need for the job.

• Audiologists require a master's degree in audiology.
• Speech-language pathologists require a master's degree in speech-language pathology.
• Registration with a regulatory body is required for audiologists and speech-language pathologists in Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.
• Membership in the national association, Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists, is usually required.
• In some jurisdictions, audiologists may be required to obtain a separate licence to dispense hearing aids.

Source National Occupational Classification

Professional certification and licensing

You might need to get a certification from a regulatory authority before you start working. Find out if this occupation is regulated and contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification process.

British Columbia

New brunswick, newfoundland and labrador, nova scotia, saskatchewan.

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Do you want to work in another province or territory?

If you are already certified to work in a regulated occupation in your province or territory, it will be easier for you to have your certification recognized in another province or territory. See the Workers Mobility's website to learn more.

It looks like you are visiting Job Bank from outside Canada.

If you are not legally authorized to work in Canada, you can’t apply for every job on Job Bank . Most Canadian employers will not hire you if you do not have a valid visa or work permit.

Visit Job Bank’s page for foreign candidates to review your options and find jobs from employers who are recruiting outside Canada.

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New Prerequisites for the MSc Speech-Language Pathology Program

September 12, 2024

As part of our SLP curriculum renewal, the prerequisites for admission to the MSc Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Program will be updated,  effective for the September 2025 intake (subject to Senate approval).

New prerequisites, effective September 2025:

• Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, or Pragmatics (3 credits or equivalent)
• Language Acquisition (3 credits or equivalent)
• Phonetics (3 credits or equivalent)
• Developmental Psychology (3 credits or equivalent)
• Neuroanatomy, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, or Human Anatomy and Physiology (3 credits or equivalent)
• Statistics (3 credits or equivalent)

N.B. For applicants applying for entry in September 2025, BOTH the current and the new prerequisites will be accepted . ONLY the new prerequisites will be accepted for the September 2026 intake.

An updated prerequisite equivalency chart for the new prerequisites will be available in November 2024. Please check back for further details and updates.

Home Membership Internationally Educated

Internationally Educated

Information for internationally educated speech-language pathologists and audiologists., sac membership.

Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) is the national professional association that represents speech-language pathologists (S-LPs), audiologists and communication health assistants in Canada. SAC membership is voluntary and has many benefits .

The professions of speech-language pathology and audiology are regulated in all Canadian provinces except Yukon and the Northern Territories. If you plan to work in a province where S-LPs and audiologists are regulated, you must register with the regulatory body in order to practice. Employers in provinces and territories without regulatory bodies may require SAC membership and certification.

There are three types of applications you can complete to join SAC. These are:

Member of a canadian regulatory body application.

You should complete this application if you are currently registered with a regulatory body in Canada. SAC members are eligible to become certified.

Internationally qualified S-LPs and audiologists who are registered with a Canadian regulatory body may  apply to become a member of SAC  without further assessment of their qualifications. SAC members are eligible for SAC’s Certification Program.

Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) Application (for S-LPs)

You should complete this application if you are a speech-language pathology certificate of clinical competence holder of ASHA, a full member of IASLT, a full member of NZSTA, certified member of RCSLT or a certified practicing speech pathologist of SPA. You must also have completed your professional education in a country that is signatory to the MRA. Once you have successfully completed the application process you will be eligible to become a certified member of SAC.

Recognition Agreement (RA) Application (for Audiologists)

Currently, we are not accepting applications for the Recognition Agreement. Please check back with us for future updates.

Recognition Agreement Application Information (for Audiologists holding ASHA CCCs)

• Completed application form with the applicable fee.
• Request a letter of verification from ASHA attesting to your current certification status with ASHA. The letter must be sent from ASHA to SAC’s Membership Department. Letters received from the applicant or other sources will not be accepted.

After your application has been approved, you can create a SAC member account and submit your membership fee.

In Canada, the field of audiology is subject to regulation in most provinces. As such, to work as an audiologist, it’s generally necessary to be registered with the appropriate provincial regulatory body . This requirement applies regardless of whether or not an individual is a certified or registered member of a professional organization. While the majority of Canadian provinces regulate the field of audiology, the Northwest Territories and Yukon do not have such regulations in place. However, it’s worth noting that individual employers may still have specific job requirements that must be met in order to work as an audiologist in these areas.

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