Speech and Hearing Sciences
Communication is at the core of human society and without it people are excluded from education , employment and social interaction . Speech and language therapists , audiologists and British Sign Language ( BSL ) interpreters all support people to communicate more effectively so that they can engage fully in society
Why QMU ?
At postgraduate level , the division of Speech and Hearing Sciences at QMU offers a range of options for students seeking professional registration and for those who are already practising professionals . Pre-registration courses are designed for graduates who wish to be educated to master ’ s level to qualify as either a speech language therapist or audiologist . A range of modules are also available for qualified audiologists , speech and language therapists or other professionals in related areas who wish to advance their practice , and these may contribute to postgraduate awards . Our MSc BSL / English Interpreting ( Post- Reg ) is an opportunity for experienced BSL / English interpreting practitioners to achieve a recognised academic qualification that includes a focus on specialist areas of interpreting practice . Associate students may also access individual modules for continuing professional development .
Speech and Hearing Sciences at QMU offers prospective students a small and friendly environment for learning , and our professionally relevant courses are designed to meet the changing needs of students , employers and society . The presence of audiology , BSL / English interpreting and speech and language therapy courses within the same unniversity subject area is unusual in the UK , but has significant potential benefits , given the complex interplay between the biological , psychological , social and cultural factors that underlie communicative behaviour . Students on pre-registration courses are supported by a multi-professional staff team , facilitating an understanding of the links between hearing , speech and communication .
Speech and Hearing Sciences at QMU has an excellent reputation for educational provision , research and clinical work in speech , language , audiology and communication . Our aims are to :
• Educate speech and language therapists , audiologists and BSL / English interpreters to the high standards required by each profession , by providing a learning environment that encourages all students to reach their full potential .
• Pursue research excellence in speech , language and hearing disorders and BSL / English Interpreting , with the goal of improving quality of life for individuals who experience communication barriers .
• Maintain a high profile in the professional and wider academic community .
• Enhance our reputation as a recognised centre of excellence for teaching , interdisciplinary research and clinical practice .
Our approach to learning and teaching
Our learning and teaching approaches are based on the premise that learning is a continuous lifelong experience for both students and educators , and that learning is achieved best in an environment that fosters curiosity , exploration , experimentation , collaboration and trust . Students entering any of the offered courses typically already have well-developed learning skills and a high level of motivation , they will be able to build on previously established skills , experiences and knowledge .
We employ creative and effective learning methods that facilitates an independent and autonomous approach to learning , while providing a supportive but challenging learning environment , together with constructive evaluation and feedback about student performance . This is achieved within a supportive environment , which encourages reflection and sharing of knowledge and experiences as a basis for personal and professional growth , along with use of the humanistic and adult learning theories that promote valuing and respect for others , relevance of learning and recognition of emotional aspects of learning .
Students will be able to engage in a range of learning and teaching methods , in a way that suits each student ’ s
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