What are the university entry requirements for a Speech and Language Therapy degree?

Speech therapists diagnose, assess and look for solutions to communication disorders, working with adults, children in schools, hospitals and the community. To become a Speech Therapist you will need a BSc. (Hons) degree in Speech and Language Therapy. You will then need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The three or four-year degree will involve a lot of practical work with service care users.

To apply to universities for Speech and Language Therapy, you should have, or be working towards achieving a relevant Access to HE Diploma in Health Science. Alternatively, 3 A Levels with at least one in a science area (Human Biology, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Geography or Maths). Universities can advise on their particular entry requirements and they also publish these on the UCAS website.

With the A Level route, you may also be expected to have a minimum of 5 GCSEs. With the Access to HE Diploma route, you are normally only required to have 2 GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade C or above. Access to HE Diplomas are normally aimed at adults 18+ returning to education or wishing to change to a new career. There are no upper age limits. The Diploma qualification is viewed as being equivalent to 3 A Levels. Access to HE can be studied from home via online learning or at a local college/academy.

To gain the required practical skills and technical competence to become a Speech Therapist, your degree programme will split time between theory and clinical practice. Theory classes take place at university where you'll attend seminars and lectures. Clinical practice involves supervised placements within hospitals, schools, and community settings.

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What does a Speech and Language Therapist do?

Speech and language therapists (SLTs) provide treatment, support, and care for those with communication difficulties, including problems related to eating, drinking, and swallowing. They collaborate with carers and professionals like teachers, nurses, occupational therapists, and doctors. Approximately 17,000 SLTs practice across various UK settings.

What personal attributes are needed to become an SLT?

Good communication, patience, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills are vital. SLTs tailor treatments individually, coordinating information from carers, teachers, and other professionals.

Pay and working conditions

• Newly qualified: £27,055–£32,934 (NHS Band 5)
• Specialist SLT: £33,706–£40,588 (NHS Band 6)
• Advanced/Specialised SLT: £41,659–£47,672 (NHS Band 7)

Did you know?

• Most common special educational need in children aged 4–11 years.
• More than half of children in some areas start school with underdeveloped communication skills.
• Around 20% experience communication difficulties at some point in their life.
• You can make a difference!

How is your degree funded?

Funding options include student loans, scholarships, bursaries, or grants through universities or workplaces. Completing the Access to HE Diploma through Academy Online Learning provides flexible, online study, recognised and accepted by UK universities.

Access to Speech Therapy Course