Top 10 UK Universities for Speech & Language Therapy Courses

Speech and Language Therapy courses train individuals aspiring to become qualified speech and language therapists. These comprehensive programmes impart essential skills and knowledge for assessing, treating, and managing communication and swallowing disorders.

The core objective of this type of degree is to equip students with the expertise to effectively engage with individuals of all age groups, including children and adults, in diverse environments. The curriculum encompasses fundamental communication and speech development principles, intricate insights into the anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing mechanisms, and the art of evaluating and diagnosing communication disorders.

Learn more about the best UK speech and language therapy degrees (CUG 2025) below. Begin your application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK.

Top 10 UK Universities for Speech & Language Therapy Degree

1. Newcastle University

The Speech and Language Therapy BSc Honours at Newcastle University offers comprehensive stages of study. In Stage 1, you'll establish foundational knowledge in speech and language anatomy, psychology, linguistics, and clinical education. Stage 2 delves into linguistics, pathology, and psychology, where you'll apply learning to developmental and acquired communication disorders. The final Stage 3 entails immersive clinical placements across diverse settings, refining expertise in client groups like autism and dementia.

• Suggested course: Speech and Language Therapy BSc Honours
• Entry requirements: A-level: BBC normally includes one of the core sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), with a minimum grade of B. 
• International fees: £22,800

2. Ulster University

The BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy at Ulster University aims to produce skilled and compassionate therapists proficient in addressing communication, eating, drinking, and swallowing issues. The curriculum focuses on assessing and enhancing clients' abilities to engage fully in their lives, supported by teamwork, clinical reflection, and research skills. 

• Suggested course: Speech and Language Therapy - BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A-level Grades BBB or equivalent.
• International fees: £16,320

3. University of Manchester

The BSc Speech and Language Therapy course at Manchester University spans three years and equips students for careers as speech and language therapists. Focused on treating speech, communication, and swallowing disorders, the programme blends theoretical knowledge and clinical skills. The curriculum includes scientific foundations, clinical research, phonetics, linguistics, psychology, and sociology.

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy
• Entry requirements: A-level- AAB. International Baccalaureate- 35 points overall, with 6,6,5 in Higher Level subjects.
• International fees: £27,000

4. University of Reading

The MSc Speech and Language Therapy at Reading, accredited by the Health Care Professionals Council, offers comprehensive training for aspiring speech and language therapists. The course combines theoretical understanding with practical experience, facilitated by a purpose-built NHS and independent clinic on-site. Benefitting from world-class research, students study a broad range of areas, from linguistics to communication disorders like aphasia, autism, and dysphagia. Clinical placements in diverse settings, guided by experienced therapists, are crucial to the programme.

• Suggested course: MSc Speech and Language Therapy
• Entry requirements: A good 2:1 or above (or equivalent). Experience working with clients with communication difficulties.
• International fees: £25,800

5. University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield's Speech and Language Therapy BMedSci trains students to become qualified speech and language therapists through a blend of theoretical learning and practical clinical placements. You'll gain expertise in treating communication and swallowing issues in adults and children.

You'll acquire interdisciplinary skills, including teamwork, assessment, therapy, and self-evaluation. The curriculum emphasises research proficiency, enabling you to contribute to the field's evidence base. Core modules cover phonetics, cognitive and language development, speech disorders, and research methods, preparing you for leadership roles in the future.

• Suggested course: Speech and Language Therapy BMedSci
• Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate: 34 | IELTS grade of 8.0 with a minimum of 7.5 in each component or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
• International fees: £29,110

6. Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a dynamic and acclaimed BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy programme. The curriculum is led by experienced therapists and renowned researchers, blending core subjects like linguistics, anatomy, and psychology with clinical education. Clinical placements across all years provide real-world experience, and students engage in research projects. This engaging course equips graduates with practical skills and a comprehensive understanding of speech and language therapy within diverse settings.

• Suggested course: Speech and Language Therapy - BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A-level subjects: Minimum Grades ABB in three separate subject areas. International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: Minimum two Grade 6 and one Grade 5 in Higher Level subjects.

7. University of East Anglia

The University of East Anglia  BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy course will equip students with the skills to guide and advise individuals, support their families, and collaborate with other health and education professionals, positively impacting their lives by helping them overcome challenges and uncover strengths. The course, grounded in linguistics, phonetics, psychology, and anatomy and physiology, covers all aspects of SLT research, intervention, and practice.

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) fosters teamwork, negotiation, and leadership skills, while practice placements and interactions with communication partners develop practical skills. Clinical settings in the second and third years, supported by qualified therapists, ensure students acquire essential skills for professional environments.

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy
• Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate: 32 points | IELTS 7.5 overall (minimum 7.5 in each component).
• International fees: £20,600

8. University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde's BSc Hons Speech & Language Pathology offers a comprehensive four-year journey into assessing and treating speech, language, and communication issues. Its rich history encompasses speech pathology, linguistics, psychology, and medical sciences. Work placements, integral to each year, provide hands-on experience in nurseries, schools, care homes, and specialised medical settings.

• Suggested course: BSc Hons Speech & Language Pathology
• Entry requirements: A Levels AAB-ABB (GCSE English Language 4/C or Literature 4/C; GCSE Maths, a science (Chemistry, Biology, Physics or Computing) at GCSE 4/C; another language at GCSE 4/C is recommended).
• International fees: £19,900

9. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University offers a comprehensive Speech and Language Therapy BSc that provides a strong theoretical foundation in speech and language therapy, emphasising linguistics, psychology, medical sciences, and research methods. Clinical placements in diverse settings enhance practical skills, focusing on communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan.

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy
• Entry requirements: IB Diploma - Pass overall with a minimum overall score of 32 or minimum 128 UCAS Tariff points from three Higher Level subjects | Academic IELTS 8.0 overall with no component below 7.5, taken within two years of the course start date
• International fees: £20,000

10. Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett University's BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy degree provides a three-year journey to qualify as a skilled speech and language therapist. This course encompasses diverse subjects like psychology, linguistics, and speech pathology, empowering students to assess and intervene in communication impairments and eating/swallowing difficulties across all life stages. The mixed placement model includes ongoing and block placements, offering practical experience and broad clinical exposure.

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Speech and Language Therapy
• Entry requirements: Undergraduate degree: 2:1 or above is acceptable instead of the above A-level and related qualifications. 
• International fees: £14,000

Study Speech and Language Therapy in the UK

Begin your application to study a specialised speech and language course at a UK university by contacting SI-UK today.

FAQ

What are the admission requirements for speech and language therapy degrees?

Admission requirements for speech and language therapy programmes vary by university but typically include academic qualifications such as relevant A-levels or equivalent, certain science subjects, and often specific grades. Some universities may also require relevant work experience or a personal statement.

What is the highest salary for speech therapy?

In the UK, experienced speech and language therapists can earn around £45,000 to £55,000 or more, particularly in specialised or senior roles.

Is there a demand for speech and language therapists in the UK?

The profession is crucial in addressing communication and swallowing disorders across various age groups. With an ageing population and increasing awareness of speech and language issues, the demand for qualified therapists is expected to remain steady.

How long is a speech and language therapy course?

The duration of a speech and language therapy course can vary depending on the level of study and the university. A typical undergraduate programme (BSc) usually lasts three to four years. A master's programme (MSc) can range from one to two years, depending on the university and whether it includes clinical placements.

Is speech and language a good career?

Yes, speech and language therapy can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. It offers the opportunity to positively impact individuals' lives, helping them overcome communication challenges. The profession provides job stability, the chance to work in diverse settings, and the satisfaction of helping people improve their quality of life.