The MSc program offers graduates an entry-level degree to practice as an Audiologist or a Speech-Language Pathologist.
At the School of Audiology and Speech Sciences, problem-solving is highly valued as an acquirable skill. The School’s thorough, theoretical approach guides graduate program coursework. This focus equips students to keep pace with the constant changes in science, practice and technology.
Studying in state-of-the-art teaching and research labs with outstanding faculty prepares students to be confident practitioners who are effective, in-demand, and equipped with the skills to pursue new knowledge.
Audiology
Audiology is the science of hearing, and the diagnosis and management of hearing loss. It includes a wide variety of subjects, including: acoustics; noise pollution; diseases and defects of the ear; effects of hearing loss on speech and language development; hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Audiologists work with patients of all ages, from newborns to centenarians. They work in a variety of settings, from private practices, to publicly-funded health and education sites.
Speech Pathology
Speech-language pathology is the study of developmental and acquired communication and swallowing disorders. It includes the assessment and management of such disorders. Speech-language pathologists work with people of all ages whose disorders may include delayed speech and language development, neurologically-based speech and language impairment, stuttering, voice and/or swallowing disorders. Speech-language pathologists often work as part of a team, working alongside teachers, physicians, audiologists, psychologists, social workers, rehabilitation counselors and others.
What makes the program unique?
- The School of Audiology and Speech Sciences (SASS) in the Faculty of Medicine at UBC is the only program in British Columbia that educates speech-language pathologists and audiologists.
- The School provides education and training that integrates foundational knowledge, research, and evidence-based practical skills. This learning experience will allow you to adapt to changes throughout your career as an audiologist, a speech-language pathologist, or an academic.
- Our graduates develop a working knowledge and respectful appreciation of cultural and linguistic differences, and they learn to engage in culturally safe and competent clinical practice with people of all backgrounds.
- SASS offers externships, ensuring that you experience clinical settings that reflect the diverse realities of practice. Externships are taught by experienced clinicians who understand the needs of clients and their families.
- SASS faculty are internationally renowned for their research. In addition to mentoring and training M.Sc. and Ph.D. students, faculty members are regularly sought after to provide specific expertise. They often introduce cutting-edge techniques used by clinicians and institutions throughout B.C., across Canada, and around the world.