Clinical Speech and Language Studies (M.Sc.)

Testimonials

"I applied for the M.Sc. because in my clinical practice I developed the wish to further specialise in the field of dysphagia and consequently be able to better cater for the individual needs of patients with swallowing difficulties. Furthermore, I recognised how I can improve people’s quality of life with evidence-based practice, but that there is still a lack of evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic tools for dysphagic individuals. Therefore, I was keen to deepen my knowledge on research methodology to allow me to make a contribution to dysphagia research. The course at TCD is unique in Europe and for me it was the perfect combination of my interests in dysphagia and research. Additionally, it allowed me to keep on working part-time in the clinic as a SLT and to study abroad. It was the best choice of course for me. There are multiple reasons for that: the team of lecturers are highly competent and passionate, the course is well structured and organised, the modules are interesting, and with a close link to clinical practice and research, the course comprised both national and international students providing a great platform to exchange knowledge on clinical expertise from around the globe. Of course, for me as an international student, it was an amazing experience to study in a city like Dublin. Thanks to small numbers of students in the course, there was always time to ask questions. This enabled me to really engage during the lectures and provided perfect learning conditions for me. Furthermore, the intensive and individual supervision for my research project helped me to improve my skills in writing, critical thinking, planning and conducting research. Studying with other international students taught me a lot about the clinical practice nationally and internationally. I definitely recommend the course!"

Julia Hirshwald

Graduate

"I have just finished my first year of the two year part-time program in the specialist strand of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). I applied for this course after working for five years as a Speech and Language Therapist, because I wanted to develop my research skills and further develop my clinical knowledge and skills in my specialist area of interest, in which I hope to work upon graduating from the M.Sc. While studying part-time, I have been able to continue working while also improving my own clinical skills and further develop these through specialised clinical placements. The course also provides the opportunity to attend classes with lecturers who are experts in the field of Speech and Language Therapy and AAC. This year, the course has been delivered through a combination of face to face and online learning and contained a good balance of research skills and clinical skills. The quality of the teaching has been exceptional, and the classes have been interesting and engaging. The classes in the first year provided an excellent knowledge base for carrying out different types of research. I also received regular one-to-one guidance from my research supervisor which helped me to gain the confidence and skills to plan and conduct my research project. Throughout the course, I had the opportunity to meet and network with other Speech and Language Therapists from Ireland and other countries in Europe and Asia, which gave me a broader insight into clinical practice from an international perspective. I had the opportunity to work with students from the other specialisation areas on group projects, which was a great learning experience. I would highly recommend this course to Speech and Language Therapists at any stage of their career who are interested in conducting research, as well as expanding their clinical skills and knowledge.."

Roisin Farrell

Graduate

"I have always been fascinated by voice disorders and I wanted to expand my knowledge in this area. I chose to enrol in the MSc at the Department of Clinical Speech and Language Studies at Trinity College Dublin, as it gave me the opportunity to specialize in the area of my interest; something that I couldn’t find anywhere else in Europe. Through this course, I had the opportunity to gain theoretical knowledge and acquire practical and clinical experience on the assessment, diagnosis and rehabilitation of voice disorders. During the course, I had also the opportunity to learn more about research and research methods. Both my clinical and research skills were developed through lectures, workshops, clinics and projects. A student taking this MSc can obtain the solid foundation needed to start a clinical or research career. I would strongly recommend this course for prospective students, especially those who seek to develop their skills in a specific clinical area. During the course, students get to meet experts in their area of interest, collaborate with other clinicians and researchers, and learn from world-renowned experts. As a Trinity student, you get to meet lots of new people and be a part of a multicultural community. Another important part of my student life here was to meet people that share the same hobbies and interests. Trinity students can join clubs and societies and be a part of extra-curricular activities around campus. Overall, life at Trinity is a positive experience and students graduate with all the necessary skills to start a new career."

Vasilis Georgalas

Graduate