Looking to study speech pathology in Australia? The Bachelor of Speech Pathology (CRICOS course code 070836J) is a 4-year Bachelor Degree delivered by Edith Cowan University, a CRICOS-registered government provider (CRICOS 00279B). This course is designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in speech pathology, helping people with communication and swallowing disorders. With a strong focus on work-integrated learning, you'll gain practical experience through a 20-week placement (~800 total hours) in clinical settings. Delivered at ECU's Joondalup Campus in Western Australia, this course is part of the field of Rehabilitation Therapies (0617). Read on for tuition fees, entry requirements, student visa guidance, and how to apply.
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The Bachelor of Speech Pathology (CRICOS 070836J) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) offered by Edith Cowan University, a government-owned provider with CRICOS code 00279B. This course falls under the field of Rehabilitation Therapies (0617) within the Health broad field (06). It is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders across the lifespan. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolments, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. Edith Cowan University is one of over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, collectively offering more than 26,433 courses to international students. This program is delivered at the Joondalup Campus in Western Australia, a state known for its vibrant student community and high quality of life.
Speech pathology is a specialised health profession focused on communication and swallowing. In this Bachelor Degree, students typically study anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing mechanisms, language development, communication disorders, and clinical intervention methods. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, covering areas such as paediatric and adult speech disorders, language and literacy, voice disorders, fluency (stuttering), and swallowing difficulties. Graduates learn to work with diverse populations, including children with developmental delays, adults after stroke or brain injury, and people with degenerative conditions. While each university designs its own syllabus, the field of education (0617 Rehabilitation Therapies) ensures a comprehensive foundation in healthcare ethics, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration. This course prepares you for professional accreditation and registration as a speech pathologist in Australia.
The Bachelor of Speech Pathology is a full-time program with a standard duration of 4 years (208 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual degree). No foundation studies or VET national code applies. This program is delivered on campus at ECU's Joondalup location, providing access to modern teaching facilities, clinical simulation labs, and research centres. Full-time study typically requires a commitment of around 40 hours per week, including lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and self-directed study. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course structure may vary between semesters; always refer to Edith Cowan University's official course handbook for current details.
The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Speech Pathology is A$175,600 for the full program (4 years). Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$1,410, bringing the estimated total to A$177,010. Please note: these fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Edith Cowan University and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For current, accurate fees, always check the provider's official website at www.ecu.edu.au. As a guide, living costs in Perth (WA) are approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, but this varies by lifestyle.
International students must meet both academic and English language proficiency requirements. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (equivalent tests accepted, e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Prior qualifications should be equivalent to Australian Year 12 or an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate, with strong results in relevant subjects such as English, biology, or psychology. Some providers may also require a personal statement or interview. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, foundation studies or pathway programs may be available through the provider or affiliated colleges. Always confirm specific entry criteria directly with Edith Cowan University, as requirements may change. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; consult the institution for accurate prerequisites.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks of supervised clinical placement, totalling approximately 800 hours. Students gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, community health centres, and private practices. This work-integrated learning (WIL) allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world cases under the guidance of qualified speech pathologists. Placements are typically coordinated by the university and may require additional clearances (e.g., Working with Children Check, police clearance). International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake these placements as part of their course. Successful completion of the work component is essential for graduation and subsequent professional registration. This practical exposure significantly enhances employability and prepares you for the challenges of clinical practice.
The Bachelor of Speech Pathology is delivered at ECU's Joondalup Campus, located in the northern suburb of Joondalup, approximately 30 km north of Perth city centre. Joondalup is a major regional hub with excellent public transport links via train and bus. The campus is well-equipped with modern lecture theatres, library, laboratories, and clinical facilities. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, has a population of over 2 million and a thriving student community. Western Australia is home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse range of study options. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around $200–300 and public transport costing about $50 per week with a student concession. The region is known for its outdoor lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and strong economy.
International students enrolled in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, with unlimited work during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and comply with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. You are also required to hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your visa. Financial capacity evidence is needed to show you can cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year from October 2023, updated periodically), and dependents if applicable. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Bachelor of Speech Pathology at Edith Cowan University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use resources like HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered; all listed providers on our site are verified from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application through Edith Cowan University's admissions portal. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and any other documents required. Check deadlines and application fees.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Upon acceptance, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Allow sufficient processing time.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, strong employment market, and multicultural communities. Perth, the state capital, is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. Students benefit from a lower cost of living compared to eastern capitals, with affordable housing and transport options. The region boasts world-class universities, including Edith Cowan University, with strong industry connections. If you enjoy outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking, WA's natural beauty is unparalleled. However, consider the distance from other major Australian cities and potential for isolation. For international students, the state's growing economy in sectors like health and mining creates opportunities for post-study work. Weigh these factors against your personal preferences and career goals before deciding.
Ready to start your journey towards a rewarding career in speech pathology? Begin your application for the Bachelor of Speech Pathology at Edith Cowan University today.
Bachelor of Speech Pathology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.