Master of Speech Pathology (CRICOS course code 073116F) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 2 years. This course prepares graduates for professional practice as speech pathologists, working with individuals across the lifespan who have communication or swallowing difficulties. The program combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical placements, ensuring students develop practical skills. La Trobe University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00115M) and a government university, offering this course at its Bendigo and Melbourne (Bundoora) campuses. As a HeadStart Academy user, you can trust that all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your study in Australia. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and La Trobe University is one of the leading institutions for health sciences. The ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring your rights as an international student.
This course falls under the broad field of Health (06) and specifically Rehabilitation Therapies (0617), with a focus on Speech Pathology (061707). At the Masters level, students engage with advanced theoretical concepts, research methods, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are equipped to work in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, community health centres, and private practice. The curriculum typically covers areas such as communication disorders, swallowing difficulties, linguistics, and clinical reasoning. While specific syllabi are set by La Trobe University, this qualification meets the professional standards required for accreditation by Speech Pathology Australia. For detailed subject lists, refer to the provider's website.
The Master of Speech Pathology is a 2-year full-time program, equating to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not a dual degree. Students are expected to attend classes, participate in clinical placements, and complete assessments. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The course is not available as a foundation studies program; it requires prior undergraduate study in a relevant field. For more details on study load and timetables, contact La Trobe University.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$105,200 for the entire program, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$105,200. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. The cost of living in Victoria varies: in Melbourne, expect around A$1,500–$2,500 per month for accommodation, food, and transport; in Bendigo, costs are generally lower. Always confirm current fees with La Trobe University, as they are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures from the CRICOS register for planning purposes.
International students must meet English language requirements, typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band below 7.0 for some components, depending on provider standards). Additionally, applicants are expected to hold a previous bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as health sciences or linguistics, with a strong academic record. Some prerequisite subjects may be required. Foundation or pathway options may be available through La Trobe's pathway programs – check with the provider. As a general guide, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. For precise requirements, visit the La Trobe University website. Remember that all entry requirements are set by the institution, not by CRICOS.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 560 hours. This work-integrated learning involves clinical placements in real healthcare settings, where students apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. Placements may occur in hospitals, community health centres, schools, or private practices, providing invaluable hands-on experience. This component is essential for meeting professional accreditation requirements and prepares graduates for the workforce. International students on student visas can undertake this placement as part of their course. The work component is integrated into the curriculum and is not separable from the academic program.
This course is delivered at two campuses: Bendigo Campus in Flora Hill, Victoria, and Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus in BUNDOORA, Victoria. Bendigo is a regional city with a lower cost of living and a strong community feel, while Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant multicultural environment and extensive public transport. The Bundoora campus is about 15 km from Melbourne's city centre, accessible by tram and bus. Both campuses offer modern facilities, including simulation labs and clinics. When choosing a location, consider your lifestyle preferences and career goals. Victoria is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, offering a diverse educational landscape.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity is also assessed – you need to show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year from October 2024), and travel. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for the Master of Speech Pathology at La Trobe University involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to La Trobe University: Check the entry requirements, including English language tests and academic qualifications. Prepare your documents and submit an online application through La Trobe's international admissions portal. Pay attention to application deadlines, which may be several months before the course starts. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For step-by-step guidance, refer to our student visa page.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is a popular destination for international students, with over 150,000 students from various countries. The state offers a high quality of life, excellent public transport, and a diverse cultural scene. Bendigo provides a quieter, more affordable alternative. When choosing a location, consider climate, cost of living, and proximity to clinical placement sites. Victoria has many healthcare facilities, providing ample opportunities for Speech Pathology graduates. The state also has strong community support for international students, including academic and welfare services. Evaluate your preferences to find the best fit.
Start your application today by visiting La Trobe University's international website or search for more courses on HeadStart Academy.
Master of Speech Pathology is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.