Ziauddin University

MS in Speech Language Pathology (MS SLP)

The College of Speech Language & Hearing Sciences at Ziauddin University offers Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP), building on the success of the undergraduate BS-SLT program, which was upgraded to BS-ASLT in 2015.

Graduates of the MS-SLP program will be equipped to teach and mentor undergraduate students in the field of speech-language pathology, while also leading awareness and advocacy initiatives to promote and uphold the profession’s ethics and dignity in Pakistan. They will actively contribute to research and development, focusing on the creation of culturally and linguistically appropriate assessment and therapeutic tools tailored to the needs of the Pakistani population.

Mission Statement

“To instill inter-professional collaborative methods and intervention strategies combining arts, language, and biomedical sciences, supporting evidence based clinical application that alleviates communication, swallowing, and hearing impairments among multilingual individuals through research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.”

Objectives

The objectives of the programme are: 

  1. The graduates should have a complete understanding of biological and medical sciences, social and behavioural sciences, statistics, and research methods.
  2. The graduates should be well versed in human communication, the feeding and swallowing processes in children and adults, as well as the biological, neurological, psychological, social, linguistic, and cultural bases.
  3. The graduate should demonstrate the ability to integrate and differentiate between normal and abnormal human development across lifespans and the disorders and differences thereof.
  4. The graduates must be well versed with the etiologies of communication and swallow disorders and their relevant anatomical/physiological, acoustic, psychological, developmental, and linguistic and cultural correlates in the areas of:
    1. Articulation and phonological development and disorders;
    2. Fluency disorders;
    3. Disorders of voice and resonance, as well as respiration and phonation;
    4. Disorders in receptive and expressive language (phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, prelinguistic communication and paralinguistic communication) in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in children and adults;
    5. Hearing impairment and its impact on speech and language development;
    6. Disorders in the functions of feeding and swallowing (oral, pharyngeal, esophageal, and related functions, including oral function for feeding and orofacial myology);
    7. Disorders of cognition in all aspects of communication (attention, memory, sequencing, problem-solving, executive functioning);
    8. Socio-communicative disorders (including challenging behaviour, ineffective social skills, and lack of communication opportunities);
    9. The selection and utilisation of augmentative and alternative communication modalities.
  5. For all items from (a)–(i) above, the graduates must exhibit knowledge of the current procedures of intervention, including assessment, evaluation, and treatment, as well as demonstrate knowledge of ethical procedures within. 

[Details for knowledge and skills in professional practice here have been adapted from the ASHA policies of evaluation and examination].

  1. Evaluation
    a. Conduct screening and prevention procedures (including prevention activities).
    b. Collect case history information and integrate information from clients/patients, family, caregivers, teachers, and relevant others, including other professionals.
    c. Select and administer appropriate evaluation procedures, such as behavioral observations, non-standardized and standardized tests, and instrumental procedures.
    d. Adapt evaluation procedures to meet client/patient needs.
    e. Interpret, integrate, and synthesize all information to develop diagnoses and make appropriate recommendations for intervention.
    f. Complete administrative and reporting functions necessary to support evaluation.
    g. Refer clients/patients for appropriate services.
  2. Intervention
    a. Develop setting-appropriate intervention plans with measurable and achievable goals that meet clients’/patients’ needs. Collaborate with clients/patients and relevant others in the planning process.
    b. Implement intervention plans (involve clients/patients and relevant others in the intervention process).
    c. Select or develop and use appropriate materials and instrumentation for prevention and intervention.
    d. Measure and evaluate clients’/patients’ performance and progress.
    e. Modify intervention plans, strategies, materials, or instrumentation as appropriate to meet the needs of clients/patients.
    f. Complete administrative and reporting functions necessary to support intervention.
    g. Identify and refer clients/patients for services as appropriate.
  3. Interaction and Personal Qualities.
  1. Communicate effectively, recognizing the needs, values, preferred mode of communication, and cultural/linguistic background of the client/patient, family, caregivers, and relevant others.
  2. Collaborate with other professionals in case management.
  3. Provide counseling regarding communication and swallowing disorders to clients/patients, family, caregivers, and relevant others.
  1. The graduates must demonstrate knowledge of research principles and evidence based clinical practice.
  2. The graduates must demonstrate appropriate skills in oral, written, or other forms of communication required by a professional in the field of speech language pathology.
  3. The graduates must demonstrate knowledge of the following intervention, assessment, and evaluation procedures with patients / clients.
Pedagogy

The Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology (MS-SLP) programme uses a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and ensure students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The programme includes lectures, case studies, small group discussions, exercises, assignments, and online learning components. This comprehensive approach helps students develop critical thinking skills and prepare for their future careers as speech-language pathologists.

  • BA (Communication Disorders/ Speech therapy/audiology) 
  • CGPA of 2.5 in BS SLT/BS ASLT or an equivalent degree.
  • There is no upper age limit for admission to the course.
Duration of the programme
  • Programme duration: 04 Semesters across 02 years
  • Each semester: 20-22 weeks
  • Maximum programme duration: 36 months
Selection Process
  • Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) conducted by Higher Education Council (HEC) or Graduate Assessment Test (GAT-General) conducted by Ziauddin University/National Testing Services (NTS). (HAT & GAT are valid for 2 years.)
  • Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed for final selection.
Timing

Regularly scheduled, full-time weekday programme. 

Programme hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Graduates of the MS in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program will be fully qualified to engage in independent clinical practice across a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, mainstream schools, and special education institutions. They will be competent to:

  • Independently screen, assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, hearing, feeding, and swallowing disorders in both children and adults.
  • Provide comprehensive feedback and counseling to caregivers, families, educators, and other relevant support personnel.
  • Appropriately utilize Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools following a thorough evaluation of individual patient needs.
  • Conduct and contribute to research and academic development, both nationally and internationally, with the aim of advancing professional knowledge and strengthening the field of speech-language pathology in Pakistan.
  • Develop culturally and linguistically appropriate assessment and therapy tools tailored to the Pakistani context and the broader South Asian region.
  • Serve as educators and trainers in colleges and universities, preparing the next generation of speech-language pathologists.
  • Provide training for teachers and special educators to support the identification and classroom management of students with communication and feeding challenges.
  • Guide and empower parents and caregivers in the home-based management of children with communication needs.

 

Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams, working closely with professionals such as neurologists, pediatricians, ENT specialists, maxillofacial surgeons, dentists, orthodontists, prosthodontists, psychologists, audiologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, special educators, classroom teachers, aides, and families to ensure holistic and coordinated care.

Graduates of the MS in Speech-Language Pathology will be able to:

  • Demonstrate advanced expertise in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of speech, language, and communication disorders.
  • Implement evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to individual client needs across the lifespan.
  • Conduct comprehensive assessments using specialized diagnostic tools and clinical techniques.
  • Design and execute personalized treatment plans that reflect clinical best practices and cultural relevance.
  • Address the psychological, emotional, and social dimensions of communication disorders, supporting patients and families holistically.
  • Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams, contributing to integrated and patient-centered care.
  • Engage in research and scholarly activities to advance the field of speech-language pathology.
  • Adhere to ethical guidelines and demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and respect for client confidentiality in all aspects of practice.
PARTICULARS  SEMESTER  FEES 
Application Processing Fee (One Time) Rs 6,613 
Admission Fee (One Time) Rs 91,914 
Tuition Fee (Semester Wise) Rs 483,374 
Credit hour (Semester Wise)  11
Examination Fee (Semester Wise) Rs 43,943 
TOTAL  Rs. 622,825
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