Clinical Linguistics & Evidence Based Practice (Research) MSc, PGDip

Program Overview

This MSc program in Clinical Linguistics and Evidence-Based Practice provides a comprehensive foundation in research methods and evidence-based practice in clinical linguistics. Students develop strong research skills, critical thinking abilities, and effective communication skills for disseminating research findings. The program prepares graduates for careers in research, clinical practice, or related fields, including PhD studies through the ESRC NINE Doctoral Training Partnership.

Program Outline

Clinical Linguistics and Evidence Based Practice (Research) MSc, PGDip

Degree Overview

This program provides a solid foundation in research methodology and evidence-based practice in the field of clinical linguistics. Students have the flexibility to develop their own area of interest within this framework.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with a comprehensive understanding of research methods and their applications in clinical linguistics and evidence-based practice.
• Foster the ability to critically evaluate research findings and apply them in real-world settings.
• Develop strong research skills, including the ability to design, conduct, and analyze research studies.
• Cultivate effective communication and presentation skills for disseminating research findings.
• Prepare graduates for further academic pursuits or professional careers in research, clinical practice, or related fields.

Program Description:

This course is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual research supervision. Students will engage with a range of topics, including:

• Research methodologies in clinical linguistics
• Evidence-based practice principles
• Statistical analysis
• Qualitative research methods
• Dissertation research
• Communication and dissemination of research findings

Outline

The program consists of four core modules, a research methods module, and an individual research project:

Core Modules:

• Clinical Linguistics
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Advanced Research Skills
• Research Dissertation

Research Methods Module:

Students can choose from a selection of modules offered by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, based on their research interests.

Individual Research Project:

This is a substantial piece of independent research, supervised by an academic expert in the chosen field.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary depending on the module and may include:

• Essays
• Reports
• Presentations
• Examinations
• Research dissertation
Assessment criteria are aligned with the learning outcomes of each module and focus on evaluating students' understanding of key concepts, critical thinking skills, research ability, and communication skills.

Teaching

The program is delivered by a team of highly experienced and research-active academics with expertise in clinical linguistics, evidence-based practice, and research methodologies. Teaching methods include:

• Interactive lectures
• Small-group seminars
• Workshops
• Individual supervision
The program utilizes a range of innovative teaching approaches, including:
• Problem-based learning
• Case studies
• Guest lectures by leading researchers in the field

Careers

Graduates of this program can pursue a diverse range of career paths, including:

• Research positions in academic institutions, government agencies, or private companies
• Clinical practice roles in speech and language therapy, audiology, or other related professions
• Teaching positions in higher education or further education colleges
• Policy and advocacy roles in organizations dedicated to improving communication and language access

Other

This program is a part of the 1+3 (Master's plus PhD) scheme under the ESRC Northern Ireland/North East (NINE) Doctoral Training Partnership. The program is recognized by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) as a Research Master's award, making it an ideal preparation for a PhD in linguistics.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must hold a good honours degree (first or upper second class) in a relevant subject, such as speech and language therapy, clinical linguistics, psychology, or related disciplines with an interest in speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders. International students are also required to demonstrate English language proficiency.