Speech therapists (formally Speech-Language Pathologists) assess and treat people with communication, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties. In South Africa, a BSc Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (4 years) is required. Speech therapists work in schools, hospitals, private practice, and rehabilitation centres. There is a significant shortage, particularly for indigenous language speakers.
Speech therapists assess children with speech delays and learning difficulties, treat adults recovering from strokes, provide voice therapy, work with autism spectrum clients, and consult in schools and hospitals.
Life Sciences (Level 4+), Mathematics (Level 4+), English (Level 5+)
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Achieve APS 28+ with Life Sciences and English. Apply to BSc Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at UCT, Wits, UP, Stellenbosch, UKZN, or UFS.
Complete the 4-year BSc degree covering linguistics, anatomy, developmental communication, neurological conditions, and clinical placements.
Complete community service, register with HPCSA, and choose your setting: schools (educational speech therapy), hospitals (medical speech therapy), or private practice.
What APS do I need for Speech Therapy?
What do speech therapists earn in South Africa?
Can I work internationally as a speech therapist from South Africa?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.