Program Overview

Programme: MA in Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Programme Information

This programme aims to equip students to be able to:

• Critically discuss underlying theory and models of disability, communication, and rehabilitation and apply these to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) research and practice;
• Interpret and critique AAC theory, research and practice in the light of a biopsychosocial and contextually situated understanding of disability and rehabilitation;
• Critically apply AAC theory and research to their own research and/or practice (in alignment with their primary profession) in a socially and contextually sensitive way;
• Have a solid understanding of different research methodologies;
• Show the ability to conduct publishable research in the field of AAC.

Admission Requirements

General Admission Regulations

All applications must be accompanied by the following documents:

1. Certified full academic transcripts from undergraduate to current level;
2. Certified copy of ID or passport;
3. A research concept note: A description of the proposed research field indicating a research topic and the broad scope of the proposed study, not exceeding 500 words. All applicants with international qualifications must submit the following documents:
4. A SAQA evaluation of the completed qualification or a comprehensive Foreign Qualification Report;
5. TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results (if applicable);
6. Certified copy of passport. All postgraduate applications are subject to departmental admissions processes. Admissions is based on the content of and performance in the prior degree, bridging arrangements (where required), academic merit and prior work experience (if applicable). Admission to all qualifications is subject to supervisory capacity and/or research projects in the field of specialisation in a department, therefore the relevant department has the right to limit the number of students per year. Complying with the minimum admissions requirements, does not automatically guarantee admission to the degree. Proposed research studies for masters and doctoral applicants should align with the research focus of the relevant department. If a qualifying candidate has expressed an interest in a field of study that the relevant department cannot accommodate, the applicant may be considered for an alternative project. All postgraduate applicants must be proficient in English as English is the official language of tuition, communication and correspondence at the University of Pretoria. Candidates who cannot provide evidence that previous studies were completed in English, must submit TOEFL or IELTS or Pearson Test of English or Oxford Test of English test results with their application. All applicants must be computer literate. All students need to have access to an internet enabled device, as well as consistent email and internet access. Allowance will be made for the diversity profile of students in accordance with the University strategy.

Minimum Admissions Requirements

1. Bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology (NQF level 8) or Bachelor of Arts Honours in Augmentative and Alternative Communication degree (NQF level 8) or Relevant honours degree, provided that sufficient background in severe communication disability and research is evident, in which case an admissions examination may be required.
2. A weighted average of at least 65% at final-year level of the previous relevant qualification.
3. An average of at least 65% for the research module of the previous qualification.

Core Modules

• AAK 890: Dissertation: AAC 890
  • Credits: 180.00
  • Module content: A dissertation based on independent research on a topic related to the field of augmentative and alternative communication, selected in collaboration with a supervisor. The dissertation should be based on an approved research proposal and ethics clearance. Use of computer programs for data analysis and report writing is required.

Programme Structure

• Minimum duration of study: 1 year
• Total credits: 180
• NQF level: 09

Faculty and Department

• Faculty: Faculty of Humanities
• Department: Centre for Augmentative and Alternative Communication