Speech and Language Therapy
Hibernia College is a private independent higher education institution operating within the Irish tertiary education sector with a significant track record in the delivery of Initial Teacher Education programmes at the postgraduate level (NFQ Level 9). As part of our strategic academic development plan, we intend to design and seek validation for a Master of Science (MSc) in Speech and Language Therapy. To support the early stages of programme design and development, we are inviting expressions of interest from experienced Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in Speech and Language Therapy who can provide specialist academic advice and guidance. This EOI is exploratory in nature and does not constitute an offer of employment. It is intended to identify suitably qualified experts who may be engaged on a consultancy or short-term contractual basis at later stages of development.
Purpose of the Role
The appointed SME(s) will contribute expert guidance to ensure that the proposed MSc programme:
- Reflects current and emerging professional practice in speech and language therapy
- Is academically robust and aligned with Irish and international postgraduate standards
- Is capable of meeting relevant professional and regulatory expectations (e.g. CORU, IASLT)
Indicative Scope of Work
Depending on the stage of development, the SME may be asked to contribute to some or all of the following:
- Advising on programme rationale, structure and academic coherence
- Supporting the development of programme learning outcomes and module learning outcomes
- Developing curriculum content, sequencing, and credit weighting
- Providing guidance on practice education, clinical placement models, and assessment approaches
- Mapping programme content to relevant professional standards and regulatory requirements
- Reviewing draft programme documentation prepared for internal approval and external validation (e.g. QQI)
- Offering critical challenge to ensure fitness for purpose and market credibility
The precise scope, timeline, and level of engagement will be agreed separately.
Person Specification
Applicants should be able to demonstrate:
Essential
- Professional qualification in Speech and Language Therapy
- Current or recent registration with CORU (or eligibility for registration)
- Professional experience in speech and language therapy practice
- Experience of health or allied health education
- Experience supervising or assessing students or clinical trainees
- Familiarity with professional standards, competency frameworks, and regulatory expectations relevant to Ireland
Desirable
- Experience in curriculum design or programme development in higher education
- Experience contributing to programme validation or accreditation processes
- Familiarity with QQI standards and validation processes
Nature of Engagement
- Engagement is expected to be part-time and consultancy-based
- Remuneration will be offered on a fee basis, commensurate with experience and scope of work
- Work may be conducted in a hybrid manner, with attendance required at onsite meetings in Dublin or elsewhere
How to Express Interest
Interested individuals are invited to submit:
1. A brief cover statement (maximum two pages) outlining relevant expertise and interest in the role
2. A current CV highlighting professional practice, academic involvement, and any relevant programme development experience
Submissions should be sent by email to: Miriam McCarthy (MMcCarthy@hiberniacollege.net), Dean of School of Health Sciences. Please include the subject line, EOI – Speech and Language Therapy SME
