At 60, Viktoriya Tymchynska Begins Master’s in Speech and Language Therapy—A First in Ukraine

Viktoriya Tymchynska’s Journey to a New Career

According to Міністерство Здоров'я: At 60 years old, Viktoriya Tymchynska from Odesa has embarked on a groundbreaking educational path by enrolling in Ukraine’s inaugural master’s program in Speech and Language Therapy at Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University. This pioneering program trains specialists to support individuals facing speech and swallowing disorders. Viktoriya balances her studies with work and family life, raising three children and three grandchildren, and drawing on her personal experience raising a son with autism spectrum disorder.

She already holds two university degrees-one in pedagogy and psychology and another in speech therapy. Viktoriya has professional experience in inclusive resource centers, rehabilitation facilities, and a hospital in Odesa where she worked with adult stroke patients. Now, she is pursuing her third higher education degree at IFNMU, where the Speech and Language Therapy program launched in October 2025. The curriculum spans one year and ten months, including nearly 200 hours of classroom instruction and 400 hours of individual study and clinical practice.

Backing and Growth of the Program

This master’s program is supported by Ukraine’s Ministry of Health and Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University, in collaboration with the Ukrainian Society of Speech and Language Therapy. The teaching team includes experts from Ukraine as well as partners from the United States, Switzerland, and Belgium. Students benefit from hands-on training under the guidance of certified international therapists. In September 2026, 65 students joined the first cohort, with 22 continuing to the second year.

Reflecting on her experience, Viktoriya remarked, 'How will I manage with those young students?'

She also emphasized the importance of embracing new challenges: 'There is no future if we remain closed off to new ideas.' Her words highlight a strong commitment to professional growth and advancing skills in speech and language therapy.

The launch of this program marks a significant advancement for rehabilitation services in Ukraine, offering specialized training to those who will assist individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties. Viktoriya’s participation demonstrates that learning has no age limits and that the life experience of mature students can enrich emerging professions. It also underscores the critical role of inclusivity and support within education to foster a more compassionate and responsive society.