The Profession of Audiology
What Audiologists Do
The following is a statement by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): "Hearing is one of our most vital senses, and audiologists are experts in the non-medical management of the auditory and balance systems. They specialize in the study of:
- Normal and impaired hearing
Audiologist examines ear of young man with otoscope. - Prevention of hearing loss
- Identification and assessment of hearing and balance problems
- Rehabilitation of persons with hearing and balance disorders
In addition, audiologists may:
- Prepare future professionals in colleges and universities
- Manage agencies, clinics or private practices
- Engage in research to enhance knowledge about normal hearing, and the evaluation and treatment of hearing disorders
- Design hearing instruments and testing equipment."
The Educational Requirements and Clinical Certification
Audiologists begin their preparation for the profession early. For example, future audiologists should consider a high-school curriculum deep in biology, physics, mathematics, and psychology. Since there is no undergraduate program in audiology, prospective audiologists typically graduate with an undergraduate degree in communication sciences, which includes courses in linguistics, phonetics, psychology, speech and hearing, mathematics, biological sciences, physical sciences, the social sciences, and introductory classes in audiology.
To become a professional audiologist in the United States, candidates must successfully complete a graduate degree in audiology from one of about 120 colleges and universities that are approved by the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). Course work includes anatomy and physiology, basic science, math, auditory, balance and normal and abnormal communication development. Credential-wise, audiologists earn masters degrees (M.A., M.S. M.H.S.) and doctoral degrees, Au.D. As of 2009, all future audiologists will earn the Au.D. degrees.
The next step is to apply for for the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) issued by the Council for Clinical Certification in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CFCC) of ASHA. To earn the CCC, candidates must complete a program of graduate study and a minimum of 12 months' full-time equivalent of supervised clinical practicum and pass a written examination. In addition, audiologists must comply with state regulatory (licensure) standards to practice and/or have state education certification. All audiologists who earn their clinical certification (CCC-A) are fully qualified to practice audiology regardless of the graduate degree that they earned (masters or doctorate).
If you're considering a career in audiology or would like to learn more about this vital healthcare profession, visit ASHA.