Audiologist
The Audiology profession is currently going through a period of change. The education of the professions previously referred to as Audiology Technician, Audiologist, Audiological Scientist & Hearing Therapist is being merged under one Audiology BSc qualification. This will deliver a single professional known as an "Audiologist" who will have the knowledge and skills covering all areas of this previously fragmented group of professionals. Opportunities for individuals to specialise will remain but the core qualification will be that of the Audiology BSc.
Audiologists work directly with patients to assess and rehabilitate hearing and balance problems. Audiologists see people of all ages but most of their work is with children and older people because hearing problems are most often identified in these groups.
The Audiologist's role is wide-ranging and varied. Duties may include:
- Testing, treating and counselling patients.
- Developing and improving test techniques.
- Research.
- Management.
- Teaching junior Audiologists or other professionals.
Many Audiologists develop a special interest and expertise in one area of Audiology, such as paediatrics, balance disorders or complex procedures like cochlear implants. However, for all these roles a scientific approach together with a caring attitude is essential.
Entry Requirements
Audiology, within the next year, will become a State Registered profession and membership for the profession as a registered practitioner will be via the Health Professions Council. Registration requires a graduate level qualification.
From August 2005 there will be an Audiology degree available at Queen Margaret University College, Edinburgh. This will be in addition to the six degree courses already available at English and Welsh Universities. The usual entry requirements to the BSc degree will be four SVQ Higher grades.
Training
A BSc in Audiology is the new route to qualifying as an Audiologist. This degree course is four years in length. The first two years are spent at university. Students will learn about the science behind tests and treatments that are used in hospitals and acquire the knowledge needed to work with patients in a therapeutic relationship.
The third year is spent on clinical placement in an Audiology setting learning how to carry out some of the procedures a qualified Audiologist performs and learning how Audiology services work in the NHS.
The final year is spent back at university learning about more advanced aspects of Audiology and completing a dissertation.
There is also likely to be a "fast-track" process for existing "science graduates" who are interested in a career in Audiology. Details of this should be sought from the University that you are applying to.
Career Prospects
Once qualified, most Audiologists work in a hospital, assessing and treating patients, and may reach consultant level. Some work in a university where their job is primarily concerned with teaching and research.
Some Audiologists may operate a referral clinic and may be the only point of contact for the patient. In this case, the Audiologist will examine the patient and prescribe the appropriate hearing aid or arrange onward referral for further investigation.
How to apply
Click here to view current NHS Scotland vacancies in Audiology
Vacancies are also advertised in local and national press.
Applications for degree courses are made through The Universities and Colleges Admission Services.
Further Information
Further information on a career in Audiology can be obtained from:
The British Academy of Audiology
