Audiology

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Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
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Audiology (derived from the Latin word "audīre" which means "to hear", and the Greek suffix "-λογία" or "-logia" suggesting the study of) is the scientific discipline dedicated to the understanding and treatment of hearing, balance, and their associated disorders.

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Audiology investigates the complexities of human auditory and vestibular systems, providing solutions for hearing impairment and balance disorders. This branch of science is instrumental in both the diagnosis and rehabilitation of auditory and balance conditions.

Scope of Audiology[edit | edit source]

Audiology encompasses a vast range of areas, including:

The Role of an Audiologist[edit | edit source]

An Audiologist stands as a beacon in the realm of hearing healthcare. These professionals hold expertise in:

  • Diagnosis: Identifying auditory and vestibular disorders, spanning from mild hearing loss to complex inner ear issues.
  • Treatment: Dispensing and managing hearing aids, assessing suitability for cochlear implants, and facilitating their appropriate usage.
  • Counseling: Guiding families through the emotional journey of a new hearing loss diagnosis or aiding late-deafened adults in adapting to their new reality.
  • Prevention: Crafting and instituting hearing safety initiatives, such as newborn and school hearing screening programs. They also specialize in creating personalized hearing protection solutions to avert hearing loss.
  • Specialization: Evaluating and treating peripheral vestibular issues stemming from inner ear problems, and providing treatment for specific balance disorders like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
  • Research: Many audiologists contribute to the field as auditory scientists, advancing our understanding of the auditory and vestibular systems.

Audiologists boast a rigorous educational background, delving deep into subjects like anatomy, physiology, acoustics, neurology, and vestibular function. Depending on their educational trajectory and country of study, an audiologist might graduate with diverse qualifications such as MSc(Audiology), Au.D., STI, PhD, or ScD.

Malaysia[edit | edit source]

There are only 3 Malaysian educational institutions offering degrees in Audiology:

United Kingdom[edit | edit source]

There are currently three routes to becoming a Registered Audiologist:

  • BSc in Audiology
  • MSc in Audiology
  • Fast track conversion Diploma for those with a BSc in other relevant science subject, available at Southampton, Manchester, UCL, London and Edinburgh

There are 8 United Kingdom educational institutions offering degrees in Audiology:

United States[edit | edit source]

In the United States, audiologists are regulated by state licensure or registration in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Currently there are over 70 Au.D. programs in the United States:

Distance Au.D. Programs:

Residential Au.D. Programs:

In the past, audiologists have typically held a master's degree and the appropriate healthcare license. However, in the 1990s the profession began to transition to a doctoral level as a minimal requirement. In the United States, starting in 2007, audiologists were required to receive a doctoral degree (Au.D. or Ph.D.) in audiology from an accredited university graduate or professional program before practicing. All states require licensing, and audiologists may also carry national board certification from the American Board of Audiology or a certificate of clinical competence in audiology (CCC-A) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Audiologists are autonomous practitioners and do not need physician orders or supervision. However, many audiologists work in doctor's office and hospitals. The median salary for an audiologist in the United States is approximately $65,500 in 2008 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Audiologists who earn over $98,880 (top ten percentile) per annum typically have their own private practice.

Canada[edit | edit source]

University of British Columbia: Master of Science in Audiology and Speech Sciences. Dalhousie University: Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Audiology.

Sweden[edit | edit source]

Lund University: Master's in Audiology.

Asia[edit | edit source]

India[edit | edit source]

All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH): Offers Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral programs in Audiology.

Singapore[edit | edit source]

National University of Singapore: Bachelor in Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety which includes modules on Audiology.

Australia and Oceania[edit | edit source]

Australia[edit | edit source]

University of Melbourne: Master of Clinical Audiology. Macquarie University: Master of Clinical Audiology.

Africa[edit | edit source]

South Africa[edit | edit source]

University of Pretoria: B. Communication Pathology - Audiology.

See also[edit | edit source]

Audiology Resources

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD, Spt