Audiology is a field of health and medicine professions that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hearing, balance, and other related disorders. Becoming an audiologist requires a combination of education, clinical experience, and certification. This guide will provide an overview of the steps necessary to become an audiologist (AUD).
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step to becoming an audiologist is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as communication sciences and disorders, speech-language pathology, or psychology.A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete and provides students with the foundational knowledge they need to pursue a career in audiology.
Step 2: Earn a Doctoral Degree
The next step is to earn a doctoral degree in audiology. This typically takes four to five years to complete and includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, acoustics, psychoacoustics, and other related topics. Students also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.Step 3: Complete Clinical FellowshipAfter earning a doctoral degree in audiology, students must complete a one-year clinical fellowship. During this time, students gain additional experience in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing, balance, and other related disorders.
Step 4: Obtain State Licensure
In order to practice as an audiologist in the United States, individuals must obtain state licensure. Requirements vary by state but typically include passing an exam administered by the state board of audiology.Step 5: Become Certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)The final step to becoming an audiologist is to become certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). To become certified, individuals must pass the ASHA Certification Exam for Audiologists. This exam tests knowledge of anatomy, physiology, acoustics, psychoacoustics, and other related topics. Becoming an audiologist requires dedication and hard work but can be a rewarding career choice for those interested in helping others with hearing and balance disorders.
By following these steps, individuals can pursue their dream of becoming an audiologist.