- What is an audiologist?
- What does an audiologist earn?
- How can I find an academic program in audiology?
- Where can I find financial aid information?
- How can I volunteer or find summer employment opportunities with an audiologist?
- How other resources are available for an audiology student?
- Resources
1. What is an audiologist?
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
- Prevention of hearing loss
- Identification and assessment of hearing and balance problems
- Rehabilitation of persons with hearing and balance disorders
In addition, audiologists may:
- Train 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. In the relatively underdeveloped areas of industrial audiology, positions are available for audiologists to plan and execute programs of hearing conservation for workers. Audiologists frequently work with other medical specialists, speech-language pathologists, educators, engineers, scientists, and allied health professionals and technicians.
Visit the ASHA Web site at Learn About the Professions for a comprehensive description of the profession of audiology.
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2. What does an audiologist earn?
Earnings: The salaries of audiologists depend on their educational background, experience, work setting, and geographical location. In 2003:
- The median salary for ASHA-certified audiologists with 1-3 years of experience was $43,000 per year.
- Those with a doctorate may earn over $70,000 a year.
- Those in administrative or supervisory positions may earn upwards of $72,000.
Employee benefits such as insurance, leave, and professional development are usually very competitive.
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3. How can I find an academic program in audiology?
The National Academy of Preprofessional Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (NAPP) maintains a list of undergrdaute programs in audiology. For more information, contact the NAPP president, Bertha Smith Clark, PhD, Department of Speech and Theatre, Area of Communication Disorders, Box 309, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132; 615-898-2640; bclark@frank.mtsu.edu. Visit NAPP's Web site.
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4. Where can I find financial aid information?
Financial aid information for students interested in CSD is available through for following sources:
- Visit the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation Web site for grant and scholarship information.
- Contact the financial aid department at the university you plan to attend and ask about grants and scholarships for students in audiology.
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5. How can I volunteer or find summer employment opportunities with an audiologist?
Volunteer and summer employment opportunities for students are available through the following sources:
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6. How other resources are available for an audiology student?
National NSSLHA provides pre-professional benefits and services to students interested in a career in communication science disorders. National NSSLHA provides students with:
- Advocacy: Connect with the Regional Councilor in your area to share concerns about matters affecting CSD students or to suggest ideas for content at conventions or content for student-publications.
- E-mail Announcements: National NSSLHA members receive a monthly email bulletin with information about grants, scholarships, career opportunities, workshops, and seminars for students.
- Membership Benefits and Services: As you advance in your academic study you will find membership in the national association more valuable.
- Networking: Connect with other students in your area by interacting with the NSSLHA chapter in your region.
- Newsletters & Publications: As a high school student you can subscribe for a complimentary subscription to our newsletter News & Notes or get a copy of the NSSLHA CSD Survival Guide. This publication will provide you with introductory information to prepare you for your academic study in communication sciences and disorders.
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7. Resources
Want to learn more about the profession of audiology? Try these resources:
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