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Audiological scientist
This page describes the role of audiological scientists, including information about entry requirements and training for the role.
Working as an audiological scientist
Audiological scientists develop ways to measure and compensate for hearing loss, and for diagnosing neurological diseases. They work directly with patients, often children or elderly people. They play both a clinical role and a managerial development role and are the driving force behind the development of audiology services in many areas. They are members of a multidisciplinary team, usually hospital based, which is concerned with the identification, diagnosis and rehabilitation of hearing and balance disorders.Fully trained audiological scientists will have a substantial amount of theoretical knowledge about hearing, acoustics and balance, able to critically interpret and report the results of procedures. This knowledge enables the scientist to solve technical problems, and when necessary to develop logical alternatives. Experienced scientists generally carry out the non-routine aspects of an audiological service, especially where a high degree of competence and responsibility is necessary.
Audiological scientists require background knowledge of the scientific and technical basis which hearing science involves and the generalist ones usually stemming from the audiological scientists graduate background enabling them to act as co-ordinator, manager and initiator of service development.
There are two ways to train in audiology at the present time. One is to undertake a degree (BSc) in audiology, the other is to enter the NHS as a clinical scientist after having taken a relevant degree, and taking a masters (MSc) in audiology.
Entry requirements:
For entry into the BSc degree course, the usual entry level is a range of GCSEs (A-C) including English and science/maths with three A levels. At least one A level will generally be needed in a science subject.There are a number of alternative qualifications that may be accepted, such as BTECs, GNVQs and access courses. It is advisable to check entry requirements with the institution of your choice as entry levels may vary.
For entry as a clinical scientist, you will usually require a first (1) or upper second (2:1) class honours degree in a relevant science subject, preferably with some knowledge of physics or behavioural science and a proven interest or experience in audiology.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and an interest in direct patient care is essential.
Training:
For information about training through the BSc audiology route, click here.For more information about training (including how to apply and financial support available) through the MSc routes (as a clinical scientist) and how to apply for training, click here.
Financial support during training
For information about financial support whilst taking a degree course in audiology, please click here.For information about financial support whilst training as a clinical scientist, please click here.
How do I apply for training?
For information about applying for the BSc course, click here. For information about applying for clinical scientist training, click here.Registration
In order to practice in the UK as a clinical scientist in audiology, you must be registered with the Health Professions Council. Click here for details. For those who trained via the degree route, a voluntary register is currently held by the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists.Where can I obtain further information?
For further information on a career in audiology, contact the British Academy of Audiology at:BAA Admin,
Resources for Associations,
Association House,
South Park Road,
Macclesfield
Cheshire
SK11 6SH.
Tel: 01625 504066
Email: admin@baaudiology.org
Website: http://www.baaudiology.org/
Alternative career pathways in the field of audiology include audiological scientist and hearing therapist.
For information on pay, please click here
Click on the links on the right for further information.
