Do you have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in speech pathology or any degree program focused on studying communication disorders? Do you wish to pursue further education and work in a clinical setting? You might want to consider getting an audiology doctorate. But before pursuing a doctoral degree in Audiology, you have to get a good grasp on the program offered and the possibilities after earning the degree. More details about the Doctor of Audiology is posted to an online-phd-degrees.com`s blog.

To comprehend what encompasses a Doctor of Audiology degree, let us have a clear definition of the field first.

What is Audiology?

This field of study provides substantial knowledge of hearing, associated disorders, and treatment. In this area of study, extensive research has expanded and helped many people in rehabilitating injuries related to hearing. 

With the help of innovations and advanced technology, the field of audiology has evolved over time. There were already available effective solutions and devices for each hearing injury. If not treating, at least managing hearing loss became easier. This is where experts in this discipline are coming in. These hearing experts are what we call Audiologists.

Audiologists are professional people who have completed a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree from a commission and council accredited university. They are properly equipped with skill and training in caring for patients with disorders in balance and hearing. These specialists work with other professionals of different disciplines to provide the appropriate solution as hearing disorders could be secondary to an existing medical and genetic condition. Moreover, patients could be from newborn to elderly. As a result, audiologists have to consult other medical specialists for the effective treatment and care plan as it could vary with age. 

For you to be able to practice the profession, you should first have a doctorate in Audiology. Before, audiologists can already practice the profession by just earning a Master’s degree. But, nowadays, an Au.D. is a requirement for entering the practice of Audiology discipline. 

What is a Doctor of Audiology Degree?

A degree in Doctor of Audiology is a program that involves clinical practicum in its curriculum. This is the requirement for audiologists before entering into clinical practice. This degree typically takes four years to complete as it entails theoretical concepts and skill training in a classroom setting. A clinical externship is required in the final year of the program. This experience is supervised by a qualified professional, and the student has to render hours doing clinical services. 

How to Earn an Au.D. Degree?

The coursework of Au.D. includes subjects like Anatomy and Physiology, Sound Physics, Communication Development, Pharmacology, Pathology, Statistics, Counseling, and Ethics. A laboratory and clinical experience is also part of the program as diagnosis and treatment are vital in the career of an audiology expert. In the first two years of the program, expect orientation and clinical observation for visual learning of the real-life clinical practice. While on the latter years of the program, you will have the first-hand experience in the clinical setting to prepare and train for the job.

Research principles comprehension is also a must in this doctorate. This is in preparation for the student to have an excellent background in doing clinical research that would contribute to audiology advancement. Most doctorate programs oblige students to complete a dissertation, in Au.D. degree, it is not usually required. 

For you to earn this degree, you must have outstanding knowledge and expertise in communication disorders. A bachelor’s degree in speech and hearing pathology disciplines are prerequisites to taking an Au.D. degree. 

In an Au.D. degree, the student will be able to acquire skill development in communication therapy, hearing loss management, audiological assessment, and values relevant to patient care. 

After completing the necessary training, education, and earning the degree, you have to take a certification exam to get a clinical practice license. This is provided by the state’s recognized board or accrediting organization for the discipline of Audiology.