What do Audiologists do?

Audiologists are specialists trained at the Masters level to provide service in identifying and treating hearing loss and balance disorders.

There are a number of speciality areas in Audiology, including diagnostic audiology, pediatric audiology, dispensing audiology (hearing aids, and other devices that help people hear), industrial audiology, educational audiology, vestibular disorders, tinnitus or ringing in the ears and implant audiologists (those who specialize in cochlear implants).

In addition to clinical services an Audiologist's work could include teaching student audiologists, collaborating with other professionals and agencies to minimize the effects of hearing loss, doing research, building awareness in the community of hearing and hearing loss prevention programs, providing rehabilitation and treatment for children and adults with congenital or acquired hearing loss.

Who do Audiologists work with?

Anyone from new born infants to the elderly can have a hearing test. Any person who has trouble hearing should see an Audiologist. If a hearing loss is identified they can work with the family to help plan treatment for the child.

The most common reason for a child to see an Audiologist is an ear infection, or a build up of fluid in the middle ear. Other reasons may be: difficulty hearing in school; damage to the ear; diseases of the outer, middle, or inner ear; a syndrome associated with a hearing loss, or infections – both those present at birth or developed later.

Audiologists also see children and adults with other medical problems that may relate to hearing, balance, or central auditory processing difficulties.

Education and Certification
Professional training in speech-language pathology or audiology is available at the master's level at nine Canadian universities and many universities in the U.S. Three of the nine programs are taught in French. There are also undergraduate studies required to enter at the master's level, including courses in psychology, physiology, linguistics, education, human sciences, and health sciences. Specific requirements vary with university programs. Canadian programs meet provincial licensure and CASLPA certification requirements. Students enrolling in a U.S. program should ensure that their program meets licensure and certification requirements if they want to work in Canada.

News


May is Speech and Hearing Month
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What do Speech-Language Pathologists do?

Speech-Language Pathologists are specialists in communication and swallowing disorders. More >

Who do SLPs work with?

Babies, children and adults with neurological or physical disabilities. More >

What do Audiologists do?

Audiologists are specialists trained at the Masters level to provide service in identifying and treating hearing loss and balance disorders. More >