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Audiologist Career

Aging, viral infections, birth trauma, genetic diseases, or exposure to loud noises are common causes of ear related injuries such as hearing or balance disorders.  Audiologists are responsible for utilizing specialized equipment to diagnose and determine the severity of these ailments, as well as creating and implementing treatment plans.  They may treat problems by thoroughly cleaning the ear canal, prescribing medication or hearing aids, or cochlear implanting.  Professionals must keep detailed records of all treatments and patient reactions to track their progress.   Audiologists must train patients and their families in the use of equipment, as well as counsel them on how to cope with long term ability losses. 

Audiologists may be employed in clinics, private practices, research and development facilities, or educational institutions.  Some professionals work only part time, but the majority work 40 hour weeks, occasionally putting time in on weekends or evenings.  While these careers are not physically demanding, they can be extremely stressful when working with emotional patients and family members.  These careers often require great attention to detail, compassion, patience, and objective methodology.  Excellent communication skills are pertinent in order to discuss conditions and treatments with other professionals, patients, and their families to ensure the best care is given. 

Traditionally, all states required candidates to receive a graduate degree in order to practice, but several states are moving towards mandating a Doctor of Audiology degree.  Currently, 49 states require certification, and those who disperse hearing aids are required to achieve additional certification.  There are two certification options, both of which require candidates to graduate with a minimum of a Master’s degree, pass national examinations, and complete a specific number of supervised, on the job training hours.  Practically all states require that Audiologists attend ongoing education in order to maintain certification.  

Recent technological advances have increased the life expectancy of premature infants and trauma victims.  Assessment and treatment of these patients will add to the future need of Audiologists.  Hearing problems are more common among elderly patients, and as the general population ages, occupational growth is expected.   Most states have begun screening newborns to detect any issues in their early stages, which will ensure better care to patients and increase the need for Audiologists.  Careers in Audiology are expected to increase as fast as average industries, but due to the small size of the occupation, openings will remain rather limited.  As the average income for Audiology professions increases, many physicians are hiring lower paid technicians to handle these same tasks.  For more information on a career as an Audiologist, please visit the following sites:

• Audiology Consumer Brochure
• American Academy of Audiology
• Healthy Hearing
• Ultimate Ears
• Hearing Loss Association of North Carolina

For a list of available Audiology positions as well as a database of Audiologists searching for a career, please visit iHireTherapy.