Careers in Audiology

Growing Need, Low Exposure Make for Great Career

Sep 28, 2009 Elizabeth Linehan

The study of hearing, balance and related disorder is a career opportunity that is growing rapidly, yet remains largely untapped.

There are several related careers that may be grouped under the “audiology umbrella”, so to speak. Those include:

• Audiologists
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Speech, Language, and Hearing Scientists

Audiologists – Diagnosis and Treatment of Hearing and Balance Disorders

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Audiologists work with people who have hearing, balance, and related ear problems. They examine individuals of all ages and identify those with the symptoms of hearing loss and other auditory, balance, and related sensory and neural problems. They then assess the nature and extent of the problems and help the individuals manage them.” (Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dec 2007)

Audiologists work with specialized diagnostic equipment, and then develop treatment plans for the patient. They may work in a clinical setting or in the field, independently or as part of a larger organization such as a hospital or school. Some may also work in researching hearing disorders and diseases or possible treatments, while others may be in research and development of hearing aids and other treatment options.

Speech Therapists – Difficulties in Speech and Swallowing

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), also known as Speech Therapists, work directly with hearing impaired or speech delayed children and adults. They “assess, diagnose, treat, and help to prevent disorders related to speech, language, cognitive-communication, voice, swallowing, and fluency” (ibid). Basically, where audiologists work with hearing impairment and balance issues, speech-language pathologists work with difficulties in speech and swallowing.

Speech difficulties may be as simple as a harsh voice or as challenging as cerebral palsy or other physical or mental conditions. Stuttering and stammering fall under “speech rhythm” difficulties that are also treated by SLPs.

SLPs may meet with the patient in a clinic or at school. Treatment may involve coaching or other “therapeutic” treatments, or even finding alternative means of communication such as American Sign Language. Treatment often includes working with other facets of a patient’s condition, such as coordination, comprehension and focus. SLPs work closely with physicians, teachers, and other professionals involved in the patient’s life.

Careers in Research and Development

“Speech, Language and Hearing Scientists” is a rather broad term to indicate those of several specific professions who research speech, language and hearing disorders, and their causes, as well as those in scientific research to develop improved treatment options and cures. They “provide the research on which clinicians base their methodology, speech, language and hearing” work. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2009) These careers may include audiology, psychology, physiology, and more. The opportunities are as numerous as the ideas that generate them. Most will be less involved in the continuing treatment and counsel of individuals than they will in the research of conditions and options.

To qualify for careers in audiology or speech-language pathology, candidates need at least a Master’s Degree, although trends indicate that doctorates are becoming more and more desirable.

Each of these careers is indicated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association for steady growth, job security and better than average pay. Those considering careers in Audiology and related fields need to research schools and locations for their best options.

The copyright of the article Careers in Audiology in Career Advice is owned by Elizabeth Linehan. Permission to republish Careers in Audiology in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Audiology is a Growing Field

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