Audiologist
Audiologists work with children and adults who suffer from hearing loss, tinnitus, or have problems with balance.
Average annual salary (starting - experienced): £24,907 - £44,503
Typical hours (a week): 38 - 40
How to become an audiologist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
University
You'll need to complete a 3-year NHS Practitioner Training Programme in healthcare science (audiology). To work as an audiologist in the private sector, you'll need to do an audiology degree approved by the Health and Care Professions Council. You could join the postgraduate NHS Scientist Training Programme, if you already have a science degree. This is a 3-year course in clinical science, specialising in neurosensory sciences.
University (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Volunteering & Experience
You'll find it helpful to get some paid or voluntary experience in a healthcare setting before you apply for a course. You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for further advice.
More info
Registration you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council Professional and industry bodies You could register with The Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists to get access to professional development and networking opportunities.
What it takes
Skills & Knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- sensitivity and understanding
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- thinking and reasoning skills
- knowledge of English language
- the ability to read English
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of psychology
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restriction & Requirements
You'll need to:
What you'll do
Day to day
Your day-to-day duties might include:
- deciding on the best way to test a patient’s hearing
- adapting tests to suit the age and ability of the patient
- checking hearing, including sound level and frequency range
- investigating any related medical, physical and emotional symptoms
Working environment
You could work in an NHS or private hospital. You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
Career path & progression
You could go on to specialise in areas like balance rehabilitation, cochlear implants, or assisting people with learning disabilities or dual sensory loss. With experience, you could lead a team, manage a unit, or move into a general management position in mainstream healthcare. You could also take on a research or teaching post at a university.
