Experts say that hearing loss will increase significantly throughout the population over the next twenty years. That means that more people than ever will need hearing healthcare services to help them continue to enjoy quality life. Does that inspire you to pursue an audiology career?
We hope so! But, we know that you may have questions that need to be answered before you decide for sure if this is the career path for you. Let’s take a closer look at the what, who, where, and financial implications of becoming an audiologist.
What does an audiologist do?
Simply stated, an audiologist is a healthcare professional who focuses on the sense of hearing and how it affects one’s everyday life. That includes:
- Hearing testing at any age, including newborns, to determine the existence or severity of hearing loss
- Diagnosis and treatment of hearing-related disorders, both congenital and acquired
- Treatment of hearing loss, including aural rehabilitation and fitting for assistive listening devices
- Prevention of hearing loss through education and the use of appropriate hearing protection
- Diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as tinnitus, for which there is no cure
Who should pursue an audiology career?
With the right education and training, almost anyone can do the job. But, that’s not to say that everyone should. Those who find the most joy and fulfillment in an audiology career are those who care for the wellbeing of others, have compassion, and a strong desire to help others hear better so they can live better.
Some of the best audiologists are those who’ve been helped by the hearing healthcare industry themselves. Or, perhaps they’ve had a friend or family member with hearing loss. Seeing how much of a difference hearing loss treatment can make in someone’s life is a big inspiration to help others experience the same!
Where do audiologists work?
Choosing to pursue an audiology career opens up a wide variety of work environments and locations. Audiologists have found their niche working with hearing impaired individuals in these places:
- Private/ independent practices
- Hospitals and/or clinics
- Rehabilitation centers
- Nursing homes and other long term care facilities
- The Armed Forces
- Manufacturing facilities for hearing devices
- Health insurance companies
- …And more.
Are there scholarships available for pursuing an audiology career?
Absolutely! As with any other academic major, there are financial aid and scholarship options available for students choosing to pursue an audiology career.
Of course, the amount depends on several factors including the goals of the sponsoring institution as well as a student’s financial need or unique qualities. Some helpful resources include Scholarships.com, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, and a host of other private and public sources.
Talk to the hearing healthcare professionals!
If you’re seriously considering pursuing an audiology career, make the time to speak to an audiologist. In some cases, you may even be able to shadow one as they go about their day. Seeing an audiologist in action is a great way to learn exactly what the job entails!
With more Americans experiencing hearing loss every year, we know that the demand for audiology services will continue to increase. That’s why we encourage others to pursue an audiology career and experience the joy in helping others that we have experienced ourselves. If you’d like to schedule an appointment to speak with one of our audiologists, simply contact us today!
