There are four different audiologist jobs: private practice, working for a medical device company, teaching, and research. An audiologist is a specialist in hearing loss and related issues. The role of audiologist is to interact with patients, address hearing loss issues, and provide prevention guidelines. The vast majority of patients are through referrals from doctors or auditory technologists.
In order to become an audiologist, you will need to complete at least a master degree in audiology. It is important to note that a doctoral degree is quickly becoming the minimum education standard. These programs require completion of an undergraduate program in the sciences or audiology to qualify for admission to the master's program.
The most common type of audiologist jobs are found in private medical practices. Audiologists can open their own practice or join a medical office with other health specialists, such as optometrists or family doctors. Most audiologists develop consulting arrangements with local hospitals and family physicians. These doctors provide referrals to the audiologists for patients who may need their services.
There are a broad range of audiologist jobs available in medical devices companies. Hearing aid, hearing implants, hearing protection, and listening devices are all very popular. An audiologist on staff at a development company can work with the product designers to create a better product and meet users' needs.
Audiologists can become instructors at local community or career colleges, teaching courses to auditory technicians or technologists. They can also become instructors in hearing loss prevention courses for construction workers, mining operations and other industries where hearing protection is required. In order to become an instructor, many audiologists complete a certificate program in adult education. Learning the most effective way to teach adults can be a huge help when making this career transition.
Research into hearing, hearing loss and related issues is a huge area of exploration. Grants are available from government agencies, hearing societies and other groups to expand the field of knowledge in this area. Many audiologists who want to explore this career option become university professors. These positions require teaching of university courses, but provides opportunities for extensive research.
People who report the greatest satisfaction in audiologist jobs enjoy helping people, problem solving, and working independently. Although not as prestigious as some of the other medical specialties, an audiologist can greatly enhance the quality of someone's life and provide the tools necessary to maintain independence. Dedication, determination and fine motor control are all required as part of this role.