Our MSc Advanced Audiology Studies course is aimed at practising audiologists who want to prepare for advanced roles in clinical management, clinical practice, teaching and research.
The course consists of a mixture of audiology-specific units and those shared with health professionals from a range of other disciplines, enabling you to tailor the course to your own interests.
You will learn from internationally recognised experts at the Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD).
You may choose to complete 60 credits for a PGCert (exit award) or 120 credits for a PGDip.
On successful completion of 120 credits, progression to the full MSc qualification allows you to explore, in depth, a specific aspect of audiology practice, policy, research or education in a 60-credit, 12,000 to 15,000-word dissertation.
Our course aims to:
Additional aims for the MSc are to enable you, through the systematic, in-depth, exploration of a specific area of audiology practice, policy, research or education to extend your knowledge, understanding and ability to contribute to the advancement of audiology knowledge and practice at an individual and/or organisational level.
Inter-professional learning
The course includes units in which students from a range of healthcare professions study core concepts and subjects together. You will also have the opportunity to study with professionals in areas related to audiology, such as teachers of the deaf.
Wide range of units
You can choose from a variety of units to customise the course to suit your own interests.
Expert teaching
This course is led by members of the Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD), an internationally recognised multi-million pound hearing research programme.
Many of the staff involved with the course are actively involved in either scientific or pedagogical research.
Where possible, members of staff teach course units related to their research interests and are in a position to keep their teaching informed and up-to-date.
A large number of the teaching staff are also clinically trained audiologists, hearing therapists or hearing scientists.
We use a range of teaching and learning methods, including lectures, small group work, student-led seminars, problem-based learning and online learning.
You will also be required to undertake independent study to further develop and consolidate your learning.
Where appropriate, and with individual arrangements, some audiology units may include participation in practical skills laboratories.
Find out more by visiting the postgraduate teaching and learning page.
You will be assessed using a variety of methods within individual units and across the course as a whole.
All assessments require you to integrate knowledge and understanding, and apply this to your own practice relevant to the outcomes of each unit.
Assessment methods include:
The full MSc qualification requires an extended written piece of work (12,000-15,000 words) that focuses on a specific aspect of audiology practice, policy or research in the form of an extended literature-based review.
Taught units can be studied in any order except where there are specific pre-requisites.
Not all optional units may run each year and will be subject to minimum numbers. You will meet with your course director to plan out a pathway that meets your needs.
Part-time students on the PGDip or MSc course will need to complete 60 credits per year as required for the award. Attendance at the university will vary depending on which units you choose to take. Some units are delivered online, some face-to-face over a number of days, and others are delivered via traditional lectures on a weekly basis.
An exit award of PGCert is available to students exiting after completing 60 credits. This must include at least 15 credits of audiology-specific units from those available.
A maximum of 30 credits of individual course units can also be studied on a standalone basis.
Studying this MSc part-time alongside clinical practice has been a unique experience. The course was flexible and I was able to tailor my units to suit my career options as a paediatric audiologist.
The course gave scope to branch into deaf education. Combined with my audiology background, I feel I have broadened my scope as a paediatric practitioner.
Aminoor Rahman
You will use high quality laboratory equipment and facilities for learning practical skills. You will have access to these facilities outside of timetabled sessions to facilitate individual practice, with some limitation on procedures that carry certain risks eg aural impression taking.
You will also be able to access a range of facilities throughout the University.
Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service .
We offer individual units from this MSc as standalone courses for continuing professional development, as well as units providing specialist clinical training .
Our course will prepare you to enter roles in clinical management and practice in audiology, as well as teaching and research.
This course is accredited by the RCCP.
Our MSc Audiology course is aimed at science graduates who want to develop their knowledge and understanding of audiology.
The course focuses on the theoretical, practical and clinical basis of the science of audiology, including the identification, assessment, rehabilitation and management of adults and children with audiological and vestibular dysfunction.
Our course includes two short clinical placements in the north-west - one in an NHS audiology department and one in the independent sector - to help you gain valuable practical experience while you learn.
You will learn from internationally recognised experts at the Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD) while studying on this course.
Clinical training
Once you have completed this MSc, you will need to undertake a further clinical training programme called the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) to achieve clinical competency and eligibility for registration as a qualified audiologist or hearing aid dispenser practicing in the UK. Non-EU students are not eligible to apply for the CCC programme.
Manchester offers this further clinical training through the CCC, which is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists (RCCP).
Places on the CCC are limited, as we are constrained by regional clinical placement training capacity in the NHS. Places on the CCC are therefore offered via a competitive entry process which involves an interview, technical assessment and communication task in Semester 2 of the MSc Audiology course.
When considering applicants for the CCC, we seek individuals who have the personal qualities and skills required to succeed in a clinical training environment, including:
All successful applicants who are offered a CCC place will be allocated a clinical training placement in the north-west.
Please note that there is no funding available for the CCC programme and successful applicants will be required to self-fund travel costs, accommodation costs and the CCC programme fees. The CCC programme fees are currently £4,500 and are reviewed annually.
Information for international applicants
The CCC is only open to EU applicants. Non-EU applicants are not eligible to apply for a position on this course. We strongly advise international applicants to check if clinical training programmes are available to them in their home country before considering undertaking the MSc Audiology course at Manchester.
This course aims to:
Inter-professional learning
You will have the opportunity to attend some professional practice lectures and workshops alongside healthcare scientists from a variety of fields.
Practical experience
Gain valuable practical experience through two one week clinical placements, one in an NHS audiology department in the north-west and the other in the independent sector.
Research experience
You will be required to design and complete a research project as part of the course, helping develop your research skills and giving you the opportunity to focus on a specific area of interest within audiology.
Expert teaching
This course is led by members of the Manchester Centre for Audiology and Deafness (ManCAD), an internationally recognised multi-million pound hearing research programme. Manchester's hearing health research is benefiting as part of a £28.5 million investment through the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, so MSc students will benefit greatly from studying in an intensive and high-quality research environment.
Many of the staff involved with this course are actively involved in either scientific or pedagogical research. Where possible, members of staff teach course units related to their research interests, so they are able to keep their teaching informed and up to date.
A large number of the teaching staff are also clinically trained audiologists, hearing therapists or hearing scientists.
We use a range of teaching and learning methods, including lectures, small group work, student-led seminars, problem-based learning and online learning.
In addition, you will be required to undertake independent study to further develop and consolidate your learning.
To develop clinical skills, you will be required to undertake practical skills training as part of the course.
Find out more by visiting the postgraduate teaching and learning page.
We use a variety of assessments within individual course units and across the course as a whole. All assessments require students to integrate knowledge and understanding, and apply this to your own practice relevant to the outcomes of each unit.
Assessment methods include:
A substantial and mandatory component of the MSc involves the design and completion of a high-quality research project. The research project component represents 33% of the MSc (ie 600 hours or four months' full-time study).
The project is completed under supervision in an area related to audiology. The research project is an opportunity for you to consolidate much of your previous learning and to pursue a specialist area of interest that is relevant to your future career in audiology.
You will use high-quality laboratory equipment and facilities for the teaching of practical skills. You will have access to these facilities outside of timetabled sessions to facilitate individual practice of procedures that carry minimal risk.
You will also be able to access a range of facilities throughout the University.
Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service .
Our world-leading MSc Audiology courses, underpinned by our pioneering research, enable both experienced clinicians and recent science/engineering graduates to accelerate their careers. The one-year MSc course provides scientific training in audiology and takes students from around the world. The two-year MSc course adds a 9-12 month clinical placements in the UK, Ireland and Jersey. All placement centres are approved and accredited by the University of Southampton and include a mixture of NHS and private clinics.
Our graduates have transformed audiology around the world, from starting the first audiology service in Rwanda, developing the national Chinese hearing test, becoming head of University department in Jordan to managing a hearing screening programme in the UK.
The one-year MSc Audiology course provides challenging and rewarding scientific training in audiology to help develop your knowledge, skills and attitudes to become a global leader in audiology, auditory research or a range of health-related fields. It provides those new to audiology with the foundations of the profession while also offering rich and challenging professional development for already qualified audiologists, speech-and-language therapists and other health professionals.
The year is divided into two semesters, with the last four months dedicated to your research project. You will attend taster clinics, develop research skills and investigate healthcare innovations in the field. At the end of your research project you will submit a thesis. There is also the option to exit the course at an earlier stage with a PG Cert or PG Dip.
The first year of the two-year MSc Audiology (with clinical placement) course is identical to the non-placement programme and adds a clinical placement in Year 2. The unpaid placement is a minimum of 40 weeks and a maximum of 52 weeks in duration. Applicants are all asked to apply for the one-year MSc Audiology course and are then allocated to their placements prior to commencing the first year of study. Placements are allocated on a first come first served basis and are in approved audiology services in the UK, Ireland and Jersey. UK applicants who complete the two-year MSc Audiology (with clinical placement) are eligible to register with RCCP and to work in the NHS as an audiologist. EU and international applicants should refer to the registration body’s guidance for international applicants. All graduates from the two-year MSc are eligible to apply for our stand-alone course as a route towards registering as a Hearing Aid Dispenser. EU and international applicants should refer to the HCPC guidance for international applicants.
Audiology is a clinical science involving hearing and balance assessment and rehabilitation. Hearing assessment usually involves the use of a number of specialised tests which help to ascertain the site or type of problem within the auditory system. Audiologists working in this area often work closely with otologists (ear specialists). Aural rehabilitation involves helping people with impaired hearing to cope with their hearing difficulties. This work usually includes fitting hearing aids or other devices such as the cochlear implant (bionic ear), training in the use of these devices and helping people to use their vision and other compensatory mechanisms in order to communicate effectively. This profession should be of interest to those with a scientific background who are interested in working with people.
The first year of the course provides the basic scientific background for audiology and an introduction to clinical work. The second year provides comprehensive training in all aspects of clinical audiology along with an introduction to research methods in the field. The course consists of formal lectures, seminars, practical work and student presentations along with a substantial clinical component. Students will be scheduled for supervised clinical work at our clinical school and at various hearing care facilities across Victoria. The course runs from February to November and is made up of lectures, practical sessions and clinics. Please see the Course and Subject Handbook for more information about the subjects and the time commitment.
The Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology offers the Master of Clinical Audiology degree, which is a two year full time course. Since 1998, the Master of Clinical Audiology degree has been required for entry to the profession.
The aim of this course is to provide students with the necessary training to enter the profession of clinical audiology. The course provides comprehensive training in all aspects of clinical audiology along with an introduction to research methods in this field. Students who demonstrate an aptitude for research may be considered for PhD studies within the Department.
On completion of this course the students should have:
This MSc is structured to provide the theoretical, scientific, clinical, research and vocational skills necessary to practise enhanced otology, audiovestibular medicine and audiology. The programme is designed for ENT surgeons, audiovestibular physicians, paediatricians, GPs, neurologists and other trainees and physicians with an interest in the medical aspects of audiology who wish to develop or enhance their careers or specialise in otology.
Students will learn about the anatomy and physiology of the vestibulocochlear system and facial nerve, related disorders and pathologies, diagnostic techniques and management strategies in both children and adults. Clinical and surgical placements provide an opportunity to develop specialist skills and competencies in evidence-based medicine, multidisciplinary practice - including facial reanimation, skull base and cochlear implantation clinics - and translational research and ethics.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of three core modules (45 credits), five optional modules (75 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma, three core modules (45 credits), five optional modules (75 credits), full-time one year, flexible two to five years is offered.
A Postgraduate Certificate, four modules (60 credits) is offered.
Core modules
Optional modules
Please note: not all optional modules will be available in any given academic year. Please contact the department for more information.
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000-12,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and observation at accredited clinical placements. Assessment is through a combination of methods including unseen examinations, written assignments (essays and a dissertation), case presentations, clinical portfolios and vivas.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Otology and Audiology MSc
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.
This MSc provides a firm foundation in the practice of audiovestibular techniques and their clinical applications for physicians who wish to enhance their careers or develop a research career in this field. This programme at UCL has a highly acclaimed track record in catering for a broad range of training needs of physicians both from the UK and abroad. Alumni include high-profile audiovestibular and ENT physicians, practising within the UK and internationally, with highly successful clinical, research or public health career trajectories after completing the programme. The Postgraduate Certificate option provides key theoretical foundations to inform evidence-based practice and translational research and is recognised for specialty training in the UK by the Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians Training Board (JRCPTB) for Audiovestibular Medicine. It also represents part of the General Medical Council approved theoretical assessment component.
Employability
On successful completion of this MSc graduates will have acquired wide-ranging skills which will enhance professional practice and future employability. Research skills gained will include data management and analysis, critical literature evaluation and an enhanced understanding of how evidence informs healthcare provision. For ENT surgeons at a foundation/core training level, the programme adds a substantial clinical and research dimension to an application for core/higher training. For those already in higher training, completing this MSc demonstrates a commitment to acquiring advanced research skills and the opportunity to develop an academic clinical career as a practising surgeon. For individuals in specialties allied to otology, the programme offers enhanced clinical and research skills relevant to careers in clinical research and service development.
The UCL Ear Institute provides a unique environment for graduate study and is the largest and most broad-based academic unit for research into hearing, auditory processing, deafness and vestibular research in the UK.
Students benefit from an interdisciplinary range of clinical and research expertise. Collaboration between disciplines provides integrated research projects utilising a wide range of clinical and laboratory techniques.
The associated University College London Hospitals (UCLH) house the largest clinical audiology and dedicated vestibular service in the country, and the first Cochlear Implant team in the UK. All students benefit from placements in UCLH and UCL Partners hospitals and excellent networking opportunities.
Advanced Audiology is designed for practising audiologists looking to enhance their clinical skills. Graduates are eligible to apply for senior clinical roles in the NHS or private sector. A variety of specialist modules can be selected to suit students' professional needs. The programme has a strong research and evidence-based practice foundation.
A wide range of optional modules enables students to focus on specific advanced fields of audiology relevant to their professional practice. Students will learn about the latest research in each field and how to apply this to patient care and service delivery. Students will gain proficiency in using new tools and techniques in line with advanced-level practice.
MSc students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of three compulsory modules (45 credits), the research project and dissertation (60 credits), and five optional modules (75 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma, three core modules (45 credits), five optional modules (75 credits), full-time nine months is offered.
Core modules
Choose five options from the following:
Students choose five of the following optional modules.
Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of approximately 10,000–12,000 words.
The programme is delivered through lectures, practical demonstrations and workshops, structured workplace/placement observation, online tutorials and assignments. Research skills will be obtained through lectures and the completion of a scientific research paper and poster presentation. Assessments include essays, reflective journals, case studies, clinical portfolios, unseen examinations and the research dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Advanced Audiology MSc
The programme provides audiologists with the required depth, breadth and up-to-date knowledge and competence to enable them to fulfil the needs of the higher practitioner roles.
The UCL Ear Institute's links with industry and healthcare providers allows students significant networking opportunities.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
The MSc pushes the boundaries in helping clinicians develop their skills and services, and innovate and design solutions to today’s hearing healthcare challenges.
The UCL Ear Institute is the largest and most broad-based academic unit for research into hearing and deafness in the UK, allowing students to benefit from the range of clinical and research expertise among its staff. The associated Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital houses the largest clinical audiology unit in the country.
The MSc programme is designed for practising professionals. A significant number of the optional modules are taught as Masterclasses (three- to five-day short courses) followed by tutorials and assessments. This allows students who continue to work part-time significant flexibility in how they structure their MSc programme.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Ear Institute
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
This course provides a fast-track route to an audiology qualification for individuals who hold a degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline (linguistics, psychology, physics, behavioural science, biomedical science, speech and language therapy or some combination of these).
Audiologists work with patients to identify and assess hearing and/or balance disorders, recommending and providing appropriate rehabilitation and management. An audiologist will assist in the promotion of normal communication as well as the prevention, identification, assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of the following: hearing and/or balance disorders that arise in the peripheral and/or central auditory and/or vestibular systems; functional hearing disorders; and central auditory processing disorders.
An audiologist should also be able to identify developmental or acquired disorders of speech, language and language processing caused by a hearing loss, and make referrals to an appropriate professional.
The course is organised in three broad strands. You will study supporting subjects such as linguistics, anatomy, physiology, psychology, neurology and research methods. You will learn theoretical audiology knowledge relating to hearing and balance, and you will carry out an element of professional practice through placement-based and university-based learning of practical clinical skills, clinical decision-making, reflection and professional issues. Knowledge, understanding and skills acquired in the theoretical modules are integrated and applied to clinical practice throughout the course.
The course is taught using a variety of interactive learning methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, laboratories, group work, role-play and interactive computer sessions. The development of interpersonal skills and professional skills and attitudes is also a major focus of the learning and teaching programme. Learning activities are guided using web-based programmes. A variety of assessments are used for example essays, individual presentations, electronic portfolios, group discussions, case studies, practical skills as well as a final dissertation. Class sizes are normally 10 - 15 students.
Each module which you study on campus will require you to attend classes and carry out independent work. Your attendance at QMU will depend on which module you are studying. In most instances, the taught elements of this course occur over three consecutive days. It is suggested that students use the other days for independent study.
The course provides graduates with eligibility to register with the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists (RCCP) in the United Kingdom/ Academy of Health Care Scientists.
15 credits: Neurology for Speech Therapy and Audiology/ Linguistics and Culture in Signed and Spoken Languages/ Advanced Audiological Assessment/ Multidisciplinary Working
30 credits: Audiological Assessment/ Aural Habilitation and Rehabilitation/ Technology for Hearing Impairment/ Vestibular Assessment and Rehabilitation/ Research Methods
Level 10 credits
20 credits: Audiological Clinical Skills/ Professional Practice for Audiology 40 credits: Clinical Audiology 1,2 & 3 (placement modules) If studying for the MSc you will also complete a dissertation (60 credits).
Graduates may work within the National Health Service and private sector. A further assessment is required in order to work as a registered Hearing Aid Dispenser. There are also career opportunities for research in universities and research institutes.
This course is suitable for audiologists from a wide range of clinical settings who are interested in aural rehabilitation. The course will provide you with further knowledge and skills in adult and paediatric aural rehabilitation to support career development and progression for qualified audiologists.
The course aims to create an intellectually stimulating opportunity for you to develop academic knowledge and research skills, thus enhancing your practice in rehabilitative audiology. Suitable for international, UK and local audiologists, the course will develop knowledge of the evidence base in practice and further develop critical thinking, clinical reasoning and research knowledge.
The course is organised in three broad strands:
Knowledge, understanding and skills acquired across the course will be integrated and applied in the clinical setting throughout all modules. This course will ensure that the audiologist acquires the advanced knowledge required to work with complex Audiological cases as well as managing service input.
PgCert in Hearing and Communication
The PgDip/MSc (Post-Registration) in Rehabilitative Audiology is open only to qualified audiologists but includes modules that are of interest to a range of professionals. The PgCert in Hearing and Communication has been developed to allow students from a variety of non-audiology backgrounds the opportunity for further study in relation to hearing impairment and auditory/ vestibular rehabilitation.
Students may take up to four years to complete the 60 credits required to be awarded a PgCert. Applicants might include: speech and language therapists; teachers of the deaf; linguists; any health professional interested (Post-Registration) in developing their knowledge and skills in relations to hearing and balance management. It is acknowledged that each of these groups has unique needs and concerns which will be taken into consideration during the admissions process and throughout the programme.
The minimum entry requirement for the Pg Cert in Hearing and Communication will normally be a first or second class BSc (Hons) degree in a related discipline (eg education, psychology, linguistics, speech and language therapy or another health science).
This is a distance learning course and students engage with staff members and each other through regular contact within the online teaching and learning environment. An extensive range of learning technologies – including The Hub, eportfolio and multimedia resources – will be available to support directed, independent learning. Learning materials may include narrated PowerPoint lectures, video or audio clips, reading materials, case-based data, guided learning activities, discussion boards and self-assessment quizzes. Online seminars and discussion groups will be scheduled to allow maximum participation. Discussions and seminars will also be archived to allow students to review the content after the event. Assessment is carried out through case-based assignments, reflective journals, research reports, electronic portfolio, online discussions as well as a final dissertation.
We suggest that a student should spend an average of 18 hours on independent learning/ course work each week per module. This could include online discussions.
Advanced counselling: Theory and Practice (15 credits)/ Research Methods (30 credits)/ Adult Aural Rehabilitation: Advanced Practice (30 credits) OR Paediatric Aural Habilitation (30 credits)
A further 45 credits from: Hearing Technology: Advanced Theory and Practice (15 credits)/ Advanced Vestibular Rehabilitation (15 credits)/ Tinnitus and Hyperacusis (15 credits) / Language and Culture of Deaf People (15 credits) / Adult Aural Rehabilitation: Advanced Practice (30 credits)/ Paediatric Aural Habilitation (30 credits)
If studying for the MSc, you will also complete a dissertation (60 credits).
Graduates may work within the National Health Service and private sector. There are also career opportunities for research in universities and research institutes.
The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of the specialism of paediatric audiology. This module includes problem-based learning, and will also provide you with learning opportunities in a range of generic skills relevant to clinical scientists.
To facilitate the development your knowledge of paediatric audiology, your skills in critically appraising scientific arguments and evidence, and your skills at collaborative working as is required for effective practice in paediatric audiology.
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
• The principles and practice of newborn hearing screening programmes.
• Non-audiological assessment methods relevant to paediatric audiology.
• Behavioural assessment methods for children and stages of assessment.
• The importance of timely hearing assessment and its link to speech and language development.
• Factors that contribute to the successful hearing assessment of a child, e.g. accuracy, sensitivity, reliability and the scientific evidence underlying paediatric assessment methods.
• Planning and implementation of audiological assessment strategies taking into account the needs of the individual patient.
• Principles of selection, prescription, verification, evaluation and monitoring of amplification for children including the role of carers and other professional in the process.
• Planning and implementation of a rehabilitation strategy taking into account the needs of the individual.
The Audiological Science with Clinical Practice MSc is designed to train students from other disciplines as audiologists. This unique two-year programme includes a 12-month clinical placement and provides the core knowledge, skills and clinical competencies necessary for employment as an audiologist and/or hearing aid dispenser.
The programme provides a detailed study of the hearing and balance mechanisms, their structure, function, pathology and assessment.
The successful student will become competent in a wide range of adult hearing assessments and adult hearing amplification and aural rehabilitation. In addition students will acquire skills that will allow them to assist in specialist areas, specifically balance and paediatric hearing assessments.
Students undertake modules to the value of 300 credits.
The full-time two-year programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits) in the first year, and four core clinical modules (120 credits) in the second year.
The postgraduate diploma two-year programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) in year one, and four core clinical modules (120 credits) in year 2.
Year one core modules
Please note: only first-year modules can be taken in flexible mode. The in-service clinical placement modules need to be completed in one year - equivalent to year two of the full-time programme.
Year two core modules
Research project/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 –12,000 words. This is submitted at the end of year one.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, case presentations, tutorials, enquiry-based learning, practical demonstrations and in-service clinical placements within accredited audiology departments in the NHS or private sector.
Assessment (formative and summative) is by essays, case presentations, mini -tests, final written and practical examinations, and dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Audiological Science with Clinical Practice MSc
It is anticipated that the majority of students will seek employment as audiologists within the UK, in both the NHS and private sector. The main area of activity is adult hearing assessment and rehabilitation. As experience is acquired, audiologists might develop an interest and expertise in balance assessment and rehabilitation, paediatric audiology, tinnitus, cochlear implants, middle ear implants, and bone-anchored hearing aids.
With further experience it is anticipated that graduates might also move towards management, research or teaching.
Employability
Although the programme is vocational and career-specific (audiology) some of our graduates have pursued academic careers, completing PhDs and taught doctorates. International students have used the knowledge and skills gained to promote and develop audiological services in their home countries. Graduates will also acquire many transferable skills, for example, excellent communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, the ability to work independently and in teams, and excellent interpersonal and research skills.
The UCL Ear Institute is a recognised international centre of excellence for research and training with strong links to the Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital and other specialised audiology departments in London.
Our programme aims to ensure that graduates are scientifically literate at postgraduate level and clinically competent within an audiology setting, and that graduates from a relevant discipline acquire the knowledge and skills to practise as an audiologist and/or hearing aid dispenser or pursue a research career.
Our programme allows students the opportunity to network with a variety of different professionals, particularly audiologists, and doctors with specialist interests in ENT or audiovestibular medicine.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Ear Institute
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
The Audiological Science MSc provides a detailed study of the hearing and balance mechanisms: their structure, function and pathology. The relationship between laboratory research and clinical aspects forms a key element: lectures, demonstrations and tutorials will be complemented by practical experience in the clinic and laboratory.
Students learn how people develop, or are born with, hearing and/or balance difficulties; how to test for hearing and balance problems and how to rehabilitate or habilitate patients with these problems. They learn the theory and science underpinning these practical clinical skills including acoustics and the anatomy and physiology of the auditory and vestibular systems.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a research project (60 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma, eight core modules (120 credits), full-time nine months is offered.
Core modules
Optional modules
There are no optional modules for this programme.
Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of approximately 10,000–12,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical demonstrations, and clinical placements. Practicals will consist of observations followed by supervised testing for rehabilitation and diagnostics in the Ear Institute’s specialist Skills Laboratory. Assessment is by essays, presentations, written examinations, clinical practical examinations and the dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Audiological Science MSc
Many graduates are now employed as audiologists either within the NHS or private sector or work as hearing aid dispensers.
Please note that the Audiological Science MSc does not meet the requirements of the UK regulatory bodies on its own. The programme provides the required theoretical skills and knowledge for clinical registration in the UK but does not provide the practical training required. Applicants wishing to practise as an audiologist or hearing aid dispenser in the UK will need to transfer to the Audiological Science with Clinical Practice MSc (two-year full time). This is subject to availability and there is a competitive interview process.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
As well as working as audiologists, graduates have also pursued academic careers, completing PhDs and taught doctorates. International students have used the knowledge and skills gained to promote and develop audiological services in their countries. It is suitable for audiologists who have no graduate-level qualification in audiology and wish to develop their careers, or academic researchers who have a specialist interest in audiology.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The UCL Ear Institute is the largest and most broad-based academic unit for research into hearing and deafness in the UK. Students benefit from the range of clinical and research expertise among its staff.
The UCL Ear Institute is associated with the Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, which houses the largest clinical audiology unit in the country, and works closely with NHS audiology departments to provide placement and observation opportunities for students.
The programme has close links with healthcare providers and industry (e.g. hearing aid manufacturers) providing students with access to the latest practice and technology and excellent networking opportunities.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Ear Institute
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website
The Hearing Aid Aptitude Test distance learning programme is designed to meet the needs of suitably qualified Audiology practitioners wishing to apply to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Hearing Aid Dispenser (HAD).
The Hearing Aid Aptitude Test distance learning programme is designed to meet the needs of suitably qualified Audiology practitioners wishing to apply to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Hearing Aid Dispenser (HAD).
Hearing Aid Dispensers work in private practice to assess, fit and provide aftercare for hearing aids. It is a challenging and rewarding profession that requires a combination of scientific knowledge and patient handling skills. Hearing aid technology is an exciting and rapidly changing area. Hearing Aid Dispensers are required to be skilled at identifying and utilizing the latest technology to meet the needs of their clients.
Hearing Aid Dispensers may work independently or for commercial businesses ranging in size. Depending on the nature of the company there may be opportunities for a Hearing Aid Dispenser to develop business and management skills. The private sector is a rapidly expanding market offering practitioners rapid career progression opportunities.
The Hearing Aid Aptitude Test distance learning programme comprises one web based module which can be accessed remotely. The module consists of 6 sub sections and contains all the programme teaching and learning resources. Assessment is via an in-house multiple choice exam paper.
This programme is approved by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). Successful completion of the programme confers eligibility to apply to the HCPC to register as a Hearing Aid Dispenser, which is a legal requirement in order to sell hearing aids privately.
The Institute of Sound and Vibration Research has an international reputation for teaching and research training. We currently run The BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) degree programme and MSc Audiology programme. We currently have around 100 PhD students, with approx. 25 in audiology and related areas. Projects are funded by a range of UK and EU research councils, governments throughout the world and the UK National Health Service, to name but a few. Research projects are often cross-disciplinary and multi-centre.
The next Hearing Aid Aptitude Test distance learning programme will commence on the 8th January 2018 with the assessment taking place 6 weeks after the start of the programme on the 19th February 2018. Applicants are able to register onto the programme at any time during the first 2 weeks of the programme (latest application date: 15th January 2018).
It is mandatory that students access all the recorded teaching material. This will be monitored through Blackboard and students that have not accessed the teaching material will not be eligible to sit the assessment until they have met the requirement. The programme will run a minimum of twice a year, usually commencing in January and June, depending on demand.
Our MSc Deaf Education course will help you to train as a Teacher of the Deaf if you are a qualified teacher, or develop research skills that can be applied to this field.
Rapid developments in audiology and our understanding of language, communication and educational practice make teaching and learning for deaf children an exciting area of study.
The course uses an evidence-based approach to meeting the diverse needs of deaf children and places a strong emphasis on translation of theory to practice.
Our course has Department for Education (DfE) and Teacher Development Agency (TDA) approval, meeting the requirements of the mandatory qualification.
Most graduating students go on to teach and support deaf children both in the UK and overseas, although there are also opportunities to continue academic research in this area.
Both MSc (part-time on-campus learning) and PGDip (full-time or part-time on-campus or blended learning) options are available. If you already have the PGDip, you can take an additional unit to gain the MSc award.
This course aims to provide you with the skills, knowledge and understanding to ensure deaf children are able to achieve their full potential.
MSc/PGDip Deaf Education: Teaching placements overview
High-quality teaching
You will learn from a multi-professional team within a highly specialised and internationally recognised department. Deaf Education at Manchester works alongside the associated disciplines of Speech and Language Therapy and Audiology, giving students a unique experience. We have close links with services and service users, and ensure that a range of perspectives and philosophies are represented.
Watch our video to find out about teaching placements on the course. Click through to YouTube to watch the video with subtitles.
This online course provides an opportunity for you to learn at your own rate, at a time and place that suits you. The course is set within a framework of online support and workshops to ensure you have the chance to meet and share ideas.
The online research methods unit prepares students to undertake a long study, which may be in a range of formats.
You will also have access to student mentors (recently qualified teachers of the deaf) in addition to a personal tutor.
In addition to the full-time option, the University offers an on-campus option (2 years part-time) or an e-blended learning and distance learning course (2 years part-time) to make the course as accessible and flexible as possible.
The e-blended course is a new option offering online and written materials with 2x3 days on campus per year. All students undertake two placement blocks with a total of eight weeks on placement over the course of study.
All on-campus students are also required to attend a weekend workshop (this is optional for students undertaking the e-blended course). The weekend provides an opportunity to meet a range of professionals, to extend knowledge and understanding, to exchange ideas and to establish a strong group identity. It is based in a well-appointed University conference centre in Manchester.
A variety of assessment methods are used within the PGDip, including written assignments, case reports, practical work and practical delivery of work. As part of the course, there are opportunities for formative assessments that help to shape individual studies but do not contribute to the final marks.
The MSc dissertation may be in the form of a:
For the full MSc, the course consists of relevant theoretical and practical teaching experience and a dissertation.
Placements are arranged in consultation and you will be fully supervised.
PGDip students will study all units except the dissertation. Those topping up to an MSc will only take the 60-credit dissertation unit.
For those studying part-time, the first year will focus on research methods and will include a workshop to share ideas on projects and the appropriate methodological approaches. The second year will focus on the preparation and delivery of the long study.
All PGDip students must attain CACDP Level I as a minimum by the end of their course of study.
Watch our unit overview videos
You can watch brief introductions to some of our units plus the teaching placements on YouTube .
More detailed unit information can be found by clicking on the links in the Course unit list below for more information on each unit.
Read about our students' experiences of the MSc/PGDip Deaf Education course and our graduates' subsequent careers by reading their posts on the Biology, Medicine and Health Student Blog .
You will be able to access a dedicated lab for audiology work, a student resource room, and the largest e-library and specialist deaf education resource in the UK.
You will also be able to access a range of facilitiesthroughout the University.
Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service .
Most graduating students progress to a career in teaching deaf children. This is a diverse remit and a teacher of the deaf may work in a school for the deaf, a unit or resourced provision, at primary or secondary level, or a specialist nursery class.
They may also act as peripatetic support to deaf learners in mainstream classes, or early years child and family support, often moving through a range of these roles throughout their career.
Career opportunities can also include a move into academic research and higher education if that is an interest.
There are a small but growing number of teachers of the deaf who take time out to work abroad (eg through the UN or VSO) to support services in developing countries.
This course has Department for Education (DfE) and Teacher Development Agency (TDA) approval.
