Masters Degrees (Clinical Audiology)

Overview

Audiology offers a balance between technology and working with people. This degree provides you with skills in assessment strategies, rehabilitation and habilitation of the hearing impaired and the non-medical management of hearing impairment.

It also provides training in research design with an optional project and an awareness of client management strategies. Clinical training is provided as a formal part of the program with cooperation from audiological institutions.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-clinical-audiology

Key benefits

- Utilises the Macquarie University Speech and Hearing Clinic and the Australian Hearing Hub This offers students access to state-of-the-art research facilities and the ability to work alongside industry experts
- This program gives you practical experience in a range of clinical placements including the Macquarie Speech and Hearing Clinic, hospitals, government agencies, and community and not for profit organisations
- Allows you to learn from a wide variety of guest lecturers who are experts in their fields;
- Gives you access to the world’s first child magnetoencephalography facility.

Suitable for

This program is suitable if you have:
- Good communication skills
- Credit average in a relevant undergraduate degree
- An interest in pursuing a career in a health area

Please note
Commonwealth Supported Places
The Faculty of Human Sciences offers a limited number of merit-based Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for this program for domestic students. Places will be granted according to academic merit and awarded to the most highly ranked applicants who have been granted a firm offer. Students do not need to apply separately for this.

The Faculty may also allocate 50% of the available CSPs to two targeted equity areas that will benefit the students and the profession to help overcome shortages in professional health workers in regional and remote locations and in Indigenous health care settings. The equity groups targeted will be:

* Regional or remotely disadvantaged non-indigenous applicants

* Indigenous Australian applicants

To apply for an 'equity' CSP place, please complete the Equity CSP application when completing your application.

Work experience requirements

No work experience is required. It is recommended that you should observe some Audiological settings for a better understanding of the profession of Audiology.

English language requirements

IELTS of 7.0 overall with minimum 7.0 in each band, or equivalent

All applicants for undergraduate or postgraduate coursework studies at Macquarie University are required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.
For more information see English Language Requirements.

You may satisfy the English language requirements if you have completed:
- senior secondary studies equivalent to the NSW HSC
- one year of Australian or comparable tertiary study in a country of qualification

Careers

- Accreditation
During the course, you will complete a minimum of 250 clinical experience hours as defined by the professional body, Audiology Australia. This criterion accompanied with satisfaction of the core knowledge and competencies permits admission to Audiology Australia.

- Career Opportunities
With an aging population and advances in hearing device technology, audiology is a rapidly growing profession.
There are a range of employment opportunities for an audiologist including working in:
- Private practices, hospitals, medical centres
- Hearing and speech clinics
- Schools, universities, and community outreach settings

This degree is a recognised qualification in a number of countries and you may be able to travel and work overseas. There is currently a very strong demand for qualified audiologists both in Australia and overseas.

See the website http://courses.mq.edu.au/international/postgraduate/master/master-of-clinical-audiology

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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.

Degree information

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.

A Postgraduate Diploma, ten core modules (150 credits), two core clinical modules (90 credits), full-time 2 years, flexible 3-5 years is also offered.

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.
-Signals and Systems for Audiology
-Anatomy and Physiology of the Audiovestibular System
-Balance
-Clinical and Professional Practice
-Diagnostic Audiology
-Introduction to Amplification and Aural Rehabilitation
-Paediatric Audiology
-Research Methods and Statistics

Year Two core modules
-Clinical Adult Audiovestibular Assessment and Paediatric Hearing Assessment (30 credits)
-Clinical Adult Diagnostics and Auditory Rehabilitation (60 credits)
-Integrative Audiology
-Living with Hearing Loss

Research project/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10–12,000 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.

Careers

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.

Why study this degree at UCL?

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.

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This programme aims to provide the theoretical, practical and clinical basis of the science of audiology. It contains a number of short clinical placements in NHS audiology departments in the North West of England.

Successful completion of the course provides you with an MSc in Audiology. Please note, this is an academic qualification only. A further clinical training programme is required to achieve clinical competency and eligibility for registration as a qualified audiologist or hearing aid dispenser.

These requirements vary from country to country and we encourage any potential applicants to check these requirements with the health service in your country before you apply.

Course description

This programme aims to provide the theoretical, practical and clinical basis of the science of audiology. It contains a number of short clinical placements in NHS audiology departments in the North West of England.

Successful completion of the course provides you with an MSc in Audiology. Please note, this is an academic qualification only. A further clinical training programme is required to achieve clinical competency and eligibility for registration as a qualified audiologist or hearing aid dispenser.

These requirements vary from country to country and we encourage any potential applicants to check these requirements with the health service in your country before you apply.

Aims

This course aims to:
-Offer you a broad and thorough education in the identification, assessment, rehabilitation and management of adults and children with audiological and vestibular dysfunction, with a critical and evaluative understanding of the underlying scientific, medical, public health and disability knowledge base
-Develop your practical skills, equipping to progress to a clinical competency year in health or other services
-Meet the requirements of potential employers in the NHS
-Further develop your research and critical skills through a piece of original research

Special features

The MSc Audiology programme at Manchester is unique in that your learning will not be restricted to the study of audiology. You will also have the opportunity to attend inter-professional professional practice lectures and workshops provided for a range of healthcare scientists.

Career opportunities

This course enables you to pursue a number of career opportunities. Previous graduates have progressed to a PhD, whilst other students have entered the fast track medicine programme, studied dentistry or other health related professions.

Some graduates have chosen to complete the Audiology Certificate of Clinical Competence programme and are now employed as audiologists or hearing aid dispensers in the NHS or independent health care sector.

The course may also be beneficial to students from outside the UK who are able to become qualified in their home country after gaining an MSc.

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This course is aimed at practising audiologists. It combines audiology-specific course units and units shared with other health professionals from a variety of other disciplines.

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 the form of a 60-credit, 12,000 to 15,000-word dissertation.

Aims

The course aims to:
-Enable you to critically evaluate and apply aspects of contemporary audiology and healthcare practice, policy, research and education
-Foster positive values and attitudes that recognise and respect individual and cultural diversities and challenge discriminatory practice
-Equip you with in-depth knowledge, understanding and skills to critically evaluate research and the evidence base for audiology practice that promotes optimal health and involves service users and carers in the delivery of care
-Develop your abilities and skills in critical reflective practice, problem solving and creative ethical decision making
-Contribute to innovation, change and quality improvement in audiology and health care practice at both individual and organisational levels by equipping you with a systematic and critical understanding of relevant knowledge, theoretical frameworks and advanced skills
-Enhance your career development and lifelong learning in order to support safe practice and the maintenance and enhancement of appropriate standards of audiology practice

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.

Special features

The course provides unique opportunities for interprofessional learning, combining specialist audiology course units with a range of course units in which students from a range of health care professions study core concepts and subjects together. You will also have the opportunity to study with professionals in closely related areas such audiology as teachers of the deaf.

The wide variety of units available allows you to your tailor learning and through assessments you will further apply core knowledge and skills.

Additional course information

The University is at the forefront of developments in health care professional education and research having received excellent research ratings in UK Research Assessment Exercises. We have also been commended on the excellent quality of teaching and learning provision.

An established reputation for excellence, outstanding learning facilities and high student support, combined with the opportunity to be taught by leading academic, clinical and research staff, make The University of Manchester the ideal place for practising audiologists to study for a postgraduate qualification.

Teaching and learning

You will participate in 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 in order to further develop and consolidate your learning. Where appropriate, and with individual arrangements, some audiology modules may include participation in practical skills laboratories.

Part-time students entering the PG Dip or MS will normally study one day per week to complete 60 credits per year as required for the award. An exit award of PG Cert is available to students exiting after completion of 60 credits. This must include at least 15 credits of Audiology specific units from those available.

Please note, a maximum of 30 credits of individual course units can also be studied on a stand-alone basis.

Coursework and assessment

A variety of assessments are used within individual course 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:
-Essays
-Case studies
-Assessed seminar presentations
-Literature reviews
-Change proposals

The full MSc qualifications requires an extended written piece of work (12,000-15,000 words) which focuses on a specific aspect of audiology practice, policy or research in the form of an extended literature based review.

Course unit details

Taught units can be studied in any order except where there are specific pre-requisites. Optional taught units for the PG Dip/MSc:
-Neurosensory Science
-Clinical Applications of Neurosensory Sciences
-Adult Auditory Assessment and Management
-Vestibular Assessment and Management
-Paediatric Audiology
-Effective Amplification for Infants and Children
-Developing Deaf Child
-Language Acquisition
-Understanding Practice in Deaf Education in the UK
-Advanced Skill in Aural Rehabilitation

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The MClin Res programme will equip students with an in-depth understanding and knowledge and skills in a range of theoretical underpinnings and research methods relevant to applied research in a range of contemporary clinical practice contexts.

The programme is particularly aimed at qualified health professionals from a range of disciplines seeking a career in, or currently engaged in clinical research or wishing to pursue a variety of careers where research is a core component. The majority of modules within the course are shared with other students undertaking MSc and MPhil/PhD study.

The course is delivered mainly online but is complemented by two compulsory four-day campus-based introductory and winter study schools, and 1 mid-semester study day in both semester 1 and 2.

Aims

The MClin Res course is tailored to equip Nurses, Midwives, AHPs and other Non- Medical/Dental Healthcare Professionals with essential skills to manage and deliver research in clinical and health and social care settings, and to develop careers in clinical research, clinical and academic practice, or academic research with a strong clinical practice component. The aims of the course are to:
-Enable students to further develop systematic, in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of the nature, purposes, methods and application of research relevant to clinical practice at an individual and/or organisational level
-Contribute to building capacity and capability for research and evidence based practice by equipping students with in-depth knowledge and essential skills to critically appraise, apply, design and undertake high quality research in a range of clinical settings
-Enhance the quality and evidence base for clinical research, practice and service development through the provision of robust research training in a stimulating, challenging and supportive learning environment that draws on outstanding resources and research and practice expertise
-Promote lifelong learning in students and enhance their opportunities to pursue a variety of research careers and/or further research training which support and advance clinical knowledge, research and practice

Equip students with key transferable skills in critical reasoning and reflection, effective communication, team and multi-disciplinary working, use of IT/health informatics, logical and systematic approaches to problem-solving and decision-making.

Special features

The MClin Res programme has a unique interdisciplinary focus drawing on the expertise of nationally and internationally renowned lecturers and practitioners from many different fields including nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, social work, speech and language therapy, audiology, psychology and medicine.

The programme also benefits from strong collaborations across the Faculty and NHS including experts from the Manchester Academic Health Science Centre (MAHSC) and the Manchester Academy for Healthcare Scientist Education (MAHSE).

Therefore the delivery of the programme within the context of outstanding multi-professional research expertise, well established partnerships with the NHS, excellent teaching and learning and high student support, means that students undertaking the programme can be assured of an excellent research education and training and an award of which they can be proud.

Teaching and learning

The programme is primarily delivered online to maximise access and increase flexibility. A variety of summative assessment methods are utilised which enable the integration of theory and practice and build on continuous formative assessment exercises which are part of each module with a variety of interactive, stimulating on-line exercises with regular self-assessment and feedback being a key feature.

Online components of the programme are complemented by opportunities for face-face learning and networking between students, programme and research staff through two 4-day campus-based introductory and winter study schools and 2 mid-semester study days.

Facilities

We are based in the Jean McFarlane building housing seminar rooms, IT facilities, clinical and interpersonal skills laboratories and lecture theatres.

The wider facilities of the University are of an excellent standard, with one of the best library collections and resources in Europe. We have extensive experience and good practice in online learning with dedicated e-learning technologists and rich online audio/video technologies.

We were one of the first institutions in the UK to develop a distributed learning PhD/MPhil programme undertaken by a wide range of health and social care practitioners from the UK and overseas.

Career opportunities

The MClin Res is predominantly aimed at health professionals from a range of disciplines who wish to enhance their skills and knowledge in clinically focused research. It is aimed at those who wish to pursue clinical/academic research careers e.g. research nurses, clinical trials coordinators and principal investigators.

The programme provides a comprehensive education and training in research providing an excellent foundation for students who wish to go forward to study for a PhD.

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Summary

Our MSc Audiology is widely recognised as the leading postgraduate programme in the UK for the accredited training of audiologists and audiological scientists. It consists of a taught component followed by a substantial research project leading to a dissertation. The MSc Audiology is accredited by the British Academy of Audiology. While not guaranteed, we can usually help UK and EU students find a 40 week unpaid clinical placement in the NHS after the MSc which enables successful students to register as audiologists.

Modules

Semester one modules: Clinical Audiology 1; Principles of Auditory Rehabilitation; Physiology and Psychology of Hearing; Applied Research Methods

Semester two modules: Clinical Audiology 2; Fundamentals of Auditory Implants; Paediatric Audiology; Assessment and Management of Vestibular Disorders; Applied Research Methods; Research Project

Visit our website for further information...

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The MSc Advanced Clinical Practice is a multi-disciplinary qualification for Allied Health Professionals. The programme provides existing practitioners with the skills and knowledge to become more autonomous in their roles and have the ability to improve and evaluate services for patients – to become an Advanced Practitioner.

We offer specialist streams in Optometry, Audiology and Pharmacy for candidates who have already completed a Postgraduate Certificate of Higher Education in Advanced Health Assessment elsewhere or for students just embarking on their MSc study. Our programme therefore allows you to “top up” your existing PGCert qualification to either a postgraduate diploma or an MSc. Optometrists and Pharmacists study to become an independent prescriber as part of the qualification. Audiologists can choose from a range of modules to enhance their clinical practice. Many of the modules are available by distance or blended learning, allowing you flexibility in the way that you study.

Pharmacists

PG Certificate
-Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making (60 Credits)
PG Diploma
-Pharmacist independent prescribing (60 credits)
MSc
-Research methods module (x2)
-Research project

Optometrists

PG Certificate
-Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making (60 Credits)
PG Diploma
-Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics (20 credits).
-Prescribing for disorders of the eye (20 credits)
And
-Retinal and macular disorders (20 credits)
Or
-Glaucoma (20 credits)
Or
Refractive surgery(20 credits)
Or
Nutrition and the eye (20 credits)
MSc
-Research methods module (x2)
-Research project

Audiologists

PG Certificate
-Advanced Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making (60 Credits)
PG Diploma
-Specialist audiological assessment and management (30 credits)
-Evidence Based Practice (10 credits)
And:
-Adult rehabilitation (20 credits)
Or
-Tinnitus management (20 credits)
MSc
-Research methods module (x2)
-Research project

Learning, Teaching & Assesment

You will be taught through a variety of methods including lectures, workshops and practical classes. Assessment will be via coursework and examinations including oral presentations and key skills portfolio.

Career Opportunities

This programme is designed to equip you for an Advanced Practice role in your area of expertise.

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This course is for people with a relevant degree seeking to refocus their studies into the area of speech and language therapy. It will enable you to register with the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) to practise as a speech and language therapist in the UK.

As a speech and language therapist, you will assess, diagnose and treat children and adults with a wide range of
communication difficulties. This will include developmental disorders and speech and language problems resulting from injury, stroke and disease. You will also develop strong practical skills as well as a sound understanding of the theory of speech and language therapy.

There is a major clinical studies (ie placement) element to this course and clinical work is underpinned by modules
in linguistics, psychology and biological and medical sciences. Although every effort is made to arrange summer
block placements to suit students’ circumstances, this is not always possible and students must be prepared to be
flexible about placement location and timing. Students are responsible for any travel and/or accommodation costs
incurred during placements.

Teaching, learning and assessment

Teaching will include a mix of lectures, tutorials, student-led seminars, clinical placement experience, case study analysis and individual project work. Emphasis will be placed on integrating clinical and university based learning opportunities and on independent study. Your performance will be assessed by a combination of course work including essays, reports, presentations, vivas and examinations, as well as clinical practical assessments.

Teaching hours and attendance

Each module which you study on campus will require you to attend classes and carry out independent work. Your attendance at placement is compulsory and your attendance at QMU-based modules is expected.

Classes will be spread over the whole week, except for placement days when you will be off campus. This is a full-time course, with the expectation that classes, independent study and placement together require 35-40 hours of dedicated time each week.

Links with industry/professional bodies

The course provides graduates, including those who complete the PgDip, with eligibility to register with the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the Health and Care Professions Council to practise in the UK.

Modules

Foundations for Speech and Language Therapy/ Linguistics 1: Introduction to Linguistics/ Neurology for SLT and Audiology/ Adult Acquired Language and Cognitive Communication Disorders/ Linguistics 2: Clinical Linguistics/ Disorders of Speech and Fluency/ Manual Handling/ Dysphagia (Developmental and Acquired)/ Within-Semester Clinical Placement 1/ Professional Practice for SLT 1/ Biological and behavioural Science for SLT: Typical Processes/ Developmental Disorders of Language and Communication/ Intellectual Disability, Physical and Sensory Impairment/ Linguistics 3: Linguistic Processing and Variation/ Within-Semester Clinical Placement 2/ Motor Speech Disorder, Voice Disorder, Cleft Lip and Palate/ Clinical Contexts/ Within-Semester Clinical Placement 3/ Professional Practice 2/ Research Methods

If studying for the MSc, you will also complete a dissertation (60 credits).

Careers

Most graduates work within the NHS in community clinics, schools and hospitals. Some graduates have gained research posts and some have gone on to achieve higher degrees. Some graduate Speech and language therapists may wish to seek employment outside the UK. For further information about how and where this qualification can be used outside of the UK please contact the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

Quick Facts

- The diploma course is the only postgraduate pre-registration course of its kind in Scotland.
- This course is the only one in the UK whereby speech and language therapists and audiologists are in the same department.
- Both these awards qualify you to register to work as a speech and language therapist in the UK.

Other useful information

Entry for International students: NB International applicants should be aware that full registration with the RCSLT entails completion of a probationary period of clinical practice in the UK after the successful completion of the degree. It may be necessary to confirm with the professional body in your home country that this qualification is recognised and that full registration in the UK will entitle you to practice in your home country.

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This course is recognised by the UK Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the UK Health and Care Professions Council. It gives you the training you need to take a professional qualification in speech and language therapy. You’ll learn how to assess and manage a range of commu

Course content

The course follows six main themes:

Communication – linguistics, psychology and how this relates to speech and language pathology.
Participation and Society – how the study of sociology and social and health psychology impact on speech and language therapy.
Research – develop the research skills essential to providing evidence-based health care.
Biomedical Sciences – anatomy, physiology, audiology and neurology, and how to link them to speech and language pathology.
Key Clinical Skills – develop your professional competence.
Clinical Placement – put your skills to work for a range of clients with communication impairments.
nication and swallowing disorders. Your skills will be put into practice through a series of clinical placements throughout the course.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching takes place through lectures, seminars, tutorials, work-based learning and interaction via MOLE, a University online learning environment. Some practical teaching takes place in the University’s human pathology laboratories. Assessment is by exams, coursework and evaluation of clinical work. You’ll complete a research-based systematic review of a clinically relevant topic in the second year of the programme.

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The Department of Health has introduced a new career pathway for Healthcare Scientists. This includes clinical science training to provide an appropriately trained workforce to work in the NHS.

DBS & Fitness to Practise

Students enrolling onto certain programmes within the School of Life and Health Sciences at Aston University will be required to undertake an Enhanced Level Disclosure and Barring Service check. Also in line with national requirements for programmes leading to a health professional qualification, a number of degree programmes in the School of Life and Health Science are subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations.

Course Outline & Modules

The Department of Health has introduced a new career pathway for Healthcare Scientists. This includes clinical science training to provide an appropriately trained workforce to work in the NHS. This requires the education and training of practitioners in the division of neurosensory science. This division is made up of 3 pathways:
-Audiology
-Neurophysiology
-Ophthalmic & Vision Sciences

Students undertake common learning throughout the programme but also have specialist topics in year two and three. Students are employed within NHS Departments and released to undertake academic study.

First year modules:
-NS1HS1 Introduction to Healthcare Science (15 credits)
-NS1PP1 Professional Practice (15 credits)
-NS1NS1 Introduction to Neurosensory Sciences (15 credits)
-NS1CS1 Clinical Science (15 credits)

Second year modules:
-NS2RM1 Research Methods (10 credits)
-NS2EB1 Evidence Based Practice (10 credits)
-NS2RP1 Research Project (20 credits)

Audiology pathway
-NS2AR1 Adult Rehabilitation (20 credits)

Vision Science pathway
-NS2VS1 Ophthalmic & Vision Science (20 credits)

Neurophysiology pathway
-NS2NE1 Evoked Potentials (20 credits)

Third year module:
Neurophysiology pathway
-Neurophysiology Practice (30 credits)

Learning, teaching & Assesment

The majority of the teaching and learning material is delivered via the virtual learning environment (Blackboard 9). Students are provided with a study guide for each module which ensures they are aware of what material needs covering when. The first year is mostly assessed via coursework so students are able to benchmark their abilities early on and to develop their skills in managing their learning.

In the second and third years of the programme students undertake a research project with an associated research methods module to develop their skills in this area.

Students are on campus for short periods each term when they have the opportunity to participate in group activities, tutorials, skills laboratories and seminars.

Professional accreditation

The programme is accredited by the Department of Health via the Modernising Scientific Careers programme.

Career opportunities

This programme sits within the Department of Health’s vision for the Healthcare Science workforce. The aim is to develop practitioners who can improve the scientific profile within healthcare and who have the requisite skills to enhance both the diagnosis and treatment of patients in the NHS. As such it is predominantly aimed at graduates employed within the Scientist Training Programme. It is also aimed at NHS practitioners within the disciplines who wish to undertake an academic qualification as part of their professional development. Individual modules can be undertaken as part of the School’s flexible credit accumulation system leading to a post-graduate certificate, diploma or masters qualification.

The ageing population means that demand for assessment and treatment services is set to rise substantially over the coming years. Our Graduates will be well placed to enter careers in hospitals, community-based practice and also related research areas. Previous graduates have become advanced practitioners or gone on to lead a section of service.

The programme is designed to formally meet the requirements of the NHS and builds on Aston’s established links and extensive experience of health education.

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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.

Teaching, learning and assessment

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.

Teaching hours and attendance

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.

Links with industry/professional bodies

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.

Modules

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).

Careers

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.

Quick Facts

- This course includes 34 weeks of structured placements throughout Scotland, Northern Ireland and the North of England.
- It draws on scientific principles to inform clinical practice.
- Practical skills are taught on campus and students have access to a wide range of equipment.

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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.

Degree information

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) There are no optional modules for this programme.. A Postgraduate Diploma, eight core modules (120 credits), full-time nine months is offered.

Core modules
-Signals, Systems, Acoustics and the Ear
-Anatomy and Physiology of the Audiovestibular System
-Diagnostic Audiology
-Introduction to Amplification and Aural Rehabilitation
-Balance
-Paediatric Audiology
-Clinical and Professional Practice
-Research Methods and Statistics

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.

Careers

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.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Audiologist, Broomfield Hospital (NHS)
-Senior Assistant Audiologist, Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
-Student Audiologist, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
-Student Audiologist, West Middlesex University Hospital (NHS)
-Trainee Healthcare Scientist, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and studying MSc Neurosensory Science, Aston University

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.

Why study this degree at UCL?

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.

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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.

Degree information

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. A Postgraduate Certificate, four optional modules (60 credits), part-time up to two years is offered.

Core modules:
-Anatomy and Physiology of the Audiovestibular System
-Research Methods and Statistics
-Counselling
-Research Project (see below)

Students choose five of the following optional modules:
-Central Auditory Processing
-Advanced Management of Tinnitus and Hyperacusis
-Advanced Amplification and Aural Rehabilitation
-Vestibular Rehabilitation
-Advances in Auditory Implants
-Paediatric Assessment
-Paediatric Habilitation
-Rehabilitation for Adults with Acquired Hearing Loss
-Signals and Systems
-Research Evidence and Design I
-Principles of Health Informatics
-eHealth: Patients and the Internet
-Healthcare Quality and Evidence Based Practice
-Using Information in Healthcare Management
-Research Methods in Healthcare
-Introduction to Neuroanatomy, Systems and Disease

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 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.

Careers

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.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Audiologist, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
-Audiologist, Ministry of Health Malaysia.
-Hearing Aid Audiologist, Security Forces Hospital
-Senior Audiologist, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

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. UK students obtain the knowledge and skills for senior roles in the NHS (bands 6 and 7), as defined by the Knowledge and Skills Framework and National Occupational Standards.

Why study this degree at UCL?

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 programme has close links with healthcare providers and industry (for example, hearing aid manufacturers). Modules delivered as Masterclasses provide excellent networking opportunities with these companies and international healthcare professionals.

Other admission requirements

The Ear Institute recognises that some audiology professionals may have had different (non-degree) entries into the profession. Applicants with the BAAT qualification and/or a Certificate or Diploma in Hearing Therapy who also have at least five years of relevant clinical experience and appropriate registration with the RCCP may be accepted, depending on their relevant experience, and are encouraged to contact the Ear Institute to discuss their application.

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Course Overview

The MSc Advanced Practice is a generic programme with seven specific pathways and can lead to the award of the specifically named degree:
- MSc Advanced Practice (Audiology)
- MSc Advanced Practice (Dietetics)
- MSc Advanced Practice (Housing)
- MSc Advanced Practice (Musculoskeletal Studies)
- MSc Advanced Practice (Public Health Emergencies)
- MSc Advanced Practice (Speech and Language Therapy)
- MSc Advanced Practice (Sport and Exercise Nutrition​)

It is intended that the programme provides for flexible, variable progression that is responsive to student and employer continuous professional learning needs and the constantly changing practice environment.

Any modules at Level 7 (Masters level) studied elsewhere, that meet the learning needs of the student, can be incorporated into the module mix via the Recognising Prior Learning (RPL) procedure. In addition, it is recognised that many professions engage with CPD activities which are not credit rated. The Reflection on Prior Learning module is a 20 credit level 7 generic option module where students can use relevant CPD activities to critically reflect on those experiences and produce a reflective statement and portfolio.

The programme has been designed to meet the four pillars of Advanced Practice. Further information can be found at: http://www.weds.wales.nhs.uk/advanced-practice.

The modules will be delivered in a blended learning pattern (blocks of teaching with on-line resources) as far as possible.

See the website https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/health/courses/Pages/MSc-Advanced-Practice-.aspx

Entry Requirements for specific pathways:​

Dietetics - candidates should be registered Dietitians with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Speech and Language Therapy - candidates should be registered Speech and Language Therapists with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Sports and Exercise Nutrition – candidates should have a first degree in Dietetics, Nutrition or Sports and Exercise Science.

Selection Procedure:
Candidates will be considered by the course director and at least one other member of the course team and may be invited to interview. At this stage there will be discussion about the potential areas that the candidate wishes to study as well as consideration of developmental needs.

​Course Content​

The course will have three defined exit points:
- ​Postgraduate Certificate (PgC) – provides students with the foundation of knowledge and skills required to begin to develop practice as an Advanced Practitioner.

- Postgraduate Diploma (PgD) – provides students with the appropriate knowledge and skills to function as an Advanced Practitioner.

- Master of Science (MSc) – this aimed at those students who wish to continue their academic study and undertake an extended applied research project which must be relevant to practice.

The structure of the programme is designed, where appropriate, to be flexible and meet the needs of the individual learner. Students can opt to study individual modules for their continuous professional development (CPD); there is a separate fees basis for this type of study.

- Audiology:
The audiology modules focus on diagnosis and assessment in several specific areas of clinical audiology by providing advanced theoretical knowledge and training. The modules are intended to provide post-registration education and will be included in the accredited CPD training list of the professional body (British Academy of Audiology, BAA).

- Dietetics:
The Dietetics pathway is intended to support and promote continuing professional development of dietitians and their practice. As such, it will help meet the needs of those wishing to progress and evidence their ability to work at Advanced Practitioner level in the NHS.

- Housing:
The Housing pathway focuses on the core learning outcomes which set the foundations for all members to achieve CIH CM (Chartered Membership). The Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) have set a benchmark for Chartered membership which demonstrates that a Chartered member not only has relevant and up to date knowledge but can use this by applying a range of appropriate skills and behaviours in a professional manner. This includes working to the CIH code of professional ethics.

- Musculoskeletal Studies:
The Musculoskeletal Studies pathway is aimed at HCPC registered practitioners – or equivalent – who are involved in the management of lower limb musculoskeletal conditions across a range of patient groups. This has typically included Podiatrists and Physiotherapists,. A key feature is the emphasis on developing an evidence-based approach to practice, and students are challenged to critically analyse a range of issues related to multiple facets of musculoskeletal practice.

- Public Health Emergencies:
The School has worked with the WHO-Collaborating Centre (Centre for Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England) to develop teaching and training materials on The Public Health Management of Major Incidents, Disasters and Events. The pathway is aimed at policy makers, public and environmental-health professionals, together with clinicians and physicians, this course will provide a contemporary, bespoke and unique approaches to major incident management, drawing upon a number of presentations, case studies, scenarios and international guidance.

- Speech and Language Therapy:
The Speech and Language pathway is intended to support and promote continuing professional development of Speech and Language Therapists and their practice. As such, it will help meet the needs of those wishing to progress and evidence their ability to work at Advanced Practitioner level in the NHS.

- Sport and Exercise Nutrition:
There is a demand for this pathway from Dietitians, Nutritionists and those with a Sport and Exercise Science background. The modules on offer have been aligned to the SENr requirements and accreditation will be sought in the future.

Learning & Teaching

The teaching and learning opportunities on the programme are appropriate for students accessing the modules and have been designed to facilitate the development of the advanced practitioner.

Traditionally Masters level programmes are delivered on a day-a-week basis but increasing work pressures make this form of delivery unsustainable. To accommodate these changes to working practices, most modules will be delivered in a blended format; i.e. with blocks of teaching and online resources.

Module delivery will vary according to specific learning needs but will include lectures, tutorial and seminars, as well as extensive use of Moodle, the Virtual Learning Environment used at the University.

The work based learning modules are ideally suited to flexible learning as they delivered in the work place. Students undertaking these modules are allocated a supervisor from the teaching team and meetings are arranged to suit the student as well as email/telephone contact.

The dissertation also allows this flexibility as students are expected to undertake the research in their place of work. All students will be allocated a personal tutor who will offer academic and pastoral support and guidance on pathway specific and option modules to select to meet their individual learning needs.

Assessment

Each module is assessed by coursework; the type varies according to the modules and can include the completion of a portfolio, presentations, reflections, reports and case studies. All the modules are externally moderated. Wherever possible students will be offered formative assessments and feedback.

Employability & Careers​

The Professional working at Masters Level will be able to lead and contribute to developments in their profession through a more pro-active, critical and reflective approach. Additionally they will be an agent of change, a leader and act as an advocate of their profession. Employability will be enhanced by professions who undertake modules on a CPD basis and NHS professionals will be able to use the awards towards gaining recognition as an Advanced Practitioner.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/scholarships

Find out how to apply here https://www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/howtoapply

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This MSc is structured to provide the theoretical, scientific, clinical, research and vocational skills necessary to practice 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.

Degree information

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 and skull base 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
-Anatomy and Physiology of the Audiovestibular System for Physicians
-Imaging
-Research Methods and Statistics

Optional modules
-Advanced Amplification and Aural Rehabilitation
-Advanced Management of Tinnitus and Hyperacusis
-Advances in Auditory Implants
-Audiovestibular Physics
-Auditory Processing Disorders
-Balance
-Clinical Diagnostics for Audiovestibular Medicine
-Diagnostic Audiology for ENT Practice
-Introduction to Amplification and Aural Rehabilitation
-Lateral Skull Base and Facial Nerve
-Medical and Surgical Treatment of Hearing and Balance Disorders

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 10-12,000 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.

Careers

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
Globally and in the UK the requirements for career progression and development are even more sharply focused. 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.

Why study this degree at UCL?

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.

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