Audiologist

You'll need to complete a 3-year NHS Practitioner Training Programme in healthcare science (audiology).

To work as an audiologist in the private sector, you'll need to do an audiology degree approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.

You could join the postgraduate NHS Scientist Training Programme, if you already have a science degree. This is a 3-year course in clinical science, specialising in neurosensory sciences.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You'll find it helpful to get some paid or voluntary experience in a healthcare setting before you apply for a course.

You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for further advice.

Registration

• you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council

Professional and industry bodies

You could register with The Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists to get access to professional development and networking opportunities.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming an audiologist from:

• British Academy of Audiology
• British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists
• Health Careers

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of psychology
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• the ability to work well with others
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

You could:

• decide on the best way to test a patient's hearing
• adapt tests to suit the age and ability of the patient
• check hearing, including sound level and frequency range
• investigate any related medical, physical and emotional symptoms
• fit, test or repair hearing aid devices and technology
• provide ongoing support and aftercare to patients

You could work in an NHS or private hospital.

You may need to wear a uniform.