Becoming an audiologist: Information, requirements and more
Become an audiologist and experience the joy of helping to improve people’s hearing. If you have excellent communication skills and patience, this might be the right career for you. An audiologist can also be referred to as a hearing therapist. Looking for a job? Find medical vacancies on Job Mail today.
Duties of an audiologist
An audiologist is responsible for diagnosing and treating hearing problems. They also address balance problems and other issues related to ears. These healthcare professionals work with both adults and children. They carry out hearing tests and interpret the results with the aim of diagnosing problems. Once they’ve identified the cause of the hearing loss, they develop a treatment plan. Audiologists are responsible for fitting and testing hearing aids and cochlear implants. These professionals use audiometric equipment to get the job done. Other aspects of this role can include overseeing staff and maintaining patient records. Keeping up to date with the latest research in the field of audiology is also essential.
Skills and attributes
- Interpersonal and communication skills
- Patience
- Ability to pay attention to detail
- Trustworthy
- Self-motivated
- Excellent hand coordination
- Friendly and professional attitude
- Observant
- Problem-solving skills
Educational requirements
If you want to study to become an audiologist, you’ll need to have a senior certificate with matric exemption. While each educational institute has different entry requirements, mathematics, life science, and physical science are recommended schools subjects.
To become an audiologist, you’ll need to complete theoretical training followed by an internship and 12 months of community service. Once you’ve qualified, you’ll need to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. You can also consider becoming a member of the South African Association of Audiologists.
What to study:
You can study the following at selected universities across South Africa:
- Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) in Audiology
- Bachelor of Arts degree (BA) in Audiology
- Bachelor of Communication Pathology (Audiology)
- MA in Audiology
- PhD in Audiology
Employment opportunities
If you decide to pursue a career in audiology, there are numerous employment opportunities available. You can choose to be self-employed by opening a private practice or work at hospitals, special needs schools, and clinics. The Department of Education also requires the services of audiologists.
Work environment
Audiologists usually work with a team of health professionals, which may include physical therapists and physicians. Audiologists refer their clients for treatment with other healthcare professionals when it’s necessary. These healthcare professionals typically work during regular business hours. Emergency cases are rare, which sets this job apart from other medical careers.
Related jobs
- Speech Therapist
- Physical Therapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Physicians
Now that you know what becoming an audiologist is all about, you can get your career off to a great start. Register your CV on Job Mail for FREE today and apply for medical vacancies across South Africa.
