How the Audiology Major Prepares You for the Job Market
Audiology is the study of hearing. Audiology majors focus on measuring the hearing capabilities of individuals, detecting and treating hearing-related disorders or disorders affected by the ear, and researching technology that can improve the hearing capacity of those with damaged hearing. The audiology major is often wrapped with speech pathology, which focuses on improving the communicative abilities of those suffering from stuttering, mental development issues, or other conditions that affect speech, according to the University of North Carolina in Greensboro. This is because speech pathology utilizes both audiology and therapy to treat patients, especially those with hearing disorders that affect speech, such as partial deafness. Audiology majors take courses in aural rehabilitation, adult development, and other topics related to bettering the studentís understanding of the ear and human hearing. Many audiology majors also must complete outside clinical work before graduation, providing them with a chance to watch professionals at work as well as participating in clinical work themselves. This combination of education and working experience gives audiology majors the valuable skills needed to seamlessly join the health care field upon graduation.
Best Career Paths for Audiology Majors
Audiology is a highly specialized field, but it is a rewarding one for those looking to make a difference in the aural development of children and adults across the country. The best career paths for audiology majors are:
- Audiology. Audiologists are responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with hearing problems. They also work with patients who suffer from ear-related problems, such as conditions that affect balance. Audiologists also work with measuring patient hearing capabilities, using computers and other instruments to see at what point a patient cannot hear sound. This is important for detecting hearing loss, even in young children. Audiologists working with hearing loss patients have the additional duty of informing those patients on how to use their hearing assistance devices. Audiologists make an average salary of $62,030 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Speech-Language Pathology. Speech-language pathologists diagnose and treat patients with speech and communication disorders. Most speech-language pathologists work alongside physicians, though some work independently at their own practice. They manage patients who are unable to communicate due to a birth condition, mental condition, or physical injury, such as those with swallowing difficulties, stuttering issues, or hearing loss. Pathologists typically work with patients to improve their understanding of language and speech, developing treatments to improve patient speech. They must assess each case individually to develop the best treatment plan to work with the patientís speech affliction. Speech-language pathologists earn an average salary of $62,930 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How to Market Your Audiology Degree
Your audiology degree took hard work to earn. To make the most out of your education, you need to prove to potential employers that your education makes you the most qualified candidate for the job. Emphasize the skills you acquired while in school. For example, mention that your degree also gives you the research and analytical skills needed in the field, as well as the hands-on experience that will make you a productive member of the health care facility. Proving that the knowledge and skills you obtained during your studies can be translated into real-world work is the best way to market your audiology degree.
