USA Career Guide- Audiologists
Education and Training Required to be Audiologists
To become audiologists you need a specialized Master’s degree; however, these days more and more audiologists are obtaining Doctorates-Au.D-instead. The doctoral degree in audiology (Au.D.) is a graduate program typically lasting 4 years.
Master’s programs will take two years and graduate coursework will involve the specific skills and knowledge needed to practice, including anatomy, physiology, physics, chemistry, audio technology, and treatments, all oriented around the human hearing and balance systems.
Licensure largely depends on the requirements of a particular state; most states require a Master’s degree, but a few require Doctorates.
Licenses and Certification
Audiologists must be licensed in all states; requirements vary by state. For specific requirements, contact your state’s licensing board for audiologists.
In many states, graduation from an accredited program and certification through the American Speech-Language Hearing Association or the American Board of Audiology will be sufficient for a license and to practice. Aspiring audiologists should contact their state’s licensing board for more details.
Pay of Audiologists in the USA
As reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics the median annual wage of audiologists was $66,660 in May 2010. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $42,590, and the top 10 percent earned more than $102,210.
Job Prospects of Audiologists in the USA
Employment of audiologists is expected to grow by 37 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 4,800 new jobs over the 10-year period.
Job prospects are expected to be favorable for audiologists with a doctoral degree. Demand may be greater in areas with large numbers of retirees, so audiologists who are willing to relocate may have the best job prospects.( Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program)
Industrial Overview of Audiologists in the USA
Audiologists held about 13,000 jobs in 2010. Most audiologists work in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, physicians' offices, and audiology clinics.
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