Audiological scientist : Entry requirements

There are two main points of entry to the profession:

• a BSc (Hons) in Audiology or Postgraduate Diploma in Audiology for registration as an audiologist;
• a first degree in a relevant subject, followed by an MSc in Audiology, leading towards registration as an audiological scientist or clinical scientist (audiology).

The majority of graduates who undertake an MSc in Audiology intend to practise as audiological scientists. The one-year, full-time MSc route is only the first step towards achieving registered audiological scientist or clinical scientist (audiology) status.

The main entry route for MSc graduates is through an NHS regionally funded training programme, the British Academy of Audiology Higher Training Scheme, where they will undertake on-the-job training on a 30-month fixed-term contract (although some are funded for four years through to state registration).

In England and Wales, recruitment is via the NHS Clinical Scientists Recruitment Scheme . Before applying, speak to other audiological scientists and arrange to visit a department to get a feel for the job.

Relevant degree subjects include physical/mathematical/applied science, life and medical science, and engineering. In particular, the following degree subjects may increase your chances:

• chemistry;
• nursing;
• physics;
• speech science/therapy;
• biochemistry;
• electronics;
• biology;
• biomedical science;
• physiology;
• psychology;
• medicine.

A good honours degree is usually necessary for entry to postgraduate courses, with at least a 2:1 for MSc programmes. Entry to the MSc is sometimes possible with an HND, if a candidate has relevant professional experience. There is some competition for postgraduate course places, and more for NHS trainee posts.

A BSc (Hons) in Audiology is a four-year degree, introduced in 2002. The third year is spent on full-time placement in an audiology clinic, the salary funded by the National Health Service (see NHS Careers ). Registration as an audiological scientist or clinical scientist (audiology) would require further qualifications.

Pre-entry experience is not needed, but experience working with children and the elderly is useful. Completing the British Sign Language (Stage 1) course gives an insight into deaf culture and deaf issues.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• good interpersonal skills;
• the ability to communicate well and interact with patients of all ages;
• technical abilities;
• time management skills;
• patience and empathy;
• problem-solving ability;
• an appreciation of this area of work.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.