The Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology offers the Master of Clinical Audiology degree, which is a two year full time course. Since 1998, the Master of Clinical Audiology degree has been required for entry to the profession.

Audiology is a clinical science involving hearing and balance assessment and rehabilitation. Hearing assessment usually involves the use of a number of specialised tests which help to ascertain the site or type of problem within the auditory system. Audiologists working in this area often work closely with otologists (ear specialists).

Aural rehabilitation involves helping people with impaired hearing to cope with their hearing difficulties. This work usually includes fitting hearing aids or other devices such as the cochlear implant (bionic ear), training in the use of these devices and helping people to use their vision and other compensatory mechanisms in order to communicate effectively.

This profession should be of interest to those with a scientific background who are interested in working with people.Students who demonstrate an aptitude for research may be considered for PhD studies within the Department.

Course description

This course provides the basic scientific background for audiology, an introduction to clinical work, comprehensive training in all aspects of clinical audiology along with an introduction to related research methods.

The first year of the course provides basic scientific background for audiology and an introduction to clinical work. The second year provides comprehensive training in all aspects of clinical audiology along with an introduction to research methods in this field.

Students who demonstrate an aptitude for research may be considered for PhD studies within the Department. On completion of this course the students should have:

The course consists of formal lectures, seminars, practical work and student presentations along with a substantial clinical component. Students will be scheduled for supervised clinical work at our clinical school and at various hearing care facilities across Victoria. The course runs from February to November and is made up of lectures, practical sessions and clinics.

The course is not available part time or via distance education.

Audiologists are involved in hearing and balance assessment and rehabilitation. This course provides the basic scientific background for audiology, an introduction to clinical work, comprehensive training in all aspects of clinical audiology along with an introduction to related research methods.

With profound and pragmatic training in all areas of audiology, a Master of Clinical Audiology will ready you for practice. Graduates of this course leave with clinical experience and high employability – with a variety of exciting career paths at your disposal.

As a Graduate of this Master program, you can also apply for membership of the Audiological Society of Australia (ASA).

Unique employment opportunities

University of Melbourne audiology graduates are highly desirable in the job market, with most finding work within three months. The Master of Clinical Audiology will place you at the forefront of this rapidly evolving and growing sector.

The program will help you foster connections with Cochlear, Audiology Australia, the Eye and Ear Hospital along with government and private hearing aid providers and companies. Teaching experts within the course are also closely tied with the international community of audiology.

If you’re looking to move on to further study, the Master program offers students who demonstrate an aptitude for research an avenue for further PhD studies within the Department. Previous Master of Clinical Audiology graduates have been at the forefront of research and practice in numerous specialist areas, such as:

• Hearing in classroom education and childhood development
• Age-related changes in the central auditory system
• Innovations in hearing devices and surgery
• Auditory function in people with different conditions
• Service delivery and patient care.

You will learn directly from prominent local and international figures, expanding your network and ensuring you’re across technological advancements in the industry. Global experts will ensure you have access to the most up-to-date research on the future of audiology, from the rise of automatic hearing tests to self-fitting hearing aids.

Delivering health expertise around the globe

As Master of Clinical Audiology graduate, you will have the opportunity to apply for overseas internship placements where you can use your learned skills to deliver valuable services in a developing country or experience international placement. Recent students have been able to complete placements in Cambodia, Malawi, Tonga and Hong Kong, with many more opportunities underway.