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Field Description
Audiology is the science of hearing and the study of hearing loss.
It encompasses aspects such as acoustics, noise pollution, diseases
and defects of the ear, and the effect of hearing loss on the child’s
development of speech and language. Audiologists are professionals
educated in the study of hearing, hearing loss, and rehabilitation
of the hearing impaired.
The audiologist’s day-to-day work involves the prevention,
detection, measurement and rehabilitation of hearing loss in children
and adults. When an individual is referred for audiological assessment,
the audiologist must determine the severity and type of hearing
loss present. Hearing loss is measured with sophisticated electroacoustic
equipment using tests specially selected to match the needs, capabilities
and age of the patient.
Choose a program:
Career Opportunities
Employment of audiologists is expected to grow much faster than
the average for all occupations through the year 2010. Because hearing
loss is strongly associated with aging, rapid growth in the population
age 55 and over will cause the number of persons with hearing impairment
to increase markedly.
In addition, baby boomers are now entering middle age, when the
possibility of neurological disorders and associated speech, language
and hearing impairments increases. Medical advances are also improving
the survival rate of premature infants and trauma and stroke victims,
who then need assessment and possible treatment.
Earning Potential
According the U.S. Department of Labor, median annual earnings of
audiologists is $44,830. Salaries range from $30,850 to $68,570,
with the majority falling between $37,000 and $55,290.
Professional Organization
Visit the following Web site to learn more about the exciting field
of audiology:
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