Distance Learning for a Doctorate in Audiology
In the United States a doctorate of audiology, also known as an AuD, is a four-year program including a clinical practicum during which students gain hands-on experience in the field of audiology. Due to the need for such clinical experience in order to effectively practice audiology, there are no AuD programs that offer coursework entirely through distance learning.
For those who already hold a master's degree in audiology there are transitional programs that allow you to pursue a doctorate-level degree through distance learning. These programs are designed so that practicing audiologists can work toward a doctorate degree to keep up with the requirements for audiologist certification.
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Features
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Distance learning offers educational courses online or through correspondence and can be an excellent alternative to more traditional campus-based education. Distance learning can allow working professionals the flexibility in time and location to pursue higher education without interrupting their careers.
History
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According to The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), those wishing to apply for certification as an audiologist the United States are required to complete 75 hours of post-baccalaureate coursework.
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The Facts
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Several U.S. universities offer distance learning courses for those working in audiology who possess at minimum a master's degree and in some cases several years of clinical experience and who wish to upgrade to a doctorate-level degree.
Requirements for admission to a distance learning course vary. For example, AT Still University requires applicants to their distance learning program to have at least four years of clinical experience on top of a master's degree in audiology. University of Florida's transitional program requires a master's degree, certification and three letters of reference but will consider applicants who only have one year of clinical experience.
Time Frame
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Transitional courses take one to two years to complete as the coursework is intended to complement a two-year master's degree.
Considerations
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If you are seeking to practice audiology in a country other than the United States, you should be aware of differences in requirements for certification. In the U.K. you are required to hold a four-year bachelor of science (BSc) in audiology although masters of science (MSc) courses are also offered for those who possess a BSc in another field. To become certified to practice in Canada and Australia, an MSc in audiology is required.
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