Introduction to the Hearing Aid Audiology Program

The Higher Education Diploma in Hearing Aid Audiology is a unique course offered by Queen Margaret University, aimed at professionals already working in healthcare. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to move into a career as a hearing aid audiologist in the NHS and a hearing aid dispenser in the private sector.

Program Overview

• Duration: 2 years full-time
• Start Date: September 2027
• Location: Blended (online and on campus)
• Study Abroad: No
• School: School of Health Sciences
• Division: SHS
• Fees & Funding: 2027/28 Undergraduate fees
• UCAS Code: N/A. Applications should be made to QMU.
• SCQF Level: 8

Course Structure

The course is a two-year blended learning program where students study while continuing to work in a clinically relevant field.

• In Year One, students come to campus for four week-long sessions of classroom-based lectures and lab work.
• In Year Two, there are two week-long sessions on campus.
• Once back in their workplace, an appointed clinical educator supervises students as they work with people with hearing loss.

Teaching, Learning, and Assessment

• The course combines distance, on-campus, and workplace learning.
• Students must work in a clinically relevant area while studying.
• The curriculum is designed to help students become independent, reflective practitioners.
• Assessments include closed-book written exams, which can be taken at an exam center closer to the student's home, with additional fees possibly applied.

Modules

Year One

• Communication in Clinical Practice (20 credits)
• Auditory Assessment 1 (20 credits)
• Auditory Assessment 2 (20 credits)
• Hearing Aid Technology 1 (20 credits)
• Basic Sciences for Hearing Aid Audiology (20 credits)
• Clinical Practice in Hearing Aid Audiology 1 (20 credits)

Year Two

• Hearing Aid Technology 2 (20 credits)
• Aural Rehabilitation (20 credits)
• Professional Issues in Hearing Aid Audiology (20 credits)
• Special Issues in Hearing Aid Audiology (10 credits)
• Working with Sign Language Users and Interpreters (10 credits)
• A Counselling Approach to Hearing Aid Audiology (20 credits)
• Clinical Practice in Hearing Aid Audiology 2 (20 credits)

Career Opportunities

Upon completion, students can work in the NHS and private sector as hearing aid audiologists or dispensers.

Entry Requirements

• Standard: A typical entrant would be a student sponsored by an employer, with at least five Nat 5 (or equivalent) at grade C or above, and ideally three passes at Higher Grade.
• International: IELTS of 7.0 with no element lower than 6.5.
• Other Requirements: A satisfactory criminal records check is required.

Fees and Funding

• Fees: Please refer to the 2027/28 Undergraduate fees information.
• Other Costs: The cost of professional indemnity insurance is the student's responsibility.

Application Information

• How to Apply: Application for this course should be made to QMU.
• Application Deadline: Likely to be around 31 July 2026.

Awarding Body

Queen Margaret University.

Terms and Conditions

The delivery of this course is subject to the terms and conditions set out in the 2027/28 Entry Terms and Conditions (Undergraduate). The modules listed are correct at the time of posting but are subject to change.

Queen Margaret University

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Overview:

Queen Margaret University (QMU) is a public university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is known for its person-centered and career-focused approach to education and teaching, with a commitment to shaping a better world. QMU boasts widely recognized expertise in various fields, including business, creative industries, education, health and rehabilitation, and social sciences.

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Services Offered:

QMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Learning Facilities:

Library, IT services, remote access, Canvas, QMU Portal, ePortfolio

Student Support:

Careers and Employability, Students' Union, QMU Sports Centre, Clinics, Accommodation, Finance Office

Campus Life:

Eat and Drink on Campus, QMU Online Shop, Blogs, Ask a Student a Question

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

QMU provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:

Community Feel:

An airy and bright campus with a strong sense of community.

Student Services:

Ready access to student services, food outlets, accommodation, sports facilities, and social spaces.

Beautiful Grounds:

A beautiful campus with plenty of outdoor spaces for relaxation and socializing.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Person-Centered Approach:

QMU focuses on individual student needs and career development.

Career-Focused Education:

The university emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience.

Renowned Expertise:

QMU has a strong reputation for research and innovation in various fields.

Supportive Campus Environment:

Students are provided with a welcoming and supportive community.

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Academic Programs:

QMU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Study:

Various undergraduate degrees across different disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's degrees and postgraduate research opportunities.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

Short courses and online programs for professional development.

Online Learning:

100% online master's courses for flexible learning.

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Other:

• QMU is committed to social justice and nurturing individuals while promoting collective support.
• The university actively engages with the community through outreach programs and events.
• QMU has a strong international presence with a diverse student body and partnerships with institutions worldwide.
• The university is undergoing a transformation of its teaching and learning spaces to enhance the student experience.