Introduction to Audiology

Program Overview

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Delivered online asynchronously, the program offers flexibility and is taught by an experienced faculty. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in audiology, including audiologist, hearing aid dispenser, and teacher of the Deaf.

Program Outline

• Topics include hearing screening, diagnostic assessment, physiological procedures, pediatric evaluation, differential diagnosis, and hearing loss rehabilitation.

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Program Objectives:

• Students will gain a strong foundation in the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system.
• Students will develop an understanding of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing loss.
• Students will learn how to perform basic audiological assessments.
• Students will be prepared for further study in the field of audiology.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear
• Pathologies of the Auditory System
• Basic Assessment of the Auditory System
• Hearing Screening
• Diagnostic Assessment
• Physiological Procedures
• Pediatric Evaluation
• Differential Diagnosis and Rehabilitation of Hearing Loss

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Program Structure:

• This course is offered online asynchronously, with no required meeting times.
• Course materials are organized into modules that are typically one week in length.
• Students can complete the modules at their own pace, fitting them into their own schedules.

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Course Schedule:

• Week 1: Introduction to Audiology, Sound and Its Measurement
• Week 2: The Human Ear and Hearing Loss - Inner, Outer and Middle Ear
• Week 3: Auditory Nerve and Central Auditory Pathways
• Week 4: Pure Tone & Speech Audiometry
• Week 5: Masking
• Week 6: Physiological and Retrocochlear Testing
• Week 7: Hearing Disorders of the Outer, Middle and Inner Ear
• Week 8: Central Auditory Processing Disorders
• Week 9: Nonorganic Hearing Loss
• Week 10: Pediatric Audiology and Assessment
• Week 11: Special Populations
• Week 12: Hearing Aids and Assistive Devices
• Week 13: Treatment and Intervention Approaches

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Self-assessments (mini-quizzes)
• Mastery assignments
• Case studies
• Practice application assignments

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The course uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Self-directed learning (reading textbooks, articles, watching videos)
• Mini-lectures
• Podcasts
• Discussion boards

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Faculty:

• The course is taught by Thomas Hallahan, ScD, MEd, who has extensive experience in audiology.

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Unique Approaches:

• The course is designed to be flexible, allowing students to complete the modules at their own pace.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Audiologist
• Hearing aid dispenser
• Teacher of the Deaf
• Speech-language pathologist

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Career Opportunities:

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Schools
• Private practices

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Career Outcomes:

• The course is offered through the School of Healthcare Leadership at the MGH Institute of Health Professions.
• The course costs $1,620.
• Students will need access to a computer with an internet connection.