Program Overview

CT6104 Advanced Diagnostics of Otological and Neuro-otological Pathologies in Adults with Hearing Loss

Course Fact File

• Code: CT6104
• Fees: €540 (plus €35 processing fee)
• Closing Date: 13th January 2026
• Venue: Timetable with exact location details in Brookfield Health & Science Complex will be confirmed closer to the date and once registration is complete
• Credits: 5
• Start Date: 13-14 February 2026

Outline

Module Objective

To provide a detailed overview of various measurements and tests related to the diagnosis of otological and neuro-otological pathologies affecting the adult population.

Module Content

The module will discuss pathologies affecting the peripheral and central auditory systems with special reference to advanced diagnostic practices for adults. This will include:

• Pathologies affecting the peripheral and the central auditory system in adults
• Appraisal of current literature with regard to different pathologies affecting the inner, middle and outer ear and the central auditory system
• Advanced diagnostic assessments of the peripheral and the central auditory system and the clinical implications for differential diagnosis
• Cochlear dead regions and the principles of the TEN test and associated conditions
• The impact of primary communication disorders have on accessibility of services and resources

A mission of the module is to engage a diverse group of allied health, educational and medical professionals in expanding and progressing their professional capacities in relation to hearing and balance related patient needs. A distinct benefit of the module is the opportunity for networking across the disciplines.

Practicalities

Module Objective

To provide a detailed overview of various measurements and tests related to the diagnosis of otological and neuro-otological pathologies affecting the adult population.

Module Content

The module will discuss pathologies affecting the peripheral and central auditory systems with special reference to advanced diagnostic practices for adults.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

• Characterise a wide range of pathologies affecting the peripheral and the central auditory system in adults
• Critically appraise current literature with regard to different pathologies affecting the inner, middle and outer ear and the central auditory system
• Demonstrate an understanding of advanced diagnostic assessments of the peripheral and the central auditory system and the clinical implications for differential diagnosis
• Demonstrate an understanding of the conditions leading to the development of cochlear dead regions and the principles of the TEN test
• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the impact that primary communication disorders have on accessibility of services and resources.

Assessment

Total Marks 100: Continuous Assessment 100 marks (1 x Essay (50 marks); 1 x Online Presentation (50 marks)).

Compulsory Elements

Continuous Assessment.

Penalties (for late submission of Course/Project Work etc.)

Where work is submitted up to and including 7 days late, 10% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Where work is submitted up to and including 14 days late, 20% of the total marks available shall be deducted from the mark achieved. Work submitted 15 days late or more shall be assigned a mark of zero.

Pass Standard and any Special Requirements for Passing Module

50% Students must pass each of the components independently to pass this module. For students who do not satisfy this requirement, the overall mark achieved in the module and a 'Fail Special Requirement will be recorded.

Formal Written Examination

No Formal Written Examination.

Why Choose

Skills and Careers Information

This module can be used towards the British Academy of Audiology (BAA) Higher Training Scheme. UCC is proud to be the only Irish University and one of seven universities to participate in this scheme. For more information, visit our Higher Training Scheme information page.

Requirements

Recognised prior clinical experience in diagnostic audiology.

As per Entry Requirements for MSc HBC

CKX27 Part-time and also recognised prior clinical experience in diagnostic audiology.

• Candidates will hold either an undergraduate honours degree (NFQ Level 8; minimum Second Class Honours, Grade 1) or a postgraduate degree, in any scientific or medical discipline, such as but not exclusively, Audiology, Anatomy, Biomedical Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, Speech and Language Therapy, Medicine, Nursing and Education.
• In exceptional circumstances candidates without an honours degree may be recommended for entry to the programme after a review of their qualifications and experience by the programme lead. The admission of such candidates will be subject to the approval of the School of Clinical Therapies.
• Applications will be reviewed on the basis of educational qualifications, relevant work experience and motivation.
• A motivational statement is part of this application process. The motivational statement should be no longer than 800 words and demonstrate motivation, relevant previous experience, commitment and suitability in applying for this course.
• Short-listed applicants will be invited for interview and each applicant will be scored by an interview panel on the basis of educational qualifications, relevant work experience and motivation.

Recognition of Prior Learning

In accordance with UCC's policy on Recognition of Prior Learning, a student who has successfully completed modules for Continuous Professional Development within the MSc in Hearing Balance and Communication programme, and/or has completed relevant university postgraduate modules in a cognate area at similar NFQ level (subject to approval of the Programme Team), and who meets the entry requirements for the MSc in Hearing Balance and Communication, can apply to register for the MSc in Hearing Balance and Communication with exemptions granted for modules taken within the previous five years to a maximum of 20 credits. This will require a PAC application by the student for the MSc.