Program Overview

Foundation Degree Hearing Aid Audiology

The Foundation Degree Hearing Aid Audiology is a Level 5 program designed to enhance career prospects within the audiology field in the NHS or independent sector.

Course Overview

This program provides students with the necessary qualifications to work as hearing aid dispensers, combining online learning with expert teaching, cutting-edge facilities, and technology.

Location

The program is located at Aston University, Birmingham.

Duration and Start Date

The program lasts for 15 months, with a start date of September 2025.

Course Type

The program is a work-based degree, allowing students to earn a salary while studying.

Course Objectives

The program aims to:

1. Produce graduates who meet the National Occupational Standards for Associate Practitioner in Audiology within the NHS and for Hearing Aid Dispenser in the private sector.
2. Provide students with an intellectually rigorous and up-to-date education in specific areas within audiology.
3. Provide an environment where staff research and clinical activity inspire and inform student learning.
4. Produce graduates who can apply critical judgment and reasoning to their chosen occupation.
5. Respond to the needs of able mature students, those with non-traditional entry qualifications, and students with A-levels.

Modules and Learning Outcomes

The program consists of two stages, each with several modules:

Stage 1 Modules

• Audiological procedures and professional skills 1 (30 credits)
• Healthcare study skills (15 credits)
• Diagnostics audiology (15 credits)
• Science in audiology (30 credits)
• Aural health and hygiene (30 credits) Total: 120 credits

Stage 1 Outcomes

• Identify effective oral and written communication skills
• Identify the role of professionalism and reflective practice in healthcare
• Relate audiological procedures, referral pathways, and psychological theories relevant to rehabilitation
• Describe concepts surrounding anatomy and physiology of the auditory and vestibular system
• Describe concepts of physics and acoustics of sound and their relation to audiological measurement and management
• Recognize appropriate management strategies for cerumen removal

Stage 2 Modules

• Audiological procedures and professional skills 2 (30 credits)
• Research methods (15 credits)
• Auditory management and devices (30 credits)
• Psychoacoustics and speech (15 credits)
• Auditory rehabilitation (15 credits)
• Introduction to healthcare and professional practice (15 credits) Total: 120 credits

Stage 2 Outcomes

• Develop critical thinking and literature search skills
• Apply evidence-based practice to the assessment and management of hearing-related conditions
• Demonstrate the principles of patient-centered care and shared decision-making
• Implement theoretical concepts of audiological sciences when considering patient care and management choices
• Critically evaluate different approaches to problem-solving in the field of audiology
• Demonstrate professional knowledge and behaviors required of a Healthcare Professional
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills

Entry Requirements

• Five GCSEs at C/4 or above, including Maths, English Language or English Literature, and science
• One A-level science, normally at 32 UCAS tariff points or equivalent
• BTEC National Diploma: Science BTEC with Pass/Pass/Pass
• Access to HE Diploma: Pass in Access to Science, with English and Maths GCSE equivalency required
• International Baccalaureate: 26+ points
• Employed in full-time clinical Audiology

Course Fees

The program is funded by the UK government and the employer, with no tuition fees for the student. The funding band for this Degree Apprenticeship is ｣13,000.

Assessment

The program will be assessed through a combination of written and oral examinations, class tests, individual and group coursework, projects, presentations, and practical assessments.

Career Prospects

The Level 5 Hearing Aid Audiology degree creates a pathway to becoming an audiologist, offering opportunities in hospitals and health clinics to assess and manage conditions like hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders. Graduates may choose to pursue further studies, such as BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology).