MSc Audiology (Pre-Registration)

Subject to change due to upcoming revalidation.

Currently:

• Adult Audiological Assessment (20 credits): This module covers a range of current audiological assessments used in the assessment of hearing in the adult population. You will learn how each assessment relates to the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system and to the effects of a range of pathologies. You will learn how to analyse test results using cross-check principles to inform further assessment and assist diagnosis.
• Paediatric Audiological Assessment (20 credits): This module covers a range of current audiological assessments used in the assessment of hearing in the paediatric population. You will learn how audiologists work alongside parents/caregivers and other professionals in health and education to identify and diagnose hearing loss in babies and children and ensure that timely intervention can be put in place.
• Linguistics and Culture in Signed and Spoken Languages (20 Credits): This module aims to promote your understanding of the links between hearing, speech and communication. You will be introduced to linguistic analysis and theories of language acquisition. There will be a particular focus on models of deafness, and on the language and culture of the Deaf community.
• Adult Aural Rehabilitation (20 credits): This module teaches elements of counselling theory as it applies to audiological practice. It also covers psychosocial aspects of hearing loss. You will be introduced to rehabilitation theories and techniques and to the current range of technologies (hearing aids, implantable devices and assistive listening devices) available to support adult patients in adapting to hearing impairment.
• Paediatric Aural Habilitation (20 credits): This module will provide you with an overview of the impact of hearing impairment on children. You will learn about different approaches to language and education for deaf children, with a particular emphasis on the principles and techniques of Auditory Verbal Therapy. This module will introduce you to the specific challenges involved in fitting hearing aids and assistive listening devices for children. The topic of implantable technologies including cochlear implants, auditory brainstem implants, middle-ear implants and bone-anchored hearing aids will be explored further in this module.
• Audiological Science (40 credits): The study of supporting subjects, such as Linguistics, Physics, Anatomy & Physiology, Psychology, Neurology and Research Methods is an essential part of any audiology curriculum. You will be introduced to many of these in the Audiological Science module delivered during semester one. We recognise that students entering the MSc will come from a variety of academic backgrounds and you may already have a good understanding of one or more of these subjects. This module is designed to allow you to focus on those areas that may be less familiar to you.
• Clinical Skills and Professional Practice for Audiology (0 credits): This module focuses on the development of your practical clinical skills, clinical decision-making, reflection and professional practice. The knowledge, understanding and skills you have acquired in the theoretical modules are integrated and applied to clinical practice.
• Vestibular Assessment and Rehabilitation (20 credits): In this module you will learn about the anatomy and physiology of the balance mechanism, the assessment of balance disorders and the rehabilitation techniques used to support and treat patients with balance disorders, including psychological counselling.
• Advanced Audiological Assessment (20 credits): This module covers the more advanced audiological assessments used in the assessment of hearing in both adults and children. You will learn how each assessment relates to the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system and to the effects of a range of pathologies. You will learn how to analyse test results using cross-check principles to inform further assessment and assist diagnosis.
• Enquiry Based Learning (20 credits): Research methodology is an important supporting subject, since evidence-based practice relies on the systematic application of scientific principles and investigative methodology. The inclusion of the Enquiry Based Learning module encourages you to apply a rigorous investigative approach to study in all areas of the course.
• Clinical Placement (0 credits): Although your clinical placement in an Audiology department does not begin until Semester 2 of your second year, we will spend time during Semester 1 preparing you for your placement. This includes practising your clinical skills, completing a Placement Passport and hearing from former students and practice educators about what to expect.
• Research Dissertation (60 credits): Completion of the MSc requires you to undertake a 60-credit research dissertation. This module begins at the end of your clinical placement and will normally take around six months to complete.