Audiologist

Duties and Responsibilities: Audiologists are ear specialists. Typically, these professionals work with patients who have problems with hearing, balance or other ear-related problems. Audiologists typically work in health care settings, although many also work in schools or educational environments. Common duties of these workers include identifying, assessing and treating hearing problems and balance disorders, discussing symptoms with patients, documenting treatment, ordering equipment and hiring employees. Much of their work is centered on the need for hearing aids. Additionally, audiologists may be responsible for determining the level of emotional or mental stress the hearing loss may be causing a patient and referring said patient to the appropriate resources to alleviate the stress.

Salary: $63,640-$88,426

Education: A doctoral degree in audiology is required of all individuals who want to become audiologists. The graduate program typically requires four years to complete; applicants must hold a bachelor's degree to qualify, preferably in a medically-related field. The curriculum required by an audiology program typically includes genetics, anatomy, physiology, communication development, and diagnosis courses. Most audiology programs include an internship or other clinical practice opportunity.

Reflection: Do you think that you would like to be one? Why?  Why not?

No, I wouldn’t like to be an audiologist due to the fact that it grosses me out think about having to look at what’s inside someone’s ear. Also since I already have something else in mind as a career.