What they do
Audiologists identify, assess and provide the non-medical management and rehabilitation for hearing and balance problems, and other communication-related disorders among people of all ages.
Audiologists carry out a number of tasks including audiometric testing, prescribing hearing aids and providing rehabilitation plans for patients. Audiologists may also work with industry to develop noise control and hearing conservation practices.
Working conditions
Audiologists are employed in both public and private settings. They often work with other medical practitioners who specialise in ear, nose and throat disorders.
Tools and technologies
Audiologists need to be familiar with a variety of technological equipment including audiometers, screening units, aural probes, hearing-aid analysers and ophthalmoscopes.
Audiology testing environments need to be appropriately structured and free of electrical interference.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become an audiologist, you usually need to study a degree in biomedical science, human biology, speech pathology, physiology, linguistics or a related field, followed by a postgraduate degree in audiology.
Most universities in Western Australia offer relevant undergraduate courses.
The University of Western Australia offers a two-year Master of Clinical Audiology. This is the only audiology postgraduate degree in Western Australia.
Contact the universities you are interested in for more information.
Required registration and licensing
To work as an audiologist in Western Australia, you may need to obtain a current Working with Children Check issued by the Department of Communities