Students completing the AuD program obtain a doctoral degree from the University of Washington and are eligible to receive the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology from the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA). Students will be prepared for professional positions in medical, educational and private practice settings. Courses are taught by department faculty and community instructors who are nationally and internationally known for their areas of expertise. Students can also take advantage of the many resources of the University of Washington, including the world renowned Bloedel Hearing Research Center, the University of Washington Medical School, and a wide range of clinical placements. Seattle is a regional medical center, serving patients from a four-state area (Washington, Alaska, Montana, Idaho), resulting in a wealth of diverse clinical experience. |
| Clinical Training All AuD students complete extensive clinical training. During the first two years of the program the student receives broad training in all aspects of audiology. In the latter part of the program, students have the opportunity to specialize in the area of their choice. Specialty focuses include pediatric audiology, geriatric audiology, educational audiology, or a business focus for students intending to enter private practice. Specialized coursework relevant to these areas is detailed in the Program Information section. |
| The fourth year of the program consists of a full-time clinical placement. During this year, a bi-monthly evening course, the Clinical and Research Forum in Audiology, meets regularly (via distance learning) to provide support and training on advanced topics relevant to the fourth-year rotation. Topic discussions are hosted by department faculty and outside instructors and include recent advances in audiology practice as well as professional issues. |
| Clinical Research Training Because the ability to apply the latest research findings to clinical practice is essential, all AuD students complete a clinical research component including coursework in research methods and statistics. Students work with a faculty mentor to design and complete a project in their area of interest. Recent projects have included developing and evaluating a pilot program in group aural rehabilitation for a private practice audiology clinic; studying the best techniques for using hearing protective devices during occupational noise exposure; and examining the effects of ototoxic drugs on hair cell damage/survival. |
