Question
What features should I look for when choosing an Au.D. program?
Answer
Bachelors to Au.D. programs are long, typically four years. With that in mind, I would suggest you look for a program where the faculty can get to know you well enough to meet your academic needs. First, I suggest you look for a program where the faculty are full time at that university in contrast with one that uses several adjunct faculty from the region to provide the coursework. Second, I would suggest that you look for a program that allows students the opportunity to experience most or all of what an audiologist needs to know prior to program completion. Learn if the programs you're interested in provide their students with experience in educational (school-based) audiology, neonatal screening, vestibular assessment and treatment, opportunities to observe surgery and neuro monitoring, parent-infant programs for deaf and hard of hearing children and families, cochlear implant experience, and industrial/hearing conservation. Also, have a clear understanding of the program's assessment and retention requirements. Lastly, I would suggest that you speak with students presently enrolled in the program for their opinions of the training and clinical instruction they receive.
Neil DiSarno is a professor in the Au.D. program and the Department Head of Communication Sciences & Disorders at Southwest Missouri State University (SMSU)in Springfield, Missouri. He has been a practicing audiologist for more than 25 years. He began the Master's program at SMSU and later established their Au.D. program.
Neil J. DiSarno, Ph.D., Professor, Department Head Communication Sciences & Disorders Southwest Missouri State University 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65804
Phone 417-836-5368
Fax 417-836-4242
email [email protected]
Website www.smsu.edu/csd