Audiological Science with Clinical Practice

Audiological Science with Clinical Practice at University College London offers an in-depth academic and practical training program designed for students interested in the science of hearing, balance, and communication. This multidisciplinary degree combines concepts from audiology, neuroscience, physiology, and healthcare, preparing graduates to pursue clinical careers in audiology, audiological research, or related fields. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on clinical skills, ensuring students are well-equipped to assess, diagnose, and manage hearing and balance disorders. Students will engage in laboratory work, clinical placements, and research projects, providing a comprehensive learning experience. The curriculum covers core topics such as auditory system anatomy and physiology, psychoacoustics, hearing technology, balance function assessment, and advanced audiological diagnostics. Additionally, students gain insight into the psychological and social aspects of hearing impairment. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication, essential qualities for healthcare professionals. Under the guidance of experienced academic staff and clinical practitioners, students will participate in placements within NHS hospitals and audiology clinics, gaining real-world experience in diverse clinical settings. The course also encourages engagement with emerging technologies and innovative approaches in audiology, ensuring students are prepared for future developments in the field. Graduates of the program will be eligible for registration with professional bodies such as the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), facilitating entry into clinical practice careers. The program’s blend of rigorous academic coursework and practical training prepares students for a range of roles including clinical audiologist, hearing aid audiologist, and research scientist. With the growing demand for audiological services, this program aims to produce highly skilled professionals who can contribute significantly to the enhancement of auditory health and quality of life for individuals with hearing and balance disorders.

The programme provides a detailed study of the hearing and balance mechanisms, their structure, function, pathology and assessment.
The successful student will become competent in a wide range of adult hearing assessments and adult hearing amplification and aural rehabilitation. In addition students will acquire skills that will allow them to assist in specialist areas, specifically balance and paediatric hearing assessments.

Students undertake modules to the value of 300 credits.

The full-time two-year programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits) in the first year, and four core clinical modules (120 credits) in the second year.

A Postgraduate Diploma, ten core modules (150 credits), two core clinical modules (90 credits), full-time 2 years, flexible 3-5 years is also offered.

Year one core modules

Please note: only first-year modules can be taken in flexible mode. The in-service clinical placement modules need to be completed in one year - equivalent to year two of the full-time programme.

• Signals and Systems for Audiology
• Anatomy and Physiology of the Audiovestibular System
• Balance
• Clinical and Professional Practice
• Diagnostic Audiology
• Introduction to Amplification and Aural Rehabilitation
• Paediatric Audiology
• Research Methods and Statistics

Year two core modules

• Clinical Adult Audiovestibular Assessment and Paediatric Hearing Assessment (30 credits)
• Clinical Adult Diagnostics and Auditory Rehabilitation (60 credits)
• Integrative Audiology
• Living with Hearing Loss

Research project/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10–12,000 words. This is submitted at the end of year one.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, case presentations, tutorials, enquiry-based learning, practical demonstrations and in-service clinical placements within accredited audiology departments in the NHS or private sector.
Assessment (formative and summative) is by essays, case presentations, mini -tests, final written and practical examinations, and dissertation.

A minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Candidates who do not meet this requirement but have a minimum of five years’ relevant clinical experience may also be considered.
Students will be expected to meet the requirements of the clinical placement’s human resource department (including satisfactory health clearance and Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check).
Progression to the clinical placement (second) year will be based on satisfactory academic performance and there being no fitness to practise issues.

The Audiological Science with Clinical Practice program at University College London offers a comprehensive funding structure designed to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with UK and EU students typically benefiting from lower rates compared to international students. For domestic students, the annual tuition fee for this program is approximately £9,250, while international students might pay around £19,000 per year. These fees cover access to state-of-the-art facilities, teaching resources, and clinical placement opportunities essential for hands-on learning.

In addition to tuition fees, students may incur costs related to books, supplies, and personal expenses, which are estimated to be around £1,500 annually. To alleviate financial burdens, the university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and grants. For example, the UCL Global Scholarships provide partial fee waivers for international students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and financial need. The university’s financial aid office advises prospective students to explore external funding options as well, including government loans and private bursaries.

Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, part-time employment, and government-backed student loans. UK students are usually eligible for student loans provided by the Student Loans Company (SLC), which can cover tuition fees and living costs. These loans typically have favorable repayment terms linked to income levels after graduation. International students are encouraged to seek scholarships from governmental programs of their home countries or international organizations.

Furthermore, the university provides guidance on financial planning and access to external funding sources through its student support services. Some students opt to take advantage of work placements during their clinical practice modules, which not only enrich their practical experience but also help offset living expenses. Overall, financing studies at UCL involves strategic planning, leveraging available scholarships, loans, and employment opportunities to make higher education accessible and affordable for students pursuing Audiological Science with Clinical Practice.

The MSc in Audiological Science with Clinical Practice at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of hearing science, audiology, and clinical practice. The program combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical training, preparing students for professional roles in audiology and related fields. Throughout the course, students explore the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system, sound measurement and analysis, and the pathophysiology of hearing disorders. Emphasis is placed on the development of diagnostic skills, auditory rehabilitation strategies, and the use of modern audiological equipment and technology.

Students gain hands-on experience through clinical placements and workshops, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings under supervision. The course also covers communication strategies with patients, ethical considerations, and contemporary research in audiology. Graduates of this program are equipped to work in hospitals, clinics, audiology centers, and research institutions. The program encourages independent research, culminating in a dissertation project that addresses current challenges in audiology practice.

University College London’s approach integrates multidisciplinary perspectives, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving landscape of audiological science and healthcare. The program is suitable for individuals with backgrounds in health sciences, psychology, biomedical sciences, or related disciplines, aiming to specialize or advance their careers in audiology. With a curriculum aligned to current clinical standards and scientific advancements, students will be prepared for certification and registration with professional bodies such as the health disorders, and the bilingual program emphasizes both scientific rigor and clinical excellence.