Audiology

The Bachelor of Audiology at the University of Canterbury is a comprehensive and highly specialized program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the field of hearing and balance health. This undergraduate degree combines rigorous theoretical coursework with extensive practical training to ensure graduates are well-equipped to assess, diagnose, and manage a wide range of auditory and vestibular disorders. Throughout the program, students will explore core areas such as audiological science, hearing aid technology, cochlear implants, auditory processing, and communication strategies, gaining a deep understanding of the auditory system and its related challenges. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice and incorporates the latest advances in audiology to ensure students are prepared for contemporary healthcare environments. Students will engage in laboratory work, clinical placements, and collaborative projects that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional communication skills. The program is designed in consultation with industry experts and aligns with international standards for audiology training, providing a pathway to registration and licensure as a credentialed audiologist. Graduates of this program have the opportunity to work in diverse settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community health organizations, making a real difference in people's lives by improving hearing health and quality of life. The University of Canterbury provides state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and a supportive learning community to facilitate an engaging educational experience. This program also encourages research involvement and lifelong learning, ensuring graduates remain at the forefront of developments in audiology. Whether students are passionate about helping individuals overcome hearing difficulties or interested in research and technology, the Bachelor of Audiology offers a rich and rewarding pathway into the healthcare sector, supporting the development of highly skilled professionals committed to making a positive impact on society.

The Master of Audiology takes two years full-time or three to four years part-time to complete.

Subjects and courses

• Coursework develops knowledge and skills across the scope of practice, including a strong foundation in acoustics, psychoanalytics, and neuroscience. 
• Clinical practice is undertaken with adult and paediatric clients in different clinical settings.
• A thesis project is mentored by leading research staff.

Admission to a master’s degree is based on the evaluation of evidence of your ability to undertake postgraduate study in a specialist field of inquiry or professional practice. The primary basis for selection is on academic merit, however consideration may also be given to other factors.

Normally the minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree from a New Zealand university, or a qualification or combination of qualifications considered to be equivalent.

If you gained your qualifications overseas, these will need to be assessed to make sure they are of an equivalent standard. You are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements.

Qualification specific requirements

The MAud does not require prior training in Speech and Language Therapy. Candidates should have either:

• qualified for a Speech and Language Pathology degree or
• qualified for another bachelor’s degree with relevant coursework (eg, Arts, Engineering such as Electrical and Electronic or Mechanical, Health Sciences, Science, or Teaching and Learning) or
• been admitted with equivalent status to the above by the University.

Candidates with a different undergraduate background to that of the above, and with a strong achievement record, will be considered. All candidates must be approved for study by the Dean of Science.

Financing studies for the Audiology programme at the University of Canterbury typically involve a combination of government funding, student loans, scholarships, and personal contributions. The New Zealand government offers funding options for domestic students through Studylink, which provides student loans and allowances to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. Domestic students are encouraged to explore eligibility for these loans, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of university studies. International students are generally responsible for full tuition fees, which vary depending on their residency status, and are advised to secure appropriate visas that allow for study and, if applicable, work rights.

The university offers various scholarships and bursaries aimed at supporting students in health sciences, including those studying audiology. These financial aid options are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria related to the student’s background or field of study. It is recommended that prospective students thoroughly research the university’s scholarship opportunities early in their application process and apply by designated deadlines to enhance their chances of receiving financial support.

Apart from external scholarships and government funding, students may also consider part-time employment opportunities available on campus or within the local community to offset living costs. The University of Canterbury provides resources and career services to assist students in finding part-time jobs suitable for balancing with their academic commitments.

Most students finance their studies through a combination of these options to manage the cost of tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and daily expenses. International students should also prepare for additional costs such as health insurance, student visas, and travel. Budgeting and financial planning are essential components of preparing for university life, and students are encouraged to seek financial advice from university support services.

Overall, financing a degree in Audiology at the University of Canterbury involves understanding the available government support, exploring scholarship opportunities, considering personal savings or family assistance, and possibly seeking part-time work. Students should start planning early to ensure they meet application deadlines for financial aid and have a comprehensive understanding of the total costs involved in their studies.

The Bachelor of Audiology at the University of Canterbury is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a career in audiology, a health science concerned with hearing, balance, and related disorders. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical clinical training, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to assess, diagnose, and manage hearing and vestibular systems. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including anatomy and physiology of the ear, auditory neuroscience, hearing aid and cochlear implant technology, auditory rehabilitation, pediatric audiology, and vestibular assessment and management. Students are provided with opportunities to engage in extensive clinical placements within audiology clinics, hospitals, and community health settings, enabling them to develop vital hands-on experience under professional supervision.

Throughout the degree, students learn about the latest advances in audiological research and technology, preparing them to work with diverse client populations such as infants, children, adults, and the elderly. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration with speech-language therapists, ENT specialists, and other healthcare professionals. The University of Canterbury also provides access to state-of-the-art audiology laboratories and clinical facilities that mimic real-world environments. Graduates of the program are equipped to work in hospitals, private practices, audiology clinics, community health centers, and in research roles.

The Bachelor of Audiology at the University of Canterbury is typically a four-year full-time degree. Admission requirements generally include completion of secondary education with strong performance in relevant subjects. The program aims to produce practitioners who are not only skilled in clinical techniques but also ethical, culturally competent, and committed to ongoing professional development. Post-degree pathways may include registration with national health authorities and opportunities for further specialization or postgraduate research.

Overall, the program strives to contribute significantly to hearing health services, supporting individuals with hearing loss and related conditions to achieve improved quality of life. The university maintains strong links with industry partners and professional bodies to ensure the curriculum remains current with industry standards and innovations.