Audiologist Training and Certification

New audiologists must earn a doctoral degree to enter the practice. All audiologists must be licensed; requirements vary by state.

The doctoral degree in audiology (Au.D.) is a graduate program typically lasting 4 years. A bachelor’s degree in any field is needed to enter one of these doctoral programs.

Graduate coursework in audiology includes anatomy, physiology, physics, genetics, normal and abnormal communication development, diagnosis and treatment, pharmacology, and ethics. Graduate programs also include supervised clinical practice. Graduation from a program accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation is required to get a license in some states.

Audiologists must be licensed in all states; requirements vary by state. For specific requirements, contact your state’s licensing board for audiologists.

Audiologists can earn the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A), offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. They also may be credentialed through the American Board of Audiology. Although it is not required, certification may satisfy some or all of the requirements for licensure and may be required by some employers.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition