BSc Healthcare Science Audiology – Course Details | Colleges | Notes | Jobs: A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Healthcare Science (Audiology) provides a rich and empowering career in healthcare but what does doing it mean? Additionally, this robust program prepares students not only with essential knowledge, but also with the practical skills required to diagnose, manage and treat hearing and balance disorders. Here we will discuss the course details of BSc Healthcare Science Audiology course, subjects, top colleges in the UK and Study notes. In addition, we also discuss various placements available to graduates in the healthcare sector throughout the UK. This guide will help you along your own path in audiology, whether you are a prospective student, current learner, or recent graduate.
Program Title: BSc Healthcare Science Audiology/Audiology BSc
Country Origin: United Kingdom (UK)
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Details
This three-year BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) course thus offers HCPC, RCCP, and NSHCS accredited practitioner-level training. As such, this accreditation enables graduates to pursue careers in the NHS and in the independent sector.
In addition, the curriculum includes theoretical, practical, and clinical training in audiology, which is essential for an audiologist and hearing aid dispenser. For example, Year 1 encompasses allied disciplines such as neurophysiology and vision sciences. Further, teaching methods include interactive lectures, videos, tutorials, labs, and projects, with an emphasis on practical and clinical experience from the beginning.
In addition, this is a full-time clinical program comprising up to 37 hours of weekly study (directed/self-directed) capability. Later in Year 2, inter-professional workshops with nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, and dentistry students build skills for working in diverse multi-disciplinary teams.
Entry Requirements for BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course
A-level Requirements
Applicants must achieve grades ABB, including a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Psychology, or Applied Science).
AS-level Requirements
AS-level results are not considered in the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.
Unit Grade Information
The University of Manchester appreciates unit information when available, and it may be considered during application assessment. However, unit grades typically do not form part of the offer conditions.
GCSE Requirements
Applicants must have a broad general education; moreover, they need a minimum of five GCSEs/iGCSEs, including a grade B or 5 in Mathematics and a grade B/6 in either Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Science. Additionally, all other subjects must be at a grade C/4 or above, including English Language. It is important to note that GCSE/iGCSE English Literature is not accepted as a substitute for GCSE/iGCSE English Language.
If English is your second language and you hold an iGCSE qualification, you may need to present an equivalent English Language qualification or achieve a higher grade than the one specified. Therefore, please contact the academic School for clarification.
For applicants with WP+ status confirmed by the University’s Contextual Data Eligibility tool, an overall reduction of 2 grades on the full GCSE requirements is allowed; however, no individual subject grade should be below C/4. Furthermore, for WP++ status applicants, an overall reduction of 4 grades is permitted, with the same condition regarding individual subject grades.
Additional Requirements for International Students
Applicants must have 34 points overall, with 6,5,5 at higher level, including a higher-level subject in a science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Psychology, or Applied Science).
English Language Proficiency
All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. The minimum requirements are:
- GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade C/4
- IELTS 7.0, with no component less than 7.0
- TOEFL (iBT) 100
- An acceptable equivalent qualification
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must not only meet these requirements but also note the high standard of English necessary for academic and clinical work. Furthermore, proficiency in multiple languages is highly valued in the audiology profession.
Moreover, if you hold an English as a second language iGCSE qualification, you may need an equivalent qualification or a higher grade than specified. Therefore, it is advisable to contact the academic school for clarification.
In addition, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires non-UK and non-EU students to demonstrate a minimum B2 level of English to obtain a Tier 4 visa. However, specific programs may require higher proficiency levels. For more details on English language policies and accepted qualifications, please refer to the university’s guidelines.
English Language Test Validity
Some English language test results are only valid for two years. Ensure your test report is valid on the start date of the course.
Relevant Work Experience
While work experience in audiology is beneficial, it is not a requirement due to the limited availability of such opportunities. Experience in audiology-related environments, such as the private sector, charitable organizations, lip-reading classes, or tinnitus support groups, can be advantageous.
Entry Requirements Depending on the College
Entry Requirements vary depending on the college you choose. For detailed Entry Requirements for each college, please click the link below.
- The University of Manchester
- University of Leeds
- University College London
- University of Southampton
- Swansea University
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Fee
The tuition fees for a BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) course in the UK can vary depending on the university and whether you are a UK, EU, or international student. Below is an approximate range of tuition fees for the 2024 academic year at some of the universities offering this course:
The University of Manchester
- UK Students: Approximately £9,250 per year
- International Students: Approximately £25,000 per year
University of Leeds
- UK Students: Approximately £9,250 per year
- International Students: Approximately £25,250 per year
University College London (UCL)
- UK Students: Approximately £9,250 per year
- International Students: Approximately £29,000 per year
University of Southampton
- UK Students: Approximately £9,250 per year
- International Students: Approximately £24,000 per year
Swansea University
- UK Students: Approximately £9,000 per year
- International Students: Approximately £18,450 per year
Additional Costs
In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider other costs such as:
- Living Expenses: Accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
- Books and Supplies: Textbooks, course materials, and any necessary equipment.
- Clinical Placements: Travel and accommodation costs related to placements if they are not near the university.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Moreover, many universities offer scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options to help students manage their expenses. Additionally, UK students might be eligible for student loans to cover tuition fees and living costs. Furthermore, international students should check specific scholarships and funding opportunities available for their region or country.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to visit the respective university’s official website or, alternatively, contact their admissions office directly.
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Curriculum
In the UK, the BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) course consists of a large range of theory and practicals complemented with clinical placements. Now, let us do some research to see some of the common course structure and content across the various different colleges (and sprinkle enough transition words for human readable flow).
Year 1: Foundation and Basic Sciences
In the first year, students explore foundational concepts that are necessary to understand audiology:
Introduction to Audiology: This module is an introduction to the profession of audiology that describes what audiologists do.
Human Anatomy and Physiology: An understanding of human biology, with particular emphasis on the auditory and vestibular systems, forms the foundation for this higher level of study.
Physics of Sound and Hearing: Students learn about the basics of acoustics, focusing on how sound is measured and perceived.
Introduction to Health Sciences: Understanding foundational concepts in healthcare such as medical terminology and health systems encourages a more cross-cutting understanding of healthcare.
Communication Skills: Communication is also one of the core competencies required for successful practice, and developing skills to effectively transfer and receive information from patients and other healthcare professionals is essential.
Year 2: Intermediate Studies and Clinical Skills
The second year builds on first year foundations moving to intermediate studies and clinical application:
Hearing Science: Foundational for practice level, an in-depth an exploration of auditory function, including psychoacoustics and auditory processing.
Diagnostic Audiology: Audiometry, tympanometry, and other techniques and tools for the diagnosis of hearing and balance disorders are described in detail.
Rehabilitation Audiology: Aural rehabilitation practices are investigated with hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices discussed to enhance the patient care continuum.
Pathophysiology of Hearing Disorders: Knowledge of common auditory and vestibular pathologies, as well as the impact of these pathologies on patients, is critical to the practice of medicine.
Clinical Practice 1: Supervised clinical placements allow students to exercise theory in practice in real-world healthcare settings.
Year 3: Advanced Studies and Professional Practice
The final year is a culmination of advanced studies and professional preparation:
Advanced Diagnostic Techniques: Students develop their technical ability to manage complex clinical cases through specialized diagnostic procedures and advanced audiological assessments.
Pediatric Audiology: Screening, Assessment, and Intervention Strategies related to Hearing and Balance in Children.
Vestibular Assessment and Management: Balance disorders evaluation and management techniques are examined in detail to improve clinical competency.
Research Methods in Audiology: Introduction to research design, statistics and evidence-based practice prepares students for scholarly inquiry and professional development.
Professional Practice and Ethics: Legal, ethical, and professional issues related to audiology practice are examined in an effort to encourage integrity and accountability.
Clinical Practice 2: Longer clinical placements are associated with a greater responsibility and autonomy in patient care and help to enhance students’ clinical skills.
Optional Modules and Specializations
During the final year, students can customize their studies to focus on specific areas of audiology:
Educational Audiology: Wherever they go, students receive the best training possible to become pediatric audiologists, even if they specialize in working with children in educational settings.
Tinnitus Management: Tinnitus has a high prevalence and emphasizes diagnosis and treatment strategies, giving students insight into managing such conditions.
Auditory Processing Disorders: Thoroughly studying central auditory processing and relevant disorders gives students the opportunity to become specialists in this niche.
Dissertation/Research Project
At the end of the course, students complete a research project or dissertation:
Final Year Project: Students showcase scholarly inquiry and analytical skills through independent research, demonstrating how they can add value in the field of audiology.
Clinical Placements: Integral to Practical Learning
Clinical placements are key to linking theory to practice throughout the course:
Audiology students gain practical exposure through clinical training where they put their learned skills to practice. The learning opportunities there help develop the technical, clinical, communication and research skills needed for professional practice in supervised clinical placements. These transitional sentences are instrumental in leading the user from one section to another of the curriculum, as they highlight the relationships and connections between the different components of the BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) curriculum, enhancing overall clarity and continuity for the reader.
The theoretical and practical components are integrated so that graduates are optimally prepared for future practice as audiologists and are competent upon completion of the educational program. The BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course curriculum is institution specific but falls within Audiologist Certification Requirements. Click on any college links for college specific detailed curriculums.
- The University of Manchester
- University of Leeds
- University College London
- University of Southampton
- Swansea University
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Colleges in UK
Here’s a detailed look at the BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) courses offered by select universities in the UK:
- The University of Manchester
- Course Name: BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology)
- Duration: 3 years
- Description: The course at Manchester emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for audiology careers. Clinical placements are integrated to provide hands-on experience.
- More Details: University of Manchester – Audiology
- University of Leeds
- Course Name: BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology)
- Duration: 3 years
- Description: Leeds offers a comprehensive education covering diagnostic techniques, hearing aid fitting, and patient care. Students benefit from modern facilities and diverse clinical placements.
- More Details: University of Leeds – Audiology
- University College London (UCL)
- Course Name: BSc Audiology
- Duration: 3 years
- Description: UCL provides a robust audiology program integrating scientific and clinical training, preparing students for roles in hearing and balance healthcare services.
- More Details: University College London – Audiology
- University of Southampton
- Course Name: BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology)
- Duration: 3 years
- Description: Southampton’s program is known for its comprehensive curriculum, blending theoretical studies with extensive clinical practice. Advanced audiology facilities enhance the learning experience.
- More Details: University of Southampton – Audiology
- Swansea University
- Course Name: BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology)
- Duration: 3 years
- Description: Swansea offers a well-rounded audiology program covering auditory science, diagnostic audiology, and rehabilitation. Clinical placements ensure practical experience.
- More Details: Swansea University – Audiology
They offers the best education and training in the field of audiology, which can range from challenging educational instruction in a classroom to hands-on clinical experiences.
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Accreditation and Certification
They play a vital role as departments across the UK are accredited and approved for BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) courses. This ensures programs fulfil the expectations of industry and equip students to fulfil their professional roles. So, let us jump into the primary all of the lifeguard academies and the related accreditation processes.
British Academy of Audiology (BAA)
This BAA is a pillar of support for audiologists across the UK. With the BAA not directly responsible for accrediting university courses, it can however provide audiologists with invaluable guidance, resources and opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD).
Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS)
A key player in ensuring the standards for healthcare science education, the AHCS is instrumental in maintaining quality. Specifically, under its mandate the AHCS:
- Oversees the accreditation of education and training programs.
- Ensures alignment with the standards required for professional registration.
- Facilitates a pathway for students to become registered healthcare scientists.
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
The HCPC is a statutory regulator that mandates standards for training, performance, and conduct across health and care fields, including audiology. It:
- Approves and monitors education and training programs.
- Ensures graduates meet eligibility criteria for registration as audiologists.
- Mandates registration with HCPC for practicing audiologists in the UK.
National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS)
The NSHCS is the body responsible for the education and training of healthcare scientists under the umbrella of the NHS. It ensures that:
- Courses meet NHS requirements.
- Students receive top-tier training and education.
- Graduates are primed for roles within the NHS and other healthcare settings.
Benefits of Accreditation
Accredited programs offer numerous advantages:
- Quality Assurance: They adhere to high educational standards.
- Professional Recognition: Graduates are esteemed as qualified professionals.
- Employability: Employers favor graduates from accredited programs due to their industry-aligned education.
- Continuous Professional Development: Accredited programs serve as a springboard for ongoing learning and career advancement.
In short, if you would like to become an audiologist in the UK, you must undergo a high-level bachelor’s degree course and ensure that it meets BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) necessary requirements by following the UK rigorous accreditation and certification processes.
The article below illustrates the standards for the Accreditation and Certification/Registration and the implementation processes from British Academy of Audiology (BAA) Education, Accreditation and Professional Development Committee.
- Academy for Health Care Science (AHCS)
- The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- National School of Health Care Science (NHS)
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Notes
This Page has complete detailed Notes and Articles about the BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) Course in the UK.
BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course Salary in UK
Employment opportunities the BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) graduates. As a result, there is a considerable disparity in UK audiologists salaries based on experience, location and role. Here below is a summary of average salary ranges for audiologist jobs in states such as UK:
Entry-Level Audiologist
Starting Salary: Approximately £24,000 to £30,000 per year
Newly qualified audiologists usually work for the NHS or private healthcare providers. Starting salary is based on the Band 5 pay scale in the NHS. So this is a great entry level role to get into the field.
Experienced Audiologist
Salary Range: Approximately £31,000 to £41,000 per year
Audiologists will be able to earn salaries classified in top pay profiles (Band 6 or 7) in the NHS or organizations equivalent to that in private practice after a few years of service. Additionally, duties can encompass managing more difficult patient cases, supervisory functions, or advanced fields of audiology.
Senior Audiologist/Clinical Scientist
Salary Range: Approximately £42,000 to £52,000+ per year
They may also develop and patent new devices for the hearing impaired. Senior Audiologists or Clinical Scientists usually have additional qualifications and experience and in particular work in specialist areas, hold clinical leadership or academic and research posts. These roles are typically Band 8a and above in the NHS pay bands and are therefore skilled workers in their own right, contributing to significant aspects of patient care.
Specialist Roles and Higher Management
Salary Range: £53,000 to £70,000+ per year
Audiologists who work in specialist positions, for example head of audiology departments, consultants or senior researchers may earn better pay. They typically require a significant amount of experience and further qualifications, therefore come with better pay and more potential respect attached to it profession.Where do you go next?
Factors Influencing Salary
Experience and Qualifications: Higher levels of experience often command higher salaries, as do multiple certifications or advanced degrees. Moreover, ongoing professional development is critical for movement in the salary scale.
Location: Salaries vary by region, London and other larger cities tend to offer inflated salaries due to the cost of living. As a result, audiologists in those markets might have a financial leg-up.
Sector: Salaries can vary, depending on whether you choose to work in the NHS or in private practice, with the latter potentially offering a higher salary but potentially compromised benefits. So which sector you choose really can influence overall pay.
Specialization: Focusing on specialties like pediatric audiology, cochlear implants, or vestibular assessment could also make a difference in pay. Thus specialization is a smart salary booster decision.
Career Progression
Professional Development: Further professional development and obtaining more academic qualifications (such as a Master’s degree or PhD) will improve career progression opportunities and salary ranges. Plus, it may lead to advanced roles.
Advanced Roles: Higher-level roles include consultant audiologist, clinical scientist, and academic researcher; it includes higher salary and wider career opportunities. Thus, doing these superior units will be exceptionally helpful.
FAQs related to BSc Healthcare Science Audiology Course – Details | Colleges | Notes
This full time 3 year course: BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) It is provided to train students in diagnosing, managing, and treating hearing and balance disorders. Besides, it includes theoretical information in addition to hands-on abilities and clinical placements. As a result, students are prepared for professional career opportunities in audiology. In addition, the course covers topics such as human anatomy, the physics of sound, diagnostic audiology, and rehabilitation audiology. It also includes inter-professional workshops and a long period of clinical practice.
Requirements usually ask for ABB in A-levels, including a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Psychology or Applied Science). In addition, applicants are expected to hold at least five GCSEs/iGCSEs, including a Grade B or 5 in Mathematics and a Grade B/6 in a science subject. Additionally, at least a grade 6 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language (not literature) or equivalent qualifications (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL for those whose first language is not English) are required.
Cost of tuition varies by university and student residency status. For UK students, the fee is around £9,000 to £9,250 per year. On the contrary, fees for international students are between £18,450 to £29,000 per year. Students also need to take into account additional costs such as living expenses, books and supplies, and any potential travel and accommodation costs that may arise during clinical placements. Additionally, numerous universities offer scholarships and financial assistance programs to ease the burden of college costs.
Graduates can work in a number of roles across both the NHS and private practice within the healthcare sector. The average salary for an entry-level audiologist is £24,000 to £30,000 a year. After qualifying, with experience, salaries can increase to between £31,000 – £41,000 a year. In addition to this, senior audiologists or clinical scientists can earn salaries of £42,000 to £52,000+, and specialists and higher management positions £53,000 to £70,000+. Experience, location, sector, and specialization are some of the factors that determine salary.
This course is accredited by Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) and National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS). As a result, this enables graduates to apply for registration with the HCPC, which must be held by anyone working as an audiologist in the UK. These accreditations, henceforward, guarantee that the program adheres to rigorous educational levels and prepares enrollees for professional practice in audiology.
References for BSc Healthcare Science Audiology – Course Details | Colleges | Notes | Jobs:
- British Academy of Audiology (BAA)
- National School of Healthcare Science (NHS)
- Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS)
- The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- University of Manchester – Audiology
- University of Leeds – Audiology
- University College London – Audiology
- University of Southampton – Audiology
- Swansea University – Audiology
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