What is an Audiologist?

Audiologists work with people who have hearing, balance, and related ear problems. They examine individuals of all ages and identify those with the symptoms of hearing loss and other auditory, balance, and related sensory and neural problems. They then assess the nature and extent of the problems and help the individuals manage them. Using audiometers, computers, and other testing devices, they measure the loudness at which a person begins to hear sounds, the ability to distinguish between sounds, and the impact of hearing loss on an individual's daily life. In addition, audiologists use computer equipment to evaluate and diagnose balance disorders. Audiologists interpret these results and may coordinate them with medical, educational, and psychological information to make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment. Bureau of Labor Statistics

What is the Au.D.?

The primary mission of the Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) program is to prepare individuals for careers as clinical audiologists. 

The four-year post-baccalaureate program is designed to produce audiologists who are competent to perform the wide array of diagnostic, remedial, and other services associated with the practice of audiology. Including the following areas:

• Scientific, research and ethical foundations of practice
• Prevention and identification of communication disorders
• Evaluation and treatment of disorders of auditory, balance and communication related systems

**Fast Fact: U.S. News and World Report ranks Audiology as a Best Career of 2009.

What are the Degree Requirements?

The program includes formal coursework, practicum, a year-long residency, and an independent study capstone project.  A minimum of 94 credit hours is required, which consists of 56 credits of course work and 38 credit hours of clinical practicum, including the clinical residence for one academic year. In order to meet the clinical practicum requirements for the CCC-A, students must be prepared to accept the responsibility for completing all clinical assignments necessary for generating the requisite clock hours ASHA has specified in designated clinical categories.

Click here to hear from our Au.D. students.

Why Should I Pursue my Au.D. at Illinois State University?    

• Numerous clinical sites including OSF Dizziness and Balance Center, medical centers, private practices, and educational settings; fourth year placements include nationally competitive sites
• Diverse research opportunities with nationally recognized Faculty. Come work one-on-one with a Faculty member.
• Get a small University experience with the resources of a large University that has made the Top 100 Best Values in Public Universities and Best College Towns lists
• Bloomington-Normal is located conveniently in central Illinois with easy access to St. Louis, Chicago, and Indianapolis

What Types of Clinical Experiences Will I Receive?

Illinois State University is home to the Eckelmann-Taylor Speech and Hearing Clinic, an active clinic with state-of-the-art equipment that services over 12,000 pediatric through geriatric clients a year.

• Clinical rotations begin the first semester of the program which include both on-campus and off-campus sites
• Students take part in multidisciplinary assessment teams

Services included the following:

• Digital hearing aid fittings & repairs
• Electrophysiology
• Auditory (Re)Habilitation
• Assistive Listening Devices
• Auditory Processing
• Hearing Conservation

Student Outcome Data

Program Completion Rate:

Praxis Examination Pass Rates:

Employment Rates for AuD Graduates:

Click here to watch a podcast from current Au.D. students about what to expect here at ISU.