Audiologists use knowledge of their sector combined with practical skill to diagnose and treat hearing issues. With a large number of people in the UK suffering from trouble with their hearing, particularly elderly people, Audiology workers are a much needed breed of healthcare professional.

Recent research has found that 16% of the UK population has significant hearing damage, and it is the job of an audiologist to use their practical and theoretical skills, as well as the technology available to them, to find the root of the problem.

The day-to-day tasks for an audiologist job include:

• Deciding on the best tests for a patient’s hearing, factoring in age and condition
• Checking for any emotional, physical and mental factors that may affect a client’s hearing
• Assessing which sort of hearing aid may be required
• Reviewing the progress of clients
• Fixing and repairing hearing aids
• Supporting patients who suffer from dual sensory loss, or have any disabilities.

There are different specialisms within audiology designed to cater for patients of all ages and conditions. Each role has its own specific entry requirements:

Newborn Hearing Screener – Three GCSEs grade C or above, but either a NNEB, BTEC or NVQ in a childcare-related qualification may be of help.

Healthcare Science Practitioner – A degree in Healthcare Science (Audiology) and at least two A-Levels, one to include science.

Healthcare Scientist – Minimum 2:1 in relevant bachelor’s degree, then specialising in a neurosensory science on a NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP).

Consultant Healthcare Scientist – Relevant experience through Higher Specialist Scientific Training (HSST) and a postgraduate qualification.

Depending on the position you may also need registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists (RCCP).

Your salary, again, depends on your audiologist job, and is judged by the NHS Band payment scheme. As the need for these roles is so great, a locum audiologist position may be better suited to your current circumstances – and your future career