MSc Audiology

Whether you are new to audiology or already have an audiology degree, the one-year MSc Audiology programme will enable you to develop the skills and knowledge required for a dynamic and successful career in audiology.

Our MSc Audiology programme, which will be celebrating it's 40th anniversary in 2012, was the first of its kind in the UK and has an outstanding national and international reputation. It has known as the foremost postgraduate qualification in audiology in the UK and competition for places is high.

The programme attracts students from all over the globe who wish to undertake advanced training in audiology.

Updated: 4th October 2011.

Course structure

From 2011/12, we will be offering a restructured MSc programme, the aims of which are to be more flexible to the needs of students follow several pathways:

• Students wishing to take the MSc programme full-time in one year. Clinical training (as would be required for Clinical Scientist registration) after the MSc must be arranged separately by the student within the NHS or in their home country.
• Students wishing to take individual M-level modules, such as within the UK Higher Training Scheme (e.g. practising audiologists). We are currently developing distance learning options for these modules. More information to follow.
• From October 2012, we will offer the full MSc programme to students on a part-time basis. More information to follow.

What are the aims of the programme and who is it for?

The MSc programme is principally designed to meet the fundamental academic, clinical, research and vocational needs of clinical scientists. It is ideally suited to science or engineering graduates, as part of pre-registration training, who wish to work in the health care sector and use the knowledge acquired in their first degree. It is also well-suited to BSc Audiology graduates who are keen to refine, enhance and deepen their knowledge and skills; the programme is distinct from our BSc Audiology programme so you can be assured of Master's Level learning.

The MSc provides you with clinical training underpinned by a strong foundation in related fundamental sciences. We also aim to develop your capacity for independent learning, critical thinking, and reflective and evidence-based practice, as well as problem solving and teamwork.

How many places are there on the programme?

We offer 30 places per year on the full-time and part-time programme. This doesn't include students taking individual modules.

Taking the MSc full time

Full time, the MSc is a full 12-month full-time course, commencing in October.

The programme is split into two components: a 'taught' component (October to June) and a research component (June to September). The 'taught' component will include clinical practicum, lectures, seminars, case presentations, tutorials, individual, taster clinics and group projects. 

Introduction to Audiology: October to January (Semester 1)

Subjects covered in include:

• Basic physics, biology and psychology related to the hearing, hearing and balance assessment, principles of rehabilitation, pathophysiology of the ear, clinical audiology, public health matters, healthcare service delivery.

Flexible learning and assessment methods are available for students with an approved BSc Audiology.

Evidence-based Practice in Audiology: February to June (Semester 2)

This consists of:

• Modules in three week blocks, involving problem-based learning. These will include research methods, management of hearing and balance disorders, paediatrics among other topics. They will reinforce a patient-centred, evidence-based, reflective and collaborative approach to clinical practice.
• Research project development. Having selected a project during the latter stages of Semester 1, you will conduct a literature review, develop your research ideas and plan a piece of original research.
• You will have some taster sessions, giving you a feel for what clinical audiology is like.

Research Project: June to September

During the 2nd semester, you will commence your research project which comprises 60 credits of your degree. You will continue to work on your project throughout the summer once the taught component has finished in June. You will have access to our in-house clinic and specialised library, as well as having one-to-one project supervision with your tutor. At the end of September, you will submit a thesis.

Does this programme fit with the new national training programme for clinical scientists (the STP)?

As of Oct 2011, there will be a new training programme for clinical scientists called the "scientist training programme" (STP). This will be a three-year programme involving integrated academic and clinical training, leading to graduates being awarded a Master's degree.

The University of Southampton is not currently involved in the new STP programme. More information on the STP and the application process can be found at the NHS Careers website.

Taking the MSc part-time (UK/EU students only)

We will be offering part-time study from 2012 entry - subject to confirmation.

2012 entry part-time study could be structured as follows, but this is subject to confirmation and this information is given for guidance only:

Semester 1 (October - January) would be conducted on a full-time basis, though flexible learning and assessment methods are available for students with an approved BSc Audiology.

The timing of Semester 2 modules (February to June) and the research project (June to September) would more flexible. The whole programme would have to be completed within 5 years.

Who teaches on the programme?

Here at the ISVR, we have 40 years of experience of teaching audiology at Master's and PhD level. Our dedicated team of audiology lecturers are experienced in teaching and research, with many having worked within the NHS or private Audiology sectors. We also have ENT Surgeons, Teachers of the Deaf, Audiologists and Speech and Language Therapists who lecture on the course.

Where is the programme held?

The course is held on the Highfield Campus of the University of Southampton.

What are the financial arrangements?

There are a number of tuition fee payment options:

1. Self funding - you pay for the fees yourself
2. Employer/ Sponsor - your employer/sponsor pays your tuition fees for you.

Please note that we do not offer any scholarships for either UK or International MSc Audiology applicants.

What are the eligibility requirements?

The MSc is open to applications from UK, EU and international students.

All applicants shall undergo an Enhanced Disclosure through the CRB/provide a Police Check from their Embassy*. We will perform Occupational Health checks for all students before the start of the course; satisfactory completion of the appropriate checks forms part of all offers of a place on the course.

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NON-UK APPLICANTS:

Non-UK applicants, and those who have lived in the UK for less than 5 years, are required to provide information of criminal records, or a clearance record, from the appropriate organisation in their country of current/previous residency; all documentation must be officially stamped and translated, proving authenticity of the documents.

What are the entry requirements?

Here, we summarise the entry requirements. See our selection process for *full* details of our entry requirements. 

Academic criteria

First or upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or equivalent) in appropriate science or engineering discipline.

Non-academic criteria:

Applicants need to demonstrate within their personal statements that they:

• Are articulate, literate (including IT) and numerate
• Have excellent inter-personal, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Are enthusiastic about healthcare, science and learning and are self-motivated and have initiative
• Have an appropriate level of understanding of the audiology profession
  and have visited or intend to visit an audiology or related department

All applicants be asked to complete two short assignments. Applicants with alternative backgrounds may be invited to interview. All applicants who are made an offer are invited to visit the department for a tour and chat with our staff and students.

How do I apply and what is the admissions process?

Please apply online. Find out more about the admissions process. Please contact us for more information.

What's related:

• Welcome to Audiology at Southampton
• Career structure and pre-registration training in the UK
• Integrated clinical training
• Explore science and discover yourself at Southampton
• Want more information?

Other Southampton sites:

• How to Apply

Web links:

• Information on STP*

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