Healthcare Science (Audiology) BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

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The BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) program at De Montfort University equips students with the knowledge and skills to become independent audiologists. The program emphasizes clinical and professional skills development, preparing students for careers in audiology across diverse settings. Graduates find employment in private, public, and research sectors, empowering patients with hearing and balance conditions to live fulfilling lives.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The BSc Healthcare Science (Audiology) program at De Montfort University (DMU) is a three-year full-time program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become independent audiologists. Graduates find employment in private, public, and research sectors.

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Objectives:

• Develop students' clinical and professional skills in audiology.
• Equip students to empower patients with hearing and balance conditions.
• Prepare students for careers in audiology across diverse settings.
• Provide students with a strong foundation in the science of hearing and balance.
• Foster students' critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

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Description:

The program utilizes a block-teaching model, where students delve into one topic at a time for six weeks. This allows for deep focus and maximized learning. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills development, ensuring students are well-prepared for clinical practice. DMU's program boasts several strengths:

• Accreditation: Approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS).
• Clinical Placement: 30-week mandatory placement in NHS and other healthcare settings, providing invaluable real-world experience.
• Faculty: Experienced teaching and research staff with diverse professional backgrounds.
• Facilities: Four dedicated audiology teaching spaces, equipped with the latest technology for hands-on learning.
• International Experiences: Opportunities to participate in international projects and conferences through DMU Global.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Anatomy and pathophysiology of the ear
• Hearing assessment techniques
• Management of dizziness and balance disorders
• Hearing rehabilitation for adults and children
• Research methods and critical appraisal
• Professional and ethical practice in audiology

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Structure:

• Block-teaching model (6 weeks per topic)
• 30-week clinical placement
• Assessment methods include written exams, coursework, presentations, and practical assessments

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Course Schedule:

• Year 1: Introduction to Audiology, Sound, Hearing and Hearing Development, Introduction to Aural Rehabilitation and Therapy, Clinical Audiology 1
• Year 2: People and Data, Diagnostic Audiology - Objective Testing and Balance, Clinical Audiology 2, Placement and Professional Practice 1
• Year 3: Placement and Professional Practice 2, Advanced Audiovestibular Assessment and Management, Advanced Rehabilitation, Paediatric Assessment and Management, Enquiry-based Project

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Individual Modules:

• Introduction to Audiology: Explores the field of audiology, its history, and its role in healthcare.
• Sound, Hearing and Hearing Development: Examines the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system, sound wave characteristics, and hearing development across the lifespan.
• Clinical Audiology 1: Covers basic audiological assessment techniques, including pure-tone audiometry, tympanometry, and acoustic reflex testing.
• People and Data: Delves into statistical analysis, research methods, and critical appraisal of scientific literature.
• Diagnostic Audiology - Objective Testing and Balance: Focuses on advanced audiological assessment techniques, including electrophysiology, otoacoustic emissions, and vestibular testing.
• Clinical Audiology 2: Explores the management of various hearing and balance disorders, including tinnitus, hyperacusis, and Meniere's disease.
• Placement and Professional Practice 1: Introduces students to the clinical environment and prepares them for their mandatory placement.
• Placement and Professional Practice 2: Provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world clinical setting.
• Advanced Audiovestibular Assessment and Management: Covers advanced assessment and management techniques for complex hearing and balance disorders.
• Advanced Rehabilitation, Paediatric Assessment and Management: Focuses on the assessment and management of hearing loss in children and the application of advanced rehabilitation techniques.
• Enquiry-based Project: Allows students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice related to audiology.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Written exams
• Coursework (essays, posters, wikis)
• Presentations
• Dissertation
• Practical and clinically-based assessment activities

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Assessment Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding of audiology principles and practices
• Clinical skills and competence
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Formal and interactive lectures
• Staff and student seminars
• Tutorial discussions
• Practical and clinical-based workshops
• Inter-professional learning with students from other healthcare professions

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Faculty:

• Experienced audiologists with diverse clinical and research backgrounds
• Open-door approach, fostering student interaction and support

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Unique Approaches:

• Block-teaching model for focused learning
• Strong emphasis on practical skills development
• Dedicated clinical teaching spaces with state-of-the-art equipment
• Mandatory clinical placement for real-world experience
• International opportunities through DMU Global

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Audiologist (NHS, private practice, research)
• Hearing Aid Dispenser
• Clinical Scientist
• Researcher
• Educator
• Manager

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Graduate Outcomes:

• High employment rate, with many students securing jobs before graduation
• Diverse career options in various settings

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Other:

• The program is open to UK and EU/International students.
• Entry requirements include GCSEs, A-Levels, or equivalent qualifications.
• The program is approved by the HCPC and accredited by the NSHCS.
• Students are expected to adhere to the HCPC's Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics.
• The program utilizes a variety of teaching and learning technologies, including online resources and virtual learning platforms.
• DMU offers a range of support services to students, including academic skills development, mental health support, and financial assistance.

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2024/25 tuition fees for UK students: £9,250 Additional costs: You may incur additional costs for this programme, including the cost of travelling to and from project/placement locations.