The requirements for becoming an audiologist assistant are usually determined local and regional laws. In 2011, these requirements varied greatly, with the majority of countries having no regulations in place, while others, such as some states in the United States, required enrollment in a master’s degree program. Furthermore, some state laws required licensure or registration, while others provided oversight but left it up to the audiologist to determine the qualifications of his or her assistant. In general, formal audiology assistant training and experience appeared to put potential candidates in a competitive position when applying for jobs.
If you live in the United States, researching state laws will help you figure out where to start if you want to be an audiologist assistant. In that country, educational and oversight requirements differ greatly. Texas, for example, will demand a bachelor’s degree in communicative science and disorders, as well as the completion of a practicum. The program must also be accredited the Council on Academic Accreditation of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association or have regional accreditation status. Candidates must pass an examination to obtain a state license and take a continuing education course to renew that license after completing academic qualifications and a successful practicum.
Candidates who want to work as an audiologist assistant in the United States only need an associate’s degree in a speech-language discipline in six states. Alaska, North Carolina, Missouri, Maryland, Illinois, and California are among these states. California and Missouri are the only two states that will require registration but not licensure. In addition, those states have no requirements for practicum or continuing education.
However, it’s worth noting that some states have different levels for becoming an audiologist assistant. Using California as an example, candidates with an associate’s degree will be qualified for the highest tier jobs. Candidates for lower tier assistant positions must have a high school diploma and then complete a certificate course or on-the-job training as an audiology aide.
If formal or competency-based training is required, regardless of national or regional requirements, students can expect a rigorous program. All programs will require some supervision a licensed audiologist, who will be responsible for ensuring that assistants are competent when the program’s requirements are met. The supervising audiologist will document the entire training program, and assistants will be required to demonstrate this competency. The supervising audiologist is also responsible for all work performed the training assistant. Even if the audiologist is able to hire an assistant without state oversight, on-the-job training is usually required and will often follow the same standards as formal academic programs or practicums to protect the audiologist in the event of a legal situation.