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Finding the right audiology doctoral program for yourself can be the defining moment of your educational success. The Academy understands this. Review an up-to-date list of doctoral programs by state below, including information for the program name, location, and website.

Doctoral Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

As a student pursuing a doctoral degree, you may have a list of questions that need answering. Below are a few of the most frequently asked questions the Academy has received from students to help you with your search.

What should I know about an AuD program? Collapse

The scope of practice in audiology has expanded substantially since the 1960s when a master’s degree rather than a bachelor’s degree was required for entry into practice. It has become necessary to increase the academic and clinical training requirements from a master’s degree to a professional doctorate for entry into the profession. Master’s level academic programs no longer exist. They have been replaced by AuD programs. In 2007, the AuD became the entry-level degree for the clinical practice of audiology.

AuD Facts at a Glance

  • The AuD is the designator for the professional doctorate in the discipline of audiology.
  • Completion of the degree typically requires four years of full-time study beyond the bachelor’s degree. An individual should check with the AuD program of their choice to find out the specific prerequisite coursework to be completed at the bachelor’s level.
  • Individuals completing this degree are prepared for independent clinical practice in areas of auditory and vestibular assessment and treatment and reimbursement from third-party payers for these services.
  • Individuals completing an AuD will be prepared to be leaders of the field and will be competent to interact with other doctoring professions involved in hearing health care.
  • Individuals completing an AuD will be critical consumers of research and may choose to participate in clinical research including the evaluation of the efficacy of current diagnostic and treatment strategies.
  • Individuals interested in pursuing an independent research program and teaching at the university level should obtain a PhD, which is considered the entry-level degree for research. It is essential to have well-qualified PhDs who create the scientific base of a profession. Without a research base, there is no profession to practice. It is important for researchers (PhDs) and clinicians (AuDs) to interact to bring science into the clinic and to instruct the scientists in what questions must be answered for excellent clinical practice.
  • In most states, an audiologist must hold a license to legally practice. Individuals completing an AuD program should be prepared to meet the requirements of licensing.

What should I know about a PhD program? Expand

As the knowledge and skills required to meet the scope of practice for audiology expands, so does its need to advance the knowledge and research base that forms the foundation for that practice. The PhD degree has traditionally been seen as providing the educational and scientific background necessary for academic scholarship and independent research in the profession of audiology. The doctor of philosophy degree (PhD) is the highest degree awarded by research-based universities and is usually granted upon sufficient evidence of high attainment of scholarship and the ability to engage in independent research. Many universities with Hearing and Speech Departments offer this “traditional” PhD to students whose primary goal is to become a teacher and independent researcher. The traditional PhD in Hearing Science or Audiology typically entails advanced coursework in auditory neuroscience, audiology, statistics, research design, instrumentation, computer science, and laboratory work on mentored and student-initiated research projects.

In recent years, some universities have developed a PhD program that combines the coursework and clinical training required for the practice of audiology with the coursework and research experience of a traditional PhD. This type of program is referred to as a “Clinical PhD” program. The degree awarded in these programs is a PhD. Students acquire the knowledge base and clinical practicum experience required for the practice of audiology. Graduates of these programs are also eligible for licensure in audiology in most states.

PhD Facts at a Glance

  • The traditional PhD is a research doctorate and may be earned in the discipline of audiology or hearing science.
  • Requirements for the doctoral degree vary widely across programs and universities, but always include a doctoral dissertation that is defended in front of an examining committee. Prospective students are encouraged to contact university programs directly to determine specific requirements for the traditional PhD and clinical PhD at particular institutions.
  • Completion of the degree depends on the specific course of study, previous academic, clinical, and research preparation, and the nature of the dissertation. Some clinical PhD programs accept students at the post-baccalaureate level while others require a graduate degree for admission. Many clinical PhD programs anticipate that students will complete the degree in a period of five to six years. An individual should check with the PhD program of their choice to determine the expected duration of the program.
  • Individuals who complete a PhD are qualified to serve as academic faculty members in audiology and hearing science at the university level.
  • Individuals who complete a PhD are prepared to conduct independent research to improve the scientific understanding of auditory and vestibular processes and their disorders. This includes research into basic sensory mechanisms, prevention of impairment, diagnostic procedures, rehabilitative devices (i.e., amplification, cochlear implants, assistive listening devices), and rehabilitative techniques.
  • Individuals who complete a PhD are qualified to apply for extramural funding from government agencies (such as NIH and NSF) to support their research and training programs.
  • Individuals who complete a clinical PhD are prepared for independent clinical practice in the field of audiology, including auditory and vestibular assessment.
  • In addition to academic and research settings, individuals who complete a PhD are qualified to work in government, medical, community-based, and industrial settings.
  • Individuals who complete a PhD will be prepared to be leaders in the field of audiology and hearing science, and will set the research agenda for auditory neuroscience and audiology.

How long does it take to get a doctoral audiology degree? Expand

The length of time it takes to complete a program will depend on the program chosen.

For AuD programs, completion of the degree typically requires four years of full-time study beyond the bachelor’s degree. An individual should check with the AuD program of their choice to find out the specific prerequisite coursework to be completed at the bachelor’s level.

For PhD programs, completion of the degree depends on the specific course of study, previous academic, clinical, and research preparation, and the nature of the dissertation. Some clinical PhD programs accept students at the post-baccalaureate level while others require a graduate degree for admission. Many clinical PhD programs anticipate that students will complete the degree in a period of five to six years. An individual should check with the PhD program of their choice to determine the expected duration of the program.

For AuD/PhD programs, those to complete both degrees will take a smaller number of years compared to those who work on each degree separately. AuD/PhD programs are best suited to those who are interested in clinically-oriented research and those who want to pursue academia.

How should I choose a program that is best for me?  Expand

Pursuing graduate school is a major life decision. Once you’ve chosen between the AuD, PhD, or AuD/PhD combination degree, it can be challenging to know which university you want to go to, what program will be best for you, and even what advisor will fit you best.

The Student Academy of Audiology offers a wealth of information regarding how to select the best program and advisor for yourself. Questions to ask yourself could include, but are not limited to:

  • How long is the program duration?
  • What is the graduation rate?
  • Are there opportunities to gain research experience?
  • Are there funding opportunities?
  • What’s the program size?
  • Do you want to relocate?
  • What is the advisor’s research interests?
  • Would I get along with this advisor?
  • What do the lab facilities look like?
  • Does the advisor have a good publication output?
  • Where is the advisor’s funding coming from?
  • Did the advisor get along with their former students?

What are the average acceptance rates of doctoral programs? Expand

Acceptance rates vary from university to university. During your search for the best program, it is recommended to look for the acceptance rate of your preferred program on its university website as many will list that information directly in its informational content.   

Are there resources to assist in the cost of education for doctoral programs? Expand

Graduate school is a huge decision for many students due to the financial costs of the program. You can read more about the extern’s tuition load here.  

When pursuing an AuD, PhD, or a combination AuD/PhD degree, there are a number of funding options a student can choose from.  

Student Loans 

There are many student loan options that a student can look into. For accurate information, it is recommended to contact the university’s financial aid office. 

Scholarships and Fellowships 

Many organizations value students’ educational opportunities, including the American Academy of Audiology Foundation (AAAF), National Institutes of Health (NIH), American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences, and many professional state organizations. These organizations offer scholarships, grants, and fellowships.  

It is highly encouraged to check out state professional organizations in your area for scholarship and grant opportunities.  

Graduate Research or Teaching Assistantships  

Those who undertake a graduate research assistantship will receive funding from their PhD advisor or department, which will be allocated from their own funding. This could include tuition waivers or stipends.  

Those who undertake a graduate teaching assistantship will fulfill teaching responsibilities. This could be paid in the form of a tuition waver or stipend.   

What do I need to prepare when applying to a doctoral program? Expand

Applying to audiology graduate programs takes time and effort. When applying to audiology graduate school, you will have to submit an application, personal statement supplement, transcripts, graduate record examinations scores (sometimes these are optional and are dependent on individual university requirements), and letters of recommendation. The Student Academy of Audiology offers in-depth Guide to Applying to Audiology Graduate School. This guide provides information for the application process, a general timeline, and answers to frequently asked questions students often have.

Are there any Academy resources to help me apply to a doctoral program? Expand

The American Academy of Audiology and the Student Academy of Audiology offer many resources for students pursuing audiology doctoral programs.  

When making this life-altering decision, the American Academy of Audiology wants students to be well-equipped to make the right decision. If you have a question about audiology doctoral programs, submit your question here.  

Alabama

Auburn University
Department of Communication Disorders
Auburn, AL 36849
Degree(s): AuD University of South Alabama
Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology
Mobile, AL 36688
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Arizona

A. T. Still University
Arizona School of Health Sciences
Mesa, AZ 85206
Degree(s): AuD University of Arizona
Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Tucson, AZ 85721
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Arkansas

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
College of Health Professions
Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology
Little Rock, AR 72205
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

California

California State University, Los Angeles
Department of Communication Disorders
Los Angeles, CA 90032
Degree(s): AuD

San Diego State University / University of California San Diego
SDSU/UCSD AuD Joint Doctoral Program
San Diego, CA 92182
Degree(s): AuD

California State University, Northridge
Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences
Northridge, CA 91330-8279
Degree(s): AuD

San Jose State University
Department of Audiology
San José, CA 95192
Degree(s): AuD

California State University, Sacramento
Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders
Sacramento, CA 95819
Degree(s): AuD

University of the Pacific
Department of Audiology
San Francisco, CA 94103
Degree(s): AuD

Colorado

University of Colorado at Boulder
Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Boulder, CO 80309
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of Northern Colorado
Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Sciences
Greeley, CO 80639
Degree(s): AuD

Connecticut

University of Connecticut
Department of Speech, Language, & Hearing Sciences
Storrs, CT 06269
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

District of Columbia

Gallaudet University
Department of Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences
Washington, DC 20002
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Florida

Nova Southeastern University
Department of Audiology
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328
Degree(s): AuD

University of Florida
Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
Gainesville, FL  32610
Degree(s):  AuD, PhD

University of South Florida
Department of Communication Sciences
and Disorders
Tampa, FL 33620
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Idaho

Idaho State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Pocatello, ID 83209
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Illinois

Illinois State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Normal, IL 61790
Degree(s): AuD

Rush University
Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences
Chicago, IL 60612
Degree(s): AuD

Northern Illinois University
School of Allied Health and Communicative Disorders
DeKalb, IL 60115
Degree(s): AuD

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department of Speech and Hearing Science
Champaign, IL 61820
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Northwestern University
The Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Evanston, IL 60208
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Indiana

Ball State University
Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology
Muncie, IN 47306
Degrees: AuD

Indiana University
Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences
Bloomington, IN 47405
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Purdue University
Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Iowa

University of Iowa
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Iowa City, IA 52242
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Kansas

University of Kansas / University of Kansas Medical Center
Inter-Campus Program in Communicative Disorders
Kansas City, KS 66160
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Wichita State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
401 Ahlberg Hall
Wichita, KS 67260-0075
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Kentucky

University of Louisville
Division of Communicative Disorders
Louisville, KY 40292
Degree(s): AuD

Louisiana

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center – New Orleans
Department of Communication Disorders
New Orleans, LA 70112
Degree(s): AuD

Louisiana Tech University
Department of Speech
Ruston, LA 71272
Degree(s): AuD

Maryland

Towson University
Department of Audiology, Speech-Language Pathology and Deaf Studies
Towson, MD 21252
Degree(s): AuD

University of Maryland
Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences
College Park, MD 20742
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Amherst
Department of Communication Disorders
Amherst, MA 01003
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Michigan

Central Michigan University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Mount Pleasant, MI, 48859
Degree(s): AuD

Wayne State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Detroit, MI 48202
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Western Michigan University
Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Degree(s): AuD

Grand Valley State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Degree(s): AuD

Minnesota

University of Minnesota
Department of Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Mississippi

University of Mississippi Medical Center
Department of Otolaryngology and Communicative Sciences
Jackson, MS 39216
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of Southern Mississippi
Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences
Hattiesburg, MS 39406
Degree(s): AuD

Missouri

Missouri State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Springfield, MO 65897
Degree(s): AuD

Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
Program in Audiology and Communication Sciences
St. Louis, MO 63110
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Nebraska

University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Department of Special Education and Communication Disorders
Lincoln, NE 68583
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

New Jersey

Montclair State University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Montclair, NJ 07043
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

New York

Adelphi University / Hofstra University / St. John’s University
Long Island AuD Consortium
Adelphi University: Garden City, NY 11530
Hofstra University: Hempstead, NY 11549
St. John’s University: Flushing, NY 11367
Degree(s): AuD

University at Buffalo – State University of New York
Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences
Buffalo, NY 14214
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

City University of New York
Graduate Center
New York, NY 10016
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Syracuse University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Syracuse, NY 13244
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

North Carolina

East Carolina University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Greenville, NC 27868
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine
Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Ohio

Northeast Ohio AuD Consortium
Kent State University / University of Akron
Kent, OH 44242 / Akron, OH 44325
Degree(s): AuD

University of Cincinnati
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Cincinnati, OH 45267
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Ohio University
Communication Sciences and Disorders Programs
Athens, OH 45701
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

The Ohio State University
Department of Speech and Hearing Science
Columbus, OH 43210
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Oklahoma City, OK 73117
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Oregon

Pacific University
School of Audiology
333 SE 7th Avenue, Suite 4450
Hillsboro, OR  97123

Pennsylvania

Bloomsburg University
Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Degree(s): AuD

Salus University
George S. Osborne College of Audiology
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Degree(s): AuD

University of Pittsburgh
Department of Communication Science and Disorders
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
Degree(s): AuD

Puerto Rico

University of Puerto Rico
School of Health Professions, Audiology Program
San Juan, PR 00936
Degree(s): AuD

South Dakota

University of South Dakota
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Vermillion, SD 57069
Degree(s): AuD

Tennessee

East Tennessee State University
Department of Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology
Johnson City, TN 37614
Degree(s): AuD

Vanderbilt University
Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences
Nashville, TN 37232
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of Memphis
School of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Memphis, TN 38152
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of Tennessee – Knoxville
Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology
Knoxville, TN 37996
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Texas

Lamar University
Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences
Beaumont, TX 77710
Degree(s): AuD

University of Texas at Austin
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Austin, TX 78712
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences
Lubbock, TX 79430
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of Texas at Dallas
Callier Center for Communication Disorders
Dallas, TX 75235
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

University of North Texas
Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences
Denton, TX 76203
Degree(s): AuD

Utah

University of Utah
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Utah State University
Department of Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education
Logan, UT 84322
Degree(s): AuD

Virginia

James Madison University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
Degree(s): AuD, PhD

Washington

Western Washington University
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
Bellingham, WA 98225
Degree(s): AuD

West Virginia

West Virginia University
Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology
Morgantown, WV 26506
Degree(s): AuD

Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin – Madison / University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point
UW-Madison/Stevens Point Joint AuD Program
Madison, WI 53706 / Stevens Point, WI 54481
Degree(s): AuD

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