Healthcare Science (Audiology)

Swansea University’s Audiology degree will give you an expert understanding of the science of hearing, balance, and the associated pathological conditions that affect them. This three-year course combines rigorous academic and theoretical work with the extensive practical clinical experience you need for employment in this growing profession.

You will learn to assess hearing capacity and balance function using the latest diagnostic equipment and software applications in our clinical and research facilities.

Our state-of-the-art facilities allow you to learn and practice your clinical and technical skills in our simulated clinical practice rooms. Equipped with the latest technology and equipment, each room offers a unique environment that replicates a wide range of realistic clinical settings. The rooms provide an excellent opportunity for you to put theory into practice and gain confidence and experience in clinical environments.

You’ll observe audiology clinics in our on-campus Health and Wellbeing Academy, gain experience in commercial settings and go on to build your skills and confidence in clinical work placements at hospitals across Wales.

You will spend around half of your course on clinical placements giving you greater insight into the skills you have learnt with our expert clinical teaching team. Clinical Placements will teach you how to present to patients and will embed your learning into your practise.

The course is accredited by all the major regulatory bodies, and you will benefit from our strong links with the NHS and local health boards, with our nearest hospital being next to our Singleton Park campus. Many of our academic staff in Health Sciences are also practising clinicians, providing invaluable professional insight and expertise.

Course Modules

In year 1, you will typically study modules such as:

Professional Practice 1
Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Science
Pathophysiology for Healthcare Science
Neurosensory Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology
Neurosensory Science
Neurosensory Clinical Measurement and Treatment

In year 2, you will typically study modules such as:

Professional Practice 2
Research Methods and Statistics
Instrumentation Signal Processing and Imaging
Healthcare Science Work Based Placement 1 (Audiology)
Audiological Science 1
Sensory Aids 1
Vestibular Assessment and Management
The Developing Person

In year 3, you will typically study modules such as:

Professional Practice 3
Healthcare Science Research Project
Healthcare Science Work-Based Placement 2 (Audiology)
Audiological Science 2
Sensory Aids 2
Introduction to Tinnitus

You will be assessed via a variety of methods throughout the three years of study. You will complete written examinations, written assignments, presentations, case-based discussions and assessments of clinical competency. In year three, you will have the chance to complete a research project in your chosen healthcare science programme. The results of this will be presented as part of your dissertation and you will be involved in a peer-assessment scientific poster presentation.