Learn about the certifications available in audiology for speech-language professionals and what is required to earn these certifications. Get additional career info, such as salary and job outlook statistics.
Audiology Certification Options
There are two certifications available to audiologists, each of which requires completion of an academic degree and work experience, as well as passing an exam. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) offers the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A). Board certification in audiology is also available from the American Board of Audiology (ABA).
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts About This Occupation</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Median Pay (2021)</td><td> $78,950</td></tr>
<tr><td>Entry-Level Education</td><td> Doctoral degree</td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 10% (audiologists)-much faster than average</td></tr>
<tr><td>Work Environment</td><td> A few audiologists work in school environments but most practice in clinics, hospitals or physicians' offices.</td></tr>
<tr><td>Licensing</td><td> Licensing requirements vary by state.</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AmericanSpeechLanguageHearingAssociationASHAAudiologyCertification">American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Audiology Certification</h3><p>Applicants for certification must have a doctoral degree in a field that provides the skills and knowledge needed to practice audiology. This degree must be granted by an ASHA accredited program and applicants must have completed a program of study that includes both class work and at least 1,820 hours of supervised clinical experience. In addition, the certification candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary for the treatment, evaluation, identification, prevention and practice of audiology as outlined by ASHA and the ability to make clinical assessments based on those skills.
</p><p>The ASHA certification is valid for three years; audiology practitioners must complete 30 hours of continuing professional development every 3 years to maintain certification.
</p><h3 id="section---AmericanBoardOfAudiologyABA">American Board of Audiology (ABA)</h3><p>To become board certified by the ABA, the applicant must have a Ph.D. in audiology granted from a regionally accredited institution and have passed a national examination in audiology. The certification requires 2,000 documented hours of supervised professional practice within a 3 year period following completion of academic coursework. It also requires the candidate to hold a current license to practice audiology. The supervised practice hours must be mentored by a state licensed audiologist.
</p><p>ABA board certification is good for 3 years. In order to renew certification, 60 hours of continuing education courses are required.</p>
