What motivated you to choose the Audiological Sciences MSc and UCL?
I had an atypical route into the world of audiology. Before I started the MSc programme I had been practicing acoustic consultancy for the best part of 13 years with a BSc in Music System Engineering.
I had been wanting to delve into audiology for a few years before and was looking into ways of becoming an audiologist. Initially, I thought I would have to spend 3-4 years completing a BSc, which was not ideal due to the time and costs. I found the two-year MSc programme which better suited my goals, time scales and finances. I didn’t need prior experience in audiology or a medical background; I was eligible for the course given my background in acoustics, audio related subjects, and genuine interest in wanting to help people. The two-year programme offered the foundation needed for a career in audiology and most importantly it offered a route to professional registration on competition.
For me, UCL provided a very accessible route to becoming an audiologist having no previous experience in audiology. I would say for those considering applying who feel they don’t have the right background, enquire and attend the open events – you may be surprised at what the course and a career in audiology has to offer.
I chose UCL for its reputation and strong connection with cutting edge research and industry bodies. When you become part of the UCL community you have access to some fantastic facilities across the campus with numerous workspaces to suit your learning/study style. There are also a lot of student societies you can get involved in.
What are you doing now and how did the course prepare you for your current role/career?
Soon after completing the MSc I was fortunate to land a role as a band 5 audiologist at an NHS trust focusing on adult audiology.
The programme prepared me for day-to-day clinical work by grounding me in both theory and evidence-based practice. During the programme, we were trained to critically evaluate research and apply it to clinical decision making which I now regularly apply when choosing diagnostic tools, evaluating results, planning rehabilitation and counselling patients. It has helped me feel confident that the care I provide is effective, backed up by research, and patient centred.
The programme also included a placement year which I completed at St George’s Hospital. I was engaging with patients and applying the theory and practical skills I had developed in my first year. Treating real patients was daunting at first, but I was well supported throughout which helped build up confidence and competencies. The placement also helped me to understand how an audiology department operates and what is expected of an audiologist which has allowed me to settle in my current role quicker.
What was your favourite aspect of the programme e.g. lectures, clinical placement, research projects, or something else?
Many things for different reasons, but I have a picked out three which stood out for me:
- The lectures. These were engaging and varied across the modules, some of which included guest lectures from working professionals. Some were quite in-depth and took a lot to digest, though lectures were recorded which I could rewatch – invaluable in case you needed a refresher of the lecture.
- Teaching staff are very approachable and friendly. If you have any questions or are experiencing difficulties about the course or personal matters, the course leaders and tutors are very amenable and understanding. I found they would make time if you needed support.
- My course mates. They made the course just as much as the content. We shared a few laughs along the way and importantly we supported each other with assignments, revision and understanding the complicated stuff.
How did your programme support your professional development and network opportunities?
The course touches on a lot of areas of audiology; adult and paediatric services, vestibular assessment, research methods, to name a few. It really does give a broad exposure to different areas of audiology which can help get a feel for where you may wish to specialise as you progress through your career.
Beyond the academic side, the programme supported my development by exposing me to different clinical settings. Through the placements across different NHS trusts and the private sector, I was able to build professional relationships and a network that has been useful as I’ve moved into practice.
Career days were organised by the Ear Institute which included specialist recruiters, manufactures, and audiology service providers. There were also special guest lectures and talks from past students who shared their experiences. This helped get an idea of what opportunities there may be after finishing the programme.
It was also helpful to make the most of the BAA membership and conference and attend the Specsavers conference. Both are great for learning about the latest developments but also networking with industry peers.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for this MSc?
Go into the MSc with an open mind and genuine interest in patient care. It is demanding, but doable; prioritise your time and make the most of your course tutors who are experts in their field. If you are willing to engage actively in both academic and clinical components, it is incredibly rewarding and prepares you well for professional practice.
“Be curious!” I remember one of our lecturers saying this in our induction day. In audiology I think it is important to ask “why?” to your decision making to help you develop into a better professional.
You get out what you put in. Make the most of your time at the Ear Institute and placement; make friends, observe and learn from experienced people, be enthusiastic, be engaged, be proactive, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Audiology is a small world so it’s always worthwhile to start your career on a good footing with peers, this may lead to new opportunities.
Finally, support your peers along the way, this will make the course more enjoyable.
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