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Audiology is a branch of science that deals with hearing and hearing related disorders.
Students of Audiology are educated regarding the anatomy and physiology of the normal
and abnormal auditory system. They are trained in identifying individuals with hearing
loss, differential diagnosis of auditory disorders, which include disorders of the
middle ear, inner ear, auditory nerve and the central auditor nervous system. The
students are trained to develop expertise in audiological rehabilitation, which
include recommendation of amplification devices such as hearing aids, cochlear implants
and speech language therapy for individuals with hearing impairment. They also learn
to cater to the needs of individuals with special needs such as those with tinnitus,
auditory processing disorders.
Speech and Language Pathology deals with the normal and abnormal aspects of voice,
speech and language. Students of Speech Language Pathology are trained in diagnosis,
differential diagnosis and management of voice, speech and language disorders, which
include disarticulation, stuttering, speech and language problems associated with
hearing impairment, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, cleft palate, autism, laryngectomy,
stroke/paralysis, and learning disorder. Many a times the problems of individuals
with communication disorders are multifold and require special talent and expertise
to cater to the individual needs. Students of Speech Language Pathology are trained
in these skills.
The Course-Bachelor In Audiology And Speech Language Pathology (BASLP)
This is a full-time four-year course including one year of internship. The University
has kept an excellent balance between theoretical and clinical training so as to
develop both professional judgment and scientific competence for the trained audiologist
and speech language pathologist. Throughout the course, the emphasis is on the development
of clinical and research skills. For practical orientation and training, students
are posted in various departments of School of Audiology and Speech Language Pathology
and Bharati Hospital. The syllabus and the training pattern are in accordance with
the recommendations of the Rehabilitation Council of India, New Delhi. The Course
has an integrated inter disciplinary content with relevant aspects of anatomy, physiology,
otorhinolaryngology, pediatrics, neurology, acoustics and electronics, linguistics,
psychology, statistics and research method. In the fourth year, the students are
posted at various hospitals, institutions and specialized centers for internship.
Scope of BASLP
Plenty of opportunities are available for audiologists and speech language pathologists,
both in India and overseas. There is shortage of professionals in the field and
hence there is great demand and scope for the course. After completing the Bachelors
program, the students may pursue their education to obtain postgraduate degree or
start working. Those with academic and research interests may continue their education
to obtain a doctorate in the field.
Job opportunities are available for audiologists and speech language pathologists,
both in India and overseas in the following set ups:
- Academic Universities
- Medical Hospitals/Clinics (General hospitals, Ear Nose Throat, Paediatric or Neurology
clinics)
- Special Schools for children with hearing impairment, mental retardation, cerebral
palsy, autism, learning disability or others
- Normal schools
- Hearing aid/cochlear implant industries
- Hearing conservation program in industries (as industrial audiologist) Private practice
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