Definition
What is an Audiologist?
Audiologists are certified, licensed professionals who have obtained a Master's Degree or Doctoral Degree (AuD or PhD) in the field of audiology. They are specially trained to diagnose and treat disorders of hearing and balance, which includes diagnosing the type and degree of hearing loss.

Audiologists can also prescribe and fit hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Audiologists offer recommendations that enable patients to make the most of their hearing potential and provide counseling to patients and family members regarding communication and listening strategies.

The majority of audiologists are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), as indicated by the use of CCC-A (Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology) after their name and degree. This credential indicates the successful completion of all national requirements and the attainment of the highest level of educational preparation. Many audiologists are also Fellows of the American Academy of Audiology and indicate this by using FAAA after their other credentials.

Some audiologists specialize in a particular area such as pediatrics, neurological (intra-operative monitoring as well as other diagnostic tests), research, cochlear implants, aural rehabilitation or an educational setting. Audiologists are typically found at Ear, Nose and Throat Clinics, Hospitals, Educational Settings (school systems), VA Hospitals, Universities, and in Private Practices.