Graduate-Level Training of Speech-Language Pathologists for the Provision of Auditory Rehabilitation

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigated the type and amount of graduate-level training speech-language pathology students receive in the area of auditory rehabilitation to prepare them to provide clinical services for individuals with hearing loss. Method: The curricula of 251 accredited speech-language pathology programs in the United States were reviewed. The data were used to document the current trends in higher education to prepare speech-language pathology students to provide auditory rehabilitation. Results: Only 52% of the graduate programs required a course related to auditory rehabilitation, while 12% offered courses only as elective content. Conclusions: Given the scope of practice of speech-language pathologists and the increased likelihood of working with individuals with hearing loss due to an upward trend in the diagnosis of hearing loss, it is important that higher education programs ensure that future speech-language pathologists are prepared to provide auditory rehabilitation and be well prepared for working with individuals with hearing loss across the life span. A review of curricula as well as a strong consideration to require an auditory rehabilitation course and clinical training at the graduate level for speech-language pathologists is warranted.