U.S. News & World Report ranks audiologists as Best Careers in 2009, but not in 2010

U.S. News & World Report publishes their Best Careers rankings every year, providing readers with reasons why the careers are worthy of making their list. I distinctly remember audiologists being ranked as one of the best careers in 2007, 2008 and 2009. I was surprised to browse through the healthcare category of the 50 Best Careers 2010 list and Audiologist was not on the list. I wondered why the boot?

So, I read the article and the reason became somewhat evident: audiologist require a 4-year Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree. US News & World Report wrote:

"Moves to make healthcare more affordable will increase the range of opportunities for careers with fewer educational requirements (and more moderate pay), such as physician assistants or physical therapist assistants." 

However, optometrists still made the list and their educational requirements are similar to audiologists, a 4-year Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree. As well as veterinarians, who also require a 4-year degree. 

I consulted the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition for Audiologists and they stated: 

"Much faster than average employment growth is projected. However, because of the small size of the occupation, few job openings are expected. Job prospects will be favorable for those possessing the Au.D. degree."

So, job outlook looks promising. This leaves me to say that regardless of making the list or not, audiology being an "under the radar" profession is highly rewarding and definitely on my personal best careers list. Feel free to share your views on why you think audiologists didn't make the list. 

Image via Peirce Clipart Collection

What is an Audiologist?

More often than not, when someone asks me what I am studying and I reply with "audiology," I see a curious look on the face that is accompanied with "what is that?" Other times, people are able to make some connection to the ear. I enjoy educating others about the field of audiology and the scope of practice for an audiologist. I feel strongly about the positive difference we can make in patients' lives in helping them hear better, which can ultimately lead to an improved quality of life. Having said that, audiologists are not only involved in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, but also evaluate those individuals with balance problems. 

According the American Academy of Audiology, "audiologists are the primary health-care professional who evaluate, diagnose, treat and manage hearing loss and balance disorders in adults and children." U.S. News and World Report has ranked the profession of audiology as one of the best careers in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009. Check out the Best Careers 2009 report: U.S. News and World Report. 

The scope of practice can vary and similar to other medical professions. An audiologist can be in general practice where he or she does diagnostics and treatment. Or can become specialized in a specific area of the field, such as cochlear implants, vestibular (or balance) testing and treatment, pediatrics, diagnostics, evoked potential testing, treatment involving amplification, etc. 

The current educational requirements for becoming an audiologist is a Doctor of Audiology degree (Au.D.), which involves attending a 4-year program following a bachelor's degree and licensing. 

Click on the image twice to enlarge (image source: American Academy of Audiology).