Cell and Molecular Processes

7132

Credits: 3

This course introduces the students to a number of fundamental mechanisms that govern cellular metabolism, basic histological characteristics of the four tissue types of the human body and basic physiological properties common to all cell types. These sections also include some limited examples of regulatory breakdown or pathology and clinical correlates. The goal is to provide the student with sufficient understanding of normal cellular and tissue organization and function to facilitate the recognition and understanding of the mechanisms that underlie both normal and disease processes covered in subsequent courses.

Pharmacology

7201

Credits: 2

Basic concepts and terminology of pharmacology will be explored, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and ototoxic drugs. Medications that may contribute to or treat audiologic and vestibular diagnoses will be discussed. Legislation and regulatory issues related to drug clinical trials and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be reviewed.

Systemic Organ Biology

7232

Credits: 3

This course concentrates on the integration of the anatomy, histology, physiology and pathology to understand the basic function and pathology of specific organ systems, including the cardiovascular, pulmonary, urinary, gastrointestinal and endocrine.

Auditory Biology 1

7330

Credits: 1.5

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the normal auditory system, including the auditory periphery (outer, middle, and inner ears), auditory nerve and brainstem, and auditory thalamus and cortex. The broad goal is to understand “how hearing happens”, and the structures involved in the process.

Auditory Biology 2

7331

Credits: 1

Building on Auditory Biology 1, this course covers the pathophysiology of the auditory system, from the auditory periphery (outer, middle and inner ears) to the central auditory system.  In other words, it is a course about hearing loss and its associated problems (e.g., tinnitus and hyperacusis), and includes an introduction to hearing conservation (i.e. hearing loss prevention) and to treating hearing loss (e.g., with hearing aids and cochlear implants).

Head and Neck Anatomy

7400

Credits: 2

The study of structures is used to discuss functional human gross anatomy of the head and neck. This course emphasizes anatomical relationships that support clinical application, including imaging and the relationship of the head and neck to organ systems.

Neurosciences

7401

Credits: 2

The course deals with the structure and function of the nervous system. This is applied to the understanding of neuropathology later in the course. The course forms the foundation for understanding the impact of neurological disease on the auditory and vestibular system.

Cerumen Management

7501

Credits: 0.5

In-depth anatomy and physiology of the external auditory meatus and tympanic membrane. Instruments, equipment and techniques used for effective removal of cerumen and prevention and treatment of complications that may arise in specific populations. Related professional topics such as infection control, reimbursement, and professional liability.

Speech & Language Development & Disorders

7503

Credits: 2

Normal speech and language development will be addressed with speech-language disorders commonly found in children with hearing loss. The collaborative roles of the audiologist and the speech-language pathologist in the evaluation and treatment of speech-language disorders are overviewed.

Auditory Processing Disorders

7505

Credits: 2

Diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of auditory processing disorders. Emphasis is placed on auditory neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuroplasticity. Students will obtain experience in administering and interpreting auditory processing tests and developing management plans.

Hearing Conservation & Industrial Audiology

7514

Credits: 2

Introduction to the basic principles of sound and its measurement, including Damage Risk Criteria and its application to noise-induced hearing loss will be addressed, as well as components of hearing conservation programs in a variety of settings and evaluation of their effectiveness in the prevention of hearing loss. On course completion, students will be eligible to obtain certification from the Council for Accreditation in Occupational Hearing Conservation (CAOHC).

Management of Tinnitus and Hyperacusis

7515

Credits: 1

Theories related to the etiologies of tinnitus and hyperacusis. Practices of the evaluation and treatment of tinnitus and hyperacusis, including sound therapies, counseling, and the potential for future pharmacological treatments.

Instrumentation

7517

Credits: 1

An introduction to the technology and instrumentation used in the assessment of hearing, with both lecture and lab components. Covered topics include electricity, analog and digital electronics, transducers (microphones/     loudspeakers), sound stimuli, audiometers and audiometric test enclosures and tympanometers.

Calibration

7518

Credits: 0.5

Reliable hearing assessment depends on the accurate specification and delivery of sound stimuli.  This requires at least annual equipment calibration to standards set forth by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).  We will learn about and use precision sound level meters to calibrate audiometers during lab exercises, and discuss the calibration of other audiometric instruments.

Otoacoustic Emissions

7520

Credits: 0.5

A comprehensive look at the theoretical basis and clinical utility of spontaneous, transient-evoked, and distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (OAE’s), including a laboratory component for measuring and analyzing these important, non-invasive windows into outer hair cell and middle ear function. 

Medical Co-Management of Auditory Diseases

7523

Credits: 1

Focuses on the diagnosis and follow-up of medically related disorders of hearing, includes genetic syndromes, infectious diseases and chronic disorders.  This course will be team taught by an otologist and an audiologist.

Acoustics and Acoustic Phonetics

7524

Credits: 3

Information is covered on the principles of sound, its measurement and the acoustic parameters of sound and perception of speech.

Psychoacoustics

7525

Credits: 3.5

Physical and psychological attributes related to sound in normal hearing and impaired ears. Classical psychophysical methods discussed, with an emphasis on their application to audiological testing.

Audiometric Principles 1

7530

Credits: 1

Evaluation of the auditory mechanisms from otoscopy through theories of comprehensive audiometric testing leading up to sites-of-lesion.

Audiometric Principles 2

7531

Credits: 1

This course is a continuation of the audiometric principles course sequence. Evaluation of the auditory mechanism including theory for site of lesion testing necessary to determine differential diagnosis of auditory pathologies.

Vestibular and Balance Evaluation 1

7540

Credits: 2

Anatomy and physiology of the vestibular mechanism, with emphasis on the disorders that can influence the balance system. Experience in determining which diagnostic tools may be appropriate for patients with balance disorders. Conduct and interpret the basic case history, bedside evaluations, and ENG/VNG test battery.

Vestibular and Balance Evaluation 2

7541

Credits: 2.5

Advanced diagnostic vestibular techniques and functional balance assessment with emphasis on rotational chair, evoked potentials, and computerized dynamic posturography. Integration and synthesis of various tests as well as case studies to further clinical knowledge.

Vestibular Rehabilitation

7542

Credits: 1

Identification and administration of selected treatment options for a variety of vestibular disorders including canolith repositioning techniques and principles in vestibular compensation.      

Hearing Technologies 1

7552

Credits: 2

Emphasis in HT1 is on the elements of prescription and fitting of auditory-assistance technologies. Topics include hearing aid components, hearing aid systems, device-to ear coupling systems, measurements of hearing aids in the test box, digital signal processing algorithms, amplification prescriptions, measurements of hearing aids in the real ear, hearing assistive technology systems, and the utilization of combined technologies in a holistic approach to meet patient needs. 

Hearing Technologies 2

7553

Credits: 0.5

Hearing Technologies 2 (HT2) concentrates on the human factors in the audiological intervention process for persons with hearing loss and covers the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) Guidelines for the Audiologic Management of Adult Hearing Impairment, including (2) Assessment and Goal Setting, (4) Orientation, Counseling, and Follow-up, and (5) Assessing Outcomes.     

Hearing Technologies 3

7554

Credits: 2.5

The HT3 course has multiple components. First, there is an emphasis on the practical applications of hearing instrument theory to include guest lecture presentations from the global hearing instrument manufacturers covering their respective product portfolios (hardware), wireless communications (smartphone and accessories), and programming systems (software). Second, there is an introduction to nonprescription, over-the-counter hearing aids. Third, there is an overview of implantable amplification technologies. Fourth, there is an overview of public health initiatives that are underway which will have an impact on the future practice of audiology. Fifth, there is a summary of the impact of selected clinical procedures on patient outcomes.      

Cochlear and Brain Stem Implants

7555

Credits: 2.5

Covers a variety of auditory prosthetic devices with emphasis on cochlear implant technology. History, pediatric and adult candidacy, signal processing strategies and fitting protocols will be explored in detail. 

Auditory Evoked Responses 1

7562

Credits: 1

This course focuses on the ‘early’ auditory evoked responses (AERs), generated by the cochlea (cochlear microphonic, summating potential, compound action potential) and the auditory brainstem (ABR).  Technical aspects of the recordings and their clinical applications are stressed in equal measure.  

Auditory Evoked Responses 2

7563

Credits: 1.5

Further study of electrodiagnostic testing including, but not limited to, Auditory Steady-State Response (ASSR), Cochlear Hydrops Analysis Masking Procedure (CHAMP), Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential (VEMP) and suppression Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE). 

Inter-Operative Neuro Monitoring

7565

Credits: 1

Application of neurophysiological testing in the intraoperative setting.  Includes measurement of somatosensory evoked potentials, motor evoked potentials, brainstem auditory evoked potentials, electromyography and electroencephalogy.  

Pediatric Audiologic Assessment

7570

Credits: 1.5

This course will help students understand the development of the human auditory system, genetic causes of hearing loss, universal newborn hearing screening, early hearing detection and identification programs, components of a pediatric case history, behavioral and physiological assessment. 

Pediatric Intervention & Management

7571

Credits: 1.5

This course will help prepare students to address the unique audiological needs of children with hearing impairment. The focus of the course is the support of children with hearing impairment and their families-from diagnosis through intervention, including amplification, assistive listening devices, supporting development and transitioning into educational programs. Topics will include hearing aids, remote microphone technology, assistive listening devices, supporting development and transitioning into educational programs. 

Educational Audiology

7572

Credits: 1

This course will help students understand the educational audiologist’s role within the school setting, classroom acoustics, effects of hearing loss on development and learning, hearing conservation and legal foundations of educational audiology. 

Patient Centered Clinical Interviewing

7580

Credits: 1

Issues related to the professional relationship between doctors of audiology and patients in the clinical practice of audiology, with emphasis on the development of a humanistic approach to patient care. Effective communication skills addressed, especially as related to case-history taking and counseling.

Psychosocial Aspects of Hearing Impaired

7581

Credits: 0.5

Psychosocial aspects of hearing loss will be addressed. Untreated hearing loss can lead to psychological and social difficulties.  Successful treatment for hearing loss can lead to a reduction in the psychosocial impact and improvement in quality of life.  The differences in effects of hearing loss and hearing loss treatment for individuals on psychological and social problems will be covered. 

Auditory Rehabilitation

7582

Credits: 1

Outcome measurements used to assess the effectiveness of adult audiologic rehabilitation programs will be addressed. Case study approach will be used to develop, implement and evaluate adult audiologic rehabilitation programs. 

Aging and Management of Geriatric Patient

7583

Credits: 1

Bio-psychosocial model of aging addresses the impact of aging on the auditory mechanism. Specific modifications that should be made when providing hearing and balance services to older adults will be emphasized.

Clinical Problem Solving 1

7730

Credits: 0.5

Students build clinical reasoning skills through a problem-based learning approach and develop the ability to acquire, interpret, synthesize and record significant clinical decision-making information to diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders.

Clinical Problem Solving 2

7731

Credits: 0.5

Students continue to build clinical reasoning skills through a problem-based learning approach and increase the ability to acquire, interpret, synthesize and record significant clinical decision-making information to diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders

Introduction to Clinical Research

7740

Credits: 2

Introduction to the research environment and research methods used in the health sciences and audiology.  Overview of key statistical analyses used in descriptive and experimental research. Students will attain the skills necessary to be consumers and producers of audiology research.      

Audiology Grand Rounds

7750

Credits: 0.5

Utilizing an evidence-based approach, case presentations are made by students in a grand rounds format (presenting a particular patient’s medical problems, diagnostic testing results and treatment effects) to other audiology students and faculty incorporating various clinical practices and evaluation and treatment protocols.

Ethics in Healthcare Professions

7934

Credits: 0.5

Ethics in Healthcare Profession is an overview of policy and documents related to student and professional Code of Ethics, with a focus on healthcare and the profession of audiology. Case studies of ethical issues and dilemmas related to clinical practice and research in audiology are considered.

Resume Writing and Interviewing Skills

7936

Credits: 0.5

This course prepares students for the expectations and challenges of the future including resumes, curriculum vita, cover letters supporting applications, and interviewing skills for externships and employment.     

Professional Issues in Audiology

7937

Credits: 0.5

This course reviews current issues in the profession of audiology including scope of practice, employment opportunities, state licensure requirements, professional certification options and current legislative issues which may impact the future of audiology.

Audiology Practice Management

7940

Credits: 2

This course is designed to provide a basic understanding of the business of audiology.  Topics include finance, marketing and operations, and the foundations of business. The class culminates with the development of an audiology business plan that will assist the student in future practice management settings. 

Clinical Skills: Audiometric Principles 1

8630

Credits: 0.5

This course series provides the opportunity for studentsto develop clinical skills through supervised labs. Students are expected to demonstrate growth of clinical skills throughout the term during scheduled lab activities. Students are expected to continue independently practicing those skills learned in an effort to successfully complete the credentialing examination that will be given at the end of the term.

Clinical Skills: Audiometric Principles 2

8631

Credits: 0.5

This course is a continuation of the clinical skills sequence in audiometric training combining lecture and lab formats. These learning experiences culminate in another credentialing exam to verify competence in foundational clinical skills.

Clinical Skills: Hearing Technologies 1

8642

Credits: 0.5

Supervised training and practice to reinforce knowledge acquired in didactic Hearing Technologies 1 class.  Lab includes information and activities on the hearing aid evaluation and selection process, hearing aid checks, repairs and modifications, culminating in a credentialing examination to verify the student’s abilities.

Clinical Skills: Hearing Technologies 2

8643

Credits: 0.5

Supervised training and practice to reinforce knowledge acquired in didactic Hearing Technologies 2.    Lab includes information and activities on hearing aid fitting, verification and validation techniques, as well as hearing aid adjustments using various hearing aid manufacturers, culminating in a credentialing examination to verify the student’s abilities.

Clinical Skills: Hearing Technologies 3

8644

Credits: 1

Supervised training and practice to reinforce knowledge acquired in Module 5 didactic Hearing Technologies classes.  Lab includes information and activities related to assistive listening devices, personal sound amplification devices, “hearables,” and other non-traditional amplification options.  Students will learn verification and validation techniques for FM systems and other wireless hearing instruments accessories, culminating in a credentialing examination to verify the student’s abilities. 

Clinical Skills: Vestibular & Balance Eval 1

8645

Credits: 0.5

Supervised training and practice to reinforce knowledge acquired in didactic Vestibular and Balance 1. Labs include hands on practice in the set up and instructions for Videonystagmography, caloric, and basic bedside vestibular testing. Students’ skills are assessed through a midterm and final credentialing demonstrations to verify the student’s abilities.

Clinical Skills: Auditory Evoked Responses 1

8662

Credits: 0.5

Laboratory training in the recording and analysis of auditory brainstem responses (ABRs), to put into practice knowledge acquired in the lecture component (Auditory Evoked Responses 1). The course culminates in a credentialing examination to verify the student’s abilities.

Clinical Skills: Pediatric Audiologic Assessment

8670

Credits: 0.5

Students receive hands-on experience in the assessment of hearing in the pediatric patient population including case history, otoscopy, immittance measures and behavioral assessment using visual reinforcement and conditioned play audiometric techniques. Course culminates in a credentialing exam to verify the student’s abilities. 

Professional Practice 1

8851

Credits: 0.5

Audiologic clinical skills development through a combination of observation and participation in direct patient care performed at the Pennsylvania Ear Institute. Students will be expected to be active observers by interacting with the patient and engaging in problem-solving to assist in the formation of the diagnosis of hearing and balance problems.

Professional Practice 2

8852

Credits: 0.5

Audiologic clinical skills development through a combination of observation and participation in direct patient care performed at the Pennsylvania Ear Institute. Students are expected to continue to develop new clinical skills and integrate the information developed through didactic preparation.

Professional Practice 3

8853

Credits: 1.5

Direct faculty supervised patient care at the Pennsylvania Ear Institute with emphasis on refinement of skills in case history taking, subjective and objective diagnostic tests and rehabilitation, including hearing aids.

Professional Practice 4

8854

Credits: 1.5

Direct faculty supervised patient care at the Pennsylvania Ear Institute, with emphasis on refinement of skills in case history taking, subjective and objective diagnostic tests and rehabilitation, including hearing aid assessment and orientation and exposure to vestibular and balance testing, which many include VNG/ENG, CDP and/or Rotary Chair when diagnostically appropriate. 

Professional Practice 5

8855

Credits: 2.5

Co-managed patient care with faculty preceptors at Pennsylvania Ear Institute and/or off-campus clerkship rotations within commuting distance of the campus.  Emphasis on continued refinement of skills in case history taking, subjective and objective diagnostic tests, and rehabilitation including hearing aid assessment and fitting. When the opportunity presents student will be exposed to vestibular and balance testing, which many include VNG/ENG, CDP and/or Rotary Chair depending on clinical site. 

Professional Practice 6

8856

Credits: 3

Clerkship experience is expanded to off-campus regional locations to include experience in one of the following four environments:  private practice, hospital, pediatric, or medical offices (ENT/otologist/neuro-otologist). Off campus rotations allow for student clinicians to experience a rich variety of patient demographics and scope of practice. Consideration of rotation site in an adjacent state will be considered on an individual student basis. 

Professional Practice 7

8857

Credits: 5

Clerkship experience is expanded to off-campus regional locations to include experience in one of the following four environments:  private practice, hospital, pediatric, or medical offices (ENT/otologist/neuro-otologist). Off campus rotations allow for student clinicians to experience a rich variety of patient demographics and scope of practice. Consideration of rotation site in an adjacent state will be considered on an individual student basis. 

Professional Practice 8

8858

Credits: 5

Clerkship experience is expanded to off campus regional locations to include experience in one of the following four environments:  private practice, hospital, pediatric, or medical offices (ENT/otologist/neuro-otologist). Off campus rotations allow for student clinicians to experience a rich variety of patient demographics and scope of practice. Consideration of rotation site in an adjacent state will be considered on an individual student basis. 

Clinical Externship 1

8860

Credits: 9.5

Summer Term. Beginning of the full-time fourth year clinical externship. Opportunity for national site placement.  Intent is to offer student clinician the means to focus full time on fine tuning clinic skills in a variety of settings and to focus on areas of interest when available. 

Clinical Externship 2

8861

Credits: 9.5

Fall Term. Continuation of the full-time fourth year clinical externship. Opportunity for national site placement. Intent is to offer student clinician the means to focus full time on fine tuning clinic skills in a variety of settings and to focus on areas of interest as desired. 

Clinical Externship 3

8862

Credits: 9.5

Winter Term. Completion of the full-time fourth year clinical externship. Opportunity for national site placement. Intent is to offer student clinician the means to focus full time on fine tuning clinic skills in a variety of settings and to focus on areas of interest as desired.

Clinical Externship 4

8863

Credits: 9.5

Spring Term. Conclusion of the full-time fourth year clinical externship. Opportunity for national site placement. Intent is to offer student clinician the means to focus full time on fine tuning clinic skills in a variety of settings and to focus on areas of interest as desired.