PhD Audiology: The University of Manchester

Course description

Audiological research is based within the internationally recognised Audiology and Deafness Research Group, based in the School of Psychological Sciences. The group is the UK leader for applied research in audiology and deafness that has a significant impact upon service delivery in the UK and abroad.

The impact of the group's research and subsequent knowledge transfer on service development (e.g. the NHS newborn hearing screening programme; digital signal-processing hearing aids and the modernisation of NHS hearing aid services) is highly significant, and is one of the features that distinguishes the group from other UK academic departments of audiology.

PhD study within audiology is a challenging yet rewarding experience. Flexibility is allowed within the parameters of the study to allow the research to evolve and instigate findings not envisaged at the outset of the work. Yet this is complimented by a dedicated PhD training structure which provides critical skills training, personal development and progression milestones. The PhD project will either be outlined by the academic supervisor offering the study, or alternatively by an applicant seeking to work within a particular research area with a focused plan of research in mind.

PhD students will quickly be immersed in current research activity being conducted. Within the wider research group, students will have the opportunity to discuss their research with fellow students, post-doctoral candidates and academics. Research Group seminars will provide background to recent developments within the discipline and there will be ample opportunity to share personal research findings, contribute to publications and attend/present at prominent conferences.

Progression is agreed in line with the PhD supervisory team, and key milestones are established so candidates can monitor their own development. In addition to regular meetings with supervisors, the School of Psychological Sciences hosts a dedicated postgraduate academic group who can provide further advice and guidance.

Career opportunities

A MPhil/PhD in audiology provides individuals with a competitive edge in a number of diverse fields, such as:

• Clinical audiology
• Epidemiology and public health
• Social science
• Auditory processing

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview: Applicants for PhD study are expected to hold a minimum 2:1 at undergraduate level. However, additional qualifications or research experience can compensate for a 2:2 degree under certain circumstances. Applicants holding a Masters degree in a relevant subject are particularly encouraged to apply. For an assessment of individual entry qualifications, candidates should contact the School of Psychological Sciences directly.

English language: Students whose first language is not English are required to hold IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 600 paper-based or 250 computer based.