Career roadmap
How to Become an Audiologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an audiologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an audiologist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete an AuD program, (3) complete clinical externship, (4) pass the Praxis exam, (5) specialize. Most people need about 8 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an audiologist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Communication sciences or biology.
Complete an AuD program
About four years.
Complete clinical externship
Part of the AuD.
Pass the Praxis exam
Get licensed.
Specialize
Pediatrics, implants or balance.
Education and training requirements
A Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree from an accredited program is required, plus a state license.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 8 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- State audiology license: Required.
- CCC-A (ASHA): Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology.
- American Board of Audiology certification: Board certification.
- Hearing aid dispensing license: Required in some states.
Skills to build now
Start with audiometric testing, hearing aid fitting, and cochlear implant programming, and practice patience and communication. Learning the audiologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Clinical Fellow: Supervised practice.
- Audiologist: Practice.
- Specialist or Lead Audiologist: Specialize.
- Practice Owner or Director: Lead programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Audiologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an audiologist?
Most people need about 8 years after high school of training. A Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree from an accredited program is required, plus a state license.
Do you need a degree to be an audiologist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for audiologists?
Common credentials include State audiology license, CCC-A (ASHA), American Board of Audiology certification, and Hearing aid dispensing license. All states license audiologists; some require a separate hearing aid dispensing license.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1181 (Audiologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Audiologists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.