Hearing Instrument Specialist
- Credential:
- Ontario College Diploma
- College Code:
- CONS
- School:
- Health & Life Sciences
- Program Code:
- 1176
- Accelerated Delivery:
- No
- Campus:
- DO
- Academic Year:
- 2019 / 2020
About the Program
This two-year diploma program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and skills to practice evidence-informed hearing healthcare and to function as an integral member of the interprofessional health care team. Graduates of the program will have demonstrated the necessary patient-focused skills to manage the needs of the hard of hearing. The program provides a rich learning environment that utilizes classroom education, laboratory simulation, various interprofessional exercises, and clinical exposure to hone competency. The course work is designed to ensure the student is capable to assess hearing and provide hearing patients with appropriate rehabilitation options - in particular, the selection and fitting of today's technologically-advanced hearing aids. Additionally, the course work will prepare the student to manage minor hearing aid and earmold repairs and modifications. It will prepare students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and critical thinking ability for proficiency within a hearing healthcare environment. After successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to write national/provincial examinations and to complete 1000 hours of supervised internship through the Association of Hearing Instrument Practitioners (AHIP).Program Information
Length: Two-year Ontario College Diploma programDelivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2019 - Fall | Winter | Fall | Winter
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 42
Note:
- Admission requirements for this program may be met by completing Conestoga's Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Certificates and Diplomas. However, students wishing to pursue a degree after graduation from this diploma program should consider enrolling in a Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees program to meet admission requirements.
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status (See Mature Student definition for details.)
- Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1270)
- Grade 11 Mathematics, C, M (U/C), or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Mathematics (MATH1395)
- Grade 11 or 12 Biology, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Biology (SCIE1010)
- For more information on preparatory programs, visit Academic Upgrading
Note re: Admission Requirements
- Applicants with transcripts from institutions where the language of instruction is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency with a minimum test score on one of the following language proficiency tests or equivalent scores from another internationally recognized English language test:
- IELTS overall band of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 except the speaking band which must be 8.0.
- TOEFL iBT 88
- CAEL 70, no sub-test band score less than 60
- PTE Academic 58
- Conestoga English Language Test (CELT) Band 6
Admission Procedures
- An academic strength is calculated by averaging the submitted marks of required subjects. If more than one mark is received for a required subject, the highest mark will be used in the calculation.
- Ten (10) additional marks are added to each Advanced level, OAC, U, U/C, and post-secondary course used in the calculation of academic strength.
- A sound mathematical and English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs apply.
Program Requirements
- Applicants should display integrity, reliability, maturity, self-direction, discipline and determination, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- As hearing instrument specialists work in a communication disorders field, strong English oral and written communication skills are important for success in this program.
- Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed by students prior to student field/clinical placements. Successful placement completion is required for students to progress to program completion. To qualify for field/clinical placement learning experiences, students must present the following by the deadline indicated on the practicum package which will be distributed in class at the end of year one:
- A Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS). Police Checks must be clear of any unpardoned criminal offences. An unclear criminal record may result in the inability to participate in field placement/clinical which will jeopardize progress in the program. Acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency; some agencies may request students to provide a VSS completed within six months of placement start date. Students with criminal records are advised to meet with the program chair for academic counselling to determine program suitability.
- Standard First Aid and CPR - Level C
Tuition & Fees
Tuition fee details for the 2018-2019 year are listed below. Fees for the next academic year are unavailable at this time. Books and supplies are additional.
Domestic Fees
Estimated fees based upon the previous academic year (2018 / 2019) for Hearing Instrument Specialist - Program # 1176
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1498.00 | $1498.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $2340.40 | $2017.40 |
| Year Total | $4357.80 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1498.00 | $1498.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $59.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $2399.40 | $2017.40 |
| Year Total | $4416.80 |
International Fees
Estimated International fees based upon the previous academic year (2018 / 2019) for
Hearing Instrument Specialist - Program # 1176
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6000.00 | $6000.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $7702.40 | $6894.40 |
| Year Total | $14596.80 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6000.00 | $6000.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Health Documentation Fee | $59.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| International Health Insurance | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| International Health Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $7761.40 | $6894.40 |
| Year Total | $14655.80 |
Financial Assistance
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs-based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.For more information, please visit Financial Services/Awards.
Graduate Opportunities
The scope of practice for the Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) is confined to the adult population, whose members present with no medical reason to contra-indicate the use of hearing aids. The HIS typically finds employment in private practice or in the hearing-aid manufacturing sector.On average, 89% of graduates from the last three years (2015 to 2017) found employment within six months of graduation.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home
Pathways & Credit Transfer
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.Often applicants have earned credits from another college or university that may allow a student to be granted advanced standing or exemption. Learn more about credit transfer opportunities at Conestoga.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Conestoga recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through employment, formal and informal education, non-formal learning or other life experiences. Prior learning must be measurable at the required academic level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses. Challenge exams and portfolio development are the primary methods of assessment. Other methods of assessment may be available depending upon the nature of the course objectives. Successful completion of the assessment results in an official course credit that will be recorded on the student's Conestoga transcript. PLAR cannot be used by registered Conestoga students for the clearance of academic deficiencies, to improve grades or to obtain admission into a program.Learn more about PLAR.
Program Courses
| Course Code | Course Title and Description |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | |
| COMM1085 | College Reading & Writing Skills
Description: This course focuses on the reading, writing and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse, summarize, and discuss a variety of readings and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising in response to written prompts. This course prepares students for post-secondary writing tasks, research, and documentation. |
| HEAR1167 | Acoustics and Psychoacoustics
Description: This course provides an overview of physical and psychological acoustics. Topics include the basic properties of both simple and complex sounds, the measurement of sound and sound propagation. Psychoacoustics or the perception of sound will also be covered, specifically: the perception of pitch and loudness, binaural hearing, temporal processing and masking. Application of acoustic principles to hearing testing and hearing aids will also be discussed. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures and demonstrations. |
| HEAR1177 | Anatomy/Physiology of the Ear
Description: This theory-based course provides a detailed overview of the anatomy and physiology of the normal outer, middle, and inner ears, including the balance (vestibular) system and the central auditory nervous system. The peripheral and central nervous systems are explained, so that the roles of the auditory or VIII cranial nerve and central auditory nervous systems can be appreciated. The various pathologies of the abnormal ear and vestibular system are introduced to support further discussions in future courses. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures. |
| HEAR1180 | Hearing Aids I
Description: This course is designed to introduce the student to hearing aids. The topics included are hearing aid history, hearing aid components and controls, earmold styles, materials and earmold impressions. Additionally, this course will introduce students to the process of obtaining, tracking and delivering aids within a clinical setting. The content of this course will be supported in a hands-on laboratory experience. |
| HEAR1190 | Clinical Principles I
Description: This course is designed to introduce the student to clinical practice for the HIS. The student will gain insight into the hearing healthcare field. In particular this course will focus on governing bodies, associations and regulated health professionals. Additionally, this course will introduce the concepts of inter-professional practice and evidence informed practice. Students will gain knowledge of the impact of hearing loss on the aging adult and the impact of aging on the auditory system. Finally, students will be exposed to concept of ehealth and the patient electronic record keeping including non-disclosure of patient information. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 2 | |
| HEAR1135 | Audiometry I
Description: This course introduces the student to the basic concepts and procedures of the routine audiometric test battery. These include: pure-tone testing, speech audiometry, and middle ear impedance testing. Students will also learn how to interpret the audiogram, and relate audiometric findings to the various pathologies of the ear. Particular focus here will be on the needs of the geriatric patient and case study evaluation. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures. |
| HEAR1155 | Hearing Instrument Specialist Field Studies
Description: This course will provide the student with the opportunity to become familiar with the Hearing Aid Manufacturers, non-hearing aid vendors, and entrepreneurship. The student will be exposed to the processes of hearing aid production, distribution, and sales. They will also learn the role of Sales Managers & Customer Service, Production Team and Technical Support clinicians play in supporting patients. The course will also expose the professional roles and responsibilities of the Hearing Instrument Specialist in a variety of workplace settings. Through this experience the student will be required to reflect upon their observations and findings according to criteria established in the course outcomes. |
| HEAR1200 | Hearing Aids II
Description: Hearing Aids 2 continues the concepts and framework of Hearing Aids 1, but focuses primarily on hearing aid measurement. Students will learn how to compare hearing aids to manufacturer specifications and will be introduced to the concept of hearing aid verification. Students will begin to navigate manufacturer fitting software and learn common hearing aid adjustments. Finally, students will be able to differentiate between analog/digital and linear/compression hearing aids. Linear and nonlinear fitting methods will also be introduced. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures. |
| HEAR1210 | Clinical Principles II
Description: This course continues to explore professional topics in hearing healthcare and deepens the knowledge gained in Clinical Principles 1. The patient is the focus of this course. The student will learn hearing aid validation measures, how to explain the audiogram, how to counsel patients to enhance patient benefit, and be familiarized with common hearing aid objections. Additionally, students will be introduced to tinnitus treatment. Finally, students will have a business module in this course that is connected to the entrepreneurship centre at Conestoga College. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 3 | |
| HEAR2110 | Audiometry II
Description: This course reviews concepts learned in the introductory course on audiometry, and expands on them considerably. Specifically, it covers not only the topic of when to use masking, but also how to perform masking. We will examine various types of advanced speech testing materials, such as speech-in-noise testing procedures, We will also look much further into the topic of the Acoustic Reflex. The course also introduces concepts of specialized audiometric tests performed by Audiologists, and important for the HIS to recognize, such as: Acoustic Reflex Decay, Oto-acoustic Emissions, Auditory Brainstem Response. A hand-on lab forms part of this course. |
| HEAR2195 | Hearing Aids III
Description: This course will continue to explore the modern hearing aid. The focus of this course will be advanced hearing aid features. Students will learn about the technology behind advanced hearing aid features, when to recommend their use and how to explain feature benefits to patients. Technologies to be discussed include digital architecture, advanced directionality, digital noise reduction, feedback cancellation, frequency lowering and hearing aid wireless connectivity. In addition to classroom learning, this course will also feature in-depth sessions with hearing aid manufacturer representatives who will focus on specific product knowledge and hearing aid programming. |
| HEAR2205 | Hearing Aid Verification
Description: This course will elaborate on the hearing aid verification techniques acquired in Hearing Aids 2 and will parallel the technologies discussed in Hearing Aids 3. Speech-mapping will be emphasized and students will determine appropriate verification outcomes with both prescriptive target matching and audibility indices. Classroom instruction will be augmented with laboratory sessions where real-ear procedures and methods will be performed. Additionally, students will learn how to further adjust the adaptive features in the manufacturer software modules to address patient concerns and enhance benefit. Student will also learn how to verify the adaptive feature function in a hearing aid analyzer. |
| HEAR2210 | Clinical Principles III
Description: In this course, the student will become more familiar with the clinical practice of the Hearing Instrument Specialist. In particular this course will focus on the roles and responsibilities the clinician has to ensure patient safety and practical competence. Additionally, the student will learn about the funding sources available for the hearing impaired through governmental agencies and other private sources. The student will practice the hearing aid delivery and fitting process in a standardized simulated experience. Finally, the student will learn how to read and explain evidence as it relates to best practices in hearing health care. |
| OHS1320 | Safety in the Workplace
Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the nine units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of General Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 4 | |
| FPLT2060 | Field Placement (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
Description: 14 week clinical practicum readiness, practical and reflective experience. The students will be exposed to a simulated real-world experience, review of necessary documentation and administrative processes. The second portion of this course will then include a real-world hands-on experience. The final segment will include reflective module and a post-graduation readiness module. |
Program Outcomes
- Assess the hearing levels of the client and fit hearing aids using an understanding of sound, the sense of hearing and the causes of hearing loss from an anatomical/physiological standpoint
- Act as an integral member of the hearing health care team that includes audiologists, primary care physicians and ear, nose and throat physicians
- Administer and interpret appropriate tests of hearing, known as "audiometry"
- Integrate audiometric test findings in order to determine optimal hearing aid fittings
- Select appropriate hearing aids from specific manufacturers for subsequent fittings of specific degrees and frequency configurations of hearing loss
- Measure and interpret electro-acoustic hearing aid function, according to ANSI (American National Standards Institute) test procedures
- Refer clients who require audiological or medical intervention to appropriate specialists.
- Apply the knowledge of Ontario's Assistive Devices Program, and of other hearing aid financial assistance services when required in order to meet the needs of the hearing loss client.
- Articulate the challenges facing hearing instrument specialists who wish to establish a private practice
- Assess the psycho-social implications of hearing loss on the hearing impaired and apply appropriate counsel and instruction of hearing aids
- Practice in a competent manner the theory and skills requisite to function as a Hearing Instrument Specialist
- Demonstrate the knowledge and skills related to essential employability skills including numeracy, literacy, critical thinking, problem solving, learning how to learn, team work and communication.
Program Advisory Committees
The College appoints Program Advisory Committee members for diploma, degree, certificate and apprenticeship programs. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Committees.
Program Handbook
Apply Now
Domestic students should apply online at www.ontariocolleges.ca or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.ONTARIOCOLLEGES.CA
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1G 5J3
Detailed steps on the application process may help you to apply.
International students should apply online using the Conestoga College International Application Portal. Please note: not all programs are open to international students. Interested students should check the listing of open programs on our international students web page before applying.
Disclaimer
The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.
Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
