Two Scholarships to be Awarded.
Elkins Park PA, February 10, 2012 - Dr. Victor Bray, dean of the Salus University Osborne College of Audiology (OCA), has announced a new graduate level certificate program, Advanced Studies in Cochlear Implants.
"We are proud to provide a unique educational program specifically designed to take audiology professionals from the basic sciences through clinical applications of cochlear implant services," Dr. Bray noted. The curriculum for the program includes cochlear implant science, technology, and clinical protocols, and brings the student up to date on the state of the science found in cochlear implant technology, as well as the methods of treatment.
This graduate level program is designed to fill the need that advancing technology has created in the body of knowledge surrounding cochlear implants, according to Dean Bray. "Our Advanced Studies in Cochlear Implants program offers a deeper knowledge of cochlear implants and emphasizes materials and methods, providing a framework for best practices in the provision of cochlear implant services."
Salus University Osborne College of Audiology will offer two new scholarships for the Advanced Studies in Cochlear Implants program that begins in May. The first is for a faculty member who teaches a cochlear implant course at an institution offering a Doctor of Audiology degree that does not have a cochlear implant center. The second scholarship will go to a fourth year audiology student who is in an externship at a cochlear implant center.
The 40 week, six-course, certificate program is taught entirely online. The faculty, all acknowledged experts in cochlear implants, provide students with up to date information and research, according to Dr. Girija Sundar, coordinator of distance education for Osborne College of Audiology. "Our program is intended for practicing audiologists, audiology faculty in other institutions' programs, employees of cochlear implant companies and graduate students with a particular interest in cochlear implants."
The idea for an in-depth program was born when Dr. Sundar spoke to potential faculty about a possible a refresher course on cochlear implants and "quickly realized that these experts were united in their desire to present a more in-depth picture on their area of expertise in cochlear implants." After more discussion and careful planning, the OCA Advanced Studies in Cochlear Implants certificate program emerged. The coursework is online and asynchronous, making student access to classes during evenings and weekends convenient for audiology professionals, as well as audiology students completing an externship.
The program's expert faculty includes Debbie Abel, AuD;Teresa Caraway, PhD,;Karen A. Gordon, PhD,;Robert V. Harrison, PhD, DSc;Blake Papsin, MD,;Erin C. Schafer, PhD,;Richard Tyler, PhD, and Jace Wolfe, PhD,.
The Advanced Studies in Cochlear Implants certificate program curriculum includes neuroscience of cochlear implantation;medical and surgical consideration in cochlear implants;application of principles relating to programming, psychophysics and electrical stimulation in cochlear implant;a detailed exploration of electro-physiological measures as it relates to cochlear implantation;analysis of behavioral issues as it relates to cochlear implant, including candidacy issues and habilitation for children and rehabilitation for adults;psyco-social concerns and specific business matters relating to the establishment and administration of a cochlear implant clinic.
"A comprehensive course was needed, as indicated by the worldwide shortage of audiologists who are skilled in cochlear implants," said Dr. Bray. He explains that surgeons are trained and conducting cochlear implant surgeries, but there is a shortage of audiologists to perform the associated services with a high level of competence. "We are trying to fulfill this need from an educational and occupational standpoint. We believe having this Advanced Studies certificate not only increases the audiologist's knowledge and professionalism, but their marketability as well."
For program details, go to https://www.salus.edu/audiology/aud_cochlearImplants/index.html.
About Salus University
Salus University was established by the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) in July 2008. Now the University's founding college, PCO was founded in Philadelphia, PA in 1919, and has long been recognized as a leader in the education of health care professionals. Salus University has three additional colleges: George S. Osborne College of Audiology, College of Education and Rehabilitation, and College of Health Sciences. For information on the accredited degree and certificate programs offered by Salus University, please go to www.salus.edu.
