Audiologists and speech-language pathologists

Audiologists must have a master’s degree in audiology. Speech-language pathologists need a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. In addition, both audiologists and speech-language pathologists are regulated health professionals and must be certified by the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC.

To dispense hearing aids, an audiologist must also be registered as a hearing instrument practitioner. An individual does not have to be an audiologist, however, to become registered as a hearing instrument practitioner. Audiologists may need additional certifications to work with clients with cochlear implants, balance disorders and other complex issues.

Workers coming to B.C.

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists who are certified by a regulator elsewhere in Canada can apply for the same certification from the regulator in B.C. Under the terms of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), most applicants who are transferring their credentials from elsewhere in Canada will not be required to complete additional training or testing. However, the B.C. regulator may ask applicants to provide further information, such as a letter of good standing, references or a criminal record check.

Workers who trained outside of Canada

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists who trained outside of Canada and have never received certification from a Canadian jurisdiction will likely need a full assessment. Most occupational regulators have a process for assessment and recognize internationally trained applicants. Contact the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC for details on how to apply for certification in B.C.

For information about labour mobility in Canada, visit www.workersmobility.ca.

View a list of Professional Regulatory Authorities in B.C.

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The B.C. Labour Market Outlook is a 10-year forecast of the expected supply and demand for labour in the province. It’s usually updated every year. The purpose is to provide British Columbians with the knowledge to make informed decisions on careers, skills training, education and hiring.

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Demand for audiologists and speech-language pathologists is being driven by a growing and aging population, greater public health awareness and new medical technologies and procedures. Also, low numbers of new graduates are contributing to this increased demand.

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are needed throughout B.C., with the strongest demand in northern and remote areas. Public health audiologists are in especially high demand in the Interior region and in rural and remote areas of the province. To help fill these openings, the B.C. government offers loan forgiveness to audiology and speech-language pathology graduates who commit to working in under-served regions.

The range of services provided by audiologists and speech-language pathologists continues to grow as people live longer and experience more issues. Also, these roles are expanding as more attention is given to job-related hearing disorders and early detection in children. New technologies and treatments also bring changes.