As a long-time supporter of the AuD as the entry level degree to our profession, I felt sure that when the avenue opened for those of us in the field to upgrade our degrees became available, I would take the opportunity to do so. The Univ of Florida and CMU/Vanderbilt programs launched at about the same time. After a comparison of the requirements for travel vs. research, costs involved, and classes offered, I opted for the CMU program. I applied to CMU, was accepted and became one of a “cohort” to take the first classes before the program was opened to the general public. I have now completed 5 of 8 required courses and would like to give a report of how it is going to those of you who might be considering working toward your AuD.
The literature from CMU leads one to believe that it may be possible to obtain the AuD from their program in 12-18 months. If you are able to take two classes at a time, and begin work on your research project while taking classes and working full-time, this is a true statement. I have found that my schedule allows me to take one class at a time, while working and keeping up with family, church, and social obligations. Overall, the courses have been very good, quite interesting, very topical and relevant to my clinical day. I entered the program feeling that I was quite current in Audiology, as I have more than 600 hours of continuing education since leaving graduate school. However, I have been pleasantly surprised to find that there is a LOT of information to be gained through in-depth study in a given area-things that can’t be covered in 2 or 3 day continuing education seminars. The CMU/Vanderbilt professors are nationally recognized in their respective areas of expertise, and bring valuable information to the table (or computer screen) during each course. This is not to say I’ve found each course easy; at least two courses come to mind that were incredibly demanding, stressful and forced me to work much harder than I wanted to just to earn a B.
I recently took six months off for personal and health reasons. I plan to register soon for the Jan 01 term, and as I look ahead to the next few months, I plan to finish the coursework, and begin work on my research or “capstone” project. I’ve given myself a personal deadline to finish, although CMU allows you eight years to complete the program once you’ve enrolled. Many colleagues in and out of the AF have asked me why I’m doing this. I’ve realized it isn’t for potential AF advancement or recognition, and I’m not even sure that I’ll ever touch another ear or hearing aid once I retire from the AF. My answer to them is I wanted to do it for me, for my own professional interest, because I want to be the best audiologist I can be, and certainly to stay current in the field, as long as I remain in the field. I also suspect that an earned AuD will open doors for me when I depart the AF, if I decide to stay in audiology.
So, just to let you know, it isn’t easy, it requires a strong commitment of time, and an understanding and supportive family to make the AuD a reality in your life. Distance learning isn’t for everyone, and the program isn’t as “self-paced” as CMU would like you to believe. It is self-paced in that you may take classes when you want to, taking off certain terms for vacation or other commitments, but while in a term, projects, papers and tests are due at given times. The requirement is there from the professors that you attend weekly chat sessions and submit assignments on time. It is possible in most classes to work ahead, but it could be lethal if you fall behind.
Several of us in the AF are taking classes from CMU and would be happy to talk to those of you with specific questions. Two classmates who come to mind are Col Ben Sierra and Capt Anne Shull. If you have questions about the CMU program, contact one of us for truly honest, informed opinions on life as a student (again).
LtCol (s) Angela Williamson
Director, Audiology / Hearing Conservation Services
Robins AFB, GA
(478) 327-7615
DSN 497-7615
FAX 497-8497