Audiologist (aw-dee-ahl-uh-jist): The primary health-care professional for hearing and balance disorders.

• Audiologists evaluate, diagnose, and manage hearing loss and balance disorders in children and adults.
• Audiologists prescribe and supply hearing aids and assistive devices.
  
• Audiologists prescribe and program cochlear implants.
• Audiologists support hearing conservation through implementing programs and prescribing/supplying hearing protection devices.
• Audiologists implement and support hearing screening programs including those for newborns and school children.
  

Historically, an Audiologist must possess at minimum a Masters Degree in Audiology; however, a growing number of Audiologists have earned a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree (or its equivalent in a Ph.D., Sc.D., etc.).  All audiologists applying for first-time licensure in Illinois must hold a doctoral degree in audiology; reciprocity without a doctorate may be granted to those who obtained Audiology licensure in another state prior to 2008.

Audiologists are regulated by state licensure or registration in all states.