UWSP to launch Doctor of Audiology program
By Patrick Lynn
STEVENS POINT — University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will launch its own Doctor of Audiology program, ending a nearly two-decade partnership with University of Wisconsin–Madison.
The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents approved the move in April, clearing the way for UW-Stevens Point to offer a standalone Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree beginning in summer 2028. The new program will replace the existing consortium model the two universities have operated since 2006, with the joint program set to conclude in 2030 after current students finish their degrees.
“UW-Stevens Point has a long history of educating students in the field of audiology and will continue to serve the central and northern regions of Wisconsin by training clinical audiologists to serve people of all ages with suspected and documented hearing loss,” said Julia Fischer, assistant dean and head of the School of Health Sciences and Wellness.
The accelerated three-year doctoral program will require 96 graduate credits and includes a strong clinical component. Students will complete at least 1,820 hours of supervised practicum experience in hospitals, ear, nose and throat clinics, private practices, schools and community health settings.
Audiology education at UW-Stevens Point dates back to 1966.
“We are building on decades of clinical expertise and strong community partnerships,” Fischer said. “Students begin working with patients on campus in their first year and progress to off-campus placements and a full-time externship, ensuring they are fully prepared for professional practice.”
A key part of the program is the university’s on-campus Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic, where students will begin working directly with patients during their first year. The clinic offers services for children and adults, including hearing screenings, diagnostic evaluations, infant hearing follow-ups, aural rehabilitation, vestibular testing and hearing aid services.
University officials said the new program is designed to meet growing demand for audiologists, particularly in rural areas. Each cohort will be capped at 15 students to allow for individualized training and quality clinical placements.
The program will use a service-based pricing model, with the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students. Graduates will be eligible to meet licensure requirements nationwide and pursue certification through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
More information about the program is available at uwsp.edu/audiology.