Hearing Instrument Specialist Program (S117)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Preparing qualified hearing professionals for over 30 years.
Program Overview
In the Hearing Instrument Specialist program you will learn the specialized skills required to work as a hearing health-care professional. You will develop people skills and will learn how to use the latest technology to assess appropriate hearing solutions for those in need. For applicants with a relevant degree or diploma, we offer an opportunity for advanced standing into semester 3 of the program.
Full Description
The Hearing Instrument Specialist (S117) three-year advanced diploma program will teach you the clinical, technical and people skills you need to work as part of an interprofessional hearing health-care team.
Hearing aids have evolved dramatically in recent years. Now smaller and more sophisticated in terms of capability, high-end devices leverage the latest technology and provide a superior hearing experience. If you like to work with technology and people, this is an exciting time to work as a hearing instrument specialist.
As hearing is a vital communication tool that helps us interact with others and our environment, hearing instrument specialists play an important role in helping deliver solutions to those diagnosed with hearing loss.
While hearing loss is not exclusive to older adults, it does often occur with age. With Canada’s aging population, the demand for highly qualified hearing instrument specialists who can provide a client-centred approach to better hearing health care will continue to increase in the coming years.
In this program, you'll study the hearing instrument sciences to build a strong foundation in the theory and skills related to:
- acoustics
- audiometric testing
- selection and fitting of hearing aids
- hearing aid technology
You will develop clinical skills to test and assess hearing and learn how to select and fit hearing aids.
You will also develop the soft skills, or people skills, needed to work with a range of clients with varying degrees of hearing loss. Skills like active listening, empathy and effective communication will help you learn how to connect with your clients and better understand their unique needs to provide exceptional client-based care.
You'll also be encouraged to develop an entrepreneurial mindset through additional courses that address key contemporary topics, including:
- clinic management
- health promotion
- counselling
Earn this Advanced Diploma in Two Years with an Existing Credential
Applicants who have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in health sciences, social sciences, or a related field, with an overall average of B minus (or 2.7 GPA or 70 per cent) may be considered for advanced standing into semester 3 of the program.
Your Field Education Options
Field placement is a key component of this Hearing Instrument Specialist program, as it will allow you to apply what you've learned in the classroom to the work you will do with real patients.
This program offers both an internal and an external placement during semester 6.
Initially, you will participate in a 21-hour placement at our on-site state-of-the-art WAVE Hearing Clinic (Hearing Clinic IV). During this time, you will practise treating members of the public, including George Brown students, by performing the day-to-day tasks of a hearing instrument specialist (e.g., testing hearing, fitting hearing aids and providing client counselling).
In the second half of the final semester, you will work off-site with a community partner for seven weeks (equivalent to 245 clinic hours) and will once again perform the day-to-day tasks of a hearing instrument specialist.
PLEASE NOTE: As a student in this program, you will be responsible for finding your own field experience opportunities. You will be supported in this process by program faculty.
External field education generally occurs in the broader Greater Toronto Area, so travel will be required. You should be aware that field education opportunities may be located anywhere within the province, especially if suitable opportunities cannot be found in Toronto and surrounding areas. You will be responsible for travel and other associated costs related to external field education opportunities.
Are you interested in this program but need more competitive marks? Consider enrolling in the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees (A108) program. This program will help you develop new and strengthen existing skills in math, biology, chemistry, physics and communication.
PLEASE NOTE: While successful graduates of the (A108) program will be eligible to apply to this advanced diploma, it does not guarantee entry into this program.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Context* |
| HEAR 1001 | Clinical Acoustics |
| HEAR 1003 | Introduction to Hearing Instrument Sciences |
| HEAR 1013 | Functional Anatomy and Physiology |
| HEAR 1014 | Ethics and Professionalism |
| HEAR 1016 | Gerontology |
Semester 2
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 1002 | Hearing Disorders |
| HEAR 1009 | Hearing Technology I: Linear to Digital Evolution |
| HEAR 1010 | Hearing Testing I: Introduction to Audiometry |
| HEAR 1011 | Psycho-social Impact of Hearing Loss |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 3
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 1015 | Fundamental Skills for HIS |
| HEAR 2010 | Hearing Testing II: Intermediate Audiometry and Masking |
| HEAR 2012 | Interviewing and Counselling |
| HEAR 2016 | Hearing Instrument Technology II: Programming and ANSI Testing |
| HEAR 2022 | Hearing Clinic I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 4
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 2014 | Business Management I: Introduction and Marketing |
| HEAR 2019 | Hearing Instrument Technology III: Real Ear Measurement |
| HEAR 2021 | Hearing Testing III: Advanced Audiometry |
| HEAR 2023 | Hearing Clinic II |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
Semester 5
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 3001 | Hearing Instrument Technology IV: Hearing Instrument Features & Case Studies |
| HEAR 3003 | Field Placement & Workplace Preparation |
| HEAR 3014 | Business Management II: Finance & Planning |
| HEAR 3020 | Hearing Clinic III |
Semester 6
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 3025 | Hearing Clinic IV |
| HEAR 3027 | Community Field Placement |
| HEAR 3028 | Hearing Instrument Technology V: Product Update |
| HEAR 3029 | Applied Counselling & Health Promotion |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit the Assessment Centre web page for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Administer a battery of hearing tests and analyze the results of these tests based on a thorough knowledge of functional anatomy and within the current scope of practice of a hearing instrument specialist.
- Obtain an accurate ear mould impression based on an otoscopic examination.
- Advocate and effectively communicate to a diverse audience the psycho-social implications of hearing loss.
- Design a hearing health-care plan incorporating health promotion, rehabilitation and appropriate referrals based on comprehensive client history, observation and counselling.
- Verify the benefits of the recommended devices, utilizing appropriate technology.
- Fit and adjust the hearing devices using available technology and based on client observation, acoustical needs and counselling.
- Teach the use and maintenance of hearing aids and/or assistive listening devices to clients and others.
- Maintain, repair and modify assistive hearing devices for optimal performance.
- Recommend appropriate hearing devices based on a comparison of manufacturers’ specifications and features and compatibility with other assistive listening devices.
- Treat, counsel and communicate effectively with all clients, utilizing knowledge of the aging process as required.
- Perform all roles and responsibilities as a hearing instrument specialist in accordance with accepted professional, ethical and legislative standards of the health care system.
- Determine effective management practices for the operations of a hearing aid dispensary, including but not limited to accounting, health and safety practices, marketing, and business and resource planning.
- Research and evaluate current community and government resources, new technologies and medical advances available for the benefit of the client.
- Participate collaboratively as an integral member of the interprofessional health-care team.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Biology (C or U) or grade 12 (U) – a grade of 60 per cent or higher is required
- an information session is strongly recommended
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English or Science, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English or Science.
George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Please note: Applicants who have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in a Health Sciences, Social Sciences or a related field, with a program average of B-minus [or 2.7 GPA or 70 per cent) may be considered for advanced standing into the third semester of the program. For more information, please contact Constantine Karolidis at ckarolid@georgebrown.ca or 416-415-5000, ext. 3830.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Call the George Brown School of Health and Wellness at 416-415-5000, ext. 2367 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or email hwprograms@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Hearing Instrument Specialist Program (S117)
Program Description
Leadership Claims
Preparing qualified hearing professionals for nearly 30 years.
Program Overview
The Hearing Instrument Specialist program will teach you the specialized skills required to work as a hearing health care professional. You will develop people skills and will learn how to use the latest technology to assess appropriate hearing solutions for those in need. For applicants with a relevant degree or diploma, we offer an opportunity for advanced standing into semester 3 of the program.
Full Description
The Hearing Instrument Specialist (S117) three-year advanced diploma program will teach you the clinical, technical and people skills you need to work as part of an interprofessional hearing health care team.
Hearing aids have evolved dramatically in recent years. Now smaller and more sophisticated in terms of capability, high-end devices leverage the latest technology and provide a superior hearing experience. If you like to work with technology and people, this is an exciting time to work as a hearing instrument specialist.
As hearing is a vital communication tool that helps us interact with others and our environment, hearing instrument specialists play an important role in helping deliver solutions to those diagnosed with hearing loss.
While hearing loss is not exclusive to older adults, it does often occur with age. With Canada's aging population, the demand for highly qualified hearing instrument specialists who can provide a client-centred approach to better hearing health care will continue to increase in the coming years.
In this program, you'll study the hearing instrument sciences to build a strong foundation in the theory and skills related to:
- acoustics
- audiometric testing
- selection and fitting of hearing aids
- hearing aid technology
You will develop clinical skills to test and assess hearing and learn how to select and fit hearing aids.
You will also develop the soft skills, or people skills, needed to work with a range of clients with varying degrees of hearing loss. Skills like active listening, empathy and effective communication will help you learn how to connect with your clients and better understand their unique needs to provide exceptional client-based care.
You'll also be encouraged to develop an entrepreneurial mindset through additional courses that address key contemporary topics, including:
- clinic management
- health promotion
- counselling
Earn this Advanced Diploma in Two Years with an Existing Credential
Applicants who have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in health sciences, social sciences, or a related field, with an overall average of B minus (or 2.7 GPA or 70 per cent) may be considered for advanced standing into semester 3 of the program.
Your Field Education Options
Field placement is a key component of this Hearing Instrument Specialist program, as it will allow you to apply what you've learned in the classroom to the work you will do with real patients.
This program offers both an internal and an external placement during semester 6.
Initially, you will participate in a 21-hour placement at our on-site state-of-the-art WAVE Hearing Clinic (Hearing Clinic IV). During this time, you will practise treating members of the public, including George Brown students, by performing the day-to-day tasks of a hearing instrument specialist (e.g., testing hearing, fitting hearing aids and providing client counselling).
In the second half of the final semester, you will work off-site with a community partner for seven weeks (equivalent to 245 clinic hours) and will once again perform the day-to-day tasks of a hearing instrument specialist.
PLEASE NOTE: As a student in this program, you will be responsible for finding your own field experience opportunities. You will be supported in this process by program faculty.
External field education generally occurs in the broader Greater Toronto Area, so travel will be required. You should be aware that field education opportunities may be located anywhere within the province, especially if suitable opportunities cannot be found in Toronto and surrounding areas. You will be responsible for travel and other associated costs related to external field education opportunities.
Are you interested in this program but need more competitive marks? Consider enrolling in the Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees (A108) program. This program will help you develop new and strengthen existing skills in math, biology, chemistry, physics and communication.
PLEASE NOTE: While successful graduates of the (A108) program will be eligible to apply to this advanced diploma, it does not guarantee entry into this program.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Courses
Required Courses
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 1001 | Clinical Acoustics |
| HEAR 1003 | Introduction to Hearing Instrument Sciences |
| HEAR 1013 | Functional Anatomy and Physiology |
| HEAR 1014 | Ethics and Professionalism |
| HEAR 1016 | Gerontology |
| COMM 1000 | Introduction to College Communication (If necessary) |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 1002 | Hearing Disorders |
| HEAR 1009 | Hearing Technology I: Linear to Digital Evolution |
| HEAR 1010 | Hearing Testing I: Introduction to Audiometry |
| HEAR 1011 | Psycho-social Impact of Hearing Loss |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Context** |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 1015 | Fundamental Skills for HIS |
| HEAR 2016 | Hearing Instrument Technology II: Programming and ANSI Testing |
| HEAR 2010 | Hearing Testing II: Intermediate Audiometry and Masking |
| HEAR 2012 | Interviewing and Counselling |
| HEAR 2022 | Hearing Clinic I |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 2019 | Hearing Instrument Technology III: Real Ear Measurement |
| HEAR 2021 | Hearing Testing III: Advanced Audiometry |
| HEAR 2014 | Business Management I: Introduction and Marketing |
| HEAR 2023 | Hearing Clinic II |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 3001 | Hearing Instrument Technology IV: Hearing Instrument Features & Case Studies |
| HEAR 3003 | Field Placement & Workplace Preparation |
| HEAR 3014 | Business Management II: Finance & Planning |
| HEAR 3020 | Hearing Clinic III |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| HEAR 3025 | Hearing Clinic IV |
| HEAR 3029 | Applied Counselling & Health Promotion |
| HEAR 3028 | Hearing Instrument Technology V: Product Update |
| HEAR 3027 | Community Field Placement |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit the Assessment Centre web page for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Administer a battery of hearing tests and analyze the results of these tests based on a thorough knowledge of functional anatomy and within the current scope of practice of a hearing instrument specialist.
- Obtain an accurate ear mould impression based on an otoscopic examination.
- Advocate and effectively communicate to a diverse audience the psycho-social implications of hearing loss.
- Design a hearing health-care plan incorporating health promotion, rehabilitation and appropriate referrals based on comprehensive client history, observation and counselling.
- Verify the benefits of the recommended devices, utilizing appropriate technology.
- Fit and adjust the hearing devices using available technology and based on client observation, acoustical needs and counselling.
- Teach the use and maintenance of hearing aids and/or assistive listening devices to clients and others.
- Maintain, repair and modify assistive hearing devices for optimal performance.
- Recommend appropriate hearing devices based on a comparison of manufacturers’ specifications and features and compatibility with other assistive listening devices.
- Treat, counsel and communicate effectively with all clients, utilizing knowledge of the aging process as required.
- Perform all roles and responsibilities as a hearing instrument specialist in accordance with accepted professional, ethical and legislative standards of the health care system.
- Determine effective management practices for the operations of a hearing aid dispensary, including but not limited to accounting, health and safety practices, marketing, and business and resource planning.
- Research and evaluate current community and government resources, new technologies and medical advances available for the benefit of the client.
- Participate collaboratively as an integral member of the interprofessional health-care team.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Biology (C or U) or grade 12 (U) – a grade of 70 per cent or higher is required
- an information session is strongly recommended
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English or Science, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English or Science.
George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Please note: Applicants who have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or a diploma in a Health Sciences, Social Sciences or a related field, with a program average of B-minus [or 2.7 GPA or 70 per cent) may be considered for advanced standing into the third semester of the program. For more information, please contact Constantine Karolidis at ckarolid@georgebrown.ca or 416-415-5000, ext. 3830.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Call the George Brown School of Health and Wellness at 416-415-5000, ext. 2367 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or E-mail hwprograms@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
