05 UC/13-MAud
UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha
Template 2: Qualification Change -2013
Proposal Description
R
Purpose of the proposal
To amend the structure of the existing Master of Audiology (MAud) to align with the University of Canterbury 15-point
course structure. Other changes include removing the undergraduate coursework for students without a background in
communication disorders and presenting that material at a postgraduate level, removing the research methods course
and incorporating that material into other taught courses and into the thesis course.
Justification
The current Master of Audiology degree was first offered in 2005. The MAud degree prepares graduates as entry-level
audiologists and for provisional membership in the New Zealand Audiological Society (NZAS), as will the revised MAud.
The current programme consists of 12 academic courses at the postgraduate level, each with varying points. In addition,
two undergraduate courses are compulsory for students without a background in communication disorders. The revised
curriculum has also been benchmarked against the Australian Society of Audiology (ASA) competencies for the Master
of Audiology. A mapping of the current course structure to the restructured courses is available on request. The
transition plan from the current curriculum to the revised curriculum is available on request.
1. Alignment with 15-point structure: The revised MAud programme would streamline the existing 12 academic
courses, aligning them with the University of Canterbury 15-point course structure. In the revised programme, each year
contains 120 points (1.0 EFTS). The revised programme can now employ a style of teaching that allows for learning in
stages, with sequential courses building upon the previous. In addition, courses within the programme can now be
team-taught, with lecturers bringing their unique expertise to the topic.
2. Changes in coursework: The revised MAud programme would not have differing requirements for students with and
without a background in communication disorders. The content of the current undergraduate courses that are
compulsory for students without a background have been incorporated into the postgraduate coursework. In the
current MAud, the total programme weighting for students without a background in communication disorders is 2.21
EFTS across the 2-year programme. In the revised programme, the total programme weighting for all students
completing the programme would be 2.0 EFTS across the 2-year programme.
In addition, rather than offering a course in research methods, the revised programme would incorporate researchbased learning throughout the programme through the use of evidence-based practice techniques and incorporation of
annotated bibliographies and research-based assignments. The learning outcomes and example assignments are
available on request. In addition, during the thesis year, students will attend tutorials and complete hands-on activities
designed to hone their research skills.
3. International benchmarking: The current MAud is endorsed by the New Zealand Audiological Society (NZAS).
Graduates of the programme are eligible for provisional membership in the NZAS. The revised MAud has been
benchmarked against the Australian Society of Audiology (ASA) competencies for the Master of Audiology. This
benchmarking did not result in changes to the content of the programme. Rather, the benchmarking process resulted in
a clearer articulation of the competencies of the programme graduates and resulted in a reorganisation of the
programme content.
Acceptability
We have sought consultation both nationally and internationally. Nationally, we have sought consultation with the New
Zealand Audiological Society (NZAS), and with the only other university that offers a Master of Audiology degree
(University of Auckland). Internationally, we have sought consultation from Australia (Dr Helen Goulios at the University
of Western Australia, Prof Louise Hickson at the University of Queensland), from the United Kingdom (Prof John
1
05 UC/13-MAud
Bamford at the University of Manchester), and from the United States (Prof Larry Humes at Indiana University). To date,
we have only received feedback from Prof Bamford. He stated, “The summary outline you provide in your message
clearly indicates that these changes are sensible and welcome. They appear to afford greater clarity on competencies
and a clearer rationale for the MAud programme organisation.”
We have also sought feedback from our current Master of Audiology students. Example comments are bulleted, below:

It looks more cohesive and streamlined than the current curriculum; increased efficiency and focus on audiologyspecific content is a mega-bonus. Focus on thesis-specific research methods also seems more efficient from the
student's point of view; immediately applying pertinent research methods to thesis studies.

The restructure of the course outline looks great. I like the idea of removing the separate undergrad coursework, as
I found the work to be more of a rote learning task compared to other MAud courses. Dropping the research
methods class and having it integrated in the post graduate courses within MAud would make the course more
applicable to our own theses and therefore slightly more audiology based and interesting

Sounds great. Makes sense to have it more audiology focused and merge some things. Although getting repetition
with some courses was also really good.
We consulted with the Science Academic Advisory Committee (SAAC) at a meeting on 24 May 2013. In response to that
consultation, we have increased the points/EFTS for the clinical courses (CMDS 654, CMDS 658) and have provided a
clearer description of the contact hours for those courses. As a result of increasing the points associated with those
courses, we have removed a course that was to be taught in the second year of the programme. The content to be
taught in that course has been moved into the coursework in the first year of the programme. We have also consulted
with the Joint Board of Studies-Health at a meeting on 28 May 2013. They supported the proposal and suggested some
changes in course titles, inclusion of a transition plan, and a summary of the feedback from the consultation process.
These changes are reflected in this document.
Goals of the programme
The goals of the MAud have not changed. The overarching goal of the MAud degree is to provide the opportunity for
students to develop the necessary academic preparation in audiology to provide service to individuals with varying
degrees of hearing loss. These students are provided with knowledge and understanding of bicultural education and
multicultural pedagogies for culturally appropriate clinical practice in New Zealand through a variety of methods
including clinical practica. Upon completion of the degree, students are prepared as entry-level audiologists, and will
meet the standards set forth by the NZAS for provisional membership.
Graduate profile
The graduate profile for the Master of Audiology has been revised in a way that more clearly describes the transferable
skills and attributes of graduates.
A graduate of the Master of Audiology is expected to be able to:
Personal attributes
1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the discipline of audiology and an ability to apply scientific principles and
concepts to clinical and non-clinical endeavours.
2. Independently solve problems through application of scientific knowledge and methods.
3. Demonstrate an ability to think critically and independently.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the advanced theoretical concepts within the areas of audiologic and vestibular
assessment and management.
5. Effectively access and use information relevant to the assessment and management of audiologic and vestibular
disorders.
6. Apply knowledge and skills to new situations.
7. Demonstrate skills for lifelong learning.
8. Work independently.
9. Understand, evaluate, access, and critically review new information, including findings and discussion in the
literature.
10. Research, analyse, evaluate and argue from evidence.
2
05 UC/13-MAud
11. Plan and carry out a specific programme of scientific research.
12. Work collaboratively on tasks and show leadership.
Interactive attributes
1. Communicate clinical results effectively in both written and spoken English.
2. Communicate concepts, results, and conclusions related to research findings.
3. Design and carry out clinical assessment and management plans for adults and children with audiologic and
vestibular disorders
4. Work collaboratively on research to a level required of an entry level audiologist.
5. Engage in rigorous intellectual analysis, criticism, and problem solving.
Professional attributes
1. Demonstrate a commitment to the Treaty of Waitangi and delivery of clinical services in a culturally competent
manner.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of Deaf culture.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of Continuing Education within a clinical context.
4. Understand and adhere to the Code of Ethics of the New Zealand Audiological Society.
Outcome statement
A Master of Audiology graduate will be well prepared to perform the role of an audiologist, and will meet the standards
of practice of an entry-level audiologist set forth by the NZAS. Graduates will be employed in hospitals, private practice,
schools, universities, and research centres.
Programme overview
The Master of Audiology is a 2-year degree comprising coursework and a thesis. The total points are 240. 120 points are
acquired in Year 1 and 120 points are acquired in Year 2.
Year 1
CMDS 651 Foundation Topics in Audiology
15 points
.1250EFTS
CMDS 652 Diagnostic Audiological Evaluation
15 points
.1250EFTS
CMDS 653 Audiological Rehabilitation
15 points
.1250EFTS
CMDS 654 Clinical Practicum I
30 points
.2500EFTS
CMDS 655 Advanced Topics in Audiology
15 points
.1250EFTS
CMDS 656 Advanced Diagnostic Audiological Evaluation
15 points
.1250EFTS
CMDS 657 Advanced Audiological Rehabilitation
15 points
.1250EFTS
CMDS 658 Clinical Practicum II
30 points
.2500EFTS
CMDS 690 Audiology Thesis
90 points
.7500EFTS
Year 2
Confirmation of NZQA exit level of qualification to go on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework
The Master of Audiology is a Level 9 qualification, meeting the exit qualifications set forth in the NZQA framework. The
Master of Audiology provides graduates with highly specialised knowledge in the area of audiology, and allows students
to participate in research in new and emerging areas of study. It provides students with the skills to critically appraise
issues in the areas of research and clinical practice in audiology. Graduates will develop and apply newly acquired
clinical skills in audiology to help diagnose and manage hearing and balance problems in children and adults. They will
acquire a mastery of these skills when they embark on careers as audiologists or researchers. Graduates will engage in
independent application of the specialised knowledge and skills required to practice audiology.
Proposed teaching/delivery methods
3
05 UC/13-MAud
Students will engage in both academic and clinical learning. The teaching methods will focus on case-based lectures and
assessments. Students will receive guided practical experiences in the practice of audiology through an integration of
clinical practica and academic courses. The teaching delivery remains similar to the current Master of Audiology
programme. There have been some adjustments. Teaching of some content will be more focused and tailored to the
students’ needs. (1) Rather than offering a generic 15-point course in research methodology, students will have one-onone or small group tutorials on the research methodology that are tailored to their specific theses. Thesis supervisors
will provide this tutorage. In addition, there is an increase in research content earlier in the programme (e.g., evidencebased practice, research-based case presentations). (2) There will be an increase in the integration of academic and
clinical coursework.
Assessment procedures
Students will be assessed through a variety of procedures including examinations, class tests, case-based assignments,
practical assignments, research-based assignments, projects and reports. The assessment procedures will remain similar
to those used in the current programme. However, the overall number of assessments will be decreased and the level of
assessment will be increased (e.g., from a knowledge-level assessment to a synthesis-level assessment).
Resources
There are no proposed changes to the resources for the revised MAud.
Plans for monitoring programme quality
There are no proposed changes to the monitoring of the programme quality. There is a quality assurance process at the
University of Canterbury. The Head of Department receives annual reports of student evaluations of teaching and
student evaluations of course content, structure, learning experiences and assessment practices. These evaluations,
which are anonymous and completed electronically, are conducted for every course. The department Learning and
Teaching Committee (L&TC) receives an annual summary of student evaluations, and monitors the quality of course
documentation. Faculty Boards of Study (e.g. Science Academic Advisory Committee) have oversight of reviews and
monitoring of all aspects, including design, implementation and appraisal, and approving changes, additions or deletions
of courses and programmes. The Academic Quality Assurance Unit (AQUA) oversees academic regulations, policy,
programmes, processes and academic quality assurance at the University of Canterbury. The Academic Administration
Committee (subcommittee of the Academic Board) and Academic Board must approve changes, additions and deletions.
Calendar Form
Qualification Regulations
UC Calendar 2013 Page
The Degree of Master of Audiology (MAud)
1. Qualifications Required to Enrol in the Degree (p. 394) – no changes
2. Full-time and Part-time Study (p. 394)
No changes to paragraph 1.
No changes to paragraph 2.
Paragraph 3:
“Total course weighting for the MAud is 2.00 EFTS.”
The remainder of the paragraph to be deleted.
3. Structure of the Degree (p. 394) – no changes
4. Repeating of a course (p. 394) – no changes
5. Supervision of Theses (p. 394) – no changes
4
05 UC/13-MAud
6. Examination of theses (pp 394-5)– no changes
7. MAud with Distinction (p. 395) – no changes
Schedule to the Regulations for the Degree of Master of Audiology
Change to:
Year 1
Course
Course Title
Points
Occurrence
Code
(EFTS)
CMDS 651 Foundation Topics in Audiology 15 (0.125)
Semester 1
CMDS 652
Prerequisite
Approval of Head of
Department
Approval of Head of
Department
Approval of Head of
Department
Approval of Head of
Department
Approval of Head of
Department, CMDS 651
Approval of Head of
Department, CMDS 652
Approval of Head of
Department, CMDS 653
15 (0.125)
Semester 1
CMDS 653
Diagnostic Audiological
Evaluation
Audiological Rehabilitation
15 (0.125)
Semester 1
CMDS 654
Clinical Practicum I
30 (0.25)
Whole of Year
CMDS 655
Advanced Topics in Audiology
15 (0.125)
Semester 2
CMDS 656
Advanced Diagnostic
Audiological Evaluation
Advanced Audiological
Rehabilitation
15 (0.125)
Semester 2
15 (0.125)
Semester 2
Occurrence
Prerequisite
Clinical Practicum II
Points
(EFTS)
30 (0.25)
Whole of Year
Audiology Thesis
90 (0.75)*
Whole of Year
Approval of Head of
Department, CMDS 658
Approval of Head of
Department*
CMDS 657
Year 1 Total EFTS 1.000 EFTS
Year 2
Course
Code
CMDS 658
CMDS 690
Course Title
Year 2 Total EFTS 1.00 EFTS
The Thesis
* A Year 1 grade average of B is normally required for entry to the thesis. Thesis must be completed within 12
months (full-time) and is normally started in the first semester of Year 2, finishing in the summer of Year 2.
Note: Part-time enrolment in the thesis is available on approval.
Calendar Page 24 Limitation of Entry Regulations.
Faculty of Science- MAud
Increase the limitation of entry from 12 to 13.
Prescription entries- new courses
CMDS 651 Foundation Topics in Audiology
0.1250 EFTS
Principles of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and the anatomy and physiology of the peripheral auditory system.
P: Approval of Head of Department.
CMDS651-14S1 (C) Semester 1
CMDS 652 Diagnostic Audiological Evaluation
0.1250 EFTS
The diagnosis of hearing impairment, with a focus on diagnostics in adults.
5
05 UC/13-MAud
P: Approval of Head of Department.
CMDS652-14S1 (C) Semester 1
CMDS 653 Audiological Rehabilitation
0.1250 EFTS
The management of hearing impairment, with a focus on management in adults.
P: Approval of Head of Department.
CMDS653-14S1 (C) Semester 1
CMDS 654 Clinical Practicum I
0.2500 EFTS
This course puts into practice the information acquired in the academic courses in the clinical setting. The first half of the year is
primarily focused on developing skills for adult diagnostic assessment, while the second half of the year focuses on developing skills
for paediatric diagnostic assessment, and adult and paediatric habilitation.
P: Approval of Head of Department.
CMDS654-14W (C) Whole Year (S1 and S2)
CMDS 655 Foundation Topics in Audiology
0.1250 EFTS
Principles of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and the anatomy and physiology of the auditory nervous system.
P: Approval of Head of Department, CMDS 651.
CMDS655-14S2 (C) Semester 2
CMDS 656 Advanced Diagnostic Audiological Evaluation
0.1250 EFTS
Further study in the diagnosis of hearing impairment, with a focus on objective assessment techniques and diagnosis in children.
P: Approval of Head of Department, CMDS 652.
CMDS656-14S2 (C) Semester 2
CMDS 657 Advanced Audiological Rehabilitation
0.1250 EFTS
Further study in the management of hearing impairment, with a focus on management in children, and cochlear implants.
P: Approval of Head of Department, CMDS 653.
CMDS657-14S2 (C) Semester 2
CMDS 658 Clinical Practicum II
0.2500 EFTS
This course puts into practice the information acquired on the academic courses in the clinical setting. It builds on the diagnostic
and habilitative skills learned on the first year of the MAud programme, with a growing emphasis on building holistic approaches to
audiological case management and understanding how these fit into the broader health system.
P: Approval of Head of Department, CMDS 654.
CMDS658-14W (C) Whole Year (S1 and S2)
6