2027-2028 Auditory Implant-Focused Audiology Externship at Rush

Overview The Audiology department at Rush University System for Health offers an auditory implant-focused externship for Doctor of Audiology (Au.D) students seeking advanced clinical training in a dynamic academic medical center. The externship is primarily located at Rush’s main campus in Chicago, with rotations to satellite locations in Oak Park and Oak Brook (within 10–20 miles) and accessible by public transportation. The program spans three academic semesters and emphasizes implantable hearing technologies alongside general audiology practice. Externs will rotate among sites, train with experienced audiologists, and work with a diverse adult and pediatric patient population with complex needs. At least 50% of training is focused on auditory implants. The extern will participate in monthly implant meetings and observe physicians in the Rush Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Supervision is provided by licensed audiologists, most with ASHA certification, and the clinical team adheres to applicable state and federal mandates while upholding professional, ethical practices and evidence-based care. Responsibilities and Training This externship provides in-depth exposure to cochlear implants and bone conduction devices. Training includes: Candidacy evaluations Patient and family counseling on implantable devices Evoked potentials and other objective measures Device activation, programming, and troubleshooting Long-term follow-up and complex case management Participation in a multidisciplinary implant team Work with multiple implant manufacturers Completion of a required research project, culminating in a grand rounds presentation, with the opportunity to submit the project for publication In addition to implant-focused activities, externs will gain experience in: Diagnostic behavioral and electrophysiological assessments Hearing aid selection, fitting, verification, and follow-up Vestibular assessment and rehabilitation Ototoxicity monitoring Basic tinnitus management and counseling The externship also includes training in quality assessment, quality assurance, and quality improvement, and may involve other clinical experiences as part of comprehensive audiology practice. Qualifications and Requirements Applicants must be Au.D students in good academic standing and eligible for their final externship year in 2027. Prior implant experience is not required, but strong interest in implantable technologies, comprehensive audiology, and a research project are essential. Required/encouraged experiences include: Completed majority of academic curriculum and practicum in audiologic diagnosis and treatment for patients of all ages Significant exposure to behavioral and electrophysiological measures, amplification and audiologic rehabilitation, testing of vestibular disorders, and hearing screenings Exposure to hearing loss prevention, tinnitus management, and implantable solutions Self-sufficiency, teamwork, confidence, patience, and strong problem-solving, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills Preference for candidates who have passed a comprehensive national examination prior to starting the externship Universities must have a clinical affiliation agreement on file with Rush prior to start Professional liability insurance of $1,000,000 per incident and $3,000,000 aggregate Application and Contact To apply, please prepare materials including a letter of intent, CV, unofficial transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Applications are processed in a single submission to the Externship Director at Rush. For questions, contact the Externship Program Director for AU.D. training coordination. #J-18808-Ljbffr American Academy of Audiology