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View our Virtual tourCourses - September 2025
Level 1
Course details
College Reading & Writing Skills
COMM1085
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Conestoga 101
CON0101
- Hours: 1
- Credits: 0
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Audiometry I
HEAR1138
This course introduces the student to the basic concepts and procedures of the routine audiometric test battery. These include: pure-tone testing, speech audiometry, and middle ear impedance testing. Students will also learn how to interpret the audiogram, and relate audiometric findings to the various pathologies of the ear. Particular focus here will be on the needs of the geriatric patient and case study evaluation. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures.
- Hours: 70
- Credits: 5
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Acoustics and Psychoacoustics
HEAR1167
This course provides an overview of physical and psychological acoustics. Topics include the basic properties of both simple and complex sounds, the measurement of sound and sound propagation. Psychoacoustics or the perception of sound will also be covered, specifically: the perception of pitch and loudness, binaural hearing, temporal processing and masking. Application of acoustic principles to hearing testing and hearing aids will also be discussed. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures and demonstrations.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites: HEAR1177
Anatomy/Physiology of the Ear
HEAR1177
This theory-based course provides a detailed overview of the anatomy and physiology of the normal outer, middle, and inner ears, including the balance (vestibular) system and the central auditory nervous system. The peripheral and central nervous systems are explained, so that the roles of the auditory or VIII cranial nerve and central auditory nervous systems can be appreciated. The various pathologies of the abnormal ear and vestibular system are introduced to support further discussions in future courses. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites: HEAR1167
Hearing Aids I
HEAR1185
This course is designed to introduce the student to hearing aids. The topics included are hearing aid history, hearing aid components and controls, earmold styles, materials and earmold impressions. To better prepare future HIS professionals with the clinical readiness skills required to manage the changing landscape of hearing healthcare, this course will integrate hands-on laboratory experience and simulation learning. Additionally this course will introduce students to the process of obtaining, tracking and delivering aids within a clinical setting.
- Hours: 56
- Credits: 4
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options
Level 2
Course details
Patient Communication
COMM1001
This course focuses on best practices for effective patient-centred communication. Students will review verbal and non-verbal communication techniques, active listening and basic micro skills needed to build therapeutic rapport with patients. Conflict management strategies and approaches to adapt communication for culturally diverse patients across the lifespan will also be explored in order to avoid communication barriers. Case studies, role play, simulation-based learning and self-reflection activities will provide opportunities to apply and practice essential communication skills required for caring and respectful interactions between health professionals and patients.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites: HEAR1167 AND HEAR1177 AND HEAR1180 OR HEAR1185
- CoRequisites: HEAR1190
Hearing Instrument Specialist Field Studies
HEAR1155
This course will provide the student with the opportunity to become familiar with the Hearing Aid Manufacturers, non-hearing aid vendors, and entrepreneurship. The student will be exposed to the processes of hearing aid production, distribution, and sales. They will also learn the role of Sales Managers & Customer Service, Production Team and Technical Support clinicians play in supporting patients. The course will also expose the professional roles and responsibilities of the Hearing Instrument Specialist in a variety of workplace settings. Through this experience the student will be required to reflect upon their observations and findings according to criteria established in the course outcomes.
- Hours: 56
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites: HEAR1177 AND HEAR1180 OR HEAR1185
- CoRequisites: HEAR1200
Clinical Principles I
HEAR1190
This course is designed to introduce the student to clinical practice for the HIS. The student will gain insight into the hearing healthcare field. In particular this course will focus on governing bodies, associations and regulated health professionals. Additionally, this course will introduce the concepts of inter-professional practice and evidence informed practice. Students will gain knowledge of the impact of hearing loss on the aging adult and the impact of aging on the auditory system. Finally, students will be exposed to concept of ehealth and the patient electronic record keeping including non-disclosure of patient information.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Hearing Aids II
HEAR1200
Hearing Aids 2 continues the concepts and framework of Hearing Aids 1, but focuses primarily on hearing aid measurement. Students will learn how to compare hearing aids to manufacturer specifications and will be introduced to the concept of hearing aid verification. Students will begin to navigate manufacturer fitting software and learn common hearing aid adjustments. Finally, students will be able to differentiate between analog/digital and linear/compression hearing aids. Linear and nonlinear fitting methods will also be introduced. Successful completion of this course relies heavily on absorbing concepts; course delivery consists of classroom lectures.
- Hours: 56
- Credits: 4
- Pre-Requisites: HEAR1167 AND HEAR1180 OR HEAR1185
- CoRequisites: HEAR1155
Audiometry II
HEAR2110
In this course, the student will continue to discover the many aspects of clinical practice encountered by a Hearing Instrument Specialist. Covering a wide range of topics, the course will provide the student with the diverse skills required to be a successful hearing healthcare provider. The course will look at the causes of tinnitus and various support options for tinnitus management. Students will consider the implications for fitting severe to profound hearing loss including a discussion of cochlear implants and other implantable devices. Students will continue to learn about funding sources available for hearing aids in Ontario. Types and uses of custom hearing protection products will also be covered, along with apps and accessories used with modern hearing devices. Other topics include validation tools for hearing aid fittings, report writing, and aural rehabilitation as incorporated into a typical hearing clinic.
- Hours: 56
- Credits: 4
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options
Level 3
Course details
Professionalism and Business Development
BUS1215
In this course we will be focusing on what it means to work as a Hearing Instrument Specialist in Ontario. Topics will include hearing aid funding, office management including software and billing, professional organizations and professional development. We will also look at business aspects of the hearing healthcare industry including the hearing aid manufacturing industry, opportunities for employment, clinic setup/design and aspects of business planning.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites: COMM1001 AND HEAR1155 AND HEAR1190 AND HEAR1200 AND HEAR2110
- CoRequisites: HEAR2220
Clinical Principles II
HEAR1210
In this course, the student will continue to discover the many aspects of clinical practice encountered by a Hearing Instrument Specialist. Covering a wide range of topics, the course will provide the student with the diverse skills required to be a successful hearing healthcare provider. The course will look at the causes of tinnitus and various support options for tinnitus management. Students will consider the implications for fitting severe to profound hearing loss including a discussion of cochlear implants and other implantable devices. Students will continue to learn about funding sources available for hearing aids in Ontario. Types and uses of custom hearing protection products will also be covered, along with apps and accessories used with modern hearing devices. Other topics include validation tools for hearing aid fittings, report writing, and aural rehabilitation as incorporated into a typical hearing clinic.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites: HEAR1190
- CoRequisites:
Hearing Aids III
HEAR2195
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites: HEAR1155 AND HEAR1200
- CoRequisites:
Hearing Aid Verification
HEAR2205
- Hours: 56
- Credits: 4
- Pre-Requisites: HEAR1180 OR HEAR1185 AND HEAR1200
- CoRequisites:
Clinical Readiness
HEAR2220
This course is designed to prepare students for their clinical practicum. Preparatory theory and practical elements will be integrated to facilitate readiness required for successful work integrated learning experiences. Learning modules will focus on workplace mental health, placement etiquette, receiving and providing feedback, and career readiness skills including interviewing skills and resume building. Simulation exercises involving common clinical encounters will be used to support the application of technical and soft skills. Finally, a portion of this course will focus on professional growth and life long-learning.
- Hours: 42
- Credits: 3
- Pre-Requisites: COMM1001 AND HEAR1155 AND HEAR1190 AND HEAR1200 AND HEAR2110
- CoRequisites: HEAR2195 AND HEAR2205
Safety in the Workplace
OHS1320
- Hours: 14
- Credits: 1
- Pre-Requisites:
- CoRequisites:
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options
Level 4
Course details
Field Placement (Hearing Instrument Specialist)
FPLT2065
This clinical practicum experience involves hands-on practice in a clinical setting for the final semester of the program. Students will observe, participate with guidance and then demonstrate the required professional behaviours and clinical competencies expected for an entry level practitioner. Throughout this experience, students will continue to engage in reflective practice and post-graduation readiness modules.
- Hours: 420
- Credits: 14
- Pre-Requisites: BUS1215 AND HEAR2190 OR HEAR2195 AND HEAR2200 OR HEAR2205 AND HEAR2220 AND OHS1320
- CoRequisites:
Program outcomes
- Assess hearing sensitivity to determine individual needs based on knowledge of sound, the perception of sound and the causes of hearing loss from an anatomical/physiological standpoint
- Participate collaboratively as an integral member of an interprofessional hearing health care team to enhance patient outcomes
- Select, verify and validate amplification strategies and provide aural rehabilitation training and follow-up care plans to ensure positive patient outcomes
- Evaluate hearing aid function using electroacoustic analysis to ensure compliance with manufacturer’s specifications
- Provide recommendations to diverse patients and family members using professional and culturally sensitive communication skills
- Determine available funding resources to support patient access to hearing health care devices
- Apply entrepreneurial principles and business strategies to identify and engage in new opportunities in hearing health practice
- Educate allied health professionals and the general community to generate awareness of the impact of untreated hearing loss
- Perform all roles and responsibilities as a Hearing Instrument Specialist in accordance with accepted professional, ethical, and best practice guidelines
- Evaluate emerging technologies for patient care and assistive hearing devices to seamlessly adapt to the current consumer market