Academic Catalog

Advanced Studies in Vestibular Sciences and Disorders

 The Advanced Studies in Vestibular Sciences and Disorders certificate program is designed to expand the knowledge, improve the clinical skills, review current research trends and best practices based on current evidence and promote general expertise in the delivery of services in the area of Vestibular and Balance disorders.

The 9 semester credit online Advanced Studies in Vestibular Sciences and Disorders (ASVSD) certificate program is designed to:

  • provide specialized training to expand clinician’s knowledge of vestibular and balance disorders,
  • enhance the skills and expertise necessary to obtain a comprehensive and holistic understanding of normal and abnormal vestibular function and consequences of vestibular disorders, and
  • bring the professional up to date on the current best available evidence that provides scientific support for treatment decisions for those with vestibular and balance dysfunction.

This program is intended for those professionals currently working with, or who expect to be working with, the distinct population presenting with vestibular and balance disorders. The course of study is specifically for those who would like to augment their professional skills and earn credentials to advance their career in the specialized field of vestibular sciences and disorders. The comprehensive curriculum covers the following areas:

  • Anatomy and Physiology of the Vestibular System
  • Pathologies of the Vestibular System
  • Basic Vestibular Diagnostics
  • Advanced Vestibular Diagnostics
  • Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation Therapy
  • Pediatric Vestibular Assessment and Treatment

The course of study will bring the professional up to date on the state of the science in Vestibular and Balance disorders, diagnosis of related disorders and methods of treatment. The outstanding faculty for the program, from both Canada and the USA, are experts in Vestibular and Balance disorders and clinical protocols.

The program is a six-course, 18-week, online course of study. Students who complete the program will receive 9 semester (academic) credits and a graduate certificate in Advanced Studies in Vestibular Sciences and Disorders from Salus University Osborne College of Audiology. The program of study will provide a framework for best practices in the concentration of Vestibular Sciences and Disorders (VSD) assessment and management. Students will be required to complete and pass all six courses to earn the Advanced Studies Graduate Certificate.

This program is open to college degree holders (BS, MS, AuD, MD, PhD, etc.) of audiology or audiology-related professions in the United States and other countries. This program is open to college degree holders (BS, MS, AuD, MD, PhD, etc.) of audiology or audiology-related professions in the United States and other countries. Current audiology clinical doctoral (AuD) students who are in the clinical externship phase of their program are also eligible to apply. A letter of support is required from the program director.

Students have the option to apply to enroll in the entire course of study, or to take individual courses as a non-matriculated student. With the limited enrollment for the program, certificate students will have priority in admissions over non-certificate students. Courses are taught in English. The Advanced Studies in Vestibular and Balance disorders program utilizes the Salus University Black Board portal to deliver web-based instruction to students.

The comprehensive curriculum covers the anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system, pathologies of the vestibular system, detailed review of evidence-based assessment, rehabilitation and management for persons with vestibular and balance disorders for both pediatric and adult populations, models and procedures to set up a specialized Vestibular Sciences and Disorders clinic, review of case studies and clinical problems and solutions in vestibular pathology from various clinics, and professional issues relating to public health, ethical and medical concerns and medical concerns as well as reimbursement for these services.

Course Schedule

VSD-5000Anatomy & Physiology Vestib Sys

1.5

VSD-5001Pathologies of the Vestibular Sys

1.5

VSD-5002Basic Vestibular Diagnostics

1.5

VSD-5003Advanced Vestibular Diagnostics

1.5

VSD-5004Pediatric Vestibular Assessment

1.5

VSD-5005Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitati

1.5

Total Credit Hours:9