An undergraduate qualification doesn’t have to be the end of your academic journey. For many students, a bachelor’s degree is just the first step.

Postgraduate study is increasingly popular, as it offers you the chance to focus on a specific area, become a specialist in your field and realise your true passion.

A postgraduate degree is also a long-term career investment, widening your employment prospects by growing your level of expertise and making valuable connections with industry professionals.

Shelley Li is an example of a UWA student who realised her dream career through postgraduate study. With a keen interest in healthcare, she knew she wanted to work closely with people and, after completing a Bachelor of Science (majoring in Neuroscience and Human Resource Management), she continued into a Master of Clinical Audiology.

“I considered many different allied health professions until I decided to pursue audiology,” she says. “It was the perfect match for me, as it allows you to work closely one-on-one with your patients and clients.

“Studying the Master of Clinical Audiology at UWA had a tremendous impact on my career, as I felt fully prepared for the role of an audiologist after extensive clinical and theoretical training from the course.”

Thanks to her decision to further her studies, Shelley is now a qualified and accredited practitioner through Audiology Australia.

Her area of specialty allows her to explore paediatrics, which involves managing ears and hearing in children, diagnostic audiology, and vestibular testing for balance and dizziness in patients. It’s a career she finds deeply rewarding.

"I want to make a difference by raising awareness about the impact of hearing loss and helping people understand the benefits of early intervention.

"I’ve seen many cases firsthand where early intervention and rehabilitation of hearing loss have improved the quality of life for people, their relationships with their loved ones and enjoyment of daily activities.”

High on her list of the benefits of completing postgraduate study was the chance to acquire hands-on experience in the field, through the University’s strategic industry partnerships.

"The Master of Clinical Audiology course provided me with vital clinical knowledge and skills for my career. I received extensive practical experience in both clinical, hospital and research settings."

More than that, studying a postgraduate degree at UWA offers the chance to:

• stand out to future employers with a qualification from a world top 100 university (QS 2020)
• learn from academic leaders who are passionate educators in their respective fields
• develop your future professional networks through industry connections

Find out more about postgraduate courses at UWA.