Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Vestibular Sciences and Disorders

Certificate Level: Graduate
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree or higher
Certificate Type: Post-Baccalaureate
Number of Credits to Completion: 9.0
Instructional Delivery: Online
Calendar Type: Semester
Expected Time To Completion: 6 months
Financial Aid Eligibility: Not aid eligible
Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Code: 51.0202
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 29-1181

 

About the Program

Vestibular disorders affect millions of individuals worldwide and are a leading cause of dizziness, vertigo, imbalance and falls. These conditions significantly impact mobility, independence and overall quality of life across the lifespan -- from children with developmental balance difficulties to older adults at risk of fall-related injury. As awareness grows and diagnostic technologies advance, clinicians require specialized knowledge and clinical skills to accurately assess vestibular function and provide effective, evidence-based care. The Advanced Studies Certificate in Vestibular Sciences and Disorders is designed to meet this need through rigorous, clinically grounded, graduate-level education.

Offered online through Drexel University Osborne Audiology, this certificate enables practicing audiologists to refine their knowledge, stay current with scientific and clinical developments, and expand their professional expertise. Taught by subject matter experts and grounded in a philosophy that integrates scientific innovation with evidence-based care, the program prepares clinicians to excel in today’s complex and dynamic healthcare environments.

Through six focused courses, students develop a strong foundation in vestibular anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnostics and rehabilitation. The program begins with Anatomy & Physiology of the Vestibular System, which introduces the structure and function of the peripheral and central vestibular pathways and their integration with visual and somatosensory systems. In Pathologies of the Vestibular System, students examine common and complex vestibular disorders, including peripheral and central etiologies, and their clinical presentations. Basic Vestibular Diagnostics covers foundational assessment tools and bedside evaluations used to identify vestibular dysfunction, while Advanced Vestibular Diagnostics explores sophisticated instrumentation and interpretation of laboratory-based tests. Pediatric Vestibular Assessment focuses on developmental considerations, age-appropriate testing strategies, and the unique presentation of vestibular disorders in children. Finally, Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation introduces evidence-based treatment approaches designed to reduce symptoms, improve balance and gaze stability and support functional recovery.

An optional hands-on workshop further solidifies clinical skills through case-based learning, standardized patient interactions, and applied decision-making.

Graduates emerge prepared to deliver sophisticated, patient-centered care for vestibular disorders, translating scientific and technological advances into meaningful clinical outcomes.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must meet the following application requirements:

  • At least a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited college or university (official transcripts of all post-secondary studies must be submitted directly to Drexel University).
    • Applicants whose degrees were completed outside the US will be required to submit a document-by-document credential review from a NACES-recognized agency.
  • For professionals, proof of eligibility to provide audiological services (copy of license, certificate or other documentation) -- not required for current students.
  • For current students, support from their program (submit letter of support from program director or department head).
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Two letters of recommendation from persons familiar with the applicant's academic work, employment record and/or personal characteristics, and not related to the applicant.
  • Personal goal statement (up to 750 words) that will give the admissions committee a better understanding of why the applicant is choosing this program of study, how their background and work experience has prepared them for success in this program, and their plans upon achievement of the certificate.
  • For international applicants, English language proficiency (provide official TOEFL/IELTS/DuoLingo scores; some exemptions available).

Program Requirements

Required courses
VSD 5000Anatomy and Physiology of the Vestibular System1.5
VSD 5001Pathologies of the Vestibular System1.5
VSD 5002Basic Vestibular Diagnostics1.5
VSD 5003Advanced Vestibular Diagnostics1.5
VSD 5004Pediatric Vestibular Assessment1.5
VSD 5005Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation1.5
Optional workshops
Select up to two (2) of the following courses: 10.0-3.0
Basic Workshop: Vestibular Assessment 2
Intermediate Workshop: Vestibular Assessment
Total Credits9.0-12.0
1

Optional workshops require additional time, tuition and fees.

2

Basic workshops are typically delivered in-person

Plan of Study

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
SpringCredits
VSD 5005 Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation 1.5
VSD 5004 Pediatric Vestibular Assessment 1.5
VSD 5003 Advanced Vestibular Diagnostics 1.5
VSD 5002 Basic Vestibular Diagnostics 1.5
VSD 5001 Pathologies of the Vestibular System 1.5
VSD 5000 Anatomy and Physiology of the Vestibular System 1.5
 Credits9
Summer
Optional workshops  
Select up to two (2) of the following courses: 1 0.0-3.0
AUB 811A
 Basic Workshop: Vestibular Assessment 2  
AUB 811B
 Intermediate Workshop: Vestibular Assessment  
 Credits0-3
 Total Credits9-12
1

Optional workshops require additional time, tuition and fees.

2

Basic workshops are typically delivered in-person.

Additional Information

For more information about this program, contact Osborne Audiology -- Distance Education (salus_ocade@drexel.edu).