St. Joseph Institute is among the nation's preeminent educational centers for children with cochlear implants. Approximately 92% of the students currently served by SJI have cochlear implants and 33% have bilateral implants.

SJI audiologists are able to MAP implants from Advanced Bionics, Cochlear America, and Med El in the audiology clinic. Supplies and trouble shooting are available throughout the school day and normal business hours, thus ensuring that SJI students have optimal access to sound throughout the school day.

In 1987, St. Joseph Institute established the first school-based educational rehabilitation program for children with cochlear implants in the country. The program includes audiological assessment and management, audition and speech therapy to maximize each implanted child's communication and learning potential, and an enriched educational learning environment conducive to the learning needs of children with cochlear implants.

St. Joseph Institute has unsurpassed expertise with cochlear implants. The SJI Audiology Clinic maintains a close collaborative relationship with the implant centers at St. Louis Children's Hospital and St. Louis University Hospital. SJI audiologists also maintain collaborative working relationships with local pediatricians, ENT's, and internists.

In addition, many children at St. Joseph Institute participate in a research studies on implants and oral education conducted by universities and research centers.