A Career in Optometry
Optometry is a health care profession and is
a rewarding career for those prepared to
accept the responsibility of caring for
people’s vision.
A CAREER IN OPTOMETRY
Optometrists carry out eye examinations to
measure visual efficiency and detect visual
defects. They may prescribe and dispense
suitable visual aids such as spectacles and
contact lenses as well as special telescopic
and magnifying devices for the visual
impaired. Optometrists may also advise
patients on eye exercise to improve eye
muscles and coordination. They are also
trained in detection and diagnosis of eye
diseases and may refer patients to
ophthalmologists and other health acre
professionals.
The most important personal quality required
by Optometrists is a liking people of all
ages and a genuine desire to help patients.
Another important personal attribute is a
strong academic background as the optometry
courses are challenging and place are not
easily gained.
ABOUT THE COURSE
The optometry courses are based on sciences
including biology, physics and chemistry.
The course also covers subjects such as
anatomy, physiology of vision, pharmacology
and histology, visual optics, general
ophthalmology, binocular vision, contact
lenses and dispensing. The final years are
devoted to clinical instruction in the
management of visual problems. Most of the
final year is spent working under
supervision in contact with patients.
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
Competition for entry is high and on average
three A-level grades of ABB in science
subjects are required.
Universities in the United Kingdom offering
3 years undergraduate in Optometry:
-
Aston University
-
Bradford University
-
City University
-
University of Manchester
-
Universities of Wales College of Cardiff
-
Anglia Polytechnic University
-
Glasgow Caledonian University
After graduation, the candidate must:
-
Complete a pre-registration year – this
involves full time clinical experience
as a trainee under the supervision of
registered optometrist.
-
Pass part 2 of the professional
Qualifying Examination (PQE) to be able
to register with General Optical
Council, UK.
Optometrists may also proceed to higher
degrees. (MSc, MOptom, OhD)
Universities in Australia offering a degree
in Optometry:
4 year course
-
Queensland University of Technology
5 year course
-
University of Melbourne
-
University of New South Wales
At the moment, there are five local
optometrists who have gained their
qualification in the UK, and who are
currently employed in government hospitals
under the Ministry Of Health
Check out the following websites for more
information.
www.prospects.ac.uk./links/Occupation
www.optometrists.asn.au/optometry