Bachelor of Optometry

Our Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) programme covers both Clinical Optometry and Vision Science. It includes the study of basic physical and life sciences as they relate to the visual system. You will also gain extensive knowledge of optics, the anatomy and physiology of vision, ocular pharmacology, pathology, therapeutics, and immunology. Please note: Check out the .

• The BOptom is a five-year qualification (600 points). Part I is the first year of a Bachelor of Science, usually in Biomedical Science (or an equivalent programme of study such as the first year in Health Sciences from the University of Otago).
• In the second and third years (Parts II-III), you will take a combination of core courses in applicable life sciences, vision and optometric sciences, anatomy and physiology of vision, mechanisms of disease and optics and visual science.
• You will study general optometric practice and aspects of clinical optometry.
• In your fourth and fifth years (Parts IV-V), you will study contact lenses, paediatric optometry and binocular vision, and continue to learn about eye diseases and treatments.
• You will be required to take courses in advanced clinical optometry and undertake a research project.
• You will gain practical experience in examining and treating patients in one of our public clinics and during external placements.
• You must also include two General Education courses in your programme (30 points total). One will need to be completed prior to admission to the BOptom (during the first year of the BSc), and one the following year in Part Two of the BOptom. Your options are listed in the General Education Schedules that are approved for the BOptom programme.

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