Bachelor
This course is accredited with the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand (OCANZ). Successful completion of both the Bachelor of Vision Science AND the Master of Optometry course at the University of Canberra will allow graduates the chance to apply for registration with the Optometry Board of Australia to practice as an optometrist.
Please note that the Master of Optometry (374JA) is Fee Paying from 2024.
Admission to this course is based on an entrance rank. A rank can be achieved by the following means:
- Year 12 ATAR
- other Australian Qualification
- work experience
- overseas qualification
We also offer a number of entry initiatives that give you the opportunity to gain entry to the University via alternate pathway programs and admissions schemes.
More information is available on our Alternative Entry page: http://www.canberra.edu.au/future-students/applications/apply-now/alternative-entry
Admission to this course is competitive. Applications will be assessed on the basis of academic merit and the number of available places. Domestic applications will open on the 1st September. First offer round applications must be received by 30th November with offers being released mid-December. Applications remain open while vacancies exist for ongoing consideration of offers.
Applications from international students are accepted on an ongoing basis while vacancies exist. Please refer to the key dates (https://www.canberra.edu.au/future-students/apply-to-uc/key-dates) for further information.
Clinical practice is a key component of the program and is assessed. Students may be required to complete this component outside of teaching time. Prior to commencing clinical practice, all students need to present a complete immunisation schedule, and First Aid certificates including CPR, as a requirement of the ACT and NSW health departments. All students are required to undergo a 'working with vulnerable people' check, an Australian Federal Police Record Check prior to undertaking clinical experience in the ACT, and a NSW Police check before undertaking practice in NSW.
Assumed knowledgeACT: Mathematical Methods major; Chemistry major; and Physics major. NSW: Mathematics; Physics; and Chemistry.
Periods course is open for new admissions| Year | Location | Teaching period | Teaching start date | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Bruce, Canberra | Semester 1 | 05 February 2024 | ||
| 2025 | Bruce, Canberra | Semester 1 | 03 February 2025 | ||
| 2026 | Bruce, Canberra | Semester 1 | 02 February 2026 |
There are currently no formal credit transfer arrangements for entry to this course. Any previous study or work experience will only be considered as part of the application process in accordance with current course rules and university policy.