Masters (Coursework)
The Master of Optometry is a two-year program.
The Master of Optometry is a two-year program. It will provide students with advanced knowledge, clinical skills and professional attributes related to the optometry profession.
The course incorporates the latest research and technology, and has been developed by a group comprising academics, practitioners and representatives from international optometry companies and independent practitioners.
This course includes a high volume of work integrated learning to allow students to gain clinical practice experience of optometry.
Placements are only provided on a full-time basis and will require interstate travel. Accommodation and transport costs are the student's responsibility.
Students will be expected to purchase specialist optometry equipment prior to going on placement during their studies for the Master of Optometry. Students should expect to spend around $5,000 on equipment. Life expectancy of the equipment is in the range of 15 to 20 years.
Career opportunitiesGraduates can expect employment as or in the below sectors:
Prior to undertaking any clinical placement students will be required to:
Professional accreditation
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.
The Master of Optometry (374JA) is only open to students who have completed the Bachelor of Vision Science (372JA) at the University of Canberra.
Applicants who are studying a Bachelor of Vision Science from another institution are encouraged to apply for admission into the Bachelor of Vision Science (372JA) at UC to become eligible for the Masters. These applicants are eligible to apply for consideration of credit towards a UC Bachelor of Vision Science (in accordance with UC's credit policy and procedure) to reduce the duration of this course.
Limited Commonwealth-supported places (CSPs) are available for this course and will be awarded on academic merit. To be considered for a CSP, please submit your application by 1 December 2023. Eligible applicants will be notified from 15 December 2023. The University will continue to issue fee-paying (FEE) offers until this date, offers for any eligible CSP applicants will be updated accordingly.
None.
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.