Master of Optometry

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 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, and may apply for credit towards the UC Bachelor of Vision Science to reduce the duration of this course.

Yes, 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 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.

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, with an expected cost of around $5,000. The life expectancy of the equipment is in the range of 15 to 20 years.

Prior to undertaking any clinical placement, students will be required to: undertake a National Police Check; obtain a Working with Vulnerable People registration; provide their immunisation history; and have a qualification in First Aid including CPR.

A limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) are available for this course. CSPs will be allocated on the basis of academic merit and applications must be submitted by 31 October in the year prior to commencement. Applicants who decline their fee offer will not be considered for a Commonwealth Supported Place.