Program Overview

Bachelor of Optometry

The Bachelor of Optometry is a four-year undergraduate program offered by the Department of Optometry, Faculty of Health Sciences.

General

• Faculty Website: Faculty of Health Sciences
• Department: Department of Optometry
• Programme Level: Undergraduate
• Programme Name: Bachelor of Optometry
• Programme Code: B9O02Q
• Medium of Facilitation: Full-Time
• NQF Level: 8
• NQF Credits: 480
• SAQA: 73791
• Application Start Date: 1 April 2025
• Application End Date: 31 October 2025
• Campus: Doornfontein
• Duration of Study: 4 Years

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying students with the ability to:

• Perform visual examinations and relevant procedures included in the scope of Optometry (as stipulated by the Professional Board of Optometry and Dispensing Opticians) in the clinical environment as an optometrist.
• Independently apply promotive, diagnostic and treatment strategies in a cost-effective manner appropriate to the needs of the community.
• Use critical reasoning for holistic optometric management strategies in the diagnosis.
• Establish a foundation for research and life skills for lifelong learning.

Career Opportunities

Optometrists are primary health care specialists trained to examine the eyes to detect defects in vision, signs of injury, ocular diseases or abnormality and problems with general health. Career opportunities include:

• Private Dispensing Optometrists
• Public Sector Optometrist
• Academic
• Medical Liaison Officer
• Researcher

Admission Requirements

• Minimum APS of 34
• English 5 (60%+)
• Mathematics 5 (60%+)
• Physical Science 5 (60%+)
• Life Science 5 (60%+)

Selection Process

• Mathematical Literacy, Technical Maths and Technical Science are not accepted.

UJ Faculties

The University of Johannesburg comprises several faculties, including:

• College of Business and Economics (CBE)
• Faculty of Art, Design And Architecture
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Faculty of Humanities
• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Science
• Johannesburg Business School

Each faculty offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, providing students with a comprehensive education in their chosen field.