Program Overview
The Master of Clinical Optometry is a two-year program that prepares students for registered practice as optometrists in Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Asia. It combines theoretical disciplines with the clinical art of primary eye care, covering diagnosis and management of ocular disease, dispensing spectacles and contact lenses, and management of people with special needs. Graduates can apply to register with the Optometry Board of Australia and other registration boards where the degree is recognized.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Clinical Optometry is a two-year degree that serves as a pathway to registered practice as an optometrist in Australia, New Zealand and parts of Asia.
Careers:
Upon completion of the Master of Clinical Optometry, graduates can apply to register with the Optometry Board of Australia (OBA), the Optometrists and Dispensing Board (ODOB) New Zealand and other registration boards in Asia where the degree is recognized. The demand for qualified optometrists remains steady in Australia and globally due to ageing and growing populations. Optometrists diagnose vision problems, eye diseases, and other eye health issues, correcting poor vision and managing or slowing degenerative eye diseases with corrective lenses, optical aids, therapy or medication.
University of New South Wales, Sydney
Overview:
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney is a leading public research university located in Sydney, Australia. It is renowned for its academic excellence and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia and globally.
Services Offered:
UNSW Sydney offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Study Options:
Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, short courses, online programs, professional development opportunities, and Higher Degree Research.Campus Experience:
A vibrant campus environment with various facilities, including accommodation, student support services, and a comprehensive library.Support Services:
Academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and mental health resources.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance, cultural orientation, and English language programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UNSW Sydney provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience for its students. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of clubs and societies, and numerous social and cultural events throughout the year. Students can enjoy a vibrant campus life with opportunities to connect with peers, explore their interests, and develop their skills.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
UNSW Sydney is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and world-class research.Global Reputation:
The university consistently ranks among the top universities in Australia and internationally.Research Opportunities:
Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work alongside leading researchers.Career Development:
UNSW Sydney provides strong career support services and connections with industry partners.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement.Academic Programs:
UNSW Sydney offers a wide range of academic programs across its eight faculties:
- Arts, Design & Architecture
- Business School
- Engineering
- Law & Justice
- Medicine & Health
- Science
- UNSW Canberra
The university is particularly known for its strengths in engineering, business, medicine, and science.
Entry Requirements:
Direct pathway: Entry into the double award 3182 Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Clinical Optometry program. You must maintain an overall CREDIT average (65%) at the end of the Bachelor of Vision Science component of the program to progress to the Master of Clinical Optometry. Students who do not meet this requirement are expected to exit the program with a Bachelor of Vision Science degree. Alternative pathway: Program 8095 is only open to students who have completed program 3181 (BVisSci) from UNSW. Applicants who have completed a Bachelor of Vision Science (3181) degree at UNSW may apply for entry into the Master of Clinical Optometry. Admission into the Master of Clinical Optometry will be a competitive process that is based on academic performance. To be considered for entry into the Master of Clinical Optometry, you must have at least an overall CREDIT average (65% WAM) in your completed undergraduate degree, however, there is no guarantee of a place in the Master of Clinical Optometry as only a limited number will be available. Students with a Bachelor of Vision Science degree (or equivalent) from an international institution are advised to either apply for the Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Clinical Optometry (3182) program, or the Bachelor of Vision Science (3181) and apply for entry into the Master of Clinical Optometry via the above competitive selection process. The award of credit in recognition of prior learning (RPL) for external students will be considered (in accordance with UNSW RPL policy and procedure), and a study plan will be developed on a case by case basis. Students with a Bachelor of Vision Science degree (or equivalent) from an Australian or New Zealand institution are advised to either apply for the Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Clinical Optometry (3182) program, or the Bachelor of Vision Science (3181) and apply for entry into the Master of Clinical Optometry via the above competitive selection process. The award of credit in recognition of prior learning (RPL) for external students will be considered (in accordance with UNSW RPL policy and procedure), and a study plan will be developed on a case by case basis.
