Program Overview

Overview of the Optometry MOptom Course

The Optometry MOptom degree is designed to provide students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to kickstart their careers in optometry. This course is approved by the General Optical Council and is fully aligned with the new outcomes for optometry.

Why Study Optometry MOptom

This course offers a well-rounded education, with small clinic sizes, an emphasis on learning clinical skills from the first year, and a brand-new optometry laboratory. Students will learn about the science of the eye and the integral principles in optometry and vision sciences. In the first year, students will be introduced to fundamental clinical techniques that will be the base for developing required optometric skills.

Entry Requirements

• A Level: AAB-ABB, which must include 3 A-level subjects. Two A levels at grade AB must be in Science subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Biology, or Chemistry) and a third A level at grade B can be in any subject, excluding General Studies.
• BTEC: DDM in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science combined with a Science A Level in Mathematics, Physics, Biology, or Chemistry, minimum grade B. Or DDM in BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care combined with a Science A Level in Mathematics, Physics, Biology, or Chemistry, minimum grade B.
• GCSEs: 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C including Maths and English. For applicants not taking A levels, this must also include GCSE Chemistry and Biology or GCSE Double Award Science/Double Science/Combined Science.
• Other qualifications: T Levels will be judged on an individual basis but are required to be in the Healthcare Science area with an occupational specialism in Optical Care Services. GCSE subjects and grades will be considered in addition to the T Level. An additional A Level at a minimum of grade B in one of the following science subjects, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, or Chemistry is also required.
• First degree: A First degree in a relevant Science subject (Orthoptics, Ophthalmic Dispensing, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biomedical Science, Pharmacology, Mathematics, Physics) at a minimum grade of Upper Second (2:1) with a minimum overall grade of 65%.
• Masters degree: A Masters degree in a relevant Science subject (Orthoptics, Ophthalmic Dispensing, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biomedical Science, Pharmacology, Mathematics, Physics) at a minimum grade of Merit.

Course Detail

The course is divided into four years, with the following core modules:

Year 1

• Human Body Systems
• Clinical Skills 1
• Ocular Anatomy and Physiology
• Ophthalmic Lenses and Dispensing
• Science of Visual Perception
• Visual Optics

Year 2

• Clinical Skills 2
• Binocular Vision and Paediatric Optometry
• Contact Lenses in Practice
• Investigative Techniques
• Primary Ocular Health and Pharmacology

Year 3

• Clinical Practice
• Advanced Ocular Health
• Professional Practice
• Optometric Practice across the Human Lifespan
• Community Optometry

Final Year

• Advanced Optometric Practice 1 - Ocular Therapeutics
• Advanced Optometric Practice 2
• Clinical Learning in Practice (CLiP) Part 1
• Clinical Learning in Practice (CLiP) Part 2

Placements

On this course, students will benefit from attending a placement during their final year. The placement provides real-world experience and gives students the opportunity to work with other professional colleagues. Placements will be awarded on an application basis administrated by The College of Optometrists; however, placements can be nationwide, and the university cannot guarantee a location.

Fees and Finance

• The maximum fees for UK-based students on undergraduate courses in 2025/26 will be £9,535 per year for full-time students (subject to parliamentary approval).
• Additional costs include:
  • Registration with the General Optical Council: £30 (2024/25 rate, subject to change).
  • Travel to hospital placements: up to £75.
  • Final year placement: relocation costs, rental, and transport (variable).
  • Equipment: small items such as a PD ruler and facial ruler (£50), and potentially ophthalmoscope and retinoscope sets (up to £2000).

Accreditations and Professional Links

This course is approved by the General Optical Council and is fully aligned with the new outcomes for optometry. As a student of Optometry, you are required to obtain and maintain registration with the General Optical Council throughout your studies.

Career Support

The university offers career support, including industry-supported workshops, careers fairs, and one-to-one guidance sessions. The Careers and Employability Service provides professional help, support, and guidance to help students achieve their ambitions.

Further Study

Progression to a postgraduate course is dependent on successful completion of undergraduate studies. There may be minimum qualification requirements, such as a first-class or higher second (2:1) degree. The university offers various postgraduate courses, including PhDs in Optometry, Psychophysics, Vision Science, Public Health, and Health Education.

Research Excellence

The university is committed to research excellence, with a strong focus on making a real difference to people's lives. The university's researchers carry out work that is world-leading and internationally excellent, with three-quarters of all research being classified as such.

Student Support

The university offers a range of support services to help students thrive, including academic support, mental health support, and financial support. The university's support networks and services are designed to help students navigate their personal student journey and achieve their goals.