Program Overview

Introduction to the Master of Optometry (MOptom) Programme

The Master of Optometry (MOptom) programme at Aston University is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of optometry and vision science, as well as the practical skills necessary to excel professionally. This four-year programme includes clinical experience integrated throughout every year, making it a premier pathway for aspiring optometrists.

Course Overview

Our MOptom programme stands out due to its extensive patient contact throughout the programme, providing students with valuable practical clinical opportunities. The programme is accredited by the General Optical Council (GOC) and is designed to meet the needs of the optometry profession. Students will learn from expert teaching staff and develop their skills in dedicated specialist facilities.

Why Optometry at Aston University?

Aston University offers a unique learning experience, with real-world experience, excellent student experience, top ranking, career prospects, gold standard teaching, and professionally accredited programmes. The university is ranked in the top 5 in the UK for Health Professions (Guardian 2025) and has a 92% student satisfaction rating for teaching and 97% student satisfaction rating for academic support (NSS 2025).

Course Description

The MOptom programme is studied over four years, with clinical experience integrated throughout the programme from year one. The programme includes a range of modules, such as Optometry Stage 1, Optometry Stage 2, Optometry Stage 3, and Optometry Stage 4. Students will develop their knowledge of the scientific principles that underpin optometry, as well as their clinical skills, including eye examination, vision correction, and patient care.

Modules and Learning Outcomes

The programme includes a range of modules, each with its own set of learning outcomes. These modules include:

• Year 1: Optometry Stage 1
• Year 2: Optometry Stage 2
• Year 3: Optometry Stage 3
• Year 4: Optometry Stage 4 Each module is designed to develop students' knowledge and skills in optometry, including clinical skills, patient care, and professional practice.

Facilities

The School of Optometry at Aston University has extensive facilities and equipment for learning, research, and clinical work. These facilities include:

• An onsite public-facing Optometry clinic
• Unique virtual patient simulators
• Refurbished lecture theatres and seminar rooms with modern audio-visual equipment
• Blackboard, a virtual learning environment used for general study, revision, and assessment

Course Objectives

The MOptom programme has several course objectives, including:

1. Providing students with the opportunities to realize their academic potential through a range of learning experiences
2. Encouraging students to have a passion for optometry and an enthusiasm for learning
3. Enabling students to demonstrate the expected characteristics of an optometry professional, upholding high professional and ethical standards
4. Employing evidence-based approaches to develop optometry practice in relation to the needs of the UK population
5. Enabling students to demonstrate the knowledge and clinical skills required to examine and manage people with a range of eye conditions

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the MOptom programme include:

• A Levels: AAB in three A Levels, which must include two sciences from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, or Physics
• BTEC: National Extended Diploma (RQF) / Extended Diploma (QCF) in Applied Science, with DDD + one A-Level at grade B in either Biology, Chemistry, Maths, or Physics
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 points overall and three Higher Level subjects at 6, 6, 5, which must include two science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, or Physics
• GCSEs: Five GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, which must include B/5 in Mathematics and C/4 in English Language or English Literature

Fees and Scholarships

The tuition fees for the MOptom programme are:

• UK students: ｣9,535 (2026/27)
• International students: ｣22,575 (2026/27) Aston University offers a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Assessment

The MOptom programme utilizes a range of different assessment types, including examinations, written reports, presentations, and assessment of practical and clinical performance.

Career Prospects

The MOptom programme prepares students for a range of careers across the public, private, and third sectors. Graduates are among the highest paid in the country, with a median salary of ｣36,100 (2023 Longitudinal Education Outcomes).

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why study Optometry at Aston University? The MOptom programme at Aston University offers a unique learning experience, with real-world experience, excellent student experience, top ranking, career prospects, gold standard teaching, and professionally accredited programmes.
• What accreditations does the Optometry course at Aston have? The MOptom programme is regulated by the General Optical Council (GOC) and is designed to meet the needs of the optometry profession.
• What facilities will I have access to? The School of Optometry at Aston University has extensive facilities and equipment for learning, research, and clinical work.