Masters (Coursework)
A graduate of OP45 Bachelor of Vision Science must also complete the Master of Optometry to be eligible for registration as an optometrist.
The course provides increased exposure to real world learning experiences both within QUT Health Clinics, and in the workplace via the inclusion of extended clinical placements.
Case-based learning and case-based assessment will enhance the training in diseases of the eye and ocular therapeutics. Guest lecturers and practising optometrists are involved in the clinical training.
Successful completion of QUT's Bachelor of Vision Science with a minimum grade point average (GPA) score of 4.0 on QUT's 7 point scale completed within two years of commencing the Master of Optometry.
Students who have not completed QUT's Bachelor of Vision ScienceThe Master of Optometry course provides the second component of the OP45 Bachelor of Vision Science/OP85 Master of Optometry dual degree entry-level program which leads to registration as an optometrist for practice in the optometry profession in Australia. It is not designed to provide qualified optometrists with a masters level qualification.
If you already have an optometry qualification and are seeking to practice as an optometrist in Australia you should contact the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand (www.ocanz.org) regarding the assessment process for overseas trained optometrists wishing to practice optometry in Australia. If you wish to obtain an Australian optometry qualification then you will need to apply for the OP45 Bachelor of Vision Science/OP85 Master of Optometry dual degree award. Your previous overseas studies in optometry may be considered for advanced standing towards the five-year program.
Your application for OP45/OP85 should include:
This course is the second component of a five year dual degree program comprising a three year Bachelor of Vision Science (OP45) followed by a two year Master of Optometry (OP85).
NOTE that:
The profession of optometry is undergoing expansion in its scope of practice as a result of legislative amendments to allow appropriately trained optometrists to use therapeutic pharmaceutical agents in the practice of optometry. The five year program increases graduates' depth of knowledge in the areas of general and ocular pharmacology with training in the therapeutic management of eye disease.
Information for existing optometrists
The Master of Optometry course provides the second component of the entry-level program to the profession in Australia - it is NOT designed to provide qualified optometrists with a masters level qualification. A route for further study is through higher degree research training.
Information for overseas trained optometristsOverseas trained optometrists seeking to gain registration in Australia should contact the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand at www.ocanz.org for details concerning eligibility for registration through the assessment process before considering further study.
There are requirements that you will need to meet as a student in this course. You will need to identify these requirements and ensure you allow sufficient time to meet them.
Some of these requirements have associated costs. Information is available from the Additional course requirements and costs website.
Graduates in optometry have exciting careers that may include clinical practice in a range of optometric settings or teaching and research positions in Australia and overseas. Many graduates enter private practice with a view to future partnership or the establishment of their own practice. An increasing number of graduates are working alongside other health professionals in medical ophthalmology clinics.
Graduates of the dual award program can work or specialise in areas such as contact lens practice paediatric vision occupational/public health vision or low vision.
The dual degree program Bachelor of Vision Science/ Master of Optometry meets the requirements for accreditation by the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand. Graduates of the program meet the requirements for registration by the Optometry Board of Australia.
Students must complete the Master of Optometry as well as the Bachelor of Vision Science to be eligible for registration.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) requires that graduates demonstrate English language skills at IELTS level 7 or equivalent before being considered for professional registration. For further information visit the AHPRA website www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registration-Process/Registration-Requirements.aspx
Please refer to the Optometry Board of Australia website www.optometryboard.gov.au/Registration-Standards.aspx for additional information on the Board's Registration Standards.
QUT automatically registers students enrolled in this course with the Optometry Board of Australia in accordance with the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009. Details about student registration are available from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency at www.ahpra.gov.au