Doctorate (PhD)
The Doctor of Optometry (OD) at the University of Melbourne is a master's-level professional entry degree. The OD program is the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere, creating a new benchmark in optometric education.
The OD degree is a four-year full-time program consisting of a combination of on-campus teaching and clinical placements. Clinical studies commence in first year and gradually increase to full-time in the final year. The course covers the basic and applied optical, visual, and biomedical sciences that underpin optometry.
A research project, with clinical relevance, is conducted as a required component of the degree. Students will also be given the opportunity to undertake clinical training at metropolitan, rural and overseas sites as part of their final year of study.
Students must complete 400 credit points over the 4-year program. These 400 points of credit are accumulated from a compulsory series of six core subjects totalling 100 points per year.
Doctor of Optometry graduates will be inspired to become industry-leading practitioners and world-class care providers after their time at the University of Melbourne.
Driven by unmatched resources, renowned teaching staff and evidence-based practices, graduates from this course are prepared to pursue a career that is constantly challenging and evolving.
Applications for 2022 OPEN
Local applicants are those with Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Permanent Residency or a humanitarian visa. These applicants should apply via GEMSAS.