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Overview
There is not direct entry into this course. This is the second component of a five year dual degree program, comprising a three year Bachelor of Visions Science (OP45), followed by a two year Master of Optometry (OP85).
- Graduate able to practise as an optometrist and register with the Optometry Board of Australia.
- Receive individual attention from experienced lecturers in small classes.
- Develop and practise clinical skills at the QUT Optometry Clinic.
- Prepare for a career in private practice, contact lens practice, paediatric vision, occupational/public health vision or low vision.
| QUT course code | OP85 |
| Attendance | Full-time |
| Course duration | 2 years full-time |
| Start month | 2013 February |
| Delivery |
On campus
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| Course contact |
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| CRICOS code | 065379E |
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Details
Overview
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:
- both degrees need to be completed before a graduate can apply for registration as an optometrist
- there is no direct entry to the OP85 course
- all applicants enter the program through the OP45 Bachelor of Vision Science and progress to the OP85 course on successful completion of the OP45 course
- Commonwealth-supported places will be offered in the Master of Optometry from 2012.
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 http://www.rsc.qut.edu.au/. The Faculty's Master of Applied Science by Research (HL84) is an option for students seeking a Masters level qualification.
Information for overseas trained optometrists
Overseas 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 for overseas trained optometrists before considering further study.
Why choose this course
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 the QUT Health Clinic, 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. top
Career options
Graduates are highly employable, with all students employed on graduation. Graduates can work or specialise in areas such as contact lens practice, children's vision, occupational/public health optometry or low vision, as well as general primary care clinical practice. The majority of optometry graduates enter private practice and work initially in established practices, often with a view to future partnership or the establishment of their own practice. Graduates are also employed in government service, including hospitals. A number of graduates are working in secondary clinical care environments, primarily in ophthalmology medical eye care practices. The course also provides a route to employment within the ophthalmic industry, or students may enter the teaching and research fields after further study.
Professional recognition
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:
http://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration/Registration-Process/Registration-Requirements.aspx
Please refer to the Optometry Board of Australia website http://www.optometryboard.gov.au/Registration-Standards.aspx for additional information on the Board's Registration Standards.
Student registration
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
Entry requirements
Completion of QUT's Bachelor of Vision Science
Course fees
Your actual fees may vary depending on which units you choose. All fees are based on current fixed fee prices. We review fees annually.
2013: CSP $4200 (indicative) per Semester (48 credit points) (subject to annual review)
Student Services and Amenities Fee
You'll need to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) as part of your course costs.
HECS-HELP: loans to help you pay your course fees
You may not have to pay anything upfront if you're eligible for a HECS-HELP loan.
Find out if you're eligible for a HECS-HELP loan
Scholarships and financial support
You can apply for scholarships to help you with study and living costs.
You may also be eligible for Centrelink payments
