About the course

Our course allows you to engage in the industry while equipping you with the core clinical skills, professional training and confidence required for a successful career as a registered optometrist.

　　Optometrists are trained to detect defects in vision, signs of injury or abnormalities and ocular disease, through undertaking eye examinations. They help to identify problems with general health, to make a difference to people with sight loss or visual impairment.

　　During eye examinations they asses ocular health and prescribe spectacles, contact lenses or low vision aids, where appropriate. Optometrists offer clinical advice to help manage and treat certain eye conditions. They interact with other clinicians within the optometry field, such as ophthalmologists and orthoptists, and work in -knit teams. They are key in referring patients to other healthcare professionals when further treatment is required.

　　Become part of a pioneering clinical degree programme – the first to bring optometry to the South West.

　　Develop your clinical and communication skills while working with real patients at our Centre for Eyecare Excellence (CEE) optometry practice throughout your third year.

　　See your studies in a real-world context, with regional practice placements during Years 1, 2 and 4 and a hospital placement in Year 3.

　　Explore the theory side of the course at InterCity Place (new from 2023) with brand new clinical facilities, equipment and learning spaces.

　　Join a -knit team of staff and students and benefit from an open, supportive environment.

　　Boost your employability through learning in a way that’s based on solving problems, working together and communicating well with others.

　　Graduate with the scientific and clinical knowledge, as well as the professional training, required by the General Optical Council (GOC) to practise as an optometrist.

　　To complement your formal learning we offer regular PALS sessions that provide the opportunity for you to learn with and from your peers. Share knowledge, discuss ideas, and ask questions in a relaxed and friendly environment.

　　4 years (with placements) Scholarships - View all scholarships Internships

　　

Start dates and prices

Course fees are indicative and should be used as a guide. Speak to a counsellor to get an accurate price.

　　Duration: 4 Year(s)Fees: Not available

Intake	Location
Semester 1 (September), 2024	Plymouth
Semester 1 (September), 2025	Plymouth

　　

How to apply

Entry requirements for University of Plymouth

GCSEs:

　　5 GCSEs grade C/4 or above to include Mathematics, English and Science. Preference is given to applicants who have obtained these grades on application and who have achieved at least B/5 grades in Mathematics, English and Science. Please note that if you do not have this profile please contact the Admissions Team directly on +44 1752 585858 or email: [email protected] and they will be happy to advise you further.

　　A level:

　　AAB from three A levels. Two A levels must come from either Maths, use of Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Human Biology, Applied Science, or Psychology. General studies will not be considered as part of the offer.

　　The Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate will be accepted in lieu of one A level, alongside two science subjects, as listed above. An applicant studying for an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside three A levels that meet the above criteria, will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard A level offer. To be considered for this the EPQ must be in a relevant science-based topic and be predicted to achieve a strong grade.

　　International Baccalaureate:

　　36 - 34 points overall to include 3 subjects at Higher Level and 2 of these subjects must be at 6 points Higher Level. Subjects must come from either maths, use of maths, physics, chemistry, biology/human biology, applied science, psychology.

　　English accepted within

　　If Advanced Level = 4+ (A1) or 5 (A2/B)

　　If Standard Level = 5+ (A1) or 6 (A2/B)

　　If overseas and not studying English within IB – must have IELTS

　　IELTS: 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in all elements.

　　Access:

　　Pass a named Access to HE Diploma (e.g. Science, Combined Science, Medicine) with at least 45 credits at level 3 of which 30 must be at distinction level and come from at least two spe

　　

English language requirements

　　7.0

　　Overall IELTS band score

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Application deadline:

This date isn’t available – speak to an IDP counsellor to get detailed information.

　　

Further information

Career outcomesIf you aren’t eligible for the above entry requirements, you might want to explore pathway options at University of Plymouth. If you want to find out more, please speak to our counsellors.

　　Pathway options to study at this institution

　　

Reviews and rankings

World ranking

　　401st / 1250

　　THE World ranking64th / 130

　　Complete University guide

　　

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