Optometry

Our undergraduate (Ophthalmic Dispensing) and postgraduate (Optometry) vision sciences courses have been designed for employees working in the optical industry and are delivered through a blended learning format so you can gain qualifications whilst working.

We also offer short courses or modules for qualified professionals in search of further academic qualifications in areas such as leadership or clinical education that can lead to a full postgraduate award. The blended learning format means that knowledge is delivered online and there will be several week-long residential on-campus “blocks” to embed learning into clinical and practical skills throughout each year.

As a student, you will be able to utilise our brand-new, purpose-built vision sciences facilities including specialist dispensing and refraction labs. We are the first university in the North West to provide students with access to the Eyesi® Direct Ophthalmoscope virtual reality simulator.

The on-campus Eye Health Clinic is a student led equivalent to a high street optical practice. This is open to members of the public, providing an excellent learning environment to gain specialist real world skills.

Academic staff are all registered Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians who bring their clinical experience with learning and teaching qualifications to ensure content is up to date. Visiting clinicians will be supervising and facilitating specific aspects of the programmes.

Join our Vision Sciences and Hearing Aid Audiology event

Find out more about our unique courses within the eye and hearing sciences sector.

Why choose us?

Our vision sciences programmes are both accredited by the General Optical Council.
We are the first university to offer a blended learning format to teach MSc Optometry.
You will have the opportunity to learn within our on-campus Eye Health Clinic, equivalent to a high street practice and open to members of the public, as well opportunities to support volunteer patients from visual impairment charities such as Galloways.

Sound interesting?

Get to know us

Attend our Open Day and discover why our campus is the perfect place for you. You can ask current students about their experiences, speak to academics and get a feel for life at UCLan.

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Future Careers and Opportunities

As a registered Dispensing Optician or Optometrist, you will be able to develop your career in various ways. You could start your own business, be self-employed, work in a primary care setting (high street optical practices) or in a hospital setting.

You may undertake further study in specialist areas or gain a research degree to pursue a career developing new technologies and treatment options.

Dispensing Opticians can enrol onto an Optometry course or undertake further studies to be a Contact Lens Optician or a Low Vision Optician.

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