Our BSc Ophthalmic Dispensing is a unique, two-year fast-track programme for those in the industry who want to gain qualifications while working.
Why study with us
- A fast-track format means you could be a registered dispensing optician within two years of starting the course. You’ll have access to our brand new purpose-built vision sciences facilities including specialist dispensing and refraction labs.
- The entry requirements are 5 GCSEs including Maths, English and Science. You must have one year's optical work experience to apply for this course. If you achieve a good 2:1 (65% or above) you can progress automatically onto our Optometry MOptom degree.
- Our blended learning format allows you to earn while you learn. Most of the time you'll be studying your degree online whilst working full-time in practice. You'll attend Preston Campus approximately one week every two months to learn practical skills.
Important application information
- This course is only available to UK students.
What you’ll do
- You’ll be taught by experienced practitioners and visiting clinicians who help supervise and facilitate specific aspects of the programme.
- Gain experience with volunteer patients, from visual impairment charities, who are part of the programme too.
- You’ll be able to visit large scale glazing labs and you'll have access to specialist labs such as the Dispensing and Optometry Pre-Clinical space.
Modules
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements. As well as to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
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Academic expertise
Accreditations
What can I do with a ophthalmic dispensing degree?
As a registered dispensing optician, with a BSc in Ophthalmic Dispensing, you could start your own business, work in a primary care or hospital setting or high street optical practice.
Further study
If you achieve a good 2:1 (65% or above) you can progress automatically onto our Optometry MOptom degree.
Entry requirements
We will consider your educational achievements, predicted grades, work experience and personal statement. If you don't meet the grades for your chosen course, we will consider you for other programmes.
We know that many factors can influence the grades you achieve in school or college. If your life experience has affected your academic studies, we can take this into account. Use the UCAS Points Calculator below to check whether you are eligible.
Unsure if you meet our entry requirements? Contact our friendly Course Enquiries team to talk through your options.
- All Applicants must be employed within an optical practice and have a suitable supervisor (practice-based educator)
- GCSE English, Science, Maths and two other GCSEs at a minimum grade C or grade 4 or (standard pass) equivalent + 1 year Optical work experience
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Optical Retail Skills + 1 year Optical work experience + 5 GCSEs as above
- SMCTech qualification + 5 GCSEs as above
- Candidates will require a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service clearance (DBS)
Use our UCAS points calculator
Not got the grades?
Our courses with a foundation year could be exactly what you're looking for. They provide an alternative route to study for this degree.
Fees and funding
Scholarships and bursaries
We have a wide range of bursaries, scholarships and funds available to help support you whilst studying with us.
Select your country to see eligibility information and how to apply by selecting more info on the cards below.
Care Leaver Bursary
Our Care Leaver Bursary is for students who need extra support because they have been in care or are estranged from their parents.
Find out more about Care Leaver BursaryEstranged student support
Estranged Student Support Bursary is for students who need extra support because they are estranged from their parents.
Find out more about Estranged student supportDependants Bursary
Students with financially dependent children may be eligible for our Dependants Bursary as part of our financial support package.
Find out more about Dependants BursaryFinancial support package
If you are from a low income household our Financial Bursary may be able to help.
Find out more about Financial support package
This course is delivered by the School of Medicine and Dentistry
For information on possible changes to course information, see our essential and important course information
You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at the University of Central Lancashire on our student contract page