Optometry

The BSc (Hons) Optometry programme at Glasgow Caledonian University offers an innovative and comprehensive education in the field of eye care and vision science. Designed to equip students with the latest knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies, this programme prepares graduates to excel in a dynamic healthcare environment. Throughout their studies, students will explore the anatomy and physiology of the eye, ocular disease diagnostics, contact lens technology, and refractive correction techniques, alongside modules in hearing sciences, public health, and patient communication. The course combines theoretical learning with extensive practical training, utilizing state-of-the-art laboratories and clinical simulation facilities to ensure students gain real-world experience before entering practice. In addition to core academic modules, students undertake placements in professional optical practices, where they develop essential skills in patient assessment, diagnosis, and management under the supervision of experienced practitioners. Emphasizing a patient-centered approach, the programme nurtures both technical proficiency and compassionate healthcare delivery. The university’s strong links with the healthcare community enable students to engage in research projects and community outreach, fostering a broader understanding of the role optometrists play in public health. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared to register with the General Optical Council (GOC) and pursue careers as licensed optometrists, working in diverse settings such as private practices, hospitals, or community clinics. The programme also provides a solid foundation for those wishing to undertake further postgraduate studies, including research or specialization in areas like binocular vision, low vision, or vision therapy. Dedicated academic staff, combined with a supportive learning environment, ensure students gain not only academic excellence but also the confidence to contribute meaningfully to eye care and visual health sectors worldwide.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Year 1: Optics, Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Cell Biology, Optometric Professional Studies.

Year 2: Pathology, Optometric Refraction, Diagnostic Techniques/Pharmaceutical Agents, Binocular Vision, Ophthalmic Materials.

Year 3: Clinical Studies, Ophthalmology, Research Methods, Contact Lens Studies, Ergonomics, Ocular Disease.

Year 4: Optometric Practice, Shared Care of Ocular Disease, Speciality Clinics, Anomalies of Binocular Vision, Visual Development, Ocular Therapeutics, Project or Dissertation.

Work placement: GCU has its own eye clinic, providing clinical training facilities, and students have the opportunity for placements in commercial practice. The programme also involves visits to ophthalmology and optometry departments in hospitals and to optometric practices in the private sector.

Assessment: Assessment of this programme involves clinical and theoretical exams of both formative and summative types.

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 60(Grade C)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Higher: AAABB, A Level: AAB, ILC: AAABBB.

Essential subjects: Mathematics and Physics (S Grade 1/Int 2 A/GCSE A), English (S Grade 2/Int 2 B/GCSE B/ILC-O B).

Recommended subjects: Mathematics, English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Higher/A Level/ILC-H).

FE college students: Contact us or visit www.gcu.ac.uk/study for a copy of our College Student Supplement.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Glasgow Caledonian University.

Accreditation

This programme is accredited by the College of Optometrists and General Optical Council.