Master of Optometry

Description

Learn to use clinical judgement to treat patients, and work with complex instruments, including contact lenses and spectacles. You'll acquire an excellent understanding of general and ocular pharmacology and skills for therapeutic management of eye disease.

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.

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.

Requirements

Completion of QUT's Bachelor of Vision Science

Notes

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.