Optometry and Vision Science
Develop the skills and knowledge you need to become an optometrist or increase your clinical skills.
Optometry is the study of vision and the visual system.
Our study programmes cover the initial training required to become an optometrist (BSc Optometry and postgraduate courses ) which allow qualified eye health professionals to increase their clinical and/or research skills.
The undergraduate optometry programme (BSc Hons Optometry) established in 1995 is a high profile component of the University’s portfolio of undergraduate courses. It is based at the Coleraine campus.
With only about 35-40 students in each year, it is one of the UK’s smallest courses, providing plenty of opportunity for students to get to know their classmates as well as students from other years and the staff.
Another bonus is that staff get to know students well too and can help them to achieve the very best learning experience they can.
Students learn through a wide variety of methods including lectures, laboratory-based practicals, group and individual research projects and an extensive range of clinical work.
Key Facts
The cost and quality of student accommodation in Coleraine is amongst the best in the UK
100% of our graduates are typically in professional jobs within 6 month of graduation
Ranked #1 in the UK for Optometry, Ophthalmology & Orthoptics(source: The Complete University Guide - 2020)
Our world-recognised researchers train PhD students in the Optometry and Vision Science Research Group
Clinical experience is provided on-campus in our own Optometry Clinic and in NHS placements
30% to 50% of our students come from outside Northern Ireland
100% student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2014,2015 and 2016
Patrick Richardson was voted UK Optometry Lecturer of the year 2018
Find out about the Optometry Clinic and a list of all courses on offer, including the College of Optometrists Professional Certificates.
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Student life - Coleraine
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On campus courses
View course page for Optometry - BSc (Hons)/MOptom (Hons) Full-time , Undergraduate , 2022/23 entry year , , Coleraine campus
At Ulster we offer a 3-year BSc (Hons) Optometry or a 4-year Masters with Honours Optometry degree.
View course page for The Theory of Independent Prescribing for Optometrists - PgCert Part-time , Postgraduate ,eLearning , 2021/22 entry year
Postgraduate Certificate in The Theory of Independent Prescribing for Optometrists
Online courses
View course page for The Theory of Independent Prescribing for Optometrists - PgCert Part-time , Postgraduate ,eLearning , 2021/22 entry year
Postgraduate Certificate in The Theory of Independent Prescribing for Optometrists
Professional Certificates in Optometry
Online courses accredited by the College of Optometrists