Optometrists play a crucial role in primary health care, examining the population’s eyes, diagnosing vision problems and providing treatment. The Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) covers both clinical optometry and vision science and involves the study of the basic physical and life sciences as they relate to the visual system. You will also gain an extensive knowledge of optics, anatomy and physiology of vision, ocular pharmacology, pathology and therapeutics, as well as immunology. To be eligible to apply, you must first complete the common year of the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science or equivalent, involving set courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Medical Sciences, or have completed another degree approved by the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences

On completion of your BOptom, you may apply for registration as an optometrist with the New Zealand Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board or a State Board in Australia. There are opportunities in private practice, in hospitals, research, teaching and industry.