This degree gives you the knowledge you need to detect, diagnose and treat vision and eye problems in both children and adults. Your first year will cover the fundamentals of applied science. You'll then go on to study the components of the eye, learn about conditions like cataracts and infection, and build knowledge of the different forms of rehabilitation available to patients. Along with this fundamental knowledge, you'll develop an understanding of neuroscience, pathology and pharmacology in your applied science studies. In the last 18 months of your course, you'll participate in four clinical placements, one of which you must complete outside of the metropolitan Melbourne area. You'll undertake placements in hospitals with dedicated ophthalmology programs such as the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital and the Royal Children's Hospital or with one of the Orthoptic Clinical School Network's private or public practices around Melbourne. You can also complete placements outside Melbourne with one of our partner clinics in regional Australia or overseas in places like Auckland, London, New York, Dubai and Singapore. These placements will test your classroom knowledge in a practical environment, demonstrating your ability to detect eye conditions and administer treatments to a range of patients. The course structure lets you complete the required subjects for this 4.5 year degree in only four years.

Orthoptists can find employment in a variety of settings, including hospital outpatient clinics, private practice, teaching and research areas, and visual rehabilitation centres.