Learn more about the properties of light, the anatomy of the eye and the processing of vision on an optometry degree
Optometry is a field of nursing that enables you to care for others by diagnosing and managing a wide range of ocular conditions and diseases. With an ageing population, there is an increasing need for eye care services.
UK universities have prioritised a practical approach to teaching optometry degrees. Practical classes will heavily complement the theory learned from lectures, and students will spend a substantial amount of time in clinics developing core optometric skills before they go to placement.
BSc Optometry students studying in the UK will benefit from various short- and long-term placements, enabling them to consolidate their knowledge and skills under the supervision of qualified optometrists. Training clinics with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities mean you will be on the cutting edge of the latest technologies in this rapidly advancing field.
Optometry foundation years are also available for students lacking direct entry requirements. These are often integrated years, which, upon completion, will allow you to begin the full optometry course.
Jobs and Careers
Optometrists will become a key part of the workforce, and a degree will benefit graduates wanting specialist roles and appealing to future employers. Graduate optometrists will work in hospitals, researching and teaching, and many will quickly begin private practices.
Students also have the option to study optometry at the postgraduate level and focus on specialisations related to their fields of interest. Graduate employment rates for optometry students are traditionally high due to the skilled nature of the work.
Salary
The starting salary for UK optometry degree graduates is around £25,800 to £35,000 per year (National Careers Service). Mid-career optometrists with around 4-9 years of experience earn an average of £51,200 per year, while experienced optometrists with 10-20 years of experience can expect to make around £67,900 per year (Jobted).
Optometry UK Entry Requirements
- Typical International Baccalaureate requirements: 33 points
- Typical A-level requirements: ABB (including two from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics)
- Typical IELTS requirements: 6.5 overall, with no lower than 6.0 in any one component
Please note that entry requirements vary for each UK university.
Where can I study Optometry in the UK?
To learn more about the best optometry courses in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Optometry, Ophthalmics & Orthoptics universities in the CUG 2025 below:
- Ulster University
- University of Manchester
- Cardiff University
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- City, University of London
- Aston University
- University of Bradford
- University of Plymouth
- UWE Bristol
- University of Sheffield
Study Optometry in the UK
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