Optometry
MSci Optometry
Learning Mode
Full-time, On Campus
Duration
4 Years
Start date
September
Qualification
Master in Science (MSci) – Integrated Undergraduate/Postgraduate
Fees
£16,500 per year*
Location
Frenchay Campus, UWE Bristol, United Kingdom
About the Course
The MSci Optometry at UWE Bristol is a four-year integrated degree that prepares you to become a fully qualified and registered optometrist. Combining undergraduate and postgraduate-level study, this course delivers clinical skills training, vision science, patient care, and professional practice in one comprehensive package.
You’ll gain hands-on experience in real clinical environments, including our state-of-the-art University Eye Clinic. Taught by industry experts and supported by cutting-edge facilities, this course equips you with the expertise to diagnose, manage, and treat a wide range of vision and eye health conditions.
Why choose Optometry at UWE Bristol?
Industry Connected
Train in UWE’s Eye Clinic, complete clinical placements, and work with NHS trusts and optometry practices.
Global Opportunities
Gain skills aligned with global healthcare standards, preparing you for UK and international optometry practice.
Professional Accreditation
GOC-accredited, leading to provisional registration and readiness for pre-registration and full professional status.
Course Overview
The MSci Optometry course combines theoretical knowledge with clinical experience from day one. You’ll study the anatomy and physiology of the eye, visual perception, pharmacology, optics, and diseases that affect vision. You’ll also develop the communication and ethical skills needed to deliver excellent patient care.
In years three and four, your learning becomes increasingly practical, including supervised clinical hours and the management of real patients within the university clinic and NHS settings.
Course Duration
Full-time: 4 Years
Start Date: September 2025
The course is delivered across four academic years, integrating both academic modules and clinical practice.
Course Curriculum
Year 1
- Foundations of Vision and Optics
- Ocular Anatomy and Physiology
- Optometric Instruments and Techniques
- General and Visual Optics
- Interpersonal Skills and Professionalism
Year 2
- Binocular Vision and Visual Perception
- Systemic and Ocular Disease
- Pharmacology for Optometrists
- Clinical Skills and Patient Assessment
- Evidence-Based Practice
Year 3
- Contact Lenses
- Management of Ocular Conditions
- Advanced Clinical Practice
- Law, Ethics and Professional Practice
- Community-Based Clinical Placement
Year 4
- Independent Research Project
- Enhanced Clinical Decision-Making
- Complex Patient Case Management
- Specialist Clinics and Extended Practice
Assessment includes coursework, written and practical exams, OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations), and supervised patient case reports.
Admission Requirements
- A Levels: Minimum ABB (including two science subjects, one of which must be Biology or Chemistry)
- Sri Lankan A/L: 3 passes with A/B grades in Biology and Chemistry preferred
- IB Diploma: Minimum 32 points including science subjects
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 in each component) or equivalent
- English-medium instruction may be considered
Additional Requirements:
- Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Occupational Health Clearance
Fees and Funding
International Tuition Fee:
£16,500 per year
Available Financial Support:
- UWE Global Scholarships
- Prepayment Discounts
- Country-Specific Bursaries
- NHS Clinical Placement Support (if eligible)
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this course will be eligible to register as a provisional optometrist with the General Optical Council (GOC), followed by a pre-registration year in a clinical setting.
Potential career paths include:
- Optometrist in high street or independent practice
- NHS hospital optometry
- Specialist areas like paediatrics, glaucoma, or contact lenses
- Research and academia
- Further study leading to prescribing rights or clinical specialisms
UWE optometry graduates are highly employable and well regarded by major national and regional employers.
Contact Us
Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.
