They are professional clinicians responsible for many aspects of primary vision care from visual examinations and prescription of optical appliances to correcting vision problems. Trained to examine the eyes for optical defects and to detect vision problems and eye diseases are the men and women in the field of optometry. If you aspire to pursue a profession in optometry, Aston University’s Optometry course might be a perfect option for you.
Pursuing a Degree and Masters in Optometry
Optometry at Aston University is part of the School of Life and Health Sciences, ranked 5th in the UK for Allied Health Professions [Research Excellence Framework 2014]. The university offer students the Bachelor of Science/Master of Optometry (BSc/MOptom Optometry) programme. Accredited by the General Optical Council and recognised by the Optometrists & Opticians Board (Ministry of Health, Singapore), the course was ranked 2nd in the UK for Optometry [Complete University Guide Subject Ranking, 2017]. The programme have garnered other positive reviews which include a 96% overall student satisfaction [National Student Survey, 2016] and was reported having a 100% of its graduates in a graduate level destination 6 months upon graduating [Destination of Leavers from Higher Education, 2014/15].
Undergraduates in the BSc/MOptom Optometry course would learn to develop both theoretical and practical knowledge and skills required to apply for the College of Optometrists’ Scheme for Registration as a qualified optometrist. During the course of the programme, students will be imparted with techniques revolving around general eye examination, spectacle dispensing, fitting and aftercare of contact lenses, and paediatric and geriatric optometry. The main feature of the programme is the hands-on clinical involvement students will experience such as the use of unique virtual patient simulators and eventually attend to real patients in the university’s fully functioning optometry clinics under the close supervision of the clinical staff. Likewise, students will attend a series of observation sessions in local hospital eye department and a specialist low vision centre to widen their knowledge.
Aston University’s BSC Optometry is a three year full-time programme with integrated placements. Students who successfully attain an average mark of 50% at the end of Year 3 have the opportunity to continue with further study, leading to the MOptom course. The 4th year of the MOptom full time course is an integrated work based learning year, allowing students to work and study concurrently.
Facilities
Aston University School of Life and Health Sciences modern purpose-designed building provides phenomenal facilities for its undergraduate and postgraduate learning, research and clinical work. Facilities include an Optometry Clinic, a clinical skills laboratory, the onsite Optegra refractive surgery hospital, refurbished lecture theatres and seminar rooms, and a unique virtual patient simulator. Students have access to a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals and databases through Aston University’s virtual learning medium.
Pathways to Aston University BSc/MOptom Optometry
Like many Life and Health Sciences course, the entry requirements into the programme is generally an AAA-AAB for A Level holders or 34 points overall for IB holders. Students with a diploma in Optometry from Ngee Ann Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic can be considered on an individual basis for 1st year entry.
Nonetheless, Aston University welcome students without the equivalent qualifications to gain entry to this recognised undergraduate course through the International Foundation Programme in Science at Aston University. Equivalent to the UK’s Year 13, the International Foundation Programme is a one year course designed for international students who do not meet the required GCE A levels or equivalent qualifications for entry to Aston University undergraduate degree programmes. Students are guaranteed a placement upon successfully completing the programme and meeting the specific academic and English language grades for the relevant programme. While studying, students have access to all of Aston University academic, welfare, social and sports facilities.
So grab this opportunity to pursue a higher education and join a noble career in the field of optometry! For more information on Aston University, click here. For more information on Optometry, click here. For more details on Entry Requirements & Application Procedures, drop us an email at info@gstudyabroad.com or fill in the enquiry form below. Study Abroad, Think Global!