Doctor of Optometry

The Doctor of Optometry is a three-year program that combines on-campus teaching and clinical placements. You will be trained in the early detection, diagnosis, treatment and management of eye diseases and the rehabilitation of conditions of the visual system. The course content and teaching is based on the competency standards for optometrists in Australia and New Zealand, which are: professional responsibilities; communication; patient examination; diagnosis and management; and health information management.

In the first year, you’ll gain a thorough foundation of the vision sciences and begin to develop patient care skills. This strong base will underpin the development of your skills for optometry practice in year two. In third year you’ll benefit from extended clinical placements with industry partners in metro, regional and remote areas of WA, offering hands-on direct patient experience.

UWA has partnered with Lions Eye Institute, Lions Outback Vision, SpecSavers, Luxottica and other optometry industry leaders to deliver the course and offer clinical placements across Western Australia.