BSc Optometry
Course overview
The BSc Optometry programme at Glasgow Caledonian University is designed for students who want to become independent eye care professionals, capable of detecting sight problems, prescribing and fitting optical aids, and diagnosing and managing various eye conditions. Students acquire advanced clinical skills through theoretical and practical training. Graduates become eligible to register with the General Optical Council (GOC) after a period of supervised clinical practice.
This course covers important learning areas, including fundamental vision science, ocular anatomy and physiology, optics, and advanced techniques for eye examinations. The curriculum equally covers ocular disease, contact lens studies, visual development in children, and the principles of independent prescribing. Students develop critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills throughout the programme.
The teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, practical classes, and student-led seminars, while assessment is through class tests, essays, case studies, presentations, and objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs). Practical elements are integrated from the first year, with students developing clinical skills in purpose-built pre-clinical facilities and the on-campus Vision Centre. Students also gain further clinical experience through external placements.
Entry requirements
Applicants must submit a personal statement to describe their interest in the course and any academic or professional experience. A reference from an academic or employer is required. Students can also upload a CV to show their work experience.
Grade Requirements:
- Applicants typically require a successful completion of three years of the BSc Orthoptics course at GCU with not less than a Merit, or a 2:1 degree in Orthoptics.
- Alternatively, international qualifications equivalent to A-levels are accepted.
English Proficiency:
- Applicants who do not speak English as their first language require an overall IELTS score of 7.0, with a minimum 6.5 in each component.
- Accepted alternatives include PTE or TOEFL iBT.
Scholarships
Early Payment Discount
This award entitles fee-paying students to a discount of 5% if fees are over £5,000 and the fees are paid in full prior to the first teaching date of the course.
New to GCU Undergraduate
Self funding International students who study a full-time course with Glasgow Caledonian University are eligible for up to £2,500 tuition fee discount per year off their course tuition fees.
Student Loyalty Discount
We are pleased to offer a Loyalty Discount of 30% to students who have previously graduated from GCU or one of our Founding institutions.
Up to 30% of fees
Career opportunities
Graduates of the BSc Optometry programme can work as:
- Registered Optometrist (Private Practice)
- Hospital Optometrist
- Contact Lens Specialist
- Low Vision Specialist
- Optometry Lecturer
Cost of study
The tuition fee for this course is £15,200 per year for international students in the 2025/26 academic year. Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may change.
Admission
Interested applicants can apply for the course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). For guidance, contact AHZ's trained counsellors.
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