University of Leicester

Optometry MOptom

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

The Master of Optometry (MOptom) degree, developed and taught by the Leicester School of Optometry at the University of Leicester, is a gateway to a rewarding career as a registered optometrist. Optometrists work on the frontline of healthcare, playing a critical role in maintaining and improving the eye health of people of all ages and backgrounds. Optometrists work in a variety of settings, including in hospitals and on the high street.

They carry out detailed eye examinations, prescribe glasses or contact lenses and, through their use of advanced technology and deep clinical knowledge, they also detect and manage defects in vision or disease. The course is undergoing the General Optical Council's (GOC) staged process to offer GOC-approved qualifications. This is the standard procedure for a new MOptom degree in the UK.

We are working towards permission to recruit (i.e., enrol) students by the General Optical Council in September 2026 (Stage 3 of GOC approval). As of 3rd March 2026, the Leicester School of Optometry has passed Stages 1 & 2 of the GOC’s approval process and is constructively working towards Stage 3 approval, with the aim to enrol students in September 2026. The qualification does not yet have full GOC approval until a decision is made at Stage 5 of the approval process (i.e., Stage 5 is the final stage of the process and takes place in the academic year in which the first cohort of students reach their final year of study.) On this degree, you will develop your knowledge and skills through a mix of academic study and work- and clinic-based learning.

You will be taught by expert practitioners, and you will benefit from our outstanding clinical facilities at Leicester Royal infirmary and optic labs on campus, as well as pioneering and highly specialist facilities such as our medical dissection rooms and Space Park Leicester. Preparing you for your professional career life is a fundamental aspect of this course, which has been designed in close collab

Key highlights

  • Leads towards registration as an optometrist with the General Optical Council
  • Passed Stages 1 and 2 of GOC approval; full approval pending
  • Combines academic study with work- and clinic-based learning
  • Taught by expert practitioners in optometry
  • Clinical facilities at Leicester Royal Infirmary and on-campus optic labs
  • Access to medical dissection rooms and Space Park Leicester

Entry requirements

  • A-level: AAB — to include including one from Biology or Physics, plus one other from Biology, Chemistry, Phys
  • GCSE: 5/C — to include English Language, Mathematics
  • International Baccalaureate: 30 — International Baccalaureate: Pass Diploma with 30 points overall including three higher level subjects at grades 6, 6, 6.
  • BTEC: D*D*D — to include in either Applied Science or Biomedical Sc
  • Access to HE Diploma — Specialisms will be considered on a case-by-case basis with a full list of unit titles and credit values; must have at least 15 level 3 credits in Biology and 15 credits in Chemistry or Physics in order to be considered
  • Degree: 2:1 — or above
  • T-level: Distinction — to include in Healthcare Science, wit

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Optometrist
  • Hospital optometrist
  • Community optometrist
  • Contact lens optician
  • Optometry researcher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £10,050 | International: (GOC) for the duration of the programme leading to the award of the approved qualification. Please note there is a £30 per year annual registration/renewal fee.

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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