What to study and where

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What to study

There are two professions which you can train for – optometry or dispensing optics.

Optometry

An optometry course is usually four years in total, although in Scotland it is five years. The course consists of a full-time three-year (in Scotland four-year) degree course followed by a salaried pre-registration training with a practice under the guidance of a GOC-registered optometrist. Find out more information about the UK route to registration as an optometrist.

Dispensing optics

A dispensing optics course is three years in total and there are three modes of study to choose from. Find out more information about the UK route to registration as a dispensing optician.

Where to study

We have approved and provisionally approved programmes offered at the following institutions:

Optometry

Anglia Ruskin University
Aston University
Cardiff University
City, University of London
College of Optometrists
Glasgow Caledonian University
Plymouth University
Teesside University - provisionally approved
University of Bradford
University of Central Lancashire
University of Manchester
University of Ulster
University of Hertfordshire
University of Highlands and Islands - provisionally approved
University of Huddersfield
University of the West of England