University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced taught modules, supervised clinical placements and an independent research project. Core areas typically include advanced ocular anatomy and physiology, binocular vision and paediatrics, refraction and optics at an advanced level, contact lens practice, ocular disease and slit-lamp diagnosis, clinical pharmacology and therapeutics, low vision rehabilitation and public health approaches to eye care.

Teaching emphasises clinical decision-making and practical skills. You can expect a mix of lectures, small-group problem-based learning, hands-on sessions in clinical skills laboratories and supervised patient-facing clinics. Assessment methods include objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), practical competencies, written exams, case reports and a dissertation or practice-based research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree (for example a 2:1 or equivalent) in optometry, ophthalmic science or a closely related biomedical subject. Practising optometrists with substantial clinical experience, and those registered with the General Optical Council or an equivalent regulator in their home country, are also encouraged to apply. Applicants whose first language is not English will be expected to meet the university's English language requirements (for example a recognised test such as IELTS or equivalent).

Where relevant, selection may consider clinical experience, referees' reports and a personal statement demonstrating motivation for advanced clinical practice. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to interview or to provide evidence of clinical competence.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for advanced clinical roles in community optometry practices, hospital eye services and multidisciplinary eye care teams. Career pathways include independent prescribing and therapeutics, specialist contact lens practice, paediatric and binocular vision services, low vision/rehabilitation, and roles in glaucoma or medical retina shared-care schemes. The qualification also supports transitions into education, clinical leadership, service development and applied research within the optical and wider healthcare sectors.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a clinically focused programme taught by staff with active clinical and research experience in eye health and vision science. Students benefit from access to well-equipped clinical skills facilities and supervised placements with local eye clinics and hospital departments, enabling direct experience of a range of patient presentations.

The university emphasises research-led teaching and provides opportunities to undertake a substantive research or practice-based project that can inform clinical practice or service delivery. The programme’s balance of practical training, academic rigour and clinical partnerships prepares graduates for advanced, patient-facing roles and for further academic or leadership activity in eye care.