Masters in Optometry in the UK

"Eyes are the windows to an individual soul". 

With the increasing use of digital technologies, the necessity for eye care rises daily. Dealing with visual health becomes possible when one can rely on optometrists. Optometry- a healthcare profession that includes an examination of eyes for detecting defects of vision, diagnosis and treatment. If you wish to become a professional in optometry called optometrist, you will be involved in providing complete primary eye care. A master's in Optometry will help you to become a demanding optometrist. This article helps you to understand Masters in Optometry from the UK. With a master's in optometry, you will excel in the subject and set yourself up for a prosperous career.

Masters in Optometry in the UK is highly demanding as the UK offers the best programmes in a short period. This programme is for Optometry graduates to increase their knowledge in vision science, clinical diagnosis, and optometry management practices. As a master's student in Optometry, you will be trained for professional specialisation in different areas such as contact lenses, pediatric optometry, and low vision. With the increased use of digital devices like mobile phones, diseases like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy have become common worldwide. Optometrists are also responsible for detecting problems with ocular manifestations and looking for reliable health professionals.

Why study a Master in Optometry from the UK

As a young aspiring optometrist, a world-class degree from a top-notch university will be a lifelong attainment. A master's in optometry from the UK will help you to secure post-study work opportunities through the new graduate route. Why study Optometry in the UK?

• Opportunity to learn from top universities in the global ranking
• Work in high-quality, state-of-the-art laboratories for research-oriented learning
• Training and Placement programmes to find job opportunities after the programme
• Projects, internships, workshops, training and other co-curricular openings to magnify your practical skills and experience
• Strong networks of alums all over the world to connect with established professionals
• Complete master's degree within 15 months

What are the highlights of a Master in Optometry from the UK?

• The programme offers new simulation facilities to get more practical exposure.
• There are opportunities to build your skills with surrogate patients before entering work settles.
• This also offers access to different practice placements, including hospitals.
• After completing your master's degree, you will be eligible for full registration with GOC (General Optical Council), which allows you to practice professionally within the UK.
• In the UK, the scope of optometric practices is high, and students can easily opt for further research in optometry.

Top University to Study Masters in Optometry from UK

 You could choose the following universities for a Master in Optometry.

• Cardiff University
• Aston University
• Anglia Ruskin University
• University of Central Lancashire
• City, University of London
• University of Manchester
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Liverpool
• University College of London
• University of Bradford
• Teesside University
• Ulster University

Cost of study for Masters in Optometry from the UK

The actual cost of the study will depend on your chosen institution. The programme fee starts from £13,000 up to £34,000. Apart from tuition fees, living expenses, personal expenses, and transportation charges will be included. However, many scholarships are available for deserving students to complete their studies. Some of the scholarship schemes cover living costs along with the tuition fee.

Eligibility to Study Master in Optometry in the UK

The following are the general eligibility requirements for a Master in Optometry from the UK. There may be slight variations from university to university.

• You must complete 10+2 from a recognised institution
• You must have an honours degree in Optometry or professional optometry graduation from a recognised university
• You should maintain a decent score in both your schools and graduation
• Must qualify for GRE/GMAT
• You must clear the language proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL.

English Language Requirements

Since, in the UK, Masters in Optometry is taught in English, you must be fluent in this language and should clear language proficiency tests. The following is the minimum score required for the admission process.

IELTS, with an overall score of 6.5 and 5.5 in all sub-skills, will also be considered.

Admission Process

The universities notify the application calls yearly. Since the seats are limited, apply as early as possible. The application should submit along with the documents, such as

• Certificate of completion of 10+2 standard from a recognised board
• Academic transcripts from school and undergraduate degree
• Statement of Purpose
• Letter of Recommendation
• IELTS/TOEFL score card
• Resume
• Proof of Fund
• Passport
• Student visa
  
  

During the selection process, interviews may be held with non-UK optometrists in person or online to ensure that you have the right clinical skills to undertake this programme. During the admission process, academic skills and other achievements are considered.

Jobs and Salary after Masters in Optometry from the UK

The salary of the optometrist depends on the experience, from which university you graduated, location, and job profile. Optometrists usually work in eye hospitals, clinics, vision care companies, and optical outlets. After completing a master's in optometry from the UK, you can apply for the following profiles:

• Vision Therapist
• Behavioural optometry specialist
• Neuro optometric rehabilitation
• Low-vision contact lens specialist
• Researchers
• Ophthalmologist
• Optometrists
• Optometry Technician

Lenskart, Titan Eyeplus, Deloitte, Fortis, Medante, Zydus, Johnson and Johnson Vision, Alcon, Cooper Vision, Hoya Corporation, Jerry Vargees international limited, and Center for Sight Eye are some of the top companies which recruit optometrists. Above all, you can start your eye care centres after gaining practice.

Jobs with attractive salaries are waiting for your optometrist career in the UK. Some examples are given here:

Do you wish to know more about Masters in Optometry in the UK? AECC will assist you in building a new career in optometry in the UK and can guide you toward your dream career. AECC can provide free assistance and personal guidance for the best universities offering a Master's in Optometry.

FAQs About Masters in Optometry in the UK