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Overview of Optometry
Optometry is a field of healthcare that deals with the eyes. Optometrists carry out eye examinations and manage sight problems by prescribing glasses, contact lenses or eye drops.
If you are good at science, enjoy interacting with people and have an interest in eye care, then optometry might be the career for you. |
Studying Optometry
You need to complete a Bachelor of Optometry at university, which takes four to five years.
There are three universities where you can study optometry: the University of Melbourne, University of New South Wales and Queensland University of Technology.
The requirements for entry vary according to each university; however, you should achieve high marks in English, chemistry, maths and physics. You may also have to sit the Undergraduate Medical and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT).
During the course, you will learn about the anatomy and physiology of vision, histology and pharmacology. Work placements are also often part of an optometry degree.
After completing your degree, you must register with the Registration Board in your state to practise legally.
Careers in Optometry
Optometry jobs are found in large optical chain stores, private practice, public clinics and with ophthalmologists.
They can specialise in contact lenses, the young or elderly, sports vision and low vision.
It’s important to know the difference between an optometrist, orthoptist and ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are medical specialists who have a medical degree, and therefore are allowed to diagnose and treat eye diseases, and perform surgery.
Orthoptists also deal with eyes, but they specialise in the muscles controlling the eyes. You need to study an orthoptics degree (usually at postgraduate level) to become an orthoptist.
The Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations says optometrists earn $1150 a week and expects employment to grow slightly in the period til 2015.
Skills needed in Optometry
Optometrists need a strong knowledge of maths, physics, chemistry and biology.
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