With a strong focus on clinical experience, our Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours) will prepare you to launch a successful career as an orthoptist. You'll explore the anatomy and physiology of the eye to understand vision and visual function. Learn how to help people with eye disorders including strabismus (eye turns), eye diseases and low vision.

Clinical experiences start in your first year and will be a significant part of your degree. We work closely with industry to give you access to placements and hands-on experience in hospitals with dedicated eye clinics as well as private eye clinics. During these experiences, you'll learn how to use specialised technology, such as retinal cameras and ultrasonography machines.

You'll have the opportunity to complete a placement beyond Melbourne in your final year with one of our partner clinics in regional Victoria, interstate or overseas. You'll also have the opportunity to help where you're needed most - in a developing country.

Take advantage of an industry-based or research project, where you'll develop project management and research skills essential for a successful career in orthoptics.

You'll learn:

Eye anatomy and physiology

Understand the anatomy and physiology of the structures of the eye and the roles these structure play in various eye functions.

Optics and refraction

Understand the principles of optics (visible and invisible light) and how they impact the eye and visual system including long and short-sightedness.

Eye conditions and diagnostics

Learn diagnostic tests and procedures to investigate different eye conditions.

Patient-centred care

Develop your clinical practice around a patient-centred care framework and ensure you treat patients using evidence-based best practice.

The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 8 – Bachelor Degree Honours.

Career outcomes

Orthoptists are integral members of healthcare teams. Graduates will have the skills to perform clinical, technical, advisory and educational roles. You could pursue a career as an orthoptist in a range of settings, including:

Specialist eye clinics, Hospitals, Community centres, Academia/research.

Professional recognition

Our new course, the Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours), will be seeking accreditation with the Australian Orthoptic Board (AOB). Pending the outcome of the processes, graduates of the Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours) may be eligible to apply for registration with the Australian Orthoptic Board. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours) may be eligible to apply for membership with Orthoptics Australia, the International Orthoptic Association, and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists. Professional registration may be subject to additional or ongoing requirements beyond completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.

Accreditation, registration and/or membership details for this course may be found on the La Trobe University website.