Course details

Bachelor of Optometry BOptom
NZQF Level 7

About the course

Our Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) programme covers both Clinical Optometry and Vision Science. It includes the study of basic physical and life sciences as they relate to the visual system. You will also gain extensive knowledge of optics, the anatomy and physiology of vision, ocular pharmacology, pathology, therapeutics, and immunology.

Programme highlights

  • New Zealand’s only BOptom degree and one of only eight  Australasian degrees accredited by the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand
  • Accreditation as a registered optometrist, able to diagnose and treat eye diseases in New Zealand and Australia
  • Clinical and business skill development, to help you manage your own practice or to work in the public health sector
  • The opportunity to complete your degree with honours
  • Opportunities to develop communication, empathy and problem-solving skills, particularly with children, the elderly and the partially sighted

There are two application categories for entry into the BOptom:

  • Undergraduate entry: Undergraduate applicants may apply from either BSc at the University of Auckland or the HSFY at the University of Otago. You can apply as an Undergraduate applicant at the end of your first and/or second year of study in the Bachelor of Science.
  • Graduate entry

Please note:

  • Entry criteria may change every year. There is no direct entry from secondary school, school leavers are encourage to apply under the Undergraduate entry category
  • Shortlisted applicants will attend a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI).
  • Special entry schemes are available for domestic students.

Check out the BOptom FAQs.

Entry requirements

Undergraduate entry: To apply for BOptom as an undergraduate student you must complete the first year of the Bachelor of Science (BSc) at the University of Auckland, or the Health Sciences First Year at the University of Otago. This must be completed on a full time basis and must include the following courses: Option A: Bachelor of Science (BSc), University of Auckland - CHEM110: Chemistry of the Living World - BIOSCI107: Biology for Biomedical Science - Cellular Processes - MEDSCI142: Biology for Biomedical Science - Organ Systems - BIOSCI101: Life! Origins and Mechanisms - PHYSICS160: Physics for the Life Sciences - BIOSCI106: Molecules of Life - POPLHLTH111: Population Health - WTRSCI 100: Contemporary Science in Aotearoa, New Zealand Option B: University of Otago's Health Science First Year (HSFY) - CHEM191: The Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health - CELS191: Cell and Molecular Biology - PHSI191: Biological Physics - BIOC192: Foundations of Biochemistry - HUBS192: Human Body Systems II - HUBS191: Human Body Systems I - POPH192: Population Health - Optional paper.

About the provider

Located in the vibrant centre of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest city, The University of Auckland welcomes over 40,000 students each year, including 8,000 international students from over 100 countries.

As New Zealand’s largest and leading university, we harness the power of partnerships, research, teaching, excellence and equity to positively impact communities. Leading the way in sustainability and innovation, we tackle some of the world’s most compelling issues and challenges.

From academic support, student wellbeing and career support, we offer a wide range of pastoral care to all our students to help you stay well and succeed.

Our main campuses are in Auckland, a cosmopolitan and multicultural city where you can experience the best of urban living with nature at your doorstep..

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