Ophthalmic Dispensing (Accelerated) Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Course Overview

Our BSc Ophthalmic Dispensing is a unique, two-year fast-track programme for those in the industry who want to gain qualifications while working.

The programme blends online delivery with week-long, on-campus blocks, embedding learning with clinical and practical skills. You can see how the knowledge from the programme can be applied in the real world within your workplace.

On successful completion of this programme, you may have the opportunity to transfer onto the Optometry programme if you meet the requirements to a satisfactory standard.

Please note this course is only available to UK students.

Why study with us

* A fast-track format means you could be a registered dispensing optician within two years of starting the course. You’ll have access to our brand new purpose-built vision sciences facilities including specialist dispensing and refraction labs.

* The entry requirements are 5 GCSEs including Maths, English and Science. You must have one year's optical work experience to apply for this course. If you achieve a good 2:1 (65% or above) you can progress automatically onto our Optometry MOptom degree.

* Our blended learning format allows you to earn while you learn. Most of the time you'll be studying your degree online whilst working full-time in practice. You'll attend Preston Campus approximately one week every two months to learn practical skills.

What you’ll do

* You’ll be taught by experienced practitioners and visiting clinicians who help supervise and facilitate specific aspects of the programme.

* Gain experience with volunteer patients, from visual impairment charities, who are part of the programme too.

* You’ll be able to visit large scale glazing labs and you'll have access to specialist labs such as the Dispensing and Optometry Pre-Clinical space.

Accreditations

* This course is accredited by the General Optical Council. They are the regulator for optical professions in the UK and set standards for optical education and training, performance and conduct. You will need to be registered them throughout the duration of your studies.

Future careers

As a registered dispensing optician, with a BSc in Ophthalmic Dispensing, you could start your own business, work in a primary care or hospital setting or high street optical practice.

With further study, in specialist areas, or with a research degree, you could also have a career developing new technologies and treatment options.