University
University of AucklandBachelor of Optometry BOptom
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Duration
5 years
Next start date
Expected Mar 2027
Campus
Grafton Campus
Summary
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, please click on the entry requirements tab below for full details. There is no direct entry from secondary school, school leavers are encouraged to apply via the Undergraduate entry category (for 2027 entry) or the First Year entry category (for 2028 entry).
Please note:
- Entry criteria will change for 2028 entry, please review the relevant entry requirements carefully.
- Shortlisted applicants will attend a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI).
- Special entry schemes are available for domestic students.
Check out the BOptom FAQs.
Entry criteria
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. Applicants will need to achieve a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.5 across the 7 first year courses listed in bold above, with no fails, to be eligible for consideration for an admission interview (MMI – Multi Mini Interviews). All University of Auckland applicants must also pass WTRSCI 100.
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