The University of Auckland is New?Zealand’s largest and most highly ranked university, attracting students from 100+ countries with a vibrant, multicultural campus in Auckland — the country’s biggest city. Its Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences offers professional healthcare programmes, including Optometry, supported by world?class research and clinical training.

 

Why Study Bachelor of Optometry?

The Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) is a five?year undergraduate degree that combines clinical optometry and vision science, preparing you to become a registered optometrist able to diagnose, treat and manage eye health and vision disorders. It is the only programme in New?Zealand accredited by the Optometry Council of Australia and New?Zealand, allowing graduates to register and practise in both countries.

Key Advantages

• Accredited clinical qualification in Australasia.
• Combines theory with extensive hands?on clinical experience.
• Prepares you for careers in private practice, hospitals, research or industry.
• Develops skills in communication, empathy and problem?solving with diverse populations.

 

Subjects & Programme Structure

The Bachelor of Optometry is divided into five parts (years):

Part I – Foundational Sciences

• You begin within a Bachelor of Science, studying life and physical sciences such as biology, biochemistry and physiology required for optometry.

Parts II–III – Core Optometric Sciences

• Study vision science, anatomy and physiology of vision, optics, mechanisms of disease, and introductory clinical optometry.

Parts IV–V – Clinical and Advanced Practice

• Focus on advanced clinical optometry, including contact lenses, paediatric optometry, binocular vision, and eye disease management.

• Includes research project, advanced clinical placements in public clinics and off?campus health settings.

General Education

• You must complete General Education courses as part of the degree (30 points total).

Clinical Experience

• Practical experience is gained through on?site eye clinics at Grafton and external placements, providing real?world patient interaction.

 

Highlights of the Programme

• New Zealand’s only accredited Bachelor of Optometry degree — recognised in NZ and Australia.
• Combines strong scientific foundation, clinical practice and research.
• Small intake (~60 students), fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Graduates develop practical skills in eye health assessment, vision correction, disease diagnosis and management.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates typically qualify to work as:

• Registered Optometrist in private practice or clinical settings.

• Opportunities in hospitals, clinics, industry, research or academia.

• Practice locations include New Zealand, Australia and potentially internationally (registration requirements vary).

 

Visa & Immigration Requirements

International students must:

• Receive an Offer of Place from the University.
• Show proof of funds, health insurance and English proficiency.
• Apply for a New?Zealand Student Visa with Immigration NZ.