The optometry programme began in 1995 and is taught on the Coleraine campus of the University. The course is of three years duration and is designed to fulfil the requirements of the degree part of optometry training. Following graduation, students undertake a pre-registration year in either private practice or hospital after which they sit the Professional Qualifying Examinations of the College of Optometrists. The course covers a wide range of subjects and students have the opportunity to gain practical experience with patients in real clinical settings. The course is approved by the General Optical Council for the purposes of training professional optometrists.
Students typically undertake the equivalent of six modules each year.
All modules must be passed. For further details on each of the modules listed above please follow this link . Much of the clinical teaching is undertaken in the University of Ulster Optometry Clinic which was completed in January 1996. The clinic contains a wide range of ophthalmic equipment for both teaching and research and is a public access primary care clinic providing General Ophthalmic Services to the public. Students begin to work with the public towards the end of their second year, under the supervision of optometry lecturers and clinical tutors.