Optometrist
What is the work like?
Optometrists, also known as ophthalmic opticians, carry out detailed eye examinations to test vision and identify problems, defects, injuries and ill health. They make a diagnosis, give advice and when necessary, prescribe, fit and supply spectacles and other optical appliances. They may also discuss the suitability and shape of frames with clients.
As an optometrist, you would use a range of instruments to measure vision defects. You would shine a light on the retina, and also use traditional diagnostic tools (like reading charts) to make a diagnosis and decide on the strength of prescription (lens) needed by the client.
Using your knowledge of eye diseases (as well as diabetes and high blood pressure) you would refer clients on to specialists or ophthalmologists (eye surgeons) when necessary.
You could specialise and focus your work in a particular area, such as paediatrics (working with children), contact lenses, sports vision or low vision.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To work as an optometrist in the UK, you must be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). To join the register you need:
- a BSc (Hons) degree in Optometry and (depending on your degree result) you may also need Part 1 of the GOC's Professional Qualifying Exam
- to complete a one-year pre-registration, salaried and supervised work placement with a registered optometrist
- to pass the GOC final assessment.
To get onto the degree, you will usually need at least five GCSEs (A-C) including English, maths and science, plus three A levels in at least two science-based subjects. Check with course providers because alternative qualifications may also be accepted. The College of Optometrists' website has careers information and a list of course providers.
If you are already working as a dispensing optician, you could re-train in optometry. You would still need to complete the approved optometry degree (and pre-registration year), however, the entry requirements may be relaxed.
What further training and development can I do?
As a qualified and registered optometrist, you will need to keep up to date with advances in this area and renew your registration with the GOC each year in order to continue practising.
Your promotion prospects may increase if you take more advanced qualifications, such as an MSc in Optometry. You could also take further specialist training with the College of Optometrists, in subjects such as contact lens practice, orthoptics, therapeutics and ocular conditions such as diabetes and glaucoma.
Where can I go for more information?
Tel: 08000 150850London
W1G 8DJ
Tel: 020 7580 3898
London
WC2N 5NG
Tel: 020 7839 6000
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
Related profiles...
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- During the one-year pre-registration period, trainees can earn around £16,500.
- Qualified and experienced optometrists can earn between £30,000 and £40,000.
Salaries will vary depending on the sector. Additional allowances may be made to those based in London.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would usually work between 37 and 40 hours a week, which may include some evening shifts. Part-time work is also available.
Your work would mainly take place in a treatment room. If you are based in a hospital, you may be involved in some lab work. You may also travel to local health centres and community clinics.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- the ability to understand mathematical and scientific information
- accuracy and good attention to detail
- the ability to adapt to new techniques and instruments
- the ability to maintain concentration for repetitive tasks
- strong communication skills
- a genuine desire to help people
- the ability to put anxious patients at ease
- the ability to explain ideas and instructions to children
- good organisational and administrative skills
- an interest in style and fashion (useful for selling frames).
What opportunities are there?
You will find most jobs in private practice. With experience you may be able to progress to partner in a business or set up a practice on your own.
You could also work in the NHS (in a hospital eye department) or move into areas such as university lecturing, or research work with commercial glass and lens manufacturers.
Jobs can be advertised in the local and national press, in industry journals such as Optometry Today and Optician, as well as on the NHS Jobs website.
Contact an adviser
Email
Call back
or phone: 0800 100 900
Bilingual advisers available
Face-to-face advice
