Optometrists are primary health care specialists trained to examine the eyes to detect defects in vision, signs of injury, ocular diseases or abnormality and problems with general health, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. They make a health assessment, offer clinical advice, prescribe spectacles or contact lenses and refer patients for further treatment, when necessary.
Training to become an Optometrist
Optometrists need to get a degree in optometry, approved by the General Optical Council (GOC). They also complete a one-year pre-registration paid and supervised work placement, with a registered optometrist, and pass the GOC final assessment to qualify. Read more »
Student support
Student membership of the Association of Optometrists (AOP) is completely free until you qualify as an Optometrist. The AOP provides students with a free monthly copy of Optometry Today and online educational revision content. They also offer free legal support and representation. Read more »
Early careers
Find out more about the different jobs in optometry, such as Optometrists, Dispensing opticians, Optical assistants and Ophthalmic Medical Practitioners. Learn about whether to become a Locum Optometrists, a domiciliary optometrist and working in an independent practice or multiple practices. Read more »
CarEer development
Find out more about salary and career opportunities, continuing education and training and the findings from a survey of recruitment, retention and career aspirations of the optometry workforce. Read more »
Experienced Optometrists
Content to follow. Read more »
Medical education
Content to follow. Read more »
International Optometrists
Find out about working in the United Kingdom as an optometrist from abroad. Read about the General Optical Council (GOC) guidance and application process for joining the dispensing optician or optometrist register. Read more »
Health and wellbeing support
Find out more about Controlling the risk of stress in the workplace, Five ways to wellbeing, Creating low-stress optical practices and the Association of Optometrists peer support helpline. Read more »
Other resources
Access a range of other useful resources for people working in optometry, such as the Confederation of Greater Manchester Local Optical Committees. Read more »