Master of Orthoptics

Note

It is recommended that domestic and international students apply now. Applications close once all places have been filled. It is recommended to apply early, as applications and eligibility for interviews are assessed on a rolling basis.

Indigenous applicants should apply via UTS Student Portal and are contacted by the Professor of Practice in Indigenous Health with further information. Indigenous applicants are welcome to submit cultural and/or community referees to accompany their application.

Targeted at aspiring orthoptists, this course equips you with the expertise to excel in the dynamic field of eye healthcare. Stand out with our unique, practice-oriented Master of Orthoptics, the sole postgraduate option in Australia.

This course offers a blend of cutting-edge practice and theory, preparing you for advancements in medical technology and evidence-based practice. Gain specialist knowledge in orthoptics, ophthalmics and low vision, preparing you to adapt to the evolving landscape of eye care.

You will acquire clinical skills for professional orthoptic practice, benefiting from our strong industry connections. Engage in diverse clinical placements across hospitals, private practices, and rehabilitation settings, including in interstate, regional and rural areas, and with options for international clinical experiences.

Learn in our modern facilities, enhance your capability to lead and collaborate within interdisciplinary teams, and receive guidance from expert orthoptic educators, researchers, and practitioners. This course is a gateway to becoming a proficient orthoptist, ready to meet contemporary healthcare challenges.

This course is delivered in a student-focused manner that integrates theoretical knowledge with professional practice, building on strong links with the orthoptic profession as well as other professional groups involved in eye and vision care and with industry. During the course, students undertake clinical placements at a variety of sites, including hospitals, private practices and rehabilitation settings. Students are required to take clinical placements in rural, regional or interstate areas of Australia including Indigenous populations, while there is also opportunity to undertake approved international placements. On-campus learning takes place in the Graduate School of Health's state-of-the-art facilities, which opened in 2019. Students have the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills while learning from internationally recognised teachers and researchers, and from practitioners who are at the forefront of implementing new knowledge and technologies in clinical practice.

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Course aims

The course aims to prepare graduates to excel in the clinical environment and meet significant demand for orthoptists in both public and private practice.

Study plan

To view the study plan please visit the UTS Handbook.

Course fees

For relevant fee information, please choose from the following:

Local student

International student

For this course, the cost per credit point for 2025 is $1021. The total credit points are 96.

Careers

Career options include working in hospital, private practice and community settings providing paediatric and adult eye care, neuro-ophthalmic and low vision rehabilitation, with the option of employment in the ophthalmic industry and research.

Course structure

To view the course structure please visit the UTS Handbook.

Additional information

Course duration

This course is offered on a two-year, full-time basis. Students are not permitted to enrol part time.

On campus - Weekly

Admission requirements

Admission requirements

To be eligible for admission to this course, applicants must meet the following criteria.

Applicants must have the following:

Completed Australian bachelor's degree or higher qualification, or overseas equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 4/7 AND Communication skills, interpersonal skills, interest in eye health, and commitment to orthoptics as a career (assessed in an interview)

Professional and clinical requirements

All successful applicants are required to:

acquire a Working With Children Check and an Australian National Police Check
complete a series of NSW Health forms including a Code of Conduct
demonstrate evidence of protection against a number of specified infectious diseases

The English proficiency requirement for international students or local applicants with international qualifications is: IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with a writing score of 6.5; or TOEFL: iBT: 79-93 overall with a writing score of 24; or PTE: 58-64 overall with a writing score of 58; or C1A/C2P: 176-184 overall with a writing score of 176.

Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.

International students

Visa requirement: To obtain a student visa to study in Australia, international students must enrol full time and on campus. Australian student visa regulations also require international students studying on student visas to complete the course within the standard full-time duration. Students can extend their courses only in exceptional circumstances.

To be eligible for admission to this course, applicants must meet the following criteria.
Applicants must have the following:

Completed Australian bachelor's degree or higher qualification, or overseas equivalent, with a minimum GPA of 4/7 AND Communication skills, interpersonal skills, interest in eye health, and commitment to orthoptics as a career (assessed in an interview)

Professional and clinical requirements

All successful applicants are required to:

acquire a Working With Children Check and an Australian National Police Check

complete a series of NSW Health forms including a Code of Conduct

demonstrate evidence of protection against a number of specified infectious diseases

Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.

Inherent requirements

Inherent requirements are academic and non-academic requirements that are essential for successfully completing a course at UTS. You can find the inherent requirements for your course via the inherent requirements directory.

Professional recognition

The Master of Orthoptics is fully accredited by the Australian Orthoptic Board. Upon completion of the degree, graduates are eligible for registration as an orthoptist.

UTS: Handbook

See the Master of Orthoptics in the UTS: Handbook for comprehensive course details.

Information for international students

Find out about support services, the Australian education system, accommodation and more to help you get the most out of your study at UTS.

Part of UTS: Graduate School of Health

Why chose UTS Orthoptics?

Our Orthoptics course is designed to ensure graduates are work-ready and equipped for success in the profession.
Orthoptics has a lot to offer

Find out the top reasons to become an Orthoptist.
Orthoptists are eye therapists

Learn about the role of Orthoptics in the assessment, diagnosis and non-surgical management of eye disorders.
Links with the Profession

UTS engages with the profession through a wide range of initiatives, ensuring our programs meet current and future needs of employers.
Clinical Placements

Students experience a diverse range of clinical placement opportunities.
Practical Experience

The Master of Orthoptics takes an innovative and practical approach. Find out more about how we integrate theory with pharmacy practice.