Orthoptics

Course description

Orthoptics is a rewarding profession focused on diagnosing and managing eye movement and vision problems in people of all ages. As an orthoptist, you’ll work with patients to improve their visual function, often as part of a wider clinical team in hospital eye departments.

Our BSc Orthoptics course is the only orthoptics degree in Scotland, and the only course in the UK to be jointly taught with Optometry.

This course is ideal if you are interested in healthcare and enjoy problem-solving and working with people. Whether you're coming straight from school or returning to study later in life, you'll find a supportive learning environment and a clear path to a meaningful career.

From Year 1, you'll gain hands-on experience through clinical placements in NHS departments across Scotland and the UK. These placements grow in scope as you progress, helping you build confidence and practical skills.

We’re delighted to announce that accommodation and travel costs for home (Scottish) students are now completely funded by Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). This applies to any placement located in the UK and Ireland.

If you're curious about how vision works, passionate about helping others, and looking for a career with excellent job prospects, Orthoptics is the perfect degree.

**Why choose this course?**

* We offer the only Orthoptics degree in Scotland, and the only one in the UK to be jointly taught with Optometry.

* You’ll learn alongside future optometrists and build strong multidisciplinary skills from day one.

* Clinical placements begin early and run alongside your academic studies, helping you build confidence and practical experience from the very start.

* You’ll have access to our Vision Centre, a specialist teaching clinic where you’ll work with Optometry peers and begin your journey as part of a wider eye care team.

* Orthoptics is a niche profession, and our graduates are highly regarded across the UK. With strong demand for skilled practitioners, you’ll have excellent career opportunities in clinical practice and beyond.

**Careers**

Most graduates begin as Band 5 Orthoptists in NHS hospital eye departments across the UK, where they assess and manage a wide range of vision and eye movement disorders.

With experience, Orthoptists can progress to senior roles such as:

* Specialist Orthoptist

* Head of Service

* Advanced Clinical Practitioner.

Our BSc (Hons) Orthoptics degree is internationally recognised. Graduates have also gone on to work around the world, including across Europe and Singapore.

Beyond clinical practice, you’ll have opportunities to go on to postgraduate study, research, and careers in education, public health, and industry, including roles in the optical industry and pharmaceutical sales.

You’ll benefit from strong links with professional bodies like the British and Irish Orthoptic Society (BIOS), which offer networking opportunities, continuing professional development (CPD), and career support.

The course is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible to apply for HCPC registration and join national and international orthoptic organisations.

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