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If you’ve ever wondered how to become an optometrist, you’re in the right place. Optometry is an interesting and promising field of work related to the prevention and treatment of diseases of the eyes and vision.
Optometrists can work in various settings, including high street optician’s shops, and helping people to see well is one of the great things about this job.
Below is a guide on the steps needed to become an optometrist in the United Kingdom.
Key Responsibilities of an Optometrist
The job description of an optometrist is not limited to testing vision only. They:
- Undergo vision tests to determine if one has refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia.
- Prescribe medications and therapies for eye diseases, including dry eyes, cataracts, or glaucoma
- Recommend spectacles (glasses) or contact lenses
- To care for patients before and after eye surgery or any other type.
The patient should be referred to an ophthalmologist for more complex surgeries or treatments.
Now that you know what optometrists do, let’s look at how to become an optometrist in the UK.
How to Become an Optometrist in the UK
- Complete Your GCSEs
To be an optometrist, one must complete the general secondary education certificate called GCSE. The key subjects required are:
- English
- Maths
- Science
Ideally, try for five or more GCSEs with grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in these subjects. These shall serve as the premise for more advanced learning
- Study for A-Levels
After that, one has to take A-levels to join a university optometry program. Optometry degree programs typically require the following:
- Two of the science courses must be from a list of subjects, including biology, chemistry, and physics
- At least one non-science subject (optional but preferred)
- Having a minimum of three ‘A’ level qualifications is mandatory, and your grades must meet an acceptable standard for university admission.
- Optometry degree course application
The third step to your question is how to become an optometrist is to enroll for a university degree in optometry after getting A-Levels. These courses are typically three-year programs approved by the General Optical Council or GOC.
The course will cover subjects like:
- Eye anatomy and physiology
- Visual science
- Optics and how it affects the light in and on the eye
- Diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the eyes
It is advisable to apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) and select those universities that deliver BOptom-recognized degrees.
- Gain Practical Experience During Your Course
As an optometry student, you must complete practical training during your degree. This is typically done through:
- Clinical placements
- Employment at optometry clinics or hospitals
This experience is great for patient interaction and learning to utilize optometric equipment.
- Complete a Pre-Registration Year
After attaining your degree, you must do a pre-registration year. You’ll apply the skills you learned during your degree in real-world settings, such as:
- Being employed with patients in eye examination
- Examining ordinary allegations of eye diseases
- Prescribing corrective lenses
This year should be geared towards preparing to practice independently.
- Pass the GOC Final Assessment
Every optometrist has to pass the GOC final assessment before he or she can be officially recognized as an optometrist. This exam will determine how well you can do eye exams, identify various conditions, and whether you are fit to treat patients.
After you have completed this test, you will be allowed to apply for the General Optical Council (GOC), which enables a person to practice as an optometrist in the UK legally.
Average Salary of an Optometrist in the UK
The salary of an optometrist can vary based on experience, location, and whether you work in the private or public sector. On average:
- Newly qualified optometrists earn around £30,000 to £35,000 per year
- Experienced optometrists can earn up to £45,000 to £55,000 annually
- Senior optometrists or those in managerial roles may earn over £60,000 annually
Working in corporate optometry or private practices may offer higher salaries, while those in the NHS might earn less but enjoy additional benefits such as pension schemes.
Optometry is a developing career choice, and the market for eye care is predicted to rise. Some factors driving this demand include:
- Population with aged people requiring eye care for conditions such as cataracts.
- Children spend more time on devices, which increases the chances of eye strain and vision complications.
- More incidents of diseases such as diabetes that cause issues affecting the eyes.
You can find optometrist positions in various settings, including:
- High street opticians
- NHS hospitals and clinics
- Private practices
- In corporate workplaces (e.g., Specsavers, Boots Opticians).
Conclusion
Becoming an optometrist may take a lot of effort, but it is one of the best professions one could ever have.
You can assist individuals to gain better vision and overall health. This career may suit you if you are interested in science, like to work with people, and are motivated and enthusiastic about healthcare.
So, if you’ve been asking how to become an optometrist, follow these steps to start your journey toward a fulfilling profession.
For professional advice and step-by-step guidance on starting your journey in optometry, visit Enrollmate now!
