Welcome from the Head of Department

The profession of optometry is evolving constantly with ocular therapeutics now within the scope of practice in New Zealand (optometrist can prescribe a range of drugs to manage eye disease). Your studies in the department will equip you for the challenges you will face and the lifelong learning needed for a satisfying career. While the study of Optometry and Vision Science has a professional focus, a key strand of science is maintained throughout the programme. By graduating with a BOptom you will be well prepared with the knowledge, experience and skills required to enter practice or to continue with graduate or other studies.

The department had its beginning in 1965 within the Department of Psychology, and is now a separate department within the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, located on the Grafton Campus. We are the only optometry school in New Zealand, and one of four schools in the region accredited by the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand. Our accreditation enables graduates to practice optometry in New Zealand and in Australia with out the need to undertake additional examinations.

The department uses a variety of teaching methods and has a variety of teaching venues to support the BOptom programme. In addition to work within the clinical facilities located on the Grafton campus, students work at other clinics and locations in the Auckland region. We also have an active postgraduate programme, with student pursuing research topics in a variety of areas of Optometry and Vision Science.

Final year students are encouraged to spend an externship period in private practice, at other optometry schools, or at approved venues. The department also has a strong commitment to research and offers study towards the Postgraduate Diploma of Science, the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

Whether you are a student participating in the undergraduate BOptom programme or a graduate student continuing your education I wish you every success in your endeavours. I and my staff assure you that you have our support in reaching your goals.

Paul Donaldson
Head of Department