Doctor of Optometry

Create a new vision for the future

Focus your specialty with a Doctor of Optometry. Immerse yourself in a comprehensive curriculum spanning the theoretical and clinical sciences of optometry. You'll build the multidisciplinary expertise demanded by this constantly evolving profession. With clinical placements integrated from day one, you'll be work-ready, gaining experience across a range of real-world practice settings.

Key features  

• Full accreditation. Graduates can register via the OCANZ in every state and territory in Australia and New Zealand.
• First of its kind.  The Doctor of Optometry is the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, setting the benchmark in optometric education.
• Immersive clinical experience. Gain unique experience across international, metropolitan, and rural placements in hospitals, community health organisations, private practices and interdisciplinary settings.

Learn about the Doctor of Optometry at Melbourne

This video explains the program structure, entry requirements and career opportunities of the University of Melbourne’s Doctor of Optometry. You’ll learn how the Doctor of Optometry prepares graduates for work after studying and where the degree can take you.

Why study optometry at Melbourne?  

Optometry at Melbourne is a unique opportunity to join a community united by curiosity about human anatomy and vision. You'll be part of a tight-knit and vibrant cohort, enjoying an active student community. In final year, you'll lead a two-day student conference, forging connections with future colleagues across the industry.

You will develop key optometric knowledge and personal skills.

• Optometric expertise. Learn about the human visual system, optics, eye diseases, clinical examinations,  advancements in techology and more.
• Patient care. Use evidence-based practice to develop treatment plans, using the best available research and clinical expertise.
• Interpersonal and leadership skills.  Develop leadership and interpersonal skills, strengthen your problem-solving capacity, and develop strategies to connect to and communicate with patients and families.

What support services can Doctor of Optometry students access at Melbourne? 

• University of Melbourne Optometry Student Society (UMOSS). Join the UMOSS for unique community events like the Eyemazing Race, meet future colleagues, and keep up to date with the latest news, information and news.
• MDHS Student Hub. Gain access to student wellbeing and mentoring services, leadership training, and food support.
• Alumni network. Our optometry alumni community brings together health professionals from around the world.

What do students say about the Doctor of Optometry? 

Ally Forman

“I have really enjoyed being able to work with qualified optometrists to put skills we have learnt about into context to manage real life patients and conditions.”

Learn more about the School

Optometry and Vision Sciences Department page

Facilities & Resources

Past information session

Doctor of Optometry Information Session

When:  Thursday, 23 April 2026, 6:00PM - 7:00PM AEST

Hear from course coordinator Associate Professor Anthea Cochrane and Head of School, Professor Andrew Metha, who will delve deep into the Doctor of Optometry program, the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere and how it  is  creating a new benchmark in optometric education. You will also have the opportunity to hear from current students and ask questions in this  interactive session.

Watch recording