Master's Degree Medicine & Health Sciences Full Time

Master of Optometry

at Queensland University of Technology · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

065379E

CRICOS provider code

00213J

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$80,800 total

Per year

A$40,400/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Optometry at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) prepares graduates for advanced clinical practice in eye care. The course is structured across two years of full-time study, consisting of specialised units that cover ocular diseases, pharmacology, advanced diagnostic techniques, contact lenses, and paediatric optometry. Assessments focus on both theoretical understanding and clinical abilities.

QUT follows a semester system, with students completing a set number of units each term to meet the required credit points for graduation. Work-integrated learning is a core part of the degree. Students complete clinical placements in diverse settings, including hospitals, community clinics, and private practices. Supervision by experienced practitioners ensures effective skills development in real-world situations.

This course suits those with a background in vision science or a related field who want to qualify for professional optometry practice in Australia. The curriculum builds advanced skills in clinical diagnosis, patient management, and use of modern optometric technologies. Students also undertake a research or capstone project in their final year, encouraging evidence-based approaches to patient care.

Graduates may be eligible to register as an optometrist in Australia, provided they meet all registration requirements of the Optometry Board of Australia. It is important to check the latest guidelines on professional accreditation directly on official sites. QUT has strong links with health service providers and industry partners in Brisbane and beyond, giving graduates a head start in the local employment market. International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after graduation. Confirm all course details through the official university website.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Optometrist in independent or group practices
Eye care specialist in hospitals or eye health clinics
Clinical roles with Australian vision research organisations
Consultant in optical or pharmaceutical industries
Academic or teaching positions in optometry programs

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Optometry at Queensland University of Technology?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$80,800 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Optometrist in independent or group practicesEye care specialist in hospitals or eye health clinicsClinical roles with Australian vision research organisationsConsultant in optical or pharmaceutical industriesAcademic or teaching positions in optometry programs

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