Optometrists, also known as ophthalmic opticians, carry out detailed eye examinations to test vision and identify any problems or defects. They make a diagnosis and when necessary prescribe, fit and supply spectacles and other optical appliances. They may advise clients on suitable frames.

Optometrists measure vision defects using sophisticated instruments that can make assessments based on the way light bounces off the retina. They use reading charts and other tests with clients to decide on the strength of prescription (lens) needed.

Optometrists must also be aware of eye diseases and refer clients on to specialists or ophthalmologists (eye surgeons) when necessary; check the Doctor: Surgeon job profile for more information.

Qualified optometrists can specialise in areas such as paediatrics, contact lenses, sports vision or low vision.

Hours and Environment

Optometrists work 37.5 hours a week, Monday to Saturday. Part-time work is possible.

Optometrists work in treatment rooms where they test patients’ eyes. In hospitals they may be involved in laboratory work.

Skills and Interests

To work as an optometrist you should:

• be able to understand and apply scientific principles and methods
• have numerical understanding for handling mathematical information
• pay great attention to detail as the work is very intricate
• be able to keep up with scientific advances and learn to use new techniques and instruments
• have patience to do repetitive tasks
• have a genuine interest in working with people, and the ability to put anxious patients at ease
• be able to get on with children, who may find the ideas and instructions difficult to follow
• have organisational and administrative skills
• have an interest in style and fashion, which is useful for selling frames.

Entry

To practise in the UK as an Optometrist, you must be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). To join the register you must:

• successfully complete a three-year BSc (Hons) degree in Optometry and, depending on your degree result, you may also need to pass Part 1 of the GOC's Professional Qualifying Exam
• complete one year’s salaried, supervised work experience
• pass the GOC final assessment (see Training section for details). 

The entry requirements for a degree in this area are likely to include at least five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including English, plus three A levels/five H grades in at least two science-based subjects. An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Some dispensing opticians re-train in optometry, and in this instance the entry requirements for the degree may be relaxed. However, a dispensing optician would still need to complete an approved optometry degree and work the pre-registration year.

The College of Optometrists' website has careers information and details of the institutions offering relevant training; see Further Information section.

Training

When you have achieved the BSc in Optometry and completed one year of work-based training, you must pass the GOC final assessment. You are then eligible for state registration; check with the College or GOC website for details.

As a qualified and registered optometrist, you must renew your registration with the GOC annually in order to continue practising.

There are advanced qualifications available in this area which may increase your promotion prospects. The College of Optometrists have details of courses available in areas such as contact lens practice, orthoptics, therapeutics and ocular conditions such as diabetes, and glaucoma.

Opportunities

The majority of optometrists enter private practice as employees. They may become partners or self-employed as their career progresses.

Many other qualified optometrists work in the NHS, while others are involved in teaching in universities, or research work with commercial glass and lens manufacturers.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

The starting salary for a newly registered optometrist can be between £18,000 and £30,000, depending on the sector.
Experienced optometrists in the private sector can earn up to around £48,000. 
In the NHS, a consultant can earn up to £74,000. 

Those working in London may receive an additional cost of living allowance.

Further information

Tel: 08000 150 850
Email: learning@nhscareers.nhs.uk 41 Harley Street
London
W1G 8DJ
Tel: 020 7580 3898 42 Craven Street
London
WC2N 5NG
Tel: 020 7839 6000