Health Sciences/Orthoptics
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Orthoptics
Length
4
Campuses
Melbourne
Course description
This course aims to train students to become orthoptists - eyecare professionals specialising in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of vision and eye disorders. Orthoptists are generally employed in specialist eye clinics and public hospitals, working with ophthalmic surgeons to monitor eye disease and provide treatment, including prescribing glasses for children and adults. They also provide vision rehabilitation services in low-vision agencies, and are increasingly employed in vision research.
Download our Frequently Asked Questions document for more details.
Course structure
In first year, students undertake core subjects with students from other health sciences courses, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. Second year provides background studies in neurosciences, pathology and pharmacology, an in-depth understanding of the visual system and the eye, and basic principles of ocular pathology and orthoptic theory and practice.
In third year, students further develop their knowledge and skills in orthoptics, ophthalmology and vision rehabilitation. Fourth year is largely clinical, where students consolidate their ability to manage vision and eye problems in patients of all ages.
Contact hours
Approximately 20 hours per week contact and 20 hours per week self-directed learning.
Subject details
Major areas of study
Orthoptics, Ophthalmic Sciences, Vision Rehabilitation and Vision Sciences.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.
Please see
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Fee type
Fees (Fee-Help available)
Annual (or Total) Tuition Fee (AUD)
21 400
Scholarships
Applicants who are Australian citizens or who hold permanent humanitarian visas are eligible for a range of University-wide scholarships, including Commonwealth Scholarships. For details please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/scholarships/future-undergraduatesAdditional costs (AUD)
Students are strongly advised to purchase an ophthalmoscope or a retinoscope set at the start of third year, and should allow approximately A$600. Other equipment will also be necessary, at a cost of about A$150. Books and equipment may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Travel and accommodation costs for clinical placement may also be incurred and will vary according to the venue. All students must obtain a National Police Check at a cost of approximately A$15.50, Working With Children (WWC) Check at no cost, and provide proof of immunisation before undertaking clinical or community placements. All costs are approximate.
Selection
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or
TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 575 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or
TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 233 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or
TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 88 with no individual score less than 22; or
Approved equivalent.
Academic entry requirements
LTU Foundation Studies - 80
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 78.60
International Baccalaureate - 29
GCE A Levels - 12
Hong Kong A Levels - 8
HKDSE - 12,6 (the student must meet the higher than the standard English language requirement)
Sri Lankan A Levels - ABB
STPM - 10
MICSS (UEC) - Ex Year 12 FSP
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 80
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4.7
Sweden Slutbetyg - VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 80
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2
Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 3.2
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 3.0
GAOKAO - see: the website
If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Extra requirements
This course has a clinical component. For further information, please visit the: Health Sciences website for important information.
All students are required to obtain a National Police Check (A$15) and Working with Children check (no cost) before undertaking a clinical professional placement. Note the quoted costs are approximate only and subject to change.
Prerequisites
Two of Biology, Chemistry, Physical Education, Year 12 Mathematics or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (February)
Career opportunities
Orthoptists work in a variety of settings, including hospital outpatient clinics, private practice, teaching and research areas, and visual rehabilitation centres.
Professional recognition
Graduates are eligible for registration with the Australian Orthoptic Board, membership of Orthoptics Australia, and the International Orthoptic Association. Australian orthoptic qualifications are recognised throughout the world. However, some countries require additional registration requirements to enable an orthoptist to practice.