Health Sciences/Orthoptics
This course information is for local students only
Year
2012
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Orthoptics
Length
Four years full-time or part-time equivalent.
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
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Annual (or Total) Tuition Fee (AUD)
CSP contribution band 2
Indicative (2010): $7,567 (per 120 credit points).
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.
Middle Band
Re-ranking is based on relevant employment or work experience and criteria associated with the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS).
Selection
ATAR 78.60 (2011)
Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.
Extra requirements
Current Year 12 applicants with work experience must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.
Prerequisites
VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in English (any) and in two of Biology, Chemistry, a Mathematics (any), Physical Education or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
Additional information
All students must obtain a police check and Working With Children (WWC) check and provide proof of immunisation before undertaking clinical or community placements. For more information regarding clinical placements please visit: www.latrobe.edu.au/health/study/placements
Career opportunities
Orthoptists work in a variety of settings including hospital outpatient clinics, private practice, vision rehabilitation centres, teaching and research areas. Due to an undersupply of orthoptists in Australia, New Zealand and the UK, current employment opportunities are extensive.
Professional recognition
The course is recognised by the Australian Orthoptic Board and graduates are able to gain membership with Orthoptics Australia and work throughout Australia and overseas.