Health Sciences/Orthoptics
This course information is for international students only
Year
2010
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Orthoptics
CRICOS course code
062598G/ 062808B
Length
4 years
Campuses
Melbourne (Bundoora)
Course description
Orthoptists are eyecare professionals who specialise in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of vision and eye disorders. They are mostly 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. Orthoptists also provide vision rehabilitation services in low-vision agencies.
Course structure
In first year, students undertake an interdisciplinary common year, focusing on basic human biosciences and factors influencing health, and on developing an understanding of the roles of health professionals in the health and welfare sectors. Second year provides background study 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. The fourth year is largely clinical, where students consolidate their ability to manage vision and eye problems in patients of all ages.
Handbook
Major areas of study
Orthoptics, ophthalmic sciences, vision rehabilitation and vision sciences.
Overseas study opportunities
Overseas study opportunities are available.Please see http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange for more information.
Application
Visit our How to Apply website for details on preparing an application.
Tuition fee (AUD)
18 700
The University reserves the right to vary fees on an annual basis. Fees will not normally rise above 7% per annum. Should the University decide to increase its fees, that increase will take effect on 1 January of the following year.
Additional costs (AUD)
Prior to undertaking professional placements, students must obtain a police check (Victoria Police: $A14.50 for local students) and provide proof of immunisations. Other costs include approximately A$500 for retinoscope/ophthalmoscope set, A$100 for student manuals and A$9 for name badge. Students can purchase books and equipment from any supplier; these remain students' personal property. Accommodation costs for clinical placements vary depending on venue.
English language requirements
Successful completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70%) PG1) level conducted by La Trobe University Language Centre; for more information please visit the La Trobe International College 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 and at least an A in English
Aust. Yr 12 (ENTER) 2009 (indicative only) - 79.8
International Baccalaureate - 27
Cambridge A Levels/STPM - 9
Sri Lankan A Levels - ABB
MICSS (UEC) - Ex Yer 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
National (China) Gao Kao - Faculty assessed
Shanghai (China) Gao Kao - Faculty assessed
Guangzhou (China) Gao Kao - Faculty assessed
Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 3.2
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 3.0
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 International College website.
Special requirements
This course has a clinical component. For further information, please visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health the Health Sciences website.
All students are required to obtain a police check and Working With Children (WWC) check before undertaking a clinical professional placement.
Subject prerequisites
Two of Biology, Chemistry, Year 12 Mathematics or Physics.
Semester starts
Semester 1 (March)
For actual course commencement dates, please visit the calendar.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 and for membership of the Orthoptic Association of Australia, and the International Orthoptic Association.
Contact information
Online Enquiry
Future students: 61 3 9627 4805
In Australia (freecall): 1800 619 768
Current students and enquires relating to submitted applications:
61 3 9479 1199
international@latrobe.edu.au