Health Sciences/Orthoptics
This course information is for local students only
Year
2010
Award
Bachelor of Health Sciences and Master of Orthoptics
Length
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent.
Campuses
Melbourne
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
www.latrobe.edu.au/international/exchange
for more information
Application
VTAC
Fee type
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
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/prospective/uniwide/index.htmlAdditional 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.
Middle Band
Re-ranking is based on relevant employment or work experience and criteria associated with VTAC's Special Entry Access Scheme.
Selection
ENTER: 79.75
Extra requirements
All applicants with relevant work experience or employment should outline this information on the VTAC Pi form. Applicants aged 21 or over on 1 January 2010 who have not completed a semester of tertiary level studies in the last two years must complete the STAT Multiple Choice.
For important information about clinical placements, visit www.latrobe.edu.au/health/courses/undergrad/about_courses
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
Hear our 2009 Open Day session about this course on iTunes
Career opportunities
Orthoptists work in a variety of settings including hospital outpatient clinics, private practice, vision rehabilitation centres, teaching and research areas. There is currently an undersupply of orthoptists in Australia, New Zealand and the UK.
Contact information
Enquire Online
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Future Students Centre:
T 1300 135 045
E study@latrobe.edu.au
Department of Clinical Vision Sciences
T (03) 9479 5787
All students may pay a
Voluntary General Service Fee.
Most international students must pay for
Overseas Student Health Cover