Ophthalmic Dispensing FdSc

In year one, you will be introduced to the basic principles of optics and visual optics that underpin work in ophthalmic lenses, dispensing and optical manufacturing. You will also be taught about human biology so you can understand how the eye functions in health and disease.

Year 1:

• Visual Optics
• Human Biology
• Practice Management
• Optics and Quantitative Methods
• Ophthalmic Lenses and Dispensing

Year 2 builds and expands on the subjects taught in year 1 so that you can successfully transfer your skills to the work place. In addition, you will cover basic clinical skills used by optometrists and the basics of contact lenses and low vision.

Year 2:

• Clinical Skills
• Visual and Neural Biology
• Ophthalmic Lenses and Dispensing
• Optics
• Work Placement
• Visual Optics and Low Vision
• Ocular Anatomy and Contact Lenses

Find out more about the course content, aims and outcomes: Download the course specification [PDF]

• 180 UCAS tariff points, including at least one science subject at A Level at Grade C or above and GCSE Mathematics and English at Grade A-C
• BTEC National or Extended Diploma in a relevant science subject with MMM or above
• Equivalent qualifications are sometimes accepted

In addition:

• GCSE passes at grade C or above in Maths or Physics, one other science subject, English Language or Literature, and any two other subjects are required.
• Applications are considered from a wide range of backgrounds and are assessed individually
• Applicants from overseas are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Applicants who do not meet these entry criteria will be considered based on equivalent qualifications, previous experience, a College assessment and an applicant interview.

The course is a partnership between City University and City and Islington College, with the majority of the teaching at the College. Assessment is based on examinations, coursework tests, presentations, practical write-ups, practical work and practice-based assessment.

On completion, graduates may gain exemption from the theory exams of the association of British Dispensing Opticians and continue their pre-registration training to become a registered dispensing optician. You may also continue your studies to obtain an Honours Degree in Health Sciences or apply to join BSc (Hons) Optometry at City University, London.