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Orthoptics

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Ready to apply? You can apply for this course online now using the UCAS website. The deadline for UK students to apply for this course is 29 January 2025.

The deadline for international students is 30 June 2025.

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  • University name: University of Liverpool
  • Course: Orthoptics B520
  • Location: Main site
  • Start date: 22 September 2025

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Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science (BSc) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in the sciences.

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Course overview

Our Orthoptics programme prepares future professionals for an enriching career in a highly significant field within the modern healthcare world.

Introduction

Our Orthoptics programme will equip a graduate with the necessary skills to diagnose and manage conditions which may present in a range of patients from infants to the elderly.

These can include strabismus disorders (eye misalignments), amblyopia (sometimes called lazy eye), traumatic injuries, tumours, head injuries, diabetes and strokes.

In addition, you will focus on the fundamentals of the nervous system, neuro-anatomy and physiology, and where it relates to the practice of orthoptics.

This background knowledge will enable a graduate orthoptist to perform as a competent and reflective practitioner, capable of becoming a valuable member of an eye care team.

What you'll learn

  • Critical thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Numeracy skills
  • Science acumen
  • Research gathering
  • Observational skills

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a Gold rating for educational excellence.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

In year one, a wide range of factual knowledge and basic clinical skills are developed. The whole of semester one is spent in the University. This enables you to develop core knowledge and skills and more specifically the knowledge required to undertake orthoptic practice via profession-specific modules. This provides preparation for the professional practice placement observation week which occurs prior to the second semester. During year one, you will learn about the basic principles of eye movement systems and binocular vision, be able to undertake essential orthoptic assessments and have a total of seven weeks clinical placement.

Compulsory modules

ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND NORMAL DEVELOPMENT (ORTH139)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will cover the basic human anatomy and physiology including the ocular system. This module is taught through an active learning process, where the students undertake learning through the use of online resources, followed by online self assessments and supported by the use of tutorials to aid understanding. The content of this module provides the building blocks of knowledge to support the subsequent modules related to the abnormalities encountered in the work place.
The module has two assessment components, an unseen written examination and an online examination. The style of the questions reflects the factual knowledge required and visual nature of the content.

CLINICAL AND THEORETICAL ORTHOPTICS 1.1 (ORTH137)

Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 1

Through a range of didactic lectures, tutorials and dedicated clinical skills sessions the module will introduce fundamental principles of orthoptics and how to clinically investigate normal binocular vision, visual function and ocular motility. In addition, the module will include essential mandatory training which is required for clinical practice.   This is the first module in a series of six (followed by ORTH 140, ORTH 237, ORTH 240, ORTH 330, ORTH 335) that occur in each semester of the programme to deliver the skills and underpinning theoretical knowledge for orthoptic practice. Students will engage in work-based clinical activity through simulation, remote placement and attendance at an NHS clinical site. At the end of this module, successful students will be able to use the majority of orthoptic clinical tests in the investigation of patients. These skills will form the foundation for students learning how to investigate abnormal vision and ocular motility defects later in the course. The assessment of the module will consist of two unseen online written exams during the semester to demonstrate understanding of the theory that underpins orthoptic practice in addition to a clinical portfolio and practical exam that will ensure competence in the use of taught clinical skills. 

CLINICAL AND THEORETICAL ORTHOPTICS 1.2 (ORTH140)

Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 2

This module develops knowledge relating to the investigation of orthoptic patients within clinical practice. During this module, practical skills introduced in semester one will be recapped and then developed with additional skills relating to accommodative/convergence anomalies and refractive errors being introduced. Ultimately the module will equip the student with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enable them to investigate all types of concomitant strabismus, accommodative anomalies and refractive corrections.   In order to develop and introduce these themes, the module will be delivered through a range of synchronous and asynchronous online lectures, online tutorials and clinical skills sessions. The sessions will not only introduce the students to the topic but also allow them to begin to start putting their theoretical knowledge in to practice.   The module will be assessed via a two hour written examination and a 45 minute practical examination in the University assessment period.

OPHTHALMOLOGY 1 (ORTH142)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module provides an introduction to the aetiologies, signs, symptoms and investigation of common ophthalmic disorders encountered during orthoptic clinical practise through a range of lectures and tutorials. Students will be introduced to the technologies that allow the diagnosis of these conditions, and the impact of genetics and biological processes on the eye. This is the first in a series of three modules (including ORTH 235 and ORTH 334) related to the wider topic of ophthalmology which students will encounter in orthoptic practice. The module assessment is comprised of two online examinations, one mid module (45 minutes duration), and one at the end of the module (90 minutes duration).

PROFESSIONALISM AND HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE FOR ORTHOPTISTS (ORTH141)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

Through a range of lectures and tutorials, this module will develop the student’s knowledge of holistic healthcare issues and behavioural science theories that are relevant to clinical practice. The students will be introduced to issues that will directly influence their clinical practice, but are not fundamental orthoptic topics. They will develop an understanding of public health issues, national initiatives, psychological, behavioural and sociological aspects related to health care and recognition of the importance of their own health and wellbeing in relation to providing the best holistic care for all patients.  Students will be required to complete specific learning tasks through unscheduled hours prior to contact sessions to gain a level of background knowledge to enable them to contribute to discussion based contact sessions. Further self-directed activities may also be highlighted for students to consolidate knowledge further.  The module content will be assessed by a 1500 word assignment and an individual poster assessment at the end of the module during the university assessment period.​​​ ​  ​

PROFESSIONALISM AND SCHOLARSHIP (ORTH104)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

Through a blended learning approach, this module provides students with the basis of ethics, professionalism and communication skills required for clinical practice as well as the necessary study skills for undergraduate study. During the module, students will develop a knowledge and understanding of professionalism, healthcare ethics, types and frameworks of communication and appropriate skills to support studying and academic writing at university. The module is assessed via a written assessment in the form of a 1500 word assignment.    ​

VISUAL OPTICS (ORTH138)

Credits: 7.5 / Semester: semester 1

This module introduces students to the basic fundamental principles of physical, geometric and physiological optics, which underpin orthoptic practice. These principles are required for orthoptic practice delivered in subsequent modules across the programme (ORTH140, ORTH237, ORTH240, ORTH330 and ORTH335), as well as a module specific to refraction of patients in the final year (ORTH332).   On completion of the module, successful students will be able to apply geometric optical principles to various theoretical calculations and problems, including: reflection, refraction, prismatic effect and lens theory. They will also understand the eye as an “optical instrument”, the basis of refraction and the correction of refractive error. The module is delivered through a series of interactive lectures and tutorials that enable the student to work systematically through a series of concepts, applying principles to various theoretical situations. The student must be able to apply formulae, rearrange equations and ray trace in order solve optical questions. The aforementioned concepts are required when the physiological optic topics are explored later in the module. The assessment of the module is via a one and a half hour written exam, this will involve the student recalling information regarding physical optics, solving a series of geometrical optical problems, and demonstrating understanding of physiological optics.​​​  

Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Your experience

Orthoptic students benefit from the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing‘s experience in delivering over 100 years of dynamic, research-led teaching. As well as crucial skills specifically related to a career in healthcare, we place particular emphasis on developing our students’ scholarship and professionalism which is particularly  important for their future careers.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

What students say...

I knew the degree I wanted to do, so it was really a choice of which university would be best for me. I chose Liverpool as it offered a great sense of community and care.

, BSc (Hons) Orthoptics

Careers and employability

Orthoptic graduates are eligible to apply for statutory registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Most graduates choose to work in the National Health Service as an orthoptist in an eye care team. However, there are opportunities to progress within your role as an orthoptist in a number of additional extended roles and advanced practice such as stroke, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and special educational needs. There may also be opportunities to work in a private clinic or even abroad due to the international high recognition of the qualification.

Overall, this programme offers graduates a rewarding career as autonomous practitioners and part of the health care team with an excellent record of graduate employment.

You can pursue a career in the National Health Service, Social Services or the private sector.

99% of School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.

Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £29,100
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £14,550
All UK fees, as well as year in industry fees for international students, are 2024/25 figures. These are pending confirmation from the UK Government of tuition fee levels for 2025/26. International course fees and year abroad fees for international students are confirmed for 2025/26. Please note that the year abroad fee also applies to the year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about fees and funding.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. Additional costs for this course include Orthoptic equipment and travel to placements.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This may include a laptop, books, or stationery. Additional costs for this course include Orthoptic equipment and travel to placements.

Stationery and equipment

Orthoptic equipment: £50

Travel to placements

This will vary due to geographical location, but is likely to be between £40 and £200 per week of placement (year one: seven weeks, year two: 11 weeks, and year three: 12 weeks).

* Home students are able to apply for reimbursement of travel/accommodation costs in relation to placement from the NHS Business Services Authority.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

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Rigby Enterprise Award

  • Home students

Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.

The Liverpool Bursary

  • Home students

If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

Care Leavers’ Opportunity Bursary

  • Home students

If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.

Cowrie Foundation Scholarship

  • Home students

Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

Estranged Students Bursary

  • Home students

If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

Genesys Life Sciences Scholarship

  • Home students

Joining a School of Biosciences degree in a non-clinical subject and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.

Graduate Association Hong Kong & Tung Undergraduate Scholarships

  • International students
  • Hong Kong

If you’re an undergraduate student from Hong Kong who can demonstrate academic excellence, you may be eligible to apply for a scholarship worth £10,000 in partnership with the Tung Foundation.

Nolan Scholarships

  • Home students

Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.

ROLABOTIC Scholarship

  • Home students

Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

  • Home and international students

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

Technetix Broadhurst Engineering Scholarship

  • Home students

Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.

Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship

  • International students

If you’re a high-achieving international student starting an undergraduate degree with us from September 2024, you could be eligible to receive a fee discount of up to £5,000. You’ll need to achieve grades equivalent to AAA in A levels and be joining a non-clinical degree.

University of Liverpool International College Excellence Scholarship

  • International students

Completed a Foundation Certificate at University of Liverpool International College (UoLIC)? We’re offering a £5,000 fee discount off the first year of undergraduate study to some of the highest achieving students joining one of our non-clinical degrees from UoLIC.

University of Liverpool International College First Class Scholarship

  • International students

We’re offering a £1,000 fee discount for years 2 and 3 of undergraduate study to eligible students progressing from University of Liverpool International College. You’ll need to be studying a non-clinical subject and get an average of 70% or above in year 1 of your degree.

University of Liverpool International College Impact Progression Scholarships

  • International students

If you’re a University of Liverpool International College student awarded a Kaplan Impact Scholarship, we’ll also consider you for an Impact Progression Scholarship. If selected, you’ll receive a £3,000 fee discount off the first year of your undergraduate degree.

Young Adult Carer’s (YAC) Bursary

  • Home students

If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

NHS Values will be assessed in all areas of an application including UCAS Personal Statement and at interview. For more details, please download our explanation of Value Based Recruitment.

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Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

BBB to include one of the following: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology or Mathematics.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course.

Available foundation years:

T levels

T levels considered in a relevant subject, Health and Science (Health, Healthcare Science and Science pathways) is accepted with an overall grade of Distinction to include in the core.

Applicants should contact us by completing the enquiry form on our website to discuss specific requirements in the core components and the occupational specialism.

GCSE 5 GCSE subjects at grade A*-C or grades 9-4. Subjects to include English Language, Mathematics and a Science. Core and Applied Science GCSEs will not be considered. All GCSEs should be obtained at one sitting. Science Dual Award is acceptable. Applied GCSEs will not be considered.
Subject requirements

For applicants from England: Where a science has been taken at A level (Chemistry, Biology or Physics), a pass in the Science practical of each subject will be required.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

BTEC Nationals are considered in addition to 5 GCSEs grades A* – C or level 5, which must include English Language, Mathematics and a Science subject. Science Dual Award is acceptable. Core and Additional Science are also considered. Please note that Applied GCSEs will not be considered.

BTEC National Extended Certificate
Will be accepted at a minimum of Distinction accompanied by 2 A2 subjects at grade B to include one of the following: Biology, Maths, Chemistry, Physics or Psychology.

BTEC Level 3 National Diploma
Will be accepted in either Health and Social Care or Applied Science at Grade DD, plus 1 additional A Level at a minimum of Grade B.

BTEC National Extended Diploma
Will be accepted in in Health and Social Care and Applied Science at Grade DDD.

International Baccalaureate

30 points to include 3 Higher Level subjects at minimum of Grade 5. Biology must be offered at a minimum of Grade 6.

European Baccalaureate 74% overall with a minimum mark of 8 in biology and no subject mark below 6.
Irish Leaving Certificate 6 Higher Level subjects to include English and Mathematics and one of the following Science subjects: Biology, Physics or Chemistry. Two subjects should be graded at H2 or higher (this should include a Science subject) and the remaining four subjects should be graded at H3 or higher.
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

Highers: BBBBB (must include Biology, Physics, Maths or Chemistry).

Combination of Advanced Highers and Highers will be considered. A mixed presentation must include Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths at a minimum grade B. Advanced Highers must be in different subjects to those of Highers.

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Grade BB at A-Level ( which must include one of the following: Maths, psychology, Biology, Physics or Chemistry), plus the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate at Grade B
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma Will be considered.
AQA Baccalaureate Will be considered.
Graduate application

We welcome applications from graduates holding a minimum of a 2:2 classification. If your degree is not science related, contact the admissions tutor direct. Experience in health care is also an advantage.

The degree qualification should be supported by a sound academic background, with a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A* – C, which should include English Language, Mathematics and Science.

Access Essential: 45 credits at Level 3 in Biological, Psychological, Mathematical, Healthcare or Physics based subjects. 30 credits passed at distinction (Must include a minimum of 15 credits in a Biological or Physiological Science) and the remaining 15 credits must be passed at merit or higher. 5 GCSE subjects graded A*C and must include: English Language, Mathematics and Science.
Profession-specific knowledge and skills required

Candidates must show evidence, in their UCAS Personal Statement, of a good understanding of the profession.  It is highly recommended that a candidate should observe a state registered Orthoptist, but where this is not possible a visit to a clinical department involving discussion with the Orthoptist is required.  The experience gained should be discussed in their UCAS Personal Statement, and the applicant must show evidence of a good understanding.

Candidates should be able to discuss in lay terms the conditions/examination procedures etc observed. They must also be aware of the differences between Orthoptics and Optometry.

Candidates should have experience of working with the general public and especially children, people with special needs and the elderly.

Careers conventions, information leaflets, and websites may also provide helpful background information.

Declaration of criminal background

You will understand that as an allied health professions and nursing student, and when you qualify, you will be asked to treat children and other vulnerable people. We therefore need information about any criminal offences of which you may have been convicted, or with which you have been charged. The information you provide may later be checked with the police.

If selected for interview you will be provided with the appropriate form to complete.

Health screening

The University and the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing has an obligation to undertake health screening on all prospective healthcare students. Any offer of a place to study is conditional on completion of a health questionnaire and a satisfactory assessment of fitness to train from the University’s Occupational Health Service. This will include some obligatory immunisations and blood tests.

Disability information

If you have, or think you have dyslexia or a long term health condition or impairment that may have the potential to impact upon your studies and/or your Fitness to Practice duty, please complete the Disability form‌. We will contact you to discuss your support needs.

International qualifications

The IELTS requirement is an overall score of 7.0 with no component less than 6.5

Please note – whilst we do accept IELTS qualifications, we do not accept IELTS qualifications that have been sat and gained online. We only accept qualifications that have been sat and gained in person.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5
International Baccalaureate Standard Level grade 5 or Higher Level grade 4 in English B, English Language and Literature, or English Language

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

Changes to Orthoptics BSc (Hons)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.

18 April 2023: International qualifications update

English language requirements have been updated – IELTS.