Bachelor of Vision Science

at University of New South Wales

This Bachelor of Vision Science explores the sensory processes that underlie vision and the development and use of vision-related technologies. Your study will include optical science, anatomy and functioning of the eye, eye disorders, clinical optometry, ocular therapy and treatments of ocular-visual disorders. You’ll also learn about research design, methods and experimentation that can be applied in the workplace. 
 

Full program structure
 

The Bachelor of Vision Science can be completed in three years of full-time study. The program is made up of 24 courses total, including 22 core courses and two general education courses.
 

Year one
 

• Molecules, Cells and Genes

• Chemistry 1A: Atoms Molecules and Energy

• Biological Chemistry for Optometry Students

• Seeing the World: Perspectives from Vision Science

• Geometrical and Physical Optics

• Visual Optics

• Mathematics for Life Sciences or Mathematics 1A or Higher Mathematics 1A

• Fundamentals of Physics or Physics 1A or Higher Physics 1A
   

Year two
 

• Introductory Anatomy

• The Clinical Environment

• Optical Dispensing

• Physiology 1A

• Physiology 1B

• Ocular Anatomy and Physiology

• Organisation and Function of the Visual System

• General Education Course
   

Year three
 

• Disease Processes of the Eye 1

• Vision Science in the Consulting Room

• Ocular Imaging & Applied Vision Science

• Disease Processes of the Eye 2

• Working in the Clinical Environment

• Pharmacology for Optometry

• Development and Aging of the Visual System

• General Education Course

Applicants will be assessed on a combination of higher school academic results, portfolio submission and an interview.

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

• English language tests and university English courses

• Prior study in the medium of English

• Other qualifications
   

UNSW Global offers courses and programs designed to help you reach the English language level required for entry into your chosen degree. Different options are available depending on your current English language level. 

IELTS 6.5 overall (min. 6.0 in each subtest)

TOEFL 90 overall (min. 23 in writing, 22 in reading, listening and speaking)

2022 Indicative First Year Fee

$49,810*
 

2022 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree

$152,170*

The Bachelor of Vision Science will prepare you to work in the eye health sector, including clinical settings, health promotion in government and non-government organisations and the ophthalmic industry.
 

You can work in wide range of optics, vision science and ophthalmology research laboratories that develop drugs, imaging technology and vision correction devices such as contact lenses, spectacles and ocular implants.  
 

Career opportunities are also available in the government sector, particularly in teaching and defence technology (e.g., lasers and optical equipment). You could also contribute to the development of health and occupational policy regarding the importance of vision to quality of life in the workplace.
 

You may be interested to pursue further study in a clinical discipline in optometry, orthoptics or rehabilitation for people with vision impairment (Diploma in Orientation and Mobility) or seek higher studies with an honours year, leading to a master's or PhD.