New optometry course addresses regional shortage

A newly-launched optometry course at the University of Western England could see as many as 60 graduates introduced into the profession every year.

The three-year BSc degree will have an intake of 30 students this coming September, but the university plans to double that intake in 2019.

The university said undergraduates would be able to gain practical experience in high street opticians and specialists clinics during week-long placements during the three years, as well as in a fully functioning clinic on campus that will serve the campus and local area.

A spokesperson for the university said the course would fill a gap in the regional market, given a lack of home-grown optometry professionals in the area.