Master of Science - Optometry (Research)

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 60% or higher in the previous academic degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 21.
• PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Auckland offers various scholarships specifically designed to support and encourage international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships aim to attract high-achieving students from around the world and provide financial assistance to help them achieve their educational goals at the university.

Merit-Based Scholarships: The University of Auckland offers merit-based scholarships recognizing academic excellence. These scholarships are awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements in their previous studies, supporting them throughout their undergraduate or postgraduate programs.

Need-Based Grants: For students facing financial challenges, the university provides need-based grants to assist with tuition fees or living expenses. These grants aim to ensure that deserving students have the opportunity to pursue their education without financial constraints.

Research Scholarships: The university also offers research scholarships for international students interested in pursuing research-based programs. These scholarships support students engaged in innovative research projects and contribute to the university's academic research endeavors.

Country-Specific Awards: Additionally, the University of Auckland provides scholarships specifically designated for students from certain countries. These awards aim to promote cultural diversity and international collaboration by attracting students from diverse geographical backgrounds.

Graduates from the Master of Science in Optometry (Research) program at the University of Auckland possess specialized skills and knowledge in vision science, eye health, and clinical optometric research. They are equipped to pursue diverse career paths in the field of optometry and related areas.

Clinical Optometrist: Graduates can practice as clinical optometrists, providing primary eye care services, vision testing, diagnosing visual problems, prescribing corrective lenses, and managing ocular health issues.

Research Scientist: Professionals can work as research scientists in academic institutions, hospitals, or research organizations, contributing to advancements in vision science, ocular health, or clinical optometric research.

Academic Educator/Professor: Graduates interested in academia can pursue careers as educators or professors at universities, teaching optometry students, conducting research, and mentoring aspiring optometrists.

Specialized Optometric Practice: Professionals may specialize in areas such as pediatric optometry, geriatric optometry, low vision rehabilitation, or contact lens practice, working in specialized clinics or hospitals.

Ocular Disease Specialist: Graduates can specialize in diagnosing and managing ocular diseases, working alongside ophthalmologists or in multidisciplinary healthcare settings.

Clinical Researcher: Individuals can engage in clinical research, designing and conducting studies to improve diagnostic techniques, treatment modalities, or vision correction methods.

Consultant in Industry or Healthcare Institutions: Professionals can work as consultants in healthcare institutions or industries related to eyecare, providing expertise in product development, marketing, or healthcare management.

Public Health Optometrist: Graduates can contribute to public health initiatives, working in government agencies or non-profit organizations, focusing on eye health education, prevention, and community eye care.

Medical Writer/Scientific Communicator: Professionals can work as medical writers or scientific communicators, translating complex research findings into accessible information for the public, healthcare professionals, or publications.

Optometric Researcher/Scientist: Graduates may pursue research careers in optometric practices or research institutions, investigating vision disorders, exploring new technologies, or developing innovative clinical practices.