Bachelor of Vision Science
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1
- Duration
- 3 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 429740
- Program code 3181
- CRICOS code 092962K
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ATAR/2025 lowest selection rank
- 92.0 View all admission criteria
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2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $9,000*
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2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $32,000*
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2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $59,000*
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2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $190,000*
Entry Requirements
Fees
Fees
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Progression opportunities
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Hands-on training
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Top-class facilities
Join us at Open Day!
Saturday, 6 September | 9am–4pm | аIJʹÙÍø Sydney – Kensington & Paddington campuses
Discover the progress you can make at аIJʹÙÍø Open Day. Explore study options, find your unique pathway, attend lectures and get your questions answered.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
The Bachelor of Vision Science at аIJʹÙÍø opens the door to a wide range of roles across eye care, research and public health. It’s a practical, hands-on degree that gets you ready to work alongside optometrists, orthoptists and other eye health professionals.Ìý
You’ll explore how vision works, what causes problems with sight and how to improve outcomes through research, clinical support and technology. Along the way, you’ll apply your knowledge through work placements, internships and global exchange opportunities, and collaborate with students from other disciplines to build your confidence in problem-solving and communication.ÌýÌý
With demand for optometrists and orthoptists growing by 3.5% each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025), now is a great time to enter this field. Whether you plan to head straight into the workforce or apply for the prestigious Master of Clinical Optometry, this degree gives you a strong foundation in vision science and the flexibility to shape a career that suits you.Ìý
Key features
Wide range of career opportunities Ìý
The Bachelor of Vision Science can lead to work in many areas of eye health. Graduates find opportunities in both public and private settings, including clinical support, research, education, paediatric eye care, imaging technology and health policy. You might help develop new diagnostic tools, interpret optical prescriptions written by ophthalmologists or optometrists, or support individuals with their eyewear needs. It’s a flexible qualification that can take you in a range of directions, depending on your strengths, interests and goals.Ìý
Emphasis on critical thinking and experimentation Ìý
Problem-solving is a big part of working in vision science. You’ll learn how to identify vision problems, understand the theory of why or how vision problems occur and develop treatment options. You’ll apply your knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios through experimentation.Ìý
Progression opportunitiesÌý
When you complete the Bachelor of Vision Science, you may be eligible to apply for the Master of Clinical Optometry. If you want to become a practising optometrist, you’ll need to complete the Master of Clinical Optometry before registering with the .Ìý Please note that places are limited in the master’s program and entry can be very competitive.
Why study at аIJʹÙÍø?
Connect with industry-leading research centres and institutesÌý
аIJʹÙÍø's Medicine & Health faculty is ranked #54 globally for life sciences and medicine (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025) and is creating the leaders of tomorrow. We’ll provide you with a varied education in vision science through the , and .
Study with the School of Optometry and Vision ScienceÌý
аIJʹÙÍø Optometry and Vision Science is the largest school of optometry in Australia. We’re committed to forming partnerships within the ophthalmic industry and across the healthcare sector. The School is committed to translational research, which will lead to practical application and significant improvements in ocular health.Ìý
Bring your learning to life through practical trainingÌý
Bridge the gap between study and employment with our Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and Research Integrated Learning (RIL) opportunities. These experiences allow you to explore different career paths and apply your skills professionally while being guided by world-leading academics.
Want to see more from аIJʹÙÍø Medicine and Health?
Bachelor of Vision Science FAQs
Here are some things you might be wondering about studying a Bachelor of Vision Science degree at аIJʹÙÍø.Ìý
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Studying vision science at аIJʹÙÍø will unlock a world of possibilities upon graduation. You could work in clinical settings, support public health campaigns, promote eye health in the workplace or help shape eye care in government, NGOs or the ophthalmic industry.Ìý
There are also opportunities in research labs developing imaging technology, ocular implants, vision correction devices and new treatments – or you might find yourself working in Defence, education or health policy.Ìý
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Vision science is the study of how we see, why vision problems occur and how to improve and support eye health using science and technology. It brings together knowledge from anatomy, optics, neuroscience and clinical practice to understand the sensory processes behind vision and the tools we use to assess, treat and enhance visual function. You’ll also learn research design, methods and experimentation, and learn how to apply this knowledge in real-world settings, including clinical consulting rooms.Ìý
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Vision scientists play an important behind-the-scenes role in supporting optometrists and advancing eye care. They help develop the tools, technologies and research that clinicians rely on, from diagnostic equipment to new treatments and therapies. In a practice or research setting, vision scientists might assist with imaging, data analysis or patient testing, helping optometrists make more informed decisions
Entry requirements
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- The 2025 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2025.
- The 2025 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.
- The 2025 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2025. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2025 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
*The Lowest ATAR to which an offer was made, for this program, is based on a аIJʹÙÍø Gateway Early Conditional Offer.
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At аIJʹÙÍø, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.
To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at аIJʹÙÍø, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.
We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
Assumed knowledge
Chemistry, English Advanced, Mathematics Advanced, Physics
Adjustment Factors
We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.Ìý
HSC PlusÌý
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred аIJʹÙÍø degree. You may be awarded up to five points.Ìý
Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)Ìý
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen аIJʹÙÍø degree.
Admission pathways
Your ATAR is not the only measure of your potential to succeed, which is why we offer a range of pathways into university. Explore your options below andÌýÌýwith our future student advisors to discuss your path to аIJʹÙÍø.Ìý
This scheme is open to students in Years 11 and 12 who attend Gateway schools. It significantly adjusts the ATAR requirements for your preferred аIJʹÙÍø degree and provides you with an early conditional offer to аIJʹÙÍø.Ìý
We offer entry programs for Indigenous Australians, including the Indigenous Preparatory Programs and the Indigenous Admission Scheme (IAS). The entry pathway program you apply for will depend on the degree you want to study.Ìý
English language requirements
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You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at аIJʹÙÍø depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why аIJʹÙÍø requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove 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
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.Ìý
International direct entry
Information for applicants with CBSE, HKDSE or Singapore A Levels Qualification
Calculating your CBSE Score:
Awarded by CBSE, average percentage marks across English or Hindi, and your best four remaining subjects. Where marks are given as a range, the mid-point for that range is used e.g. 75 to 80 = 77.5.
Calculating your HKDSE Score:
Entry requirements are based on the aggregate of the best 5 achieved category A subjects (category B and C subjects are not considered).
For subjects other than Citizenship and Social Development: level 5**=7 points, level 5*=6 points, level 5=5 points, level 4=4 points, level 3=3 points, level 2=2 points, level 1=1 point, Level U=0 point.
For subject Citizenship and Social Development: Attained=2 points, Unattained=0 point. Citizenship and Social Development will only be counted towards the aggregate if the 2 points awarded for Attained ranks among the student’s best five scoring subjects.
If Mathematics Compulsory Part and Extended Part (Module 1 or 2) are both presented, both scores can be counted.
Calculating your Singapore A Levels:
Due to significant changes to the GCE A-Level Curriculum and University Admissions Score (UAS) calculation effective 2026, аIJʹÙÍø assessment is currently under review.
Note: Entry requirements published on this page are correct as of the day of publication and may change without notice.Ìý
We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please for more information.
Please for direct entry requirements.
Admission pathways
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with . аIJʹÙÍø College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your аIJʹÙÍø journey with confidence. 
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at аIJʹÙÍø depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why аIJʹÙÍø 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 аIJʹÙÍø. 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
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit theÌýEnglish Language RequirementsÌýpage.Ìý
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
What will I study?
аIJʹÙÍø is introducing a new academic calendar from 2028.
We are moving to a new flex-semester calendar. What does this mean for your studies?Ìý
Program structure
Ìý
If you’re interested in the science behind sight and want to be part of a sector that’s improving lives every day, the Bachelor of Vision Science is where it starts.Ìý
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in optical science, from the anatomy of the eye to how the brain processes vision.ÌýÌý
In your second year, you’ll dive deeper into eye disorders, treatments, and vision-related technologies.Ìý
In your third and final year, you’ll apply your knowledge through research and learn how vision science is used in real-world environments.Ìý
Full program structure
This program contains a total of 144 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in 3 years of full-time study. Most courses are 6 UOC.Ìý
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- General Education Course
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- General Education Course
Future careers
Studying vision science at аIJʹÙÍø opens doors across a diverse and growing field. In Australia, around 10,000 people work as optometrists and orthoptists, and the sector is growing by about 3% each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Starting salaries for entry-level vision science-related roles, such as optical or ophthalmic assistants, average around $53,000 (Indeed, 2025). With experience, earnings can grow significantly, especially in specialised areas like diagnostics, policy or research.Ìý
Among the many career paths available to vision science graduates, some of the highest-earning roles are found in government and public health. Policy officers can earn upwards of $100,000, particularly with experience or leadership responsibilities (Seek, 2025). Roles in public health promotion, such as health promotion officers and program coordinators, typically offer salaries between $48,000 and $89,000 (Payscale, 2025).Ìý
Job opportunities in vision scienceÌý
| Area of work | RolesÌýÌý |
| Clinical support | Optical assistant, ophthalmic assistant, vision screener |
| Research and labs | Research assistant, laboratory technician, clinical trials assistant |
| Optical dispensing and tech | Optical dispenser, optical sales assistant |
| Imaging and diagnostics | Ophthalmic technician, orthoptist technician |
| Public health and promotion | Health promotion officer, public health program coordinatorÌý |
| Education and training | Teaching assistant (tertiary) |
| Policy and government | Policy officer (health or disability), occupational health advisor |
| Rehabilitation and support | Rehabilitation assistant (vision impairment) |
| Paediatric eye care | Paediatric vision screener, child eye health support officer |
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Further studyÌý
For those keen on pursuing further study, аIJʹÙÍø has plenty of great options. First is the Graduate Diploma in Orientation and Mobility, which prepares you to provide rehabilitation for people with vision impairment. A slightly longer program, the Master of Clinical Optometry equips you with the skills and training required to become a registered clinical optometrist.ÌýÌý
Graduate with a reputation that takes you placesÌý
When you enrol in the Bachelor of Vision Science, you’ll be joining аIJʹÙÍø’s highly respected School of Optometry and Vision Science and gaining access to world-class facilities and research centres. As a graduate of a prestigious Go8 university like аIJʹÙÍø, you’ll hold a qualification that’s recognised and supported across Australia and internationally, opening the door to career opportunities in clinics, research labs, industry and beyond.Ìý
How to apply
Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Visit the Apply section of the Ìýand you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.
On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted viaÌýourÌý service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date.ÌýFor details, visit the .
*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the   for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. For details, visit the .
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Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 2
*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the university and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year.
The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only - other fees and charges are not included.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at theÌý.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visitÌý.
Scholarships
At аIJʹÙÍø, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Progress starts here – at a world-leading universityÌý
QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020–2025
SCOPR report, 2024
аIJʹÙÍø has strong ties with institutions and facilities globally.
