Are you an international student interested in pursuing a Doctor of Optometry in Australia? Doctor of Optometry (CRICOS course code 0101919) is a Masters Degree (Extended) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 3 years. This page provides comprehensive information on fees, entry requirements, work component, and more to help you make an informed decision. As an international student, you can be confident that UWA is CRICOS-registered (provider code 00126G), meaning it meets Australian Government standards to enrol overseas students. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Doctor of Optometry (CRICOS course code 0101919) is a Masters Degree (Extended) delivered by The University of Western Australia (UWA) over 3 years. This program falls under the field of education 06 – Health, specifically 0609 – Optical Science (060901 – Optometry). It is designed to prepare graduates for professional practice as optometrists. The course is taught entirely in English and is a single qualification (not a dual award). UWA is a government-funded university based in Crawley, Western Australia. The CRICOS register confirms this course is available for international student enrolment.
Optometry (Field of Education 060901) involves the study of vision science, ocular health, and the diagnosis and management of eye conditions. At the Masters Degree (Extended) level, students typically engage in advanced theoretical knowledge combined with extensive clinical practice. Graduates develop competencies in patient assessment, refractive error correction, contact lens fitting, low vision rehabilitation, and detection of systemic diseases affecting the eyes. The curriculum usually includes subjects such as ocular anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical optometry. Practical placements are a core component, allowing students to apply learning in real-world settings.
According to the CRICOS register, Doctor of Optometry has a duration of 3 years, equating to 156 weeks. The language of instruction is English. It is offered as a single qualification (no dual awards). The program is full-time and may involve intensive study periods. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa conditions.
Tuition fees are set by the institution and are indicative only. For Doctor of Optometry at The University of Western Australia (UWA), the tuition fee is A$196,400. Non-tuition fees amount to A$1,119, making the estimated total A$197,519. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Perth (Crawley) are estimated at A$500–A$700 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always check the latest fees on UWA's official website, as they are subject to change.
Entry requirements vary by provider and course level. For a Masters Degree (Extended) such as Doctor of Optometry, universities typically require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., science or health) with a high grade point average. Some courses also require completion of prerequisite subjects like anatomy, physiology, or mathematics. English language proficiency is essential. While the CRICOS register does not specify exact scores, international students generally need an IELTS overall band score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.5–7.0 depending on the program). Other tests like TOEFL and PTE are also accepted. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – contact UWA for details.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component. The CRICOS register indicates 26 weeks of work at 37.5 hours per week, totalling approximately 975 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of clinical placements or internships in optometry practices, hospitals, or community health settings. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, helping students develop practical skills and professional networks. Placements may be arranged by the university and are an integral part of the program.
Doctor of Optometry is delivered at The University of Western Australia (UWA) in Crawley, Western Australia. Crawley is a suburb of Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth is known for its sunny climate and vibrant student community. The city has several CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses. UWA's campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and trains, making it accessible from various parts of Perth. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–A$350.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study Doctor of Optometry in Australia. This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, which assesses your intention to stay temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. Financial capacity evidence is also required – you must show you can cover tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year from October 2023), and travel. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Doctor of Optometry at The University of Western Australia (UWA):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Extended), field (Optometry), and location (Perth, WA). Compare courses from UWA and other providers. Ensure you meet entry requirements.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Submit your application to UWA via their admissions portal. You will need to provide academic transcripts, English language test scores, a personal statement, and references. Check application deadlines (often mid-year for semester 1 intake).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once UWA offers you a place, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to pay the visa application fee (currently A$710 for most applicants) and arrange OSHC.
Ready to start your optometry career in Australia? Begin your journey by exploring CRICOS-registered optometry courses on HeadStart Academy, and apply to UWA today.
View the full The University of Western Australia (UWA) profile →
Doctor of Optometry is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Western Australia (UWA). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.