Doctor of Optometry (CRICOS course code 072811B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 4 years. This intensive program, classified under Field of Education 060901 - Optometry, prepares graduates to become registered optometrists in Australia. Offered at the Parkville campus in Melbourne, Victoria, the course combines rigorous academic study with substantial clinical placements. Indicative tuition fees are A$320,192, with additional non-tuition fees of A$150, bringing the estimated total to A$320,342. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you access trusted, up-to-date information. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no referral fees, no commission.
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The Doctor of Optometry is a professional-entry program at AQF Level 9 (Masters Degree (Coursework)). It falls within the broad field of Health (06) and specifically Optical Science (0609), with a focus on Optometry (060901). Students develop advanced clinical skills in vision assessment, diagnostic techniques, and patient management. The curriculum typically integrates biomedical sciences, optics, pharmacology, and clinical practice. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Australian optometry registration examination. Note: This is a general description; exact syllabus content is determined by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). As a CRICOS-registered provider (00116K), the institution must meet rigorous Australian quality standards under the ESOS Act.
The Doctor of Optometry is a single qualification (no dual awards) with a CRICOS-registered duration of 4 years (208 weeks). The language of instruction is English. The program is delivered full-time on campus at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) in Parkville, Victoria. There is no foundation studies component included in this course. All CRICOS-listed courses must comply with the ESOS Act, providing international students with important protections including tuition fee safeguards and access to complaint processes.
Indicative tuition fees for the Doctor of Optometry (CRICOS 072811B) are A$320,192, with non-tuition fees of A$150, for an estimated total of A$320,342. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). They are subject to change — always confirm current fees with the provider before applying. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (e.g., rent in Melbourne, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge are NOT included in these estimates. For up-to-date fee information, visit the official University of Melbourne website: http://www.unimelb.edu.au/.
Entry to the Doctor of Optometry typically requires a prior undergraduate degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science) with prerequisite subjects in areas such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics. An English language proficiency test is also required — a common minimum is IELTS 6.5–7.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants may need to sit the GAMSAT or UCAT ANZ, and an interview may be part of the selection process. If you do not meet the academic prerequisites, foundation or pathway programs may be available — check directly with The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). Remember, all entry requirements are set by the institution; the CRICOS register does not list them, so always verify with the provider.
The Doctor of Optometry includes a mandatory work component of 13 weeks, totaling approximately 2,860 hours (based on the CRICOS register notation of ~2860 total hours; hours per week not specified). This is a substantial clinical placement program, likely involving rotations in hospital eye clinics, private practices, and community health settings. Work-integrated learning ensures students gain hands-on experience under supervision, which is essential for meeting optometry board registration requirements. International students should note that their student visa conditions include work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but clinical placements may have specific arrangements.
This course is delivered solely at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) — PARKVILLE, VIC. Parkville is a prestigious suburb adjacent to Melbourne's central business district, home to a major biomedical research precinct. Melbourne, Victoria's capital, hosts over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and is one of Australia's most popular destinations for international students, with a vibrant multicultural environment. Typical living costs in Melbourne: shared rental accommodation A$150–$250 per week, groceries A$70–$100 per week, and a public transport myki card concession fare of about A$25 per week. The campus is well served by trams and trains.
International students enrolling in the Doctor of Optometry will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from The University of Melbourne (UniMelb), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and proof of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, airfares). Student visa work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. All CRICOS-registered courses, like this one, automatically meet visa requirements for full-time study. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Applying for the Doctor of Optometry at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) involves three key steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore options. Filter by course level (Masters Degree (Coursework)), field (Health), and location (VIC). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application through the University's online portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5–7.0), personal statement, and evidence of prerequisite subjects. Note application deadlines — typically mid-year for commencement. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa, ensuring you have OSHC and meet financial requirements.
Ready to apply? Visit The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) website or explore other CRICOS-registered optometry courses on HeadStart Academy.
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Doctor of Optometry is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.