Master of Clinical Optometry (CRICOS course code 093022B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This program is designed for students seeking advanced training in optometry, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian standards for international students. Located at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, the course prepares graduates for professional roles in optometry and optical science. With a strong work-integrated learning component, students gain hands-on experience in real clinical settings. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy for your study planning.
Master of Clinical Optometry (CRICOS course code 093022B) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 2 years. This AQF Level 9 course falls under the field of Optical Science (060901 - Optometry) within the Health discipline. It equips students with advanced clinical skills and knowledge required for optometry practice. The program includes a substantial work component — 56 weeks of supervised clinical placement (17 hours per week, approximately 952 total hours) — ensuring graduates are workplace-ready. UNSW is a public university based in Sydney, New South Wales, and is a popular choice for international students. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G), UNSW adheres to the ESOS Act, protecting your rights as an overseas student. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is a prime example of high-quality postgraduate study in health sciences.
This Master's program in Clinical Optometry covers advanced topics in optical science, including diagnostic techniques, ocular disease management, contact lenses, and paediatric optometry. Students develop clinical reasoning and patient management skills through a combination of coursework and supervised practice. The curriculum aligns with professional accreditation requirements in Australia. While specific units are set by UNSW, graduates at this level are typically prepared for roles in private practice, hospitals, or research. The work-integrated learning component provides direct patient contact under supervision, building confidence and competence. This field of education (0609 - Optical Science) is regulated by the Optometry Board of Australia. For a detailed syllabus, refer to UNSW's course handbook.
Master of Clinical Optometry has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program is delivered full-time on campus, with compulsory clinical placements. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions. The course is not available part-time for visa holders. UNSW also offers other optometry-related programs, but this specific CRICOS course (093022B) is a standalone Master's degree.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Clinical Optometry is A$102,500 for the entire program. Non-tuition fees (such as laboratory materials, equipment, or administrative charges) are estimated at A$2,000. The estimated total cost is A$104,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are set by UNSW. Please note that fees are indicative and subject to change — always confirm with the university before applying. This amount does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fee details, visit UNSW's official website. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (approx. A$600-800 per year), living expenses (approx. A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and visa fees. Sydney's cost of living is higher than many Australian cities; weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near UNSW can range from A$350 to A$600, plus groceries and transport.
Entry requirements for Master of Clinical Optometry typically include a bachelor's degree in optometry or a related health science field. English language proficiency is required — indicative IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (no band below 6.0). Other tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted with comparable scores. UNSW may require a minimum GPA and relevant work experience. Some applicants may need to complete prerequisite subjects. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; contact UNSW for specific entry criteria. As this is a postgraduate program, prior qualifications at AQF Level 7 (Bachelor's) or equivalent are expected. Always check UNSW's admissions page for the most up-to-date requirements. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility — consult the university directly.
Master of Clinical Optometry includes a mandatory work component: 56 weeks of clinical placement, totaling approximately 952 hours (based on 17 hours per week). This work-integrated learning (WIL) provides supervised experience in optometry clinics, hospitals, or community health settings. Students apply theoretical knowledge to real patients, developing diagnostic and management skills. The placement is structured across the program and may involve shifts during term and breaks. This component is integral to meeting professional accreditation standards in Australia. International students must ensure their visa allows for this type of work — the Student Visa (Subclass 500) permits unlimited work hours when the placement is part of the course. For details on placement arrangements, refer to UNSW's clinical education team.
This course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. The Kensington campus is located approximately 7 km southeast of Sydney's central business district, easily accessible by public transport (bus and light rail). Sydney is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across various fields, and Kensington is a vibrant student area. The campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including optometry clinics and simulation labs. Studying in New South Wales gives you access to a diverse community and strong job market in health sciences. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, but the city offers excellent lifestyle and networking opportunities. For students considering this location, we recommend budgeting for rent (A$350–600/week), groceries (A$80–150/week), and transport (A$40–60/week).
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study Master of Clinical Optometry in Australia. This visa allows you to stay for the duration of your course (2 years) plus any additional time for post-study work if eligible. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies — you need to demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is also required: tuition fees, living expenses (A$21,041/year for a single student), and OSHC. After graduation, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; for visa applications, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Clinical Optometry at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters), field (Optometry), and city (Sydney). Confirm the course code 093022B is on the CRICOS register. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit UNSW's official website (www.unsw.edu.au) and submit an online application. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. Pay attention to application deadlines (typically October for February intake and March for July intake). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once UNSW offers you a place, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa help, consult a registered migration agent.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy, then apply directly to UNSW. Check entry requirements and deadlines before submitting your application.
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Master of Clinical Optometry is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.