Medicine & Health Optometry & Vision Science

Postgraduate resources

Student with backpack and open book standing between book shelves in library

Explore resources for postgraduate research students of UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science. You’ll find information about our current higher degree students and their research, research topics you might choose from, and how to find a supervisor.

  • OPTM7107 Ocular Therapy 1 (12 Uoc) taken over one term (T1 and T2)

    OPTM7117 Ocular Therapy 2 (12 UoC) taken over one term (T3)

  • Program Delivery

    The program delivery mode is full time, largely through distance online education with face-to-face practical components as detailed below. Half load options are available for students who wish to complete the theory part of the program in year 1 (mostly online), and practical part in year 2 (face to face). Acceptance into the program and placement numbers are limited by the number of available WIL placements.

    Attributes giving the best chance for student success in this program: As a guideline, relevant undergraduate degrees in health sciences or education are preferable, however other degrees are also considered. Orientation and mobility specialist attributes also generally include physical dexterity and fitness (to train under blindfold, walk backwards on stairs, and be able to walk at least 5km); educational and emotional intelligence (accepting the duty of care for the physical safety of individuals with multi-disability) and flexibility for extensive travel to clients, both as a student and a graduate.

    For further information please refer to our FAQ’s or visit the degree page.

    Practical Components

    1. Techniques Training (TT) (VISN5521): Prior to engaging in work integrated learning (WIL), students will complete part, or all components of the O&M Techniques course to prepare for the WIL placement. These techniques equip the student to be ‘WIL ready’ and involves over 80 hours of both blindfold and simulation training.

      TT is four to five weeks of face-to-face techniques training (at UNSW in Sydney) with extra techniques training in home states as required. Whilst every effort will be made for the remainder of face-to-face learning to occur in a student’s home state, if appropriate technique trainers cannot be arranged for students residing outside of Sydney, students might also need to travel to Sydney (or elsewhere) for this remaining face-to-face learning.

    2. Low vision clinic observation (VISN5522): A half-day low vision clinic observation in home states where possible, scheduled in Weeks 7 and 8 of Term 2.

    3. Work integrated learning (WIL) (VISN5523 Part A&B): The aim of WIL is to expose students to contemporary O&M practice and facilitate some equivalence of experience for the student, while gaining competencies. The duration of the placement is dependent on successful completion of these hours of practical experience and training across each of the listed competencies.

      During placements students are required to meet a minimal of 350 hours of discipline-specific supervised practice across seven competency areas. It should be noted that as it is not possible to complete 35 hours of supervised practice with clients each week, the 350 hours required does NOT convert to a 10-week placement but will be significantly longer. And as with the technique training, if appropriate supervision (COMS) cannot be arranged for students residing outside of Sydney, students might also need to travel to Sydney (or elsewhere) for placements.

     

    The cost associated with attending practical components (in particularly travel, accommodation and meeting away-from-home costs) will be met by the student.

    Students are also required to purchase mobility cane sets for the techniques training.

    Refer to 2023 O&M Program calendar for the compulsory techniques training dates.

    Course Outlines

    Term 1

    Term 2

    Term 3

    Scholarships

    For listed scholarship opportunities, please visit the scholarships page.


    Program Information session (delivered November 2021)

    Hear from our panel of expert staff to guide you through the details of the Graduate Diploma of Orientation and Mobility as well as have a taster lecture to experience first-hand how this program can expand your professional horizons or inspire a career change: https://youtu.be/0t7B6KsUngw

    The program acknowledges the extensive collaboration and support from industry stakeholders in supporting students through the program.