Why study vision impairment?

Vision impairment specialists can have a profound impact on the lives of people who are blind or vision impaired. 

Studying vision impairment at UNSW School of Optometry and Vision Science – ranked 2nd in the world for Optometry* – equips you with specialised knowledge and practical skills, opening doors to meaningful, in-demand careers in this growing sector. 

^{*2021 Global Optometrist Top 200 Research Rankings}

What is vision impairment?

Vision impairment includes a range of conditions, such as macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. These conditions limit a person’s ability to see clearly – even if they have corrective lenses. Unfortunately, these conditions are surprisingly common. Vision 2020, the national peak body for the eye health and vision care sector, predicted that by 2050, 1 in 2 people in Australia will require eye care services.

Impaired vision can affect every aspect of a person’s life – from reading to mobility and social interactions. In Australia, an ageing population and rising rates of these eye conditions mean more people will require specialised support to navigate daily life and stay independent in the coming years. 

Vision impairment experts play a crucial role in creating inclusive communities for everyone, and meeting Australia’s growing demand for vision care services.

What does a career in vision impairment involve?

A career in vision impairment opens doors to impactful roles, where you’ll empower individuals and help shape more inclusive communities.  

You might become involved in the provision of rehabilitation supports, or provide educational supports for students with vision impairment. You might guide clients effectively in using assistive technologies, or teach essential skills for daily tasks like reading and navigation. In other areas, you could consult with organisations to create accessible physical spaces, design inclusive websites, recognise opportunities for designing new low-vision assistive technologies or advocate for policies that support those with vision impairments. Alternatively, you might work in management or administrative roles in the vision sector. 

By developing innovative solutions and promoting accessibility, you’ll help people with vision impairment achieve independence and full participation in society. 

Vision impairment jobs

Vision impairment is a rapidly growing sector driven by Australia’s ageing population and a rising need for inclusive services. Healthcare and Social Assistance is the largest employing industry in Australia, and is projected to grow by 25.2% by 2033. 

Careers in vision impairment span roles in healthcare, education, technology and community services, from direct client support to consulting on accessible design and advocacy. With the rapid evolution of assistive technologies, there are more opportunities for specialists to build innovative, life-changing solutions for people with vision impairment.

Potential roles you might pursue include: 

• Access Technology Specialist 
• Braille Instructor 
• Disability Support Officer 
• Inclusive Education Consultant 
• Rehabilitation Support Officer 
• Sensory Disability Consultant 
• Special Education Needs Teacher 
• Specialist Support Coordinator 
• Support Worker 
• Vision Rehabilitation Specialist 
• Vision Resource Specialist 
• Vision Support Teacher 
• Workplace Accessibility Consultant 

Studying vision impairment at UNSW

Discover our new Graduate Certificate in Vision Impairment. This program equips students from varied educational and professional backgrounds with the skills and knowledge to understand the causes and impacts of vision impairment. 

Watch our Masterclass recording to find out more. 

Why study vision impairment at UNSW?

UNSW's Graduate Certificate in Vision Impairment is the first program of its kind in Australia. It’s delivered by Australasia’s largest optometry and vision science school, renowned for its research in vision and ocular disease. From dry eye to sensory processes, we’re discovering innovative solutions to vision impairment.

During your studies, you’ll gain an understanding of the causes of vision impairment, and how they impact disability, diversity and social inclusion. You can tailor your qualifications to your interests, with electives in face-to-face subjects like assistive technology and rehabilitation engineering. This flexible qualification can also be completed entirely online, full-time or part-time with online elective options. You can balance your studies with work while gaining valuable, practical skills. 

Developed with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, this qualification equips you with evidence-based skills that prepare you to address real-world challenges in the field.

"This is a very unique program – there is nothing else like it in Australia," says Associate Professor Juno Kim, Program Lead.  "The program provides graduates the ability to engage more effectively to work better in governance around visual disability, whether it's in the government or private sector."

Find out more about studying vision impairment at UNSW.

Learn about the program, entry requirements and how to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Vision Impairment.