Orthoptics BSc
University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Orthoptics
University of Liverpool
Orthoptics / Allied Health Professions
Program Overview: BSc (Hons) Orthoptics at the University of Liverpool
The Orthoptics BSc (Hons) at the University of Liverpool develops your knowledge of how the vision system works, including binocular vision and eye movement systems. You will study the fundamentals of the nervous system, neuro-anatomy, and physiology as they relate to orthoptic practice, preparing you for a career diagnosing and managing a wide range of eye conditions from infancy through to old age.
Liverpool is one of only three universities in the UK to offer an Orthoptics degree, making this a highly specialised and sought-after programme. The course combines university-based learning with extensive clinical placements across NHS settings throughout the UK, giving you hands-on experience from your very first year of study.
Upon graduation, you will be eligible to apply for statutory registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a qualified orthoptist. The University of Liverpool has been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework, reflecting its commitment to outstanding educational quality across all programmes.
Key Program Highlights
- One of only three universities in the UK offering an Orthoptics degree, ensuring a specialised and focused learning environment
- HCPC-approved programme providing eligibility for professional registration as an orthoptist upon graduation
- Extensive clinical placements totalling approximately 18 weeks across all three years in NHS hospital and community settings
- Gold-rated Teaching Excellence Framework university with 99% of allied health graduates finding their post-graduation activity meaningful
Curriculum and Modules
The Orthoptics BSc (Hons) curriculum is structured across three years, progressing from foundational knowledge in Year 1 through applied clinical skills in Year 2 to advanced practice and research in Year 3. Clinical placements are integrated throughout, with seven weeks in Year 1 and eleven weeks in Year 2, ensuring you build practical competence alongside academic understanding.
Binocular Vision and Ocular Motility
Core ModuleCovers the fundamental principles of how the eyes work together, including binocular single vision, eye movement systems, and the assessment of ocular motility disorders.
Neuro-Anatomy and Physiology
Core ModuleExplores the structure and function of the nervous system with a specific focus on visual pathways, cranial nerves, and neurological conditions that affect vision and eye movements.
Orthoptic Assessment and Clinical Skills
Core ModuleDevelops essential practical skills for conducting orthoptic examinations, including diagnostic techniques for strabismus, amblyopia, and other common eye movement disorders.
Professional Practice Placement
Core ModuleProvides supervised clinical experience in NHS hospital eye departments and community settings, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to real patient cases under professional guidance.
Pharmacology and Therapeutics in Orthoptics
Core ModuleIntroduces the fundamental knowledge required to use medicines under exemptions within the orthoptic scope of practice, covering ophthalmic pharmacology and its clinical applications.
Research Methods and Dissertation
Core ModuleEquips you with essential principles for understanding and undertaking research, culminating in an orthoptic-based clinical research project in your final year.
Specialist Areas and Elective Topics
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Orthoptics BSc (Hons) at the University of Liverpool is competitive, reflecting the specialised nature of this healthcare programme. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic ability in the sciences alongside a genuine interest in eye care and patient wellbeing. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our team will guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- A-Level GradesBBB to include one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, or Mathematics
- GCSE Requirements5 GCSEs at grades A*-C (9-4) including English Language, Mathematics, and a Science
- International BaccalaureateContact Uni4Edu for equivalent IB requirements
- Scottish HighersMinimum ABBBB at Higher level plus BB at Advanced Higher level, including at least one science subject
- Foundation YearA Foundation to Orthoptics (Year 0) pathway is available for those who do not meet direct entry requirements
English Language Requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum IELTS score requirement
- TOEFLContact Uni4Edu for the current minimum TOEFL score requirement
- Other TestsEquivalent English language qualifications may be accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Liverpool offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support international and domestic students pursuing the Orthoptics BSc (Hons). Additionally, UK students on this NHS-allied health programme may be eligible for specific healthcare bursaries. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding options available to you.
Liverpool Excellence Scholarship for Undergraduates
Available to high-achieving students starting a new undergraduate degree at the Liverpool campus, typically requiring AAA at A-Level or equivalent. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by intake year.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Orthoptics Graduates
Orthoptics graduates from the University of Liverpool enjoy outstanding employment prospects, with 90 to 100% of orthoptic graduates across the UK finding employment within six months of graduation. Most graduates enter the NHS as registered orthoptists, with a clear career structure and opportunities for advancement into specialist, leadership, and research roles. The qualification is recognised worldwide, opening doors to international career opportunities.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Liverpool is a prestigious Russell Group institution and one of the original six red brick universities in England. It has been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework and is consistently ranked among the top 200 universities globally. The Orthoptics programme benefits from this strong institutional reputation, being one of only three such programmes offered in the UK.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Allied Health Professions | University Reputation | One of only 3 UK providers of Orthoptics |
| Health Sciences | QS World Rankings by Subject | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Research Excellence | Research Excellence Framework (REF) | 91% world-leading or internationally excellent |
| UK National Ranking | Guardian University Guide | Top 30 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Radiology
University of Toledo, Toledo, United States
Earliest Intake
June 2025
Gross Tuition
21885 $
Bachelor's Degree
21 months
Nursing
Texas State University, San Marcos, United States
Earliest Intake
September 2026
Gross Tuition
24520 $
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
Medical Imaging (1 Year) MSc
University of Leeds, , United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
33500 £
Master's & Postgraduate
48 months
Masters in Nursing (Child) MNurs (Hons)
University of York, York, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
32350 £
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Nursing (Mental Health) BSc (Hons)
University of York, York, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
32350 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
