BSc Ophthalmic Dispensing at Glasgow Caledonian University

Programme overview

A registrable degree for Dispensing Opticians, the only course for Dispensing Opticians in Scotland, accredited by the General Optical Council. It uses blended learning combining distance learning, intensive on-campus teaching blocks in Glasgow and clinical experience in optical practices, with clinical training in the on-campus Vision Centre. Students complete 1600 hours of supervised clinical experience in an optical practice across the three years.

Duration: 3 years full time (blended learning) | Intake: September 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 modules include Clinical Dispensing and Professional Studies 1, Human and Ocular Biology, Foundations of Optics, Foundations of Spectacle Dispensing and Refractive Error and Binocular Vision Development. Dispensing covers standard spectacles to specialist corrections, protective eyewear and low vision aids.

Career pathways

Graduates can register as Dispensing Opticians with the General Optical Council and are eligible to join the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, with opportunities in optical practice, hospital services, teaching and academia throughout the UK.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Standard entry: Scottish Higher BCC or equivalent including one science from Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Human Biology plus National 5 English and Maths at B; A Level BC or equivalent including one science plus GCSE Maths and English at B. Minimum entry (widening access students only): Higher CCC or equivalent including one science plus National 5 English and Maths at B; A Level CC or equivalent including one science plus GCSE Maths and English at B. Applicants with optical practice experience and non-standard qualifications are reviewed individually. English language: IELTS 7.0 with no element below 6.5. Students must be cleared by Disclosure Scotland at advanced level and be registered with the General Optical Council throughout the programme.

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years full time (blended learning)

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