How to Become an Optometrist in Ireland: Degree Pathway

To practice as an optometrist in Ireland, you must complete a 4-year honours bachelor's degree in Optometry at an accredited university, followed by a 1-year supervised internship and the Optometrists Council of Ireland (OCI) registration exam.

Accredited Programs (2024)

1. Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) — BSc (Hons) Optometry (4 yrs, Level 8). Formerly DIT Kevin St.
2. University of Ulster (UU), Coleraine — BSc (Hons) Optometry (4 yrs, Level 8).

Note: RCSI/Trinity no longer offer undergraduate optometry.

Entry Requirements (Typical)

• Leaving Cert: H4 in two of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physics/Chemistry, Maths, Applied Maths. O6/H7 in English, Irish, Maths, third language.
• Points: ~500–540 (CAO).
• Mature/Access routes: Available at both universities.

Curriculum Highlights

• Ocular anatomy, physiology, visual optics, pharmacology, pathology.
• Clinical skills: refraction, binocular vision, contact lenses, low vision, paediatrics, ocular disease detection.
• Placements in hospital eye departments, community practices, clinics from Year 2.

Internship & Registration

• 12-month pre-registration under OCI-approved supervisor (hospital or private practice).
• Complete Professional Competence Logbook.
• Pass OCI Registration Examination (written + OSCE practical).
• Apply for OCI registration — legal requirement to practice.

Career & Salary

• Settings: Independent practice, hospital (HSE), corporate multiples (Specsavers, Vision Express), research, academia.
• Starting salary: €35k–45k; experienced: €55k–80k+; practice owners higher.
• CPD mandatory: 30 credits/year for retention.

For non-EU graduates: qualification recognition via OCI (may require adaptation period/exams).