New optometry course at DMU set to strengthen vision health services locally and globally

The new optometry programme at De Montfort University, Leicester (DMU) will begin in September 2026. The goal of the programme is to train the next generation of eye care professionals. Both academic coursework and clinical experience are required for the four-year Master of Optometry (MOptom) UK degree. The fact that there are not many courses like this in the UK has been acknowledged. The university will start construction in January, and students will be expected to learn in the new, state-of-the-art facilities.

The creation of the optometry course at De Montfort University is a compelling opportunity to influence the future of eye health, according to Professor Simon Oldroyd, Faculty Dean of Health & Life Sciences. He went on to say that the course was designed to allow students to pursue a rewarding career at the forefront of clinical technology. For the community, it would improve access to quality eye care in their region. Also, it was a critical step, in his words, to help achieve their vision of responding to health inequalities in the Leicester community by providing the requisite eye care expertise to those communities in need. The MOptom course in Leicester, UK, has been developed in collaboration with industry experts. It was mentioned that teaching will be provided by academics and optometrists in practice. There will be placements with leading optical employers and opticians in the vicinity, workshops, and excursions to optical manufacturers. This will bring optometry to life.

At the time of going to press, the course was undergoing the General Optical Council accreditation process at DMU, and had been developed by Associate Dean of Education Dr Nikki Brooks, along with a range of subject specialists. Dr Brooks said that the course aimed to enhance the clinical abilities and confidence of its students, providing them with the experience of working with people of all ages. She also stated that the course would focus on the role of optometry in society, using the strength of the Health and Life Sciences faculty at DMU to tackle the health inequalities that exist in the deprived areas of the city.

Further comments by Dr Brooks included that inclusivity and social responsibility would play a big role in the programme, providing opportunities to make a difference not only locally, but also around the globe. She also mentioned current connections that already exist, for example, international experiences that audiology students already complete in India, and that both Optometry and Audiology students “can gain independent clinical experience while making a difference around the globe for social good.

Making DMU stand out, the course would offer advanced clinical experience, completing eight weeks of placements every year for the first three years, which would be twice the normal requirement. In the final year, the students would be able to complete a 44-week paid Clinical Learning in Practice placement, securing a full year of experience before graduation to enter the industry and allowing the graduates to practise in a variety of conditions, whether alone, in retail, or in a hospital environment.

Additionally, the following was confirmed: the first intake of students would have the General Optical Council student registration fees paid throughout the programme. The new degree, MOptom, Leicester campus, England, will be housed in DMU's established Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, which currently provides health-related professional degrees in Nursing, Midwifery, Pharmacy, Speech and Language Therapy, Audiology, and other biomedical disciplines.

Editor’s Note:

De Montfort University, Leicester, has made a crucial move by announcing a new Master of Optometry course. This is not only a significant step for their students, but it is important news for everyone else as well. On the positive side, the programme will allow the younger generation to study as eye care professionals in the UK. On the other side, the programme will give local communities the benefit of enhanced access to vision care. Another aspect that shows DMU cares for its students is the incorporation of additional clinical placements and a full-paid year of practice. It should also be pointed out that the course has been designed while taking into consideration the aspect of social responsibility. Through their emphasis on public health and reduction of inequalities, DMU ensures that optometry education at their institution goes beyond skill development to address service as well. This can be noted in their proposed extension of eye care support services to deprived districts in Leicester. Moreover, the international opportunities that the university refers to are the capabilities of the students to contribute to the international scene. By linking the optometry profession to health and life science disciplines, there is a clear connection that vision care is part of the larger picture of wellbeing.

Skoobuzz underlines that the launch of DMU's new Master of Optometry course in the UK is significant because it is designed not only to prepare graduates for employment but also to deliver widespread positive impacts. This multifaceted benefit highlights the importance of the programme.

FAQs

1.Which university is best for optometry in the UK?

University College London (UCL) is currently ranked as the leading institution for optometry in the UK, based on research performance and academic reputation. Other strong universities include Cardiff University and Aston University, which are well known for their optometry and vision sciences programmesComplete University Guide.

2.Can an Indian optometrist work in the UK?

Yes, Indian optometrists can work in the UK, but they must first register with the General Optical Council (GOC). This involves meeting professional standards, completing the required assessments, and securing the appropriate visa. The Skilled Worker visa is the most common pathway for international optometrists.

3.Which country is best for a Master’s in Optometry?

The United States is often considered the best destination for a Master’s in Optometry, with institutions such as Johns Hopkins University ranked highly worldwide. However, the United Kingdom also offers excellent programmes, including MSc Clinical Optometry courses at universities such as City, University of London.

4.Which country is best for Indian optometrists?

Australia is widely regarded as one of the best countries for Indian optometrists. It offers high salaries (averaging AUD 105,000–115,000 annually), strong healthcare demand, and clear migration pathways. Indian optometrists must pass the OCANZ Competency in Optometry Examination (COE) to practise there. Other good destinations include the UK, USA, Ireland, and New Zealand ICICI Lombard.

5.Who is the richest optometrist in the world?

The richest optometrist in the world is Dr Herbert Wertheim, an American optometrist, inventor, and investor. He built his fortune through his company, Brain Power Inc. and decades of stock market investments. His net worth is estimated at around $4 billion.