Orthoptics

Orthoptics is a specialist allied health profession concerned with diagnosing and managing disorders of eye movement, binocular vision, and visual function in patients of all ages. Orthoptists work primarily in hospital eye departments as part of a wider clinical team, assessing conditions such as amblyopia, strabismus, diplopia, and neurological visual impairments, and delivering treatment programmes that may include eye exercises, optical devices, and surgical referral. The profession requires a combination of clinical precision, patient-centred communication, and the ability to work confidently across different patient groups, from very young children to older adults.

This four-year full-time degree at Glasgow Caledonian University is one of only a small number of orthoptics programmes in the UK, reflecting the specialist nature of the profession. You will develop your theoretical understanding of ocular anatomy, physiology, and pathology alongside the clinical skills required for assessment and treatment in ophthalmic practice. The programme integrates academic study with substantial clinical placement hours in NHS settings, progressively building your competence and confidence as a practitioner.

The typical entry tariff of 152 points reflects the selective nature of a health profession programme at this level.

Graduating with an orthoptics degree makes you eligible to register with the Health and Care Professions Council, which is required for practice as an orthoptist in the UK. Most graduates begin their careers in NHS eye departments, working with ophthalmologists and other members of the ophthalmic team. With experience, orthoptists can specialise in paediatric orthoptics, low vision, neurological conditions, or research and education.

Many develop into more senior clinical and leadership roles within ophthalmology services. The small size of the profession means that graduates are typically in strong demand, and career progression can be rapid for those who demonstrate clinical excellence and leadership potential.