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Informatics & DesignOphthalmic Sciences
The Department of Ophthalmic Sciences is home to studies of dispensing opticians. It offers the Diploma in Opticianry (currently being phased out, having had its last intake in 2023) and the newly introduced 3-year Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc) in Opticianry.
What is Ophthalmic Sciences
Ophthalmic Sciences at CPUT focuses on training dispensing opticians within the more excellent eye care team. Working as a dispensing optician is a varied and multi-faceted career, which offers a balance between working with people and using modern scientific technology to benefit the patient. A dispensing optician analyses a written prescription from an ophthalmologist or optometrist and also considers the lifestyle and working environment of the patient. By taking accurate facial measurements, using sophisticated equipment, applying knowledge of ophthalmic lens materials and interpreting the prescription, the dispensing optician can order, manufacture and process ophthalmic lenses and produce devices to correct vision defects. The work also entails screening before visual examinations, adjusting and repairing spectacles and contact lens modifications. The good dispensing optician develops and maintains an enduring relationship with the patient, making the career rewarding and fulfilling.
Undergraduate qualification
Our qualifications aim to educate and train competent, responsible and accountable dispensing opticians for the ophthalmic industry. The course addresses the needs of the industry for qualified dispensing opticians with relevant qualifications that are recognised both nationally and internationally. Dispensing opticians are required to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Our Diploma: Opticianry and BHSc: Opticianry are 3-year qualifications comprised of a balance of theory and practical training. Although the theory offering is multimodal, with some modules offered remotely, it is mainly covered via face-to-face teaching and learning. Practical teaching and assessment blocks are scheduled for each year group.
Diploma: Opticianry
Industry placement for Work-integrated Learning is required in the third and final year of the course, during which time students will compile a patient case portfolio.
BHSc: Opticianry
Various forms of Work-integrated learning take place throughout the course, during which students compile a patient case portfolio.
Career Prospects, Minimum Entrance Requirements, Additional Admission Requirements and RPL
Career Prospects
A dispensing optician registers with the HPCSA as an Independent Practitioner and may set up their own ophthalmic dispensing practice. Opticians may work in the private or public healthcare sector or the wholesale industry in optical laboratories.
The registered dispensing optician has several exciting opportunities available to them, including:
- Ophthalmic lens laboratories
- Optical industry representatives
- Private optometry/ opticianry or ophthalmology practice
- Public sector hospitals
- Dedicated private sector eye clinics
- Educational institutions
International demand for trained dispensing opticians is increasing, with several graduates working abroad.
What kind of person will enjoy this field of study?
The dispensing optician should enjoy working with their hands as well as with people. A strong desire to help people, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a curiosity towards ever-changing optical technologies drive success in this career. The job requires excellent communication skills, accuracy and attention to detail, and potential applicants should possess these qualities. A prospective student interested in the medical sciences, optical technology and design would find this qualification most interesting and rewarding. A student who embraces a neat appearance and good personal hygiene and loves working and interacting with people is essential for the dental assistant student as a member of the oral health team who will work closely with patients in a clinical setting.
Fees
Details on the cost of fees can be obtained below
Minimum Entrance Requirements
| APS Score | English (HL or FAL) | Maths | or Maths Lit | Life Science | Physical Science | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma: Opticianry | 28+ | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 |
| BHSc Opticianry | 32+ | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
Additional admission requirements
All students who meet the minimum entrance requirements will be invited to a digital interview.