Orthoptist

An Orthoptist diagnoses and treats a range of eye disorders. You might examine patients and assess the extent of visual impairment. Orthoptists may prepare a treatment plan including eye exercises, prescriptive lenses or other rehabilitative programs. You might specialise in a particular disorder or work with a range of eye problems.

Orthoptists should have strong interpersonal skills and excellent attention to detail. You’ll need to be able to communicate well with patients from a range of backgrounds and liaise with other health practitioners. Orthoptists require strong analytical skills and must be able to follow correct procedures.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $95,992
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a orthoptist?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced

Bachelor of Health Science
Blended, On Campus, Online
24 - 36 months
$0 - $97,200
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Public Health Officer Health Service Manager Health and Safety Manager
Bus Driver Renal Care Nurse Orthoptist Podiatrist Paediatric Occupational Therapist Paramedic Anatomist Sports Therapist Community Health Liaison Health Informatician Global Health Advisor Clinical Research Associate Community Nutritionist Vision Therapist Rehabilitation Consultant Clinical Facilitator Clinical Research Manager
+ 17 more

Bachelor of Medical Science
Blended, On Campus
3 years
$0 - $28,500
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Biomedical Researcher Hospital Scientist Medical Laboratory Scientist
Medical Researcher Medical Scientist Orthoptist Optometrist Embryologist Anaesthetist Surgeon Dermatologist Psychiatrist Paediatrician Cardiologist Radiation Therapist Neurophysiologist Clinical Physiologist Anatomist Clinical Researcher Medical Science Liaison IVF Specialist Cardiac Scientist Career Medical Officer (CMO) Gynaecologist Laboratory Scientist Clinical Laboratory Technician
+ 23 more

Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science)
On Campus
3 years
$0 - $24,330
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Biomedical Technician Biomedical Scientist Biomedical Researcher
Orthoptist Embryologist Paediatrician Neurophysiologist Anatomist
+ 5 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Biomedical Technician Biomedical Scientist Biomedical Researcher Orthoptist Embryologist Paediatrician Neurophysiologist Anatomist + 5 more

Bachelor of Vision Science
On Campus
3 years
$0 - $28,200
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Optometrist Ophthalmic Technician Vision Therapist
Optical Dispenser Orthoptist Pediatric Optometrist
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Optometrist Ophthalmic Technician Vision Therapist Optical Dispenser Orthoptist Pediatric Optometrist + 3 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Optical Dispenser

Optical Dispensers fit glasses and vision aids, prepare lenses, assist customers, and make adjustments while providing excellent service.

Avg yearly income $62,400
Skill level Advanced

Optometrist

An Optometrist assesses vision, prescribes lenses, diagnoses eye issues, and requires strong communication, attention to detail, and analytical skills.

Avg yearly income $117,520
Skill level Beginner

Ophthalmic Technician

Ophthalmic Technicians assist eye care professionals by performing eye tests, preparing patients, and aiding in diagnostic and surgical procedures.

Avg yearly income $65,104
Skill level Beginner

Pediatric Optometrist

A Paediatric Optometrist diagnoses and treats vision issues in children, conducts eye exams, and prescribes lenses to support visual health and development.

Avg yearly income $75,920
Skill level Advanced

Common questions

How much does an Orthoptist earn?

In Australia, a full time Orthoptist generally earns $1,846 per week ($95,992 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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What are the job opportunities for an Orthoptist?

This industry is expected to experience strong growth in employment numbers in coming years. There are currently 830 people working in this sector in Australia and many of them specialise as an Orthoptist. Orthoptists may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become an Orthoptist?

A Bachelor of Orthoptics is an ideal qualification if you’re interested in a career as an Orthoptist. You’ll cover a range of topics including eye anatomy and physiology, orthoptic practice, human biosciences, optics and refractive state, binocular vision, clinical anatomy and neurosciences, eye movement disorders and pharmacology.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

What does an Occupational Therapist do?

15th September 2022)

How to become a qualified Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist in Australia

23rd December 2024)

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023)

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