Optometry
and Vision Science
Handbook
PROFESSOR STEVEN DAKIN
Head, School of Optometry and Vision Science
Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences
The University of Auckland
While the study of optometry has a professional
focus, we also provide you with a strong
foundation in basic and health science. These
skills will enable you to keep up with the
expanding role of optometry in providing lifelong
eye health and vision care to the community.
A particular strength of our programme is its
emphasis on inter-professional engagement
using our links with allied clinical disciplines
such as pharmacy and ophthalmology. Our
students undertake extensive “work-integrated”
learning in private practice, hospital clinics
and through our student-led vision screening
programme in greater Auckland schools.
The School of Optometry and Vision Science
occupies a modern space (overlooking the
Auckland Domain) incorporating its own Eye
Clinic, teaching laboratories (including a virtual
reality simulation suite) and state-of-the-art
research facilities.
As the only optometry School in New Zealand, we are unique in offering a Bachelor’s degree that allows our
graduates to practise optometry in New Zealand and Australia. We offer a blend of innovative teaching, in
the context of cutting-edge clinical practice, supported by internationally recognised translational research.
A warm welcome to the
School of Optometry
and Vision Science
Whether you are a student starting out in our
BOptom programme or are entering one of our
postgraduate programmes, I wish you every
success in your endeavours. My staff and I
assure you that we will provide you with the
support you need to achieve your goals.
Ngā mihi
Optometry as a career 4
Māori and Pacific students and optometry 5
School of Optometry and Vision Science 6
Undergraduate study
Admission pathways 7
Programme information 8
Course prescriptions 10
Important information for undergraduates 13
Scholarships and prizes 16
Postgraduate study
Postgraduate study 17
Postgraduate programme pathways 18
Staff list 19
Dates to remember 22
Contents
Optometry as a career
As a primary health care professional, an
optometrist is specifically educated and
clinically trained to examine the eyes and
the integrity of the visual pathways, to
diagnose vision problems or impairments,
and to prescribe and provide treatment. After
thorough examination, often using advanced
instruments, the optometrist must make
appropriate diagnoses and decide how various
defects should be remedied, managed and
treated. Optometrists work with other health
professionals including general medical
practitioners and ophthalmologists to ensure
the best eye and vision health outcomes.
With the current emphasis on good health
and disease prevention, and the increased
demands for vision care made by an ageing
population, there is a continuing need for highly
qualified optometrists, particularly away from
major population centres. Optometrists must
be able to communicate easily and effectively,
particularly when providing special services to
children, the elderly and the partially sighted.
Students considering optometry as a career
should possess a genuine desire to help people.
Optometry offers the opportunity to join a
profession that is both personally challenging
and financially rewarding. The majority of
optometrists enter private practice. This
offers favourable working conditions, regular
hours without excessive emergency calls, the
freedom to choose where to live and practise
and the opportunity to concentrate on clinical
areas of particular interest. Optometrists
may also practise in hospitals and clinics, or
pursue careers in research and in the industry.
Opportunities also exist for those wishing to
undertake postgraduate education, research
and teaching, not only in New Zealand but also
at overseas universities.
Completion of the University of Auckland
BOptom programme enables graduates
to apply for registration to practise as an
optometrist in New Zealand, Australia and
Malaysia. In the United Kingdom, additional
examinations must be completed before
full registration can be gained. If you wish to
practise in other countries, including Canada
and the USA, you need to enquire with each
country’s Optometry Registration Board about
their specific registration requirements.
New Zealand graduates
The qualification required for registration in
New Zealand as an Optometrist is the Bachelor
of Optometry (BOptom) degree from Auckland.
From the time that students pass the final
examinations in the BOptom programme until
they have their degree conferred, students
must hold a Provisional Registration certificate
before they may engage in optometric practice.
To apply for provisional registration, the
NZ Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians
Registration Board requires an official academic
transcript from the University. This must be
applied for online through Student Services
Online (SSO).
Overseas graduates
Optometrists who have completed their
optometry degree overseas should contact
the New Zealand Optometrists and Dispensing
Opticians Registration Board to enquire about
eligibility of their qualification as being suitable
for registration in New Zealand. Currently it is
possible for optometrists with certain overseas
degrees in optometry to sit the competency
examinations conducted by the Optometry
Council of Australia and New Zealand. Those
completing this examination are eligible
to apply for registration to practise in New
Zealand. Alternatively, overseas optometrists
may complete the five-year BOptom degree at
Auckland. If entry into the Auckland BOptom
programme is granted, credit may be given for
previous study.
www.odob.health.nz
www.ocanz.org
New Zealand Postgraduate Diplomas,
Masters or PhD qualifications in optometry
or in vision science are not accepted for
registration as an Optometrist in New
Zealand.
At the University of Auckland,
you’re taught by world-renowned
staff and researchers who are
passionate about teaching their
students and ensuring they
succeed.
“The combination of cutting-edge
technology, teaching staff and
clinical experience means you are
ready to join the workforce and
make a real difference from day
one.
Gabriel Lobo is studying for a
Bachelor of Optometry
GABRIEL
LOBO
Student: Bachelor of
Optometry
Māori and Pacific
students and optometry
As primary-care health professionals,
Optometrists have the opportunity to develop
close links and improve vision-based health
outcomes with their communities. However,
in the most recent Health Workforce Survey,
the proportion of practicing optometrists
who identified as Māori (%) and Pacific
optometrists (.%) was well below their
representation in the New Zealand population.
Vision is the Faculty of Medical and
Health Sciences’ commitment to increasing the
number of Māori and Pacific health professionals
to % of the health workforce by the year
. Vision has three components, the
Māori and Pacific Admission Scheme (MAPAS),
Hikitia te Ora - Certificate in Health Sciences,
and Whakapiki Ake Project, a recruitment
programme that actively engages with rangatahi
Māori enrolled in secondary schools to promote
health as a career. Vision is coordinated
by Te Kupenga Hauora Māori.
Te Kupenga Hauora Māori (TKHM) promotes the
aims of Vision and coordinates teaching
in Māori health across the Faculty of Medical
and Health Sciences and externally, spanning
foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate
education. There is also a focus on building
capacity and developing appropriate teaching
practices in Māori health throughout the Faculty
of Medical and Health Sciences.
With an intake of only students
per year, the School of Optometry and
Vision Science supports the principles of
whakawhanaungatanga within the Bachelor
of Optometry programme, encouraging a
collaborative, relationship-based learning
environment between students and staff.
Māori and Pacific
Admission Scheme
(MAPAS)
MAPAS is a programme that provides admission,
academic and pastoral support for Māori and
Pacific students who are studying within the
Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. The
goal of MAPAS is to support the transition and
retention of MAPAS students while on their
cultural and academic journey, helping them to
successfully complete and graduate from the
Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences (FMHS).
Students applying for the MAPAS programme
must have verified evidence of an indigenous
New Zealand Māori or Pacific whakapapa/
ancestry, be a citizen or permanent resident of
New Zealand, and have applied for entry into a
FMHS programme.
Details of the MAPAS programme can be found
at: www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz/mapas
He Rau Aroha Scholarships
The University offers two He Rau Aroha
scholarships of $, per annum each
to Māori and Pacific Island students (New
Zealand citizens or permanent residents)
enrolled in the Bachelor of Optometry through
the MAPAS programme. The awards are made
based on academic merit, leadership qualities
and financial needs, and are awarded for the
duration of the programme. Further information
regarding eligibility can be found on the MAPAS
programme pages linked above.
There is currently an under-
representation of Māori
optometrists in the profession.
Māori are more susceptible to
ocular diseases such as diabetic
retinopathy which can be
prevented with early detection and
treatment.
I have always had a passion for
helping others, and I hope by
becoming an optometrist, I can
work towards reducing these
inequities to achieve better visual
health outcomes in New Zealand.
Tiana Williamson (Ngāti
Kahungunu) is studying for a
Bachelor of Optometry
TIANA
WILLIAMSON
Student: Bachelor of
Optometry
5
“I hope by becoming an
optometrist, I can
work towards reducing
inequities to achieve better
visual health outcomes in
New Zealand.”
What captures me about optometry
is the incredible phenomenon of
sight. However, vision science
is much more fun and complex
than just prescribing glasses! We
cover concepts from eye diseases
to colour vision, paediatrics to
myopia control - to name a few.
A highlight of my study was a
Summer Research Scholarship
I did with the Department of
Ophthalmology. This opportunity
was a unique and fun learning
experience which got me more
interested in research through the
first-hand experience of all that
goes into it. Writing up reports,
learning practical skills, and the
chance to work with experts in
research broadened my knowledge.
There is a wide range of projects
each year,and I highly recommend
anybody interested to apply for
one.
I’m particularly interested in the
improvement of health outcomes
through advances in technology.
I want to practice in a rural area
helping to improve the quality of
and access to eye healthcare for
New Zealanders.
Michelle Tiang is studying for a
Bachelor of Optometry
MICHELLE
TIANG
Student: Bachelor of
Optometry
School of Optometry
and Vision Science
The School of Optometry and Vision Science
is responsible for conducting the five-year
Bachelor of Optometry (BOptom) programme
and postgraduate programmes leading to the
degrees of:
• Master of Scien ce (MSc)
• Master of Health Science (MHSc)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
in Optometry
Contact details
The School of Optometry and Vision Science is
located in Building , Level
The University of Auckland
Grafton Campus
Park Road
Grafton
Auckland
Mail can be directed to:
School of Optometry and Vision Science
Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences
The University of Auckland
Private Bag
Auckland , New Zealand
Phone: +
Email: manager[email protected]c.nz
Website: www.optometry.auckland.ac.nz
Facilities
In addition to excellent teaching and laboratory
facilities, the Grafton Campus houses clinical
teaching facilities. These provide an ideal
environment for training students in the final
two years of the Bachelor of Optometry degree.
Students are given the opportunity of not only
using the latest optometric equipment, but
also gaining hands-on experience in the use of
advanced imaging techniques that have become
a standard part of patient examinations and
report preparation.
The major role of the Optometry Clinic is to
provide a wide range of patient experience as
part of the teaching of senior undergraduate
students. Students work under the supervision
of registered optometrists and carry out a wide
range of vision and eye care examinations.
It is important for students to examine as
wide a range of patients as possible to enable
them to develop their clinical judgment and
management skills. This may mean prescribing
spectacles, contact lenses or low vision aids;
managing eye diseases with both topical and
oral medicines; treating eye disorders with
exercises or giving advice on lighting and screen
based equipment. The dry eye Clinic uses
state-of-the-art technology and techniques
to diagnose and manage dry eye according to
the latest research. We offer a comprehensive
evaluation of the tear film and the lipid glands
to determine the exact cause of the dry eye,
and offer a tailored treatment plan including
Blephasteam, BlephEx, Lipiflow and E-Eye
IPL. Where necessary, patients are referred to
medical practitioners.
The Optometry Clinic is a “teaching
laboratory”, and in addition to observing
the ethical guidelines for clinical teaching,
students must maintain a high standard of
dress and behaviour.
Reflecting the importance of clinical training for
optometry students, the University of Auckland
provides examination and four specialist
consulting rooms. Patients include staff and
students of the University as well as members
of the general public. Additional valuable
experience is gained by attending the Eye
Department at the Greenlane Clinical Centre of
the Auckland District Health Board, Waitakere
Hospital, and other ophthalmology practices.
During their final year, students are expected
to spend time in an approved practicum
location which might include optometric
practices, optometry schools, hospitals or other
institutions in New Zealand and overseas.
How We See: General
Education course (OPTOM
G)
This course allows students engaged in degrees
other than the BOptom to gain an understanding
of how vision works. This includes the
physiology of the visual system, the subjective
nature of perception, issues faced by those who
lose vision, and even what art can reveal about
our visual experience of the world. This course is
also available to non-degree students wishing to
take it as a stand-alone certificate of proficiency.
For more information on General Education
courses and degree requirements see the Open
Schedule at:
www.auckland.ac.nz/general-education
6
New Zealand and
Australian Citizens and
Permanent Residents
Entry to Part II of the programme is limited.
Applications close October for
places. Applicants are considered through one
of two entry pathways: the undergraduate entry
pathway or the graduate entry pathway.
www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz/boptom
Undergraduate entry pathway
This pathway is open to applicants who are New
Zealand citizens, or have permanent resident
status, and who have completed the following
six pre-requisite courses at the University of
Auckland. These courses are usually taken within
the Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science)
programme:
BIOSCI 101
Life! Origins and Mechanisms
Semester Two
BIOSCI 106
Foundations of Biochemistry
Semester Two
BIOSCI 107
Biology for Biomedical Science: Cellular
Processes and Development
Semester One
CHEM 110
Chemistry of the Living World
Semester One
MEDSCI 142
Biology for Biomedical Science: Organ Systems
Semester Two
PHYSICS 160
Physics for the Life Sciences
Semester Two
POPLHLTH 111
Biology for Biomedical Science: Cellular
Processes and Development
Semester One
In addition to the seven prerequisite Year One
courses, students must enrol in a -point
General Education course.
It is currently possible to undertake an
equivalent first year at Otago University by
completing their Health Sciences First Year
Programme. The required Otago papers are:
BIOC , CELS , CHEM , POPH ,
HUBS , HUBS and PHSI .
Other New Zealand universities do not currently
offer equivalent courses at first year level.
Selection process
Applicants through this entry pathway will be
ranked on their GPA/GPE equivalents across
the seven prerequisite courses. Interviews will
be required and will be offered to those who
meet the minimum requirements. These will be
conducted in late November. Selection is based
on both the GPA/GPE and the interview outcome.
It is usual for the University to receive application
numbers considerably in excess of the number
of places so selection is very competitive. The
current Grade Point Average for successful
applicants is at least .. Therefore, students
enrolling in the first year Biomedical Science
programme will need to achieve high grades to
be considered for entry to the BOptom.
Graduate entry pathway
This pathway is available for graduates with
bachelor’s degrees. Please consult the Faculty of
Medical and Health Sciences Student Centre for
details of preferred degrees (usually science-
based) and for advice if your degree is not recent.
www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz/student-centre
Selection process
Interviews will be required and offered to those
who meet the minimum requirement. These will
be conducted in late November. Selection is
based on both the GPA/GPE and the interview
outcome.
Māori and Pacific
Admission Scheme
(MAPAS)
Applicants eligible under this scheme must
complete the first year of the Bachelor of
Science (Biomedical Science) degree at the
University of Auckland or equivalent from
the University of Otago, or have completed a
bachelor’s degree and apply as a graduate.
An interview is required which will assess
personal attributes considered to be important
for a career in optometry.
• First year BSc (Biomedical Science) and
Alternative Admission applicants applying
for entry in the Bachelor of Optometry under
MAPAS will be required to attend a MAPAS
Optometry Interview in November.
• The MAPAS Optometry Interview will
assess each candidate using six domains –
academic, whānau/family, culture, problem
solving, awareness and knowledge of MAPAS.
This interview will be with a MAPAS academic
representative.
• Following confirmation of their MAPAS
eligibility, applicants’ academic records will
be subject to consideration by the Optometry
Admissions Committee.
www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz/mapas
Regional/Rural Admission
Scheme
Students wishing to apply under the Regional/
Rural Entry category must provide evidence of
their regional/rural origin as specified at:
www.fmhs.auckland.ac.nz/rras
Credit and concessions
for students entering the
BOptom
Please refer to the credit regulations in the
University of Auckland Calendar:
• If you are transferring from another New
Zealand university
• If you have undertaken previous study at
Auckland and apply for credit at the time of
enrolment
If you are an international student, credit will be
assessed and granted at time of admission.
General admission enquiries
Email: [email protected]
International students
The Bachelor of Optometry degree is
available to overseas students who meet the
criteria set by the University of Auckland.
Applications are considered throughout the
year up until the application deadline of
October, and offers of places can be through
either the undergraduate or graduate entry
pathways.
For more information students should
contact:
Email: [email protected]
Undergraduate programme:
admission pathways
Overview of the Bachelor
of Optometry
The Bachelor of Optometry programme is a set
programme that consists of five years of full-
time undergraduate study at the University of
Auckland in consecutive years.
The first year, Part I, comprises the seven
prerequisite courses from the Bachelor of
Science (Biomedical Science) first year and
the points of other courses detailed
below. Details about the Bachelor of Science
(Biomedical Science) first year can be found at:
www.science.auckland.ac.nz/biomedsci-ug
Parts II and III of the programme contain a
mixture of courses in applicable life sciences
and vision science and the basic optometric
sciences.
Parts IV and V of the programme are largely
devoted to clinical practice, including
comprehensive eye examinations, clinics in eye
disease, contact lens fitting, problems of the
partially sighted, colour vision assessment and
binocular vision problems.
The BOptom degree may be awarded with
Honours where a student’s grades for Parts
III, IV and V are sufficiently high. There are two
classes of honours: First Class Honours and
Second Class Honours. Second Class Honours
are awarded in either First Division or Second
Division.
Important BOptom regulations
(see the University Calendar)
The BOptom programme has a fixed schedule
of courses. When you enrol for any Part of the
Programme, you should enrol for all the courses
listed under that Part, as listed in the Bachelor of
Optometry Schedule..
Each Part must normally be completed before
the next Part may be taken. However a student
who has failed to pass one of those Parts in its
entirety may be allowed, at the discretion of
Senate or its representative, to enrol for the
course or courses needed to complete that Part
together with a course(s) towards the next Part.
The BOptom degree must be pursued in
consecutive semesters. Interrupted study may
be resumed only with the approval of, and on
conditions set by, Senate or its representative.
Points structure
The Bachelor of Optometry is a five year degree
( points). The courses completed under
Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science)
prior to selection for Part II of the degree are
transferred to the BOptom if you are selected.
These form all of Part I if you have completed
points.
A student must pass a total of points
(including the required number of points in
General Education Courses if applicable) over
the entire BOptom programme to graduate with
a BOptom degree.
Undergraduate
programme information
I initially chose optometry because
I wanted to contribute to the health
of the community, and science was
my passion. Little did I know that
optometry was more than selling
glasses. It involves diagnosing,
preventing and treating diseases that
can cause blindness.
To be able to give someone the gift of
sight or prevent blindness is incredibly
rewarding for an optometrist and is
truly life-changing for our patients.
“Coming from a rural
background, I understand
the struggles of
reduced accessibility to
healthcare”
Coming from a rural background, I
understand the struggles of reduced
accessibility to healthcare as well as
the rewards from living in a peaceful
paradise with the local community. I
strongly encourage students like me
from rural backgrounds to get involved
in optometry and be open to returning
to practice in local communities.
Jasmine Feng is in her 5th year,
studying a Bachelor of Optometry
The University of Auckland academic year
consists of two semesters. Most courses are
run over both semesters and are labelled A
& B accordingly. To complete these double
semester courses, students must enrol in
both A & B courses.
BOptom Part I
On entering Part II of the degree, a student must
have taken or have been credited points of
courses as follows:
BIOSCI 101 pts
Life! Origins and Mechanisms
BIOSCI 106 pts
Foundations of Biochemistry
BIOSCI 107 pts
Biology for Biomedical Science:
Cellular Processes and Development
CHEM 110 pts
Chemistry of the Living World
MEDSCI 142 pts
Biology for Biomedical Science: Organ Systems
PHYSICS 160 pts
Physics for the Life Sciences
POPHLTH 111 pts
Biology for Biomedical Science:
Cellular Processes and Development
plus
• points from General Education courses
listed in the Open or EMHSS Schedules
Students in the BOptom programme cannot
choose OPTOM G: How We See as their
General Education course.
BOptom Part II
A student must take all of the following courses:
OPTOM 216 A & B pts
Introduction to Optometry
Semester One and Two
OPTOM 263 A & B pts
Essential Optics
Semester One and Two
OPTOM 272 A & B pts
Visual Science : Structure and Function of the
Visual System
Semester One and Semester Two
MEDSCI 203 pts
Mechanisms of Disease
Semester One
BOptom Part III
A student must take all of the following courses:
OPTOM 316 A & B pts
Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 345 A & B pts
Principles of Ocular Pharmacology
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 353 A & B pts
Ocular Pathology
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 375 A & B pts
Visual Science
Semester One and Semester Two
MEDSCI 202 pts
Microbiology and Immunology
Semester One
BOptom Part IV
A student must take all of the following courses:
OPTOM 416 A & B pts
Clinical Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 430 A & B pts
Contact Lens Practice
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 442 A & B pts
Optometry for Special Populations
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 450 A & B pts
Diseases of the Eye and Visual System:
Diagnosis and Management
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 783 A & B pts
Research Project in Vision Science
Semester One and Semester Two
BOptom Part V
A student must take all of the following courses:
OPTOM 510 A & B pts
Advanced Clinical Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 520 A & B pts
Advanced Clinical Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
OPTOM 561 A & B pts
Optometry in Practice
Semester One and Semester Two
JASMINE
FENG
Student: Bachelor of Optometry
Bachelor of
Optometry Part II
OPTOM A & B pts
Introduction to Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
A clinically-focused course introducing
students to optometric practice and
addressing, at an introductory level, the
ethical, cultural, theoretical and clinical
aspects of the optometric examination.
Topics covered include: preliminary tests from
the eye examination, communication skills
and clinical problem solving. The course will
emphasise assessment, utilising advanced
equipment and the production of clinically
relevant outcomes and diagnosis-supportive
hypotheses.
Course Coordinators: Dr Ehsan Vaghefi and
Dr Phil Turnbull
OPTOM A & B pts
Essential Optics
Semester One and Semester Two
An introduction to optics relevant to
optometry and necessary to understand
the optical performance of the eye, the
design of ophthalmic lens applications,
and the principles of operation of clinical
instrumentation. Topics include: the basic
principles of physical optics, the principles of
image formation by lenses and lens systems
mirrors and prisms, optics of the eye, ocular
ametropia and aberrations.
Restriction: OPTOM , ,
Course Coordinators: Dr Ehsan Vaghefi and
Dr Jason Turuwhenua
OPTOM A & B pts
Visual Science : Structure and
Function of the Visual System
Semester One and Semester Two
Anatomy and physiology of the eye and
visual pathway covering topics ranging
from the composition and structure of the
tear film through to neural processing in
the visual cortex. Aspects of visual function
including spatial and temporal vision, motion
perception and colour vision.
Investigation of visual perception using
psychophysical and electrophysiological
techniques.
Restriction: OPTOM , ,
Course Coordinator: Dr Monica Acosta
MEDSCI pts
Mechanisms of Disease
Semester One
Outlines the basic mechanisms, operating at
the molecular, cellular and tissue levels, by
which human disease develops. These include
genetic factors, cell injury, inflammation,
repair, circulatory disturbances, and
neoplastic change. These mechanisms are
illustrated by descriptions of the pathogenesis
of specific diseases that are relevant to the
New Zealand situation, or are the focus of
current biomedical research.
Prerequisite: BIOSCI , MEDSCI
Course Coordinator: Dr Graeme Finlay
Please note: Students who have passed any
of the above courses prior to the entry into
BOptom, must cross credit, reassign or credit
the course to BOptom. Students may be
required to take an alternative course – please
consult the faculty Student Centre for details.
Bachelor of
Optometry Part III
OPTOM A & B pts
Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
An integrative approach to the scope of
optometric practice, addressing both the
theoretical basis and clinical practice of
the optometric examination, correction of
refractive error and dispensing of optical
appliances. Topics covered include:
visual acuity, visual fields, colour vision,
biomicroscopy, ophthalmoscopy, refractive
examination, binocular examination, optical
correction, lens materials and coatings,
history taking, communication skills and
clinical problem solving.
Restriction: OPTOM , , , ,
, ,
Course Coordinator: Melinda Calderwood
OPTOM A & B pts
Principles of Ocular Pharmacology:
General Principles of Pharmacology
Semester One and Semester Two
General principles of pharmacology.
Pharmacodynamics. Drug absorption,
distribution and metabolism. Mechanism
of drug action at receptors. Drugs and their
application on ophthalmic practice. The
autonomic nervous system: anatomy and
physiology. Mechanisms of action of ocular
pharmaceutical agents.
Principles of pharmacological treatment
of ocular disease. Drug interactions.
Legislation on use of ocular pharmaceutical
agents by optometrists in New Zealand and
internationally. Introduction to therapeutic
agents in optometric practice. Scope of
treatment. Shared care.
Prerequisite: OPTOM
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinators: Dr John Phillips
and Dr Bruce Russell
OPTOM A & B pts
Ocular Pathology
Semester One and Semester Two
Pathophysiology of the eye. Histopathology
of eye disease. Pathology of orbit, lacrimal
system, conjunctiva, cornea, uvea, lens and
retina. Developmental anomalies of the eye.
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinator: Dr John Phillips
OPTOM A & B pts
Visual Science
Semester One and Semester Two
To provide an understanding of visual
information processing in the human brain.
In particular the cortical processing of shape,
motion and colour, and development of the
visual cortex will be addressed. A problem-
oriented approach will develop critical
thinking and problem solving skills. Students
will acquire the ability to seek, evaluate and
retrieve scientific information on which to
base their clinical practice.
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinator: Dr Misha Vorobyev
Undergraduate course prescriptions
MEDSCI pts
Microbiology and Immunology
Semester One
An introduction to the nature and roles of
bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites as
the causative agents of human disease.
Topics include: the defence mechanisms
of the body, the immune system including
autoimmunity and allergy, Control of disease
by antimicrobials, sterilisation, disinfection,
and sterile manufacturing practice.
Prerequisite: BIOSCI , MEDSCI
Restriction: OPTOM , PHARMACY
Course Coordinator:
Associate Professor Geoffrey Krissansen
Bachelor of Optometry
Part IV
OPTOM A & B pts
Clinical Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
Facilitates the transition from student to
professional optometrist. Topics addressed
include: structuring the routine optometric
examination in a clinical setting, diagnosis
and management of disorders of the visual
system, case analysis, myopia control, visual
ergonomics, vision screening, and visual
standards. This course culminates in students
examining and managing clients in the public
University Clinics under supervision.
Restriction: OPTOM ,
Course Coordinator: Bhav Solanki
OPTOM A & B pts
Contact Lens Practice
Semester One and Semester Two
Principles of contact lens fitting and clinical
procedures used in contact lens practice.
Topics include: current designs of contact
lenses, soft and rigid materials used in
contact lens manufacture, contact lens
optics and verification techniques, contact
lens fitting, patient contact lens care, and
complications associated with contact lens
wear.
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinator: Dr Wanda Lam
OPTOM A & B pts
Optometry for Special Populations
Semester One and Semester Two
An advanced clinical course including
consideration of clinical examination,
diagnosis and management of visual
disorders specific to children, adults with
binocular vision abnormalities, or those with
visual impairment with a focus on the older
population. Topics include: developmental
aspects and assessment of infants/children,
investigation and management of binocular
eye-movement disorders; and diagnosis and
management of vision problems in visually
impaired patients including electronic, optical
and non-optical low vision appliances.
Restriction: OPTOM , ,
Course Coordinator: Dr Joanna Black
OPTOM A & B pts
Diseases of the Eye and Visual System:
Diagnosis and Management
Semester One and Semester Two
Signs, symptoms and diagnosis of diseases
of the eye, ocular adnexa and visual system,
including neurological dysfunction and signs
of systemic disease. Management of diseases
of eye, ocular adnexa and visual system,
including the use of therapeutic agents.
Indications, contraindications and side effects
of therapeutic agents for the treatment of
ocular disease.
Restriction: OPTOM , ,
Course Coordinator: Dr Andrew Collins
OPTOM A & B pts
Research Project in Vision Science
Semester One and Semester Two
Supervised research that represents the
personal scholarly work of a student based on
a coherent inquiry at an advanced level into
an approved topic related to vision science.
Restriction: OPTOM , , ,
Course Coordinator: Dr Monica Acosta
Bachelor of Optometry
Part V
OPTOM A & B pts
Advanced Clinical Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
Clinical work with responsibility, under
supervision, for patients.
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinator: John McLennan
OPTOM A & B pts
Advanced Clinical Optometry
Semester One and Semester Two
Clinical work with greater emphasis on
particular areas in optometry including:
contact lenses, low vision, binocular
vision, paediatric optometry and practice
management.
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinator: Michelle O’Hanlon
OPTOM A & B pts
Optometry in Practice
Semester One and Semester Two
Advanced clinical work experience in
locations external to the Grafton Campus
Optometry Clinic. These locations may include
University satellite clinics, private optometry
practices, hospital eye departments,
private ophthalmology practices, overseas
institutions, or other approved locations.
Topics include; therapeutic management of
eye disease, legislation relevant to healthcare
including registration and competency,
occupational safety and health, ethics, practice
management, small business management.
Restriction: OPTOM
Course Coordinator: Dr Geraint Phillips
Undergraduate course prescriptions
Research looking at visual illusions
and consciousness is essential for
understanding some of the more
fundamental aspects of what it is
“like” to be a human. Some questions
that appear simple, like “How does
our brain make visual judgments
about size?” and “How does our brain
use visual information to perform a
movement?” are enormously complex
problems and subjects of heated
debate in the scientific community.
I chose to do my PhD at the School of
Optometry and Vision Science because
I have an opportunity to help answer
some of these questions.
Poutasi W. B. Urale is a PhD
candidate in Optometry and Vision
Science.
POUTASI W. B.
URALE
PhD in Optometry
“Doing your PhD can keep
you busy. Studying here
has been great - I’ve been
able to maintain a work-
life balance”
Additional costs
(equipment, instruments,
insurance and books)
The total cost of pursuing the Bachelor of
Optometry will be more than the tuition
and student service fees. Additional costs
include the purchase of essential equipment,
instruments and prescribed texts and for Part
V students, potential costs associated with
travelling to off-site placement and externship
locations. Current estimates of these additional
costs are as follows:
Optometry Part II $
Optometry Part III $
Optometry Part IV $
Optometry Part V $
For Parts IV and V, there is also Professional
Indemnity (PI) insurance at a per annum cost
of approximately $ to $ and Professional
Association Fees of approximately $.
In addition, students should budget for personal
photocopying, stationery and other books.
These costs can be from around $ per year.
Clinical practice
requirements
Students entering Parts IV and V of the BOptom
will be issued with: Clinic Procedures Manual,
Electronic Health Records System Manual and
the Guide to Clinical Assessment manual. All
students must agree to read these manuals before
commencing duties in any optometry clinic.
Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance is viewed
as the responsibility of students about to enter
the optometry profession and is compulsory
before students enter the clinic. Continuity
of PI insurance is essential for responsible
professionals. Accordingly, arrangements have
been made to enable students to become
members of the New Zealand Association
of Optometrists Inc. (NZAO) and obtain PI
insurance through this professional association.
The forms for student membership of NZAO and
Professional Indemnity (Malpractice) Insurance
will be made available to students prior to their
entering clinic.
Students undertaking an externship in another
country must have appropriate Professional
Indemnity Insurance arrangements in place well
before leaving New Zealand.
Identity Check, Police
Vetting, Vulnerable
Children Act and
Confidentiality Agreement
The Vulnerable Children’s Act requires
students who will work with children during their
studies to undergo identity checks and police
clearance, as well as an interview. Questions
relating to working with children are asked as
part of the applicant interview and identity-
checking process. When students are invited to
the interview process, they are asked to provide
the names of referees. If students are offered a
place in the Bachelor of Optometry, the referees
will be asked to complete an online form by
early January.
During Part IV, well in advance of entering Part
V, it is necessary for students to undergo an
identity check and have the police clearance
renewed. Students must also agree to maintain
the confidentiality of patient information.
. In addition to identity and police checks,
the Vulnerable Children Act requires
students who will work with children during
their studies to be interviewed. Questions
relating to working with children are asked
Important information
for undergraduates
as part of the applicant interview and
identity checking process. When students
are invited to the interview process, they
are asked to provide the names of referees.
If students are offered a place in the
Bachelor of Optometry, the referees will be
asked to complete an online form by early
January.
. The identity check requires two kinds of
identification. The primary ID document
must be either a passport or an original
birth certificate. Examples of the other
form of ID include a driver’s licence or an
+ card. At least one of the forms of ID
must include a photograph. If students
have changed their name (e.g., by deed
poll or marriage) evidence of this must be
provided.
. Faculty staff will obtain the police
clearance check for students. Consent
forms for these processes need to be
completed by students and returned to
the school.
. A signed confidentiality agreement
covering patient information is required to
be submitted.
Immunisation and
transmission of infectious
diseases
As an optometry student, and later as an
optometrist, you will be exposed to infection,
especially when you have close contact
with patients. A compulsory immunisation
programme is carried out prior to you entering
the clinic in Part III.
As you will be undertaking hospital placements
the University of Auckland requires all students
to have maximum cover from disease, to
protect yourself and patients with whom you
may come into contact. All students must be
adequately protected against measles, mumps,
rubella, pertussis, varicella zoster and hepatitis
B. You will also be required to ascertain your
tuberculosis status. To ascertain immunity and
infection status, blood tests will be carried out.
The testing costs will be met by the faculty
if they are conducted through the University
Health Services. For those found to have
negative immunity, vaccination will be required
and you will need to arrange and pay this cost.
Note that positive tuberculosis results may
require further investigation.
All the test results (including post vaccination
results) will be collated on the Immunisation
Status Report Form and provided to you. You
will then need to submit the completed form to
the school.
It is also recommended that students should
review immunisations against diphtheria,
tetanus and poliomyelitis. It will be helpful to
show evidence of the immunisations you have
previously had from your doctor so the details
can be ascertained and incorporated.
Students are strongly advised to obtain an
annual influenza vaccine which is provided free
for students in Part III or higher.
For assistance with any immunisation matters
please contact:
Grafton Campus
University Health and Counselling Services
Phone: +
Please ascertain from your parents or doctor
which immunisations you have had. This will
help to determine which immunisations you will
require now or in the future.
Fitness to practise
The Health Practitioners Competence Assurance
Act () places an obligation on the provider
of the educational programme to notify the
appropriate registration board of any student who
is completing their course and who is deemed
to be unable to perform the functions required
for the practice of the relevant profession due to
Fitness to Practice considerations.
The Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences
has a Code of Fitness to Practise that applies to
students in the health profession programmes
including the Bachelor of Optometry. The goal
of the policy and associated processes is to put
in place remedial or support mechanisms that
will enable the student to remain in the health
profession programme wherever possible, and
where the proposed remedial action does not
place the public, the student, or the University at
risk either as a student or following graduation.
At the commencement of their studies within
the professional programme, each student must
confirm their knowledge of the requirements of
the Code of Fitness to Practise.
More information is available at
www.auckland.ac.nz/fitness-to-practise
Students in Part IV and V work in our modern,
well-equipped clinic on campus, which
incorporates a display of historical optometric
equipment.
New Zealand Association
of Optometrists (NZAO)
Awards
New Zealand Association of
Optometrists Undergraduate Awards
Since , undergraduate scholarships known
as the New Zealand Association of Optometrists
Undergraduate Awards have been awarded
annually to students enrolled for the Bachelor of
Optometry Programme and ordinarily resident in
New Zealand.
• One Award of $, to be presented to the
top student entering BOptom Part III with the
highest aggregate mark in Part II whilst not
repeating Part II.
• Two Awards of $, – each one to be
presented to a student entering BOptom Part
IV. One Award will be made to the student
gaining the highest aggregate mark in Part III
whilst not repeating Part III, and one award
will be made to the student showing most
improvement during study for Part III whilst
not repeating Part III.
• Three Awards of $, – each one to be
presented to a student entering BOptom Part
V. Two awards will be made to the students
gaining the top two aggregate marks in Part
IV whilst not repeating Part IV, and one award
will be made to the student showing most
improvement during study for Part IV whilst
not repeating Part IV.
• One Award of $, to be presented to a
Māori/Pacific Island student entering BOptom
Part II. In the event of more than one Māori/
Pacific Island student entering BOptom Part
II, the award will go to the eligible student
gaining the highest GPA in the previous year.
• The Peg Wood Prize of $ – awarded to the
student who obtains the highest combined
grade in the course OPTOM Optometry
for Special Populations, of the Bachelor of
Optometry Programme.
No applications for the above awards are
necessary.
Other Awards
Dean's Medal
This award is made to a graduand who makes
an outstanding contribution to the academic
development of the faculty during their
optometry studies.
Senior Scholar
These $ awards are made by the University
Council, on the recommendation of the Head
of School of Optometry and Vision Science, to
students who are eligible to graduate with an
undergraduate degree and have achieved the
top GPAs over their last or more points of
their degree. To be eligible recipients must have
achieved a minimum GPA of . or at least an A-
average across their courses in Part V.
Anna Pritchard Prize for Optical
Dispensing
This award of $ (subject to approval) is
made to the student who achieves the highest
grade in optical dispensing in Part V.
Raymond Harry Hawkins Prize
This award is for the best project in Course
OPTOM to the value of $.
New Zealand College of Optometrists
(NZCO) Prize
This prize will be awarded annually to full-time
students achieving the highest marks for their
presentations in OPTOM . The prize will be
a maximum of $ to each member of the
winning group.
Excellence in Clinical Optometry Prize
This prize is funded by Mr Chee Seang Loh, an
alumnus of the BOptom and Honorary Teaching
Fellow. The $ prize is awarded to the student
achieving the highest GPA across the Part V
clinical courses.
The Buchanan Charitable Foundation
Research Project Prize (subject to
approval)
This prize of $, will be awarded annually
to the student achieving the highest mark in an
honours project in the area of public eye health
research.
Undergraduate
Scholarships
Summer Research
• New Zealand Optometric Vision Research
Foundation (NZOVRF) Scholarship
NZOVRF provides funds for local research
and vision care projects. Each year the
NZOVRF awards one summer studentship
of $,. To be eligible students must be
enrolled in a BSc, BSc (Hons), BTech, BOptom,
or GradDipSci, studying approved science
disciplines. Selection will take into account
the project, availability of an appropriate
supervisor over the summer period and the
student’s academic record. Applications close
early in September each year.
• Paul Dunlop Scholarship
The New Zealand Association of Optometrists
(NZAO) established a scholarship to recognise
Paul Dunlop’s dedication to the advancement
of Optometry and Vision Science Education
and Research. Applicants must be an NZAO
student member undertaking a summer
research project under supervision of the
School of Optometry and Vision Science.
Applications close at the end of August each
year. Value is $, stipend and $,
research expenses.
• Faculty summer scholarships
Each year the Faculty of Medical and Health
Science funds several summer scholarships.
Applications open in July and close mid-
August. Applicants must be completing at
least year two of an undergraduate degree,
have a Grade Point Average at or above and
have received no more than one previous
summer scholarship. Note: When funds allow
the School of Optometry and Vision Science
also offers one or two summer scholarships
to suitable students who were not awarded
another scholarship.
Undergraduate
scholarships and prizes
Postgraduate study
A variety of study options are available for new
BOptom graduates, practising optometrists
and vision scientists to gain postgraduate
qualifications in optometry and vision science.
The school encourages both new and less-
recent graduates to consider postgraduate
study as it provides an opportunity to gain
advanced knowledge in a specialised field. The
school’s postgraduate programmes are designed
to assist and enhance clinical, biomedical and
vision science research.
There are a number of active research groups
within the school undertaking leading-edge
clinical, biomedical and vision research. In
addition there are research study collaborations
with a number of specialist groups:
• New Zealand National Eye Centre
• Department of Ophthalmology
• School of Medical Sciences
• School of Biological Sciences
• Department of Physiology
• Department of Exercise Sciences
• Auckland Bioengineering Institute
• Liggins Institute
• Department of Psychology
Postgraduate study in the school offers:
• Outstanding clinical, biomedical and
psychophysical research facilities
• Leading researchers in various fields of
clinical, and biomedical and vision research
• Access to collaborators, equipment and
excellent facilities
If you are contemplating postgraduate study you
should consult with the school’s postgraduate
advisors about the options available to you.
They will work with you to design a programme
suitable to your personal needs and situation.
Note that study options can be undertaken
full-time or part-time and some programmes
allow primarily distance based study. This is an
attractive option for practising optometrists.
Postgraduate study does not lead to
registration (permission to practise) as an
optometrist in New Zealand.
Postgraduate Diploma
in Science (PGDipSci)
This is a one-year postgraduate programme
of study comprising a coherent set of courses.
BSc graduates, or those who have attained an
equivalent qualification approved by Senate,
are able to apply. The Postgraduate Diploma in
Science provides the opportunity to acquire a
postgraduate qualification in a specific subject.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Science requires
the student to pass at least points. The
personal programme of study of each student
must have the approval of the Head of School.
A student who successfully completes the
requirements for this diploma may apply for
entry to the Master of Science in Optometry,
providing the student meets the regulations
current at that time. One thesis year will be
required to complete the Master of Science in
Optometry.
Postgraduate study does not qualify graduates
to practise as optometrists in New Zealand
Master of Health Science
(MHSc)
This is a one year full-time/two years part-time
( points) programme open to New Zealand
registered optometrists who meet the MHSc
admission criteria and who hold a current
annual practising certificate. The programme
allows practising optometrists to undertake
advanced study in a chosen sub-specialist area,
e.g., advanced contact lens fitting, paediatric
optometry and binocular vision, low vision,
therapeutic management of eye diseases and
clinical application of myopia control.
Students are required to pass points from
OPTOM – OPTOM . Applicants must be
registered New Zealand optometrists.
Postgraduate study does not qualify graduates
to practise as optometrists in New Zealand.
Master of Science (MSc)
registered optometrists who meet the MHSc
admission criteria and who hold a current annual
practising certificate. Current areas of
research
available
include clinical optometry, anatomy
and physiology of the lens and retina, visual
psychophysics and ocular imaging.
Students are required to pass points: OPTOM
Msc thesis as part of the programme of
study.
Postgraduate study does not qualify graduates
to practise as optometrists in New Zealand.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD degree is generally accepted as the
appropriate qualification for a career in scientific
research or in academia. It consists of advanced
study and supervised research leading to the
presentation of a thesis. This thesis must be
an original contribution to knowledge and
meet recognised international standards of
scientific research. This course of study is
usually undertaken early in one’s research
career, following the attainment of a degree with
honours, a masters degree, or an equivalent
preliminary qualification.
The PhD statute governs this programme.
Each year students are required to enrol in and
pass points: OPTOM A & B Optometry
PhD Thesis.
Postgraduate study does not qualify graduates
to practise as optometrists in New Zealand.
Please refer to the current University
Calendar for full details of the admission
requirements for these postgraduate
programmes.
Postgraduate programme pathways
Bachelors degree
+ NZ Registration
as an optometrist
Bachelors degree
PGDipSci
120 pts
MSc (Research)
120 pts
PhD in Optometry
MHSc (Clinical)
120 pts
Bachelors degree
with 2nd Class Hons Div 2
or higher
Bachelors degree with
1st Class Hons
or 2nd Class Hons Div 1
Other Masters degree with 1st Class Hons
or 2nd Class Hons Div 1
+ demonstrated ability to
undertake research
Course prescriptions
The University of Auckland academic year
consists of two semesters. Most courses are
run over both semesters and are labelled A
& B accordingly. To complete these double
semester courses, students must enrol in
both A & B courses.
OPTOM A & B pts
Special Study in Vision Science
The study of selected fields of vision science
at an advanced level with detailed study
of one particular field. The topic will be
prescribed by the Head of School.
Course Coordinator: Dr Misha Vorobyev
OPTOM A & B pts
Special Study
Course Coordinator: Dr Monica Acosta
OPTOM A & B pts
Special Study in Optometry
The study of selected fields of optometry at
an advanced level with detailed study of the
particular field. The topic will be prescribed
by the Head of School.
Course Coordinator: Associate Professsor
Rob Jacobs
OPTOM A & B pts
Special Study
Course Coordinator: Dr Joanna Black
OPTOM A & B pts
Research Portfolio in Clinical
Optometry
Advanced clinical optometry research in a
chosen sub-specialist area of optometric
practice. The area of special interest may
include contact lenses, low vision, paediatric
optometry, binocular vision, ocular disease
management, or any other area approved by
the Head of School.
Course Coordinator: Dr John Phillips
OPTOM MSc A & B pts
Thesis in Optometry
Course Coordinator: Dr Monica Acosta
Postgraduate scholarship
in optometry
HC Russell Memorial Postgraduate
Scholarship
The New Zealand Association of Optometrists
(previously the New Zealand Optometrical
Association) established a scholarship in
memory of Mr Harry C. Russell in recognition of
his services to the advancement of optometric
education in New Zealand.
The scholarship has a value of $, for a
masters student and $, for a doctoral
candidate who is pursuing full-time postgraduate
studies in optometry or visual science.
Postgraduate Advisors
Dr Monica Acosta
(MSc/PhD)
Email: [email protected]
Dr John Phillips
(MHSc Clinical)
Email: [email protected]
Staff list
Academic staff and
their research interests
Head of School
Professor
Steven Dakin
BSc (Hons), PhD
Email: s.dakin@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +
Professor Dakin is Course Director for OPTOM
and , the two visual science courses.
He has four areas of research interest:
• Spatial vision: How the brain extracts
information from natural images. This includes
reading, face-processing, shape-recognition,
and how these processes break down in
peripheral vision.
• Visual processing in neuropsychiatric and
neurodevelopment disorders: He has current
projects looking at the vision of people with
schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders.
• Paediatrics: In particular, automated methods
for assessing the visual function of infants
and the development of new treatments for
amblyopia.
• Vision in ageing, including improving diagnosis
of glaucoma and investigating the effects of
spatial distortion associated with macular
degeneration.
Deputy Head of School
Senior Lecturer
Joanna Black
BSc, BOptom (Hons), PhD, CertOcPharm, TPA
endorsed
Email: j.black@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +
Dr Black teaches in the areas of clinical
optometry and binocular vision. She is involved
in teaching the undergraduate binocular
vision and ocular pathology courses as well as
supervision within the optometry clinic. Her
research interests include visual development
and rehabilitation, including the diagnosis and
treatment of amblyopia.
Academic Director
Senior Tutor
Andrew Collins
BOptom, MSc, PhD, CertOcPharm,
TPA endorsed
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
As Academic Director, Dr Collins is responsible
for the smooth delivery of the BOptom
programme. Dr Collins teaches in the areas
of clinical optometry, vision science, ocular
disease and therapeutics. He is director of
Optometry Council of Australia and New
Zealand. Dr Collins’ research interests are in
the areas of environmental and genetic factors
affecting myopia development, vision in animals,
and vision in transportation. He has recently
completed a PhD investigation into the effects of
light on myopia development.
Clinic Director
Senior Lecturer
Geraint Phillips
BSc, MCOptom, DCLP, OD, CertOcPharm, TPA
endorsed
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
As Clinic Director, Dr Phillips is responsible for
the smooth running of the University Optometry
Clinic.
Dr Phillips teaches Diseases of the Eye within Part
IV and ocular therapeutics within Part V of the
Bachelor of Optometry programme. Dr Phillips
is also Course Coordinator of one Part V course
involving Optometry in Practice.
Associate Professor
Robert J Jacobs
MNZM, MSc, PhD, PGDipBus, CertOcPharm,
TPA endorsed, LOSc, FAAO, FACO
Email: r[email protected]
Phone: +
Associate Professor Jacobs is involved in the
clinical vision sciences and in specialist clinical
areas including colour vision and low vision. He
is a previous Head of School and is an honorary
member of the New Zealand Association of
Optometrists. Rob was awarded the New
Zealand Order of Merit in for his services
to optometry and education.
His research interests are in the clinical vision
sciences relating fundamental measures of visual
performance such as visual acuity and sensitivity
to defocus, to measures which are relevant in
clinical and practical situations. Visual defects
such as defocus, colour vision anomalies, and age
related visual changes are the subject of research
projects. Associate Professor Jacobs has acted
as an advisor in the area of visual ergonomics
including visual problems within the aviation
industry and vision standards.
Associate Professor
Samuel Schwarzkopf
BSc (Hons), PhD
Email: [email protected]c.nz
Phone: +
The main goal of Associate Professor
Schwarzkopf's research is to understand how
we experience the world around us through
our senses. Each person is unique and our
perception varies quite dramatically both
between and even within individuals. For
instance, perceptual experience can vary
between contexts (visual illusions), across
different times, and also simply between
locations in the environment. A major part of Dr
Schwarzkopf's research investigates how this
variability in perceptual experience arises in
the human brain. He combines psychophysical
experiments with functional neuroimaging and
computational methods for measuring the
fine-grained organisation of sensory brain areas.
He also explores which non-perceptual factors
govern people’s perceptual judgements and
decision-making.
In addition to leading to a better knowledge of
how perceptual processing works in general,
the principles discovered can also advance our
understanding of how brains function in different
populations or in different clinical conditions. Dr
Schwarzkopf's research also studies perception
in different healthy populations, in disorders of
the visual system (e.g., amblyopia), or in autism
spectrum disorders and schizophrenia.
Associate Professor
Jacqueline Ramke
BAppSci(Optometry), MPH, MSHM, PhD
Email: j.ramk[email protected]
Phone: + [TBC]
Associate Professor Jacqui Ramke has two
decades of experience working in global
eye health. Her primary research focus is on
quantifying and understanding inequality in
eye health and seeking solutions to promote
equity. Jacqui has served as a Commissioner on
the Lancet Commission on Global Eye Health,
contributing to several Technical Working
Groups of the World Health Organization and a
member of the Gender Equity Working Group for
the International Agency for the Prevention of
Blindness.
Jacqui’s research in Aotearoa New Zealand
focuses on developing and testing strategies
to improve access to eye care and reduce
health inequity. A key component of this work
is gaining a better understanding of eye health,
vision impairment and access to eye care in
Aotearoa, using routinely collected health
information as well as population-based data. A
second component is using this information to
work collaboratively with communities, service
providers, researchers and policymakers to
identify priorities and develop testable solutions
to address eye care inequity.
Senior Lecturer
Monica Acosta
BSc, MSc, PhD
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
Dr Acosta is the Principal Investigator of the
Cell and Molecular Biology of the Retina (CMBR)
Laboratory. She studies the mechanisms of
retinal damage in ocular and neurological
diseases. Dr Acosta teaches biomedical topics,
vision science, and evidence-based updates
in retinal pathology. She is the BOptom Part II
Coordinator and the Postgraduate Advisor for
the PhD and Research Masters programmes. Dr
Acosta’s research interest and expertise includes
retinal degeneration in neurological diseases.
She is a Principal Investigator in the Centre of
Research Excellence (CoRE)- Brain Research
New Zealand/Rangahau Roro Aotearoa and an
investigator in the Centre for Brain Research
(CBR).
Senior Lecturer
Clairton de Souza
MD, PhD, CBO
Email: [email protected]c.nz
Phone: +
Dr de Souza is also a Consultant Vitreoretinal
Surgeon at Auckland District Health Board. He
obtained his medical degree and ophthalmology
specialist qualifications in Brazil, a Master in
Retina in Spain, and undertook both surgical
and medical fellowships in Adelaide, Perth,
Auckland and London. He obtained his PhD at
the University of Auckland in . His main
research interests are the cellular phenomena
involved in retinal remodelling in human retinal
detachment and other retinopathies.
Senior Lecturer
John R Phillips
BSc, BSc (Optom), MSc, PhD, MCOptom,
CertOcPharm TPA endorsed
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
Dr Phillips’ research interests are in the
areas of childhood myopia development
and progression, as well as the physiological
processes which control eye size and which
normally ensure that as the eye grows it remains
emmetropic (i.e., without a refractive error). Dr
Phillips teaches ocular anatomy and physiology,
pathology and optometry in the Bachelor of
Optometry.
Senior Lecturer
Misha Vorobyev
PhD
Email: m.vorobyev@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +
Plants often use brightly coloured flowers to
advertise a reward of nectar and pollen to
insects and birds that pollinate them. Birds use
colourful plumage to attract mates. Similarly,
colourful patterns of fish skin are used to
communicate with other fish. Animals also use
coloured patterns to protect themselves—a
coloured pattern may help conceal or disguise
an animal, or advertise that it is toxic. The
main theme of our research is the relationship
between colour vision systems and colourful
patterns of plants and animals. We use
psychophysical methods to study colour
vision of man and animals. To understand the
ecological significance of diversity of colour
vision systems we combine mathematical
modelling with measuring spectra of biologically
important objects – flowers, fruits, birds’
plumage and fish skin. Dr Vorobyev’s studies,
published since in papers, have
attracted over citations.
Senior Lecturer
Ehsan Vaghefi
BSc, MSc, PhD
Email: e.vaghefi@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +
Dr Vaghefi obtained his PhD from Auckland
Bioengineering Institute, researching the
nutritional supply system and the optical
homeostasis of the ocular lens, with a long
term goal of understanding the molecular and
physiological basis of the onset and progression
of cataracts. He currently holds a joint
appointment as a lecturer in physiological optics
(School of Optometry and Vision Sciences)
and a research fellow (Molecular Vision Lab
and Auckland Bioengineering Institute). His
appointment is a strategic initiative to develop
a joint research led teaching programme in
physiological optics. He is using his expertise in
quantitative ocular imaging and computational
modelling to create a digital tool to aid in the
development of effective preventive therapies
to combat cataracts, the leading cause of
blindness worldwide.
Senior Lecturer
Philip Turnbull
BOptom (Hons), PhD, TPA endorsed
Email: p.[email protected]
Phone: + ext
Dr Turnbull obtained his BOptom (Hons)
from the University of Auckland in , the
first year in which the undergraduate course
included therapeutic prescribing rights as part
of the five year programme. After working in
private practice, he returned to complete a
PhD thesis in which investigated whether
the convergently evolved eye of the squid can
emmetropise. He teaches in the area of clinical
optics, and is involved in fifth year clinical
assessments. His research interests include
the application and development of new
technologies, such as high-speed eyetracking
and virtual reality, and how they can be used
to improve the clinical measurement of visual
function.
Senior Research Fellow
Jason Turuwhenua
BSc, MSc, PhD
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
Dr Turuwhenua is a research fellow who works
between the Auckland Bioengineering Institute
and the School of Optometry and Vision Science.
Dr Turuwhenua is interested in how engineering
methods might be applied to problems of
interest in vision. To date this has involved work
on corneal topography (videokeratography),
simulating retinal images, as well as image
processing. At present Dr Turuwhenua is
working on developing ‘the virtual eye’, which
is a physics based system for investigating eye
disease.
Lecturer
Tina (Yitian) Gao
BOptom (Hons), PhD
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
Dr Gao obtained her PhD from the University
of Auckland, with a focus on the neural
mechanisms and treatment of amblyopia (lazy
eye) in children and adults. She teaches in
areas of binocular vision and clinical optometry,
and has research interests in binocular vision
assessment, amblyopia treatments, eye
tracking, and psychophysics.
Professional Teaching
Fellows – Clinic Tutors
Kerry Atkinson BSc(Hons), FCOptom, DipCLP,
CertOcPharm
Zaria Bradley, BOptom(Hons)
Melinda Calderwood BOptom, PGDipSci
Jason Dhana MSc, BOptom(Hons)
Ashley Gray, BOptom (Hons), BSc
Kristine Hammond, RDONZ FBDO O/S
Wanda Lam OD, BSc
John McLennan BSc, Dip Opt, Cert Oc Pharm.
Robert Ng BOptom (Hons)
Michelle O’Hanlon BOptom(Hons)
Bhavna Patel, BOptom (Hons)
Jaymie Rogers BSc, BOptom(Hons)
Kathryn Sands BOptom, CertOcPharm
Lisa Silva BMedSci(Hons), BSc(Hons)Optometry
Bhavini Solanki BSc(Hons), MSc
Marcy Tong OD, BSc
Postdoctoral
Research Fellows
Lucy Goodman, PhD
Lisa Hamm MSc, PhD
Catherine Morgan, PhD
Keith R Pine BSc, MBA, PhD
Professional Staff
Group Services Manager
Johanna Beattie, BA(Hons)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +
Group Services Team Leader
Naomi Twigden, BEd
Email: n.twigden@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +
Group Services Coordinator
Evellen Powell
Email: GSC-Optometry@auckland.ac.nz
Phone: +
Group Services Administrator
Jane Williams
Email: GSA[email protected]
Phone: +
Practicum Placement Coordinator
Virginia Parslow, GradDipGD, DipAEMP, DipJ
Email: v.parsl[email protected]
Phone: +
Timetable Co-ordinator
Kyle Kratochvila, BSc (Hons)
Teaching Laboratory Technical
Manager
Adina Giurgiu, MSc (Chemistry)
Email: [email protected]c.nz
Phone: +
Optical Assistant
Emily Benefer, BSc BIomedical Science, PGC
Disclaimer: Although every reasonable effort is made to ensure accuracy, the information in this document is provided as a general guide only for students and is subject to alteration.
All students enrolling at the University of Auckland must consult its official document, the University of Auckland Calendar 2019, to ensure that they are aware of and comply with all
regulations, requirements, and policies. We advise that the University of Auckland is not involved in the employment of completing health professional students and can make no guarantee
of post-qualification registration or employment in New Zealand or any other country.
Dates to remember
Orientation
Orientation takes place the week before lectures start each semester.
Faculty Orientation Day is designed to help you feel more connected with
your faculty of study, while allowing you to meet staff and students who
you will come across during your time at the University. You will be buddied
up with your UniGuide who will be there to answer any questions you may
have about university life.
For more information see www.auckland.ac.nz/orientation
For information on International Orientation Week visit
www.auckland.ac.nz/international_orientation
Applications to the University of Auckland should be received no later than
the published closing date. If there are places available, applications received
after the closing date will be considered on the basis of academic merit.
FMHS Undergraduate application dates
Programme Application
closing date
Bachelor of Optometry October
Academic year 2021*
Summer School – 2021
Lectures begin Wednesday January
Auckland Anniversary Day Monday January
Waitangi Day holiday Monday February
Lectures end Friday February
Study break/exams Study Break: Saturday February
Exams: Monday – Wednesday
February
Summer School ends Wednesday February
Semester One – 2021
Semester One begins Monday March
Mid-semester break Friday – Friday April
ANZAC Day Monday April
Graduation Monday , Wednesday , Friday May
Queen’s Birthday Monday June
Lectures end Friday June
Study break/exams Study Break: Tuesday – Wednesday
June
Exams: Thursday June – Monday
June
Semester One ends Monday June
Inter-semester break Tuesday June – Friday July
Semester Two – 2021
Semester Two begins Monday July
Mid-semester break Monday August – Friday September
Graduation Tuesday September
Lectures end Friday October
Labour Day Monday October
Study break/exams Study Break: Tuesday October
Exams: Thursday October – Monday
November
Semester Two ends Monday November
Semester One – 2022
Semester One begins Monday February
SOVS UGH
Contact
Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences
The University of Auckland
85 Park Road
Grafton
Auckland
New Zealand
Phone: 0800 61 62 63
Questions: www.askauckland.ac.nz
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.auckland.ac.nz
International Office
The University of Auckland
Private Bag 92019
Old Choral Hall
7 Symonds Street
Auckland 1142
New Zealand
Questions: www.askauckland.ac.nz
Email: int[email protected]
Web: www.international.auckland.ac.nz
www.optometry.auckland.ac.nz
