Optometrist

Optometrists specialise in correcting problems with vision.  As an optometrist, you will perform a number of tests on your patients in order to diagnose and treat defects in vision, injury or ocular diseases.

As primary health care specialists optometrists can diagnose, offer advice and prescribe glasses, contact lenses or other optical aids to correct patient’s issues with their vision. 

How to be an Optometrist in South Africa

Get the Required Qualifications

The required qualifications to be an optometrist can vary depending on the specific career path you wish to take; however, you will typically need the following to become an optometrist in South Africa:

1. Certificate (National Senior Certificate /NC(V)) 
2. Bachelor’s Degree (Bachelor of Science in Optometry)

Demonstrate Competence in the Required Subjects

Different educational institutions may have different admission requirements; however, you will typically be required to demonstrate competency in the following subjects:

• Maths
• Physical Sciences or Life Sciences
• Biology

Accumulate Years of Relevant Study and Experience

Optometrists in South Africa typically study for more than 4 years. In order to work in this field, you will have to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Employment Opportunities

Optometrists often work in clinics, hospitals or go into private practice.

Find More Information from Relevant Regulatory Bodies

To find more information about optometrists in South Africa, contact the:

• Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
• South African Optometry Association

Optometrist Related Careers

• Medical jobs
• Healthcare jobs
• Hospital jobs
• HPCSA jobs
• Government jobs
• Private practise jobs