Employment Opportunities
Orthoptists work in a wide variety of settings. These include:
- Public hospitals including general hospitals and rehabilitation hospitals
- Private practices of eye doctors and optometrists. Some orthoptists have developed their own private practice
Community Centres - Specialist centres for people with low vision or who are developmentally delayed
- Refractive surgeries such as Laser Eye Centres
- Rural units
- Research units
- Medical companies
Salaries start at around $50,000 pa. on graduation and increase according to experience and skills but many employers pay over award rates. Information on award rates of salary can be found on the Workplace Authory website under "Find pay scales" under "opticle employees". Current employment opportunities can be found at www.eyedealcareers.com
International Employment
Orthoptists have gained employment in many countries outside Australia including New Zealand, United Kingdom, America, Canada, Europe and the Middle East. The skills that are developed in the Australian undergraduate program are easily adapted to all cultures.
Personal Requirements
People wishing to become an orthoptist should have good communication skills, be interested in helping people and be willing to undertake ongoing studies in a profession which is continually changing to meet community needs.
Entry to the Course
This is on successful attainment of a UAI score established by the Discipline of Orthoptics or for students who have undertaken previous studies via a special entry scheme. The University of Sydney offers special entry schemes for students with special needs which are outlined in the university and UAC Handbook.
For more information on orthoptics call (02) 9351 9250 or email us at