UJ Optometry Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

If you aspire to become an optometrist in South Africa, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a leading institution offering accredited optometry programmes. Understanding the admission and academic requirements for UJ’s Optometry courses is the first step towards a successful application and career in this dynamic health sciences field.

Top Takeaways

A minimum APS score of 31 and strong marks in English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences are essential for undergraduate entry to UJ Optometry.
The Bachelor of Optometry is a 4-year full-time programme combining theory and extensive practical training, followed by an internship and registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
Postgraduate opportunities (Master’s and PhD) require a relevant Bachelor’s degree and focus on advanced research and specialization.
The selection process is highly competitive, based primarily on academic performance.
UJ also offers short courses for further upskilling optometrists, such as the Diagnostic Privileges programme.

Overview of Optometry at UJ
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Programme Structure & Curriculum
Postgraduate & Short Learning Programmes
Application Process & Selection Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions

Overview of Optometry at UJ

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is renowned for producing top-tier optometry graduates. The Department of Optometry aims to develop practitioners with strong diagnostic skills, critical reasoning, and commitment to community eye health. Graduates are equipped to work in both the private and public sectors, or even pursue academic and research careers[5][4].

Career paths: Private dispensing optometrist, public sector optometrist, medical liaison, researcher, and academic roles.
Professional registration: Graduates must register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Securing a spot in the UJ Bachelor of Optometry programme requires meeting several strict academic benchmarks:

APS Score: Minimum of 31 (excluding Life Orientation)[5].
Compulsory Subjects and Minimum Scores:
- English: Minimum C symbol (varies by first or second language and exam level)[3][5].
- Mathematics: At least 60% (C symbol) at Higher Grade[3][5].
- Physical Sciences: At least 60% (C symbol) at Higher Grade[3][5].
- Life Sciences/Biology: At least 60% (C symbol) at Higher Grade (Physiology can substitute for Biology)[3][5].
Six subjects are considered for APS calculation.

Other Key Entry Points:

A completed National Senior Certificate (NSC) with endorsement for degree study.
Strong academic performance, as places are limited due to facilities and regulatory compliance[3][5].

Find full details and up-to-date criteria at the official UJ Optometry Requirements page. For a broader overview of health and academic prerequisites, visit requirements.co.za.

Programme Structure & Curriculum

The Bachelor of Optometry (B9O02Q) at UJ is a four-year, full-time programme that blends theory, practical skills, and clinical experience[3][4][5].

Years 1–2: Foundational sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy, Physiology, Psychology, Mathematics) and introductory optometry modules.
Years 3–4: Clinical training, advanced optometry topics, patient management, and supervised practice.
Attendance: Minimum 80% of tutorials required[3].
Progression: Students must pass all modules every year to advance.
Internship: Following graduation, an internship in clinical settings is necessary under the supervision of a licensed optometrist[5].

For more on learning outcomes and topics covered, see BachelorsPortal’s overview.

Postgraduate & Short Learning Programmes

UJ offers further opportunities for advancement and specialization:

Master’s and Doctoral Degrees

Master of Optometry (NQF Level 9): 1–2 years (full-time), focused on a research dissertation. Admission requires a Bachelor’s degree in Optometry (or equivalent)[2].
PhD in Health Sciences: Optometry (NQF Level 10): 2–4 years (full-time), 360 credits, with a 100% research thesis component. Supervision and external examination are required[2].

Short Learning Programmes

Diagnostic Privileges for Optometrists: 4-month, part-time programme for those with a B Optometry degree seeking advanced skills and expanded scope of practice[1].
- Admission: Bachelor of Optometry or equivalent, part-time format, offered at Doornfontein campus.
- More info/application details: Contact the UJ Department of Optometry or check the official UJ short course listing.

Want to keep your knowledge fresh? UJ’s continued education supports professional growth and compliance with regulatory changes.

Application Process & Selection Criteria

Entry into UJ’s Optometry programme is highly competitive and involves a robust selection process:

Academic results are paramount. Selection is based primarily on your Grade 12 results or equivalent performance[3][5].
Limited intake: The department admits a set number of students each year, ensuring optimal student-to-facility ratios and regulatory compliance.
Application steps:
- Submit an online application via the UJ website, attaching all required documents (final school results, identity document, etc.)[4].
- Meet minimum subject scores and APS as outlined above.
- Await notification of acceptance, as only top applicants are selected.

Full instructions and deadlines are provided on the UJ Optometry Requirements and UJ admissions portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What APS score do you need for UJ Optometry?
You need a minimum APS of 31 (excluding Life Orientation) with strong marks in English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences[5][3].

What subjects are compulsory for application?
English, Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences (or Physiology as a substitute for Biology) are all compulsory, each requiring at least 60%[3][5].

How long does the Bachelor of Optometry at UJ take?
The programme lasts four years, full-time, with an additional internship required after graduation[3][5].

Is work experience or job shadowing required for entry?
No formal work experience is required for undergraduate entry, but academic achievement is vital. Short learning programmes may require prior degrees and experience[1].

What are the progression options after a Bachelor’s degree?
You can pursue a Master’s or PhD in Optometry. Postgraduate entry requires a bachelor’s degree and typically involves a research dissertation or thesis[2].

Can international students apply for UJ Optometry?
Yes, provided they meet the academic equivalency and submit all required documents, including valid identification and academic transcripts[4]. Language proficiency requirements may apply.

Where can I find more information and application details?
Refer to the official UJ Optometry page, the general requirements overview, or contact the UJ Department of Optometry.

For further reading, consult these additional reputable resources:

Uj Optometry Requirements