To become an optometrist you'll need to:

• get a degree in optometry, approved by the General Optical Council (GOC)
• complete a pre-registration work placement which takes 1 year and you'll be supervised by a registered optometrist
• pass the GOC final assessment to qualify

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science

If you're working as a dispensing optician, you could retrain to become an optometrist.

You'll need to complete an approved optometry degree and pre-registration year.

You'll find it helpful to get some work experience in healthcare before you apply for a course.

You could also contact high street opticians directly for information on work experience schemes.

You'll need:

• knowledge of medicine and health conditions that can affect sight
• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of biology
• sensitivity and understanding
• analytical thinking skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

As an optometrist you could:

• use precision instruments and vision measuring and testing tools
• diagnose and give advice
• prescribe, fit and supply glasses or contact lenses
• discuss the suitability and shape of glasses frames
• refer clients to specialists or ophthalmologists (eye surgeons)

You could work at a store, in an NHS or private hospital, at a GP practice or in a laboratory.