Occupation: Optometrist
How to become a optometrist
An optometrist examines eyes, diagnoses vision problems and prescribes glasses and contact lenses. In the UK this is a regulated profession with no shortcut: you must complete an approved optometry degree, a period of supervised pre-registration training and pass assessments to register with the General Optical Council (GOC). Only registered optometrists may legally test sight and prescribe correction.
1. Optometry degree (required)
A GOC-approved optometry degree at a UK university is the required first step, usually three years full time. It covers the anatomy and physiology of the eye, optics, and the clinical skills to examine sight and prescribe correction. There is no quicker legal route into the profession.
2. Pre-registration training
After the degree you complete a year of supervised pre-registration (the "pre-reg" placement) in practice, then pass the GOC/College of Optometrists assessments to register. This stage turns academic knowledge into independent clinical practice and is mandatory before you can work unsupervised.
3. GOC registration (mandatory)
Only once you are registered with the General Optical Council may you legally examine sight and prescribe glasses or contact lenses. Registration must be maintained through continuing education and training (CET/CPD). This is the legal gateway to practising as an optometrist in the UK.
There is no shortcut: a GOC-approved optometry degree, a supervised pre-registration year and GOC registration are all required by law. Short courses cannot substitute for these — they only add specialist skills once you're qualified. This is a profession where the full training route is mandatory.