Top UK Universities For Optometry - Ranking & League Table
Here’s our full guide on the top universities for Optometry in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognised qualifications for Optometry.
Table of Contents
UK University League Table for Optometry (2025)
The University League Table for Optometry below displays the top-ranking universities for studying Optometry in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of top ten universities you should look out for, based on UK ranking from Complete University Guide 2025.
What do you Study in Optometry?
Optometry is the study of the eye and eye care. You will learn the anatomy of the human eye and related subjects such as biochemistry and eye disorders.
Careers for Optometry Graduates
What can you do with a degree in Optometry? Many graduates find employment in places such as:
- Academia
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Private practice
Top Optometry Schools In The UK
Ranked first in the 2025 UK rankings for Optometry courses is Ulster University. Ulster offers undergraduate students the choice between completing a Bachelor of Science with honours programme and a Masters of Optometry with honours. Students who opt for a Masters programme will complete an additional year of study.
In 2o25 rankings, the University of Manchester is ranked number two in the UK for the subject and it offers one undergraduate programme in Optometry. Manchester is a top destination for many Malaysian students who choose the university because it is a Russell Group university with a reputation for quality teaching.
Need advice about applying to a UK university? We are here to help. Book a free appointment with us now!
Recommended Optometry Schools In The UK
At fourth place for Optometry in the UK is Glasgow Caledonian University. Located in Glasgow city, students will get a good blend of Scottish culture and a vibrant city life. You can find many things to see and do in Glasgow and surrounding areas. For more information, check out Glasgow Caledonian University’s Optometry course on their website here or read more about the application process via UCAS here.
The University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE Bristol) is an excellent choice for those interested in studying Optometry. UWE Bristol is also highly popular among Malaysian students who choose to study in the city of Bristol as it is student-friendly and has been voted as one of the most liveable cities in the UK. UWE Bristol’s Optometry programme costs £15,850 in tuition a year for international students, which is one of the more affordable choices among the top Optometry schools in the UK.
How To Apply To Study Medicine In The UK?
Step 1: Choose A University
The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:
- Location
- Employability/Graduate prospects
- Fees
- Entry requirements
- University Ranking
Step 2: Preparations
Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.
Step 3: Submit UCAS Application
The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.
To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here.
More about UCAS
The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your prefered UK universities.
UK Optometry School Entry Requirements
Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Optometry.
- English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
- Health checks.
- Entrance interviews.
- Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Optometry is the study of the eye and eye care. You will learn the anatomy of the human eye and related subjects such as biochemistry and eye disorders.
The top university for Optometry in the UK is Ulster University, according to 2025 rankings.
The common entry requirements for studying Optometry in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.
The tuition fees for Optometry degrees in the UK range between £13,000 to £24,000 per annum for international students, depending on the university. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.
The UCAS deadline for Optometry programmes is 15 January on the year of admission.
Get Free UK Optometry Course Application Assistance
If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!