UTS: ORTHOPTICS launched

The University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) has launched its Orthoptics discipline today as the newest discipline area within the UTS: Graduate School of Health.

A Master of Orthoptics program will be offered from Semester 1, 2015 with applications opening on 4 September 2014. Research degrees will be offered from Spring 2015.

Now the only orthoptics course on offer in NSW, it has been established to address significant unmet demand for orthoptists across Australia.  The program fits UTS’ practice based ethos with innovative curriculum design and integrated technology and practical elements throughout.

Professor Charlie Benrimoj, Head of the Graduate School of Health said, “There is clearly a strong need for orthoptists and the valuable skills and care that they provide. I’m thrilled that UTS have taken the opportunity to offer this discipline from 2015”.

Dr Michael Jones (Head of Ophthalmology at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and ophthalmologist at Sydney Ophthalmic Specialists) said all ophthalmology services would benefit from orthoptic support.

“Orthoptists provide direct patient care and significantly raise the standard of the provision of eye care to patients.”

To read more of Dr Michael Jones’ report, please visit UTS press release at http://newsroom.uts.edu.au/news/2014/08/uts-orthoptists-keep-eye-better-sight  or visit www.orthoptics.uts.edu.au  to find out more about the discipline.