Orthoptists are highly sought after specialists in ophthalmology, focussing on the eye and the central visual system. Together with ophthalmologists, they diagnose and treat vision disorders, strabismus, and eye movement disorders. As part of our highly practical Orthoptics degree, 12 students are given the opportunity every three years to specialise in the exciting field of ophthalmology.
| Study mode: | full-time |
|---|---|
| Degree awarded: | Bachelor of Science in Health Studies (BSc) |
| Duration: | 6 semesters / 180 ECTS |
| Study places per year: | 12 every 3 years (next start: 2027/28) |
| Location: | Salzburg Campus (University Hospital LKH) Urstein Campus |
| Language of instruction: | German |
| Tuition: | Tuition fee Euro 363,- per semester + Euro 24.70 student union fee per semester |
Why study Orthoptics at Salzburg University of Applied Sciences?
More and more ophthalmologists rely on the expertise of orthoptists. Together, they examine, treat, and advise patients with different problems. Orthoptics is a highly specialised field in ophthalmology, which deals with the detecting of one-eye and two-eye vision problems. Plus, it also covers treating eye diseases.
In addition to the highest level of professional competence, social competence is also required in this demanding profession. After all, orthoptists have to examine, treat, and advise people of all ages with expertise and empathy.
Our Bachelor's degree programme at Salzburg University of Applied Sciences provides you with the medical, scientific, and social tools needed in this sought-after profession. During the course of your studies, you will learn all about preventive, diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitation measures based on a doctor's instructions. Plus, you will learn how to influence negative effects on the visual system.
Among others, during your Bachelor's degree course, you will learn to identify and treat diseases like:
- Blurred vision and visual impairment
- Strabismus
- Amblyopia
- Diplopia
- Eye movement disorders
- Nystagmus
Important aspects of your Bachelor's degree in Orthoptics
Study content and focus areas
In addition to the treatment and healing of strabismus, your main focus of study will be on neuro-ophthalmology. This includes, in particular, the diagnosis of eye movement disorders such as oculomotor nerve palsy and conjugate gaze palsy. These can lead to disturbing double vision after accidents, brain injuries, and neurological or internal diseases.
Furthermore, the curriculum of your Orthoptics degree is based on the following:
- Fundamentals and action areas of orthoptics
- Fundamentals of medicine and physiology
- Social-communicative methods and applications
- Strategic competencies across disciplines
- Scientific work