Optometrists perform vision examinations independently and measure, prescribe and fit spectacles, contact lenses and low vision aids. Making and dispensing spectacles and counselling and guiding clients in the use of vision care equipment form an integral part of the work of Optometrists.
Bachelor of Health Care (Optometry)
Objectives of the degree programme
Those graduating from the Degree Programme in Optometry are awarded the degree title 'Optometrist' and become licensed health care professionals with the title 'Licensed Optician'.
Practising as an Optometrist requires completion of the Bachelor of Health Care (Optometry) degree and a licence to practise as an optician granted by the National Authority for Medicolegal Affairs. Optometrists provide vision care services and function as vision specialists.
Characteristics required by the training
Working as a health care and optometry practician calls for a distinct professional identity and clear professional ethics, the ability to work with clients in an independent, reliable, responsible and systematic manner, as well as sharing responsibility in a team and within a working community. Professional practice means a conscious effort to assess and develop one’s own personality and professional skills as well as one's own field. Optometrists must be ready to serve and interested in tasks related to trading.
The profession and its tasks
Optometrists usually work with optical stores in the private health care sector either as independent entrepreneurs or as employees. Optometrists also function as vision specialists in health care, technology, business and environmental and transport planning. They work as experts when solving environment-related vision problems that require knowledge of light and lighting, colour and shape perception and the ability to see in different environments and situations.
In addition, Optometrists also participate in research and are involved in preventive health care. They develop their professional knowledge and working methods by following developments in the optometry field and technological advances, while also taking an active and innovative role in developing their working communities and the field. In the future, developments in the optical field, industry and technology will pose new challenges to optometry professionals. Cooperation and networking with multidisciplinary teams and work as a vision specialist are set to increase.
Contact information
Saija Flinkkilä (Degree Programme Coordinator)
Head of Degree Programme
Myllypurontie 1
00920 Helsinki
Tel. +358 40 178 5154
saija.flinkkila [at] metropolia.fi (saija[dot]flinkkila[at]metropolia[dot]fi)
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