30 monthsProgramme duration
1,575 USDTuition Fee/year
SepStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Health/Healthcare
Degree
Other
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
Aims & Characteristics
Unlike many traditional Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees that focus on research, the Doctor of Optometry (DOptom) is a professional doctorate, which offers students the opportunity to broaden and deepen their clinical knowledge and skills by combining advanced courses of study with research in areas of professional significance and relevance. This programme is the first of its kind offered in Hong Kong, dedicated to advancing the knowledge and training of optometrists in selected optometry specialty areas. It equips graduates with the advanced clinical knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in the optometry profession.
The DOptom programme strives to develop optometry leaders and to prepare practising optometrists to become experts and opinion leaders in their chosen specialty areas. It fosters the development of advanced clinical skills, critical analysis skills, and management expertise, and familiarises students with contemporary research methods used by optometry specialists.
The programme’s aims are
- to educate practising optometrists to become independent, competent, and evidence-based optometry specialists;
- to educate practising optometrists to incorporate the latest scientific and technological advances into their optometric services;
- to equip practising optometrists with the ability to conduct research and apply research findings in their chosen optometry specialty areas.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Health/Healthcare
Degree
Other
Study Level
PHD
Study Mode
On Campus
Aims & Characteristics
Unlike many traditional Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees that focus on research, the Doctor of Optometry (DOptom) is a professional doctorate, which offers students the opportunity to broaden and deepen their clinical knowledge and skills by combining advanced courses of study with research in areas of professional significance and relevance. This programme is the first of its kind offered in Hong Kong, dedicated to advancing the knowledge and training of optometrists in selected optometry specialty areas. It equips graduates with the advanced clinical knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in the optometry profession.
The DOptom programme strives to develop optometry leaders and to prepare practising optometrists to become experts and opinion leaders in their chosen specialty areas. It fosters the development of advanced clinical skills, critical analysis skills, and management expertise, and familiarises students with contemporary research methods used by optometry specialists.
The programme’s aims are
- to educate practising optometrists to become independent, competent, and evidence-based optometry specialists;
- to educate practising optometrists to incorporate the latest scientific and technological advances into their optometric services;
- to equip practising optometrists with the ability to conduct research and apply research findings in their chosen optometry specialty areas.
Admission Requirements
- A Master’s degree in optometry or equivalent; and
- At least 3 years of full-time experience in optometry practice; and
- Fulfil the English and General Requirements stipulated by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. (https://www.polyu.edu.hk/study/pg/taught-postgraduate/2025/admission-requirements-tpg)
(i) Candidates may also be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis if they have a recognised 4-year or 5-year undergraduate degree in optometry with honours not lower than second upper class and have at least 5 years of full-time work experience in optometry practice. Candidates with 2 years of postgraduate residency training experience may also be considered.
(ii) Applicants without a Master’s degree are required to have previous knowledge of research methods before starting the programme. Their undergraduate/postgraduate curricula should have included courses focused on research methodology and analysis.
(iii) Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
Tuition fees
International
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
Get closer to your dream programme
Your consent preferences have been set.
Time to start exploring.
Your account has been removed.
You can still browse the site or sign up again once you have parental consent.
Get closer to your dream programme