Bachelor in Optometry — exchange

Kongsberg - Full time

Why study a semester programme in optometry at USN

The Bachelor in Optometry programme gives international optometry students the opportunity to study one semester exchange at USN.

This semester programme in optometry gives you broad knowledge of the topics Basic Ocular Pathology, Basic Contact Lens practice and Community & Global Optometry for international students. The programme offered is knowledge-based, person-oriented, practice-oriented and in line with developments in society, science, and technology.

This semester programme is taught in English. The international students will follow the semester programme together with the Norwegian students.

What you will learn

In the course Basic Ocular Pathology, students will acquire knowledge of ocular structures and pathology, enabling them to distinguish between normal and abnormal ocular findings. Students will also acquire knowledge of different patient pathways and treatments, follow-up, and referral of patients when necessary.

Basic Contact Lens Practice will provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to independently fit soft contact lenses in people above the age of 5 years with normal visual function.

In the course Community and Global Optometry for International Students, students will acquire knowledge, skills and competence in evidence-based practice, patient communication and interaction. They will learn to be conscientious and develop the necessary attitudes and values in relation to professional ethics. The course will prepare students for the tasks and working methods they will encounter in the health and welfare services. After completing the course, students will understand their role in the health service system and be able to practice optometry using up-to-date knowledge. Students will also learn how the provision of optometric services can be adapted to the population’s needs, wishes and prerequisites, and acquire knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.

Learning activities

The programme is taught entirely on campus Kongsberg, where you will have the opportunity to take part in an active, varied, and inclusive learning environment.

The courses are offered in English and are at upper division undergraduate level. Learning methods include lecturers, seminars, skills training, workshops, case studies, problem-based teaching, and independent study. Some courses include mandatory attendance.

Skills training and practical work are carried out in USN’s training laboratories and at the university clinic.

The professionals involved in the study programme include active clinicians, researchers, and experts with specialist knowledge in key parts of the field.

Students must expect to work an average of 40 hours per week.

Assessment methods

Final assessments are based on a variety of tasks, such as term papers and portfolio assessments, exams, reports, oral presentations, and final individual written examinations. The grade scale is from A-F, where E is the lowest passing grade. All elements must be passed. Final examinations are normally scheduled in December.

Students will be subject to a continuous suitability assessment throughout the duration of the study programme (see the Regulations relating to Suitability Assessment in Higher Education). The suitability assessment is part of an overall assessment of the student’s professional and personal suitability for working in the profession.

Students have a duty of confidentiality under the Health Personnel Act and must sign a non-disclosure agreement at the start of the study programme.

Why study at USN?

We offer an informal and student friendly environment. Campus Kongsberg is a small campus with an open-door policy where our staff dedicates time and attention to each student. We offer a safe living and study environment as well as a multicultural society where English is widely spoken. Our programme is focused on practical study methods with a problem-based approach that should help students to prepare for real-life situations.