Program Overview

Our Diploma is equivalent to the 1st year of a La Trobe University degree – only with tailored learning and more support.

Diploma of Health Sciences
La Trobe University is one of Australia’s leading health education providers and can give you the best possible head start to your career as a health professional.

The Diploma of Health Sciences provides an introduction into a range of health professions, and can help you discover your ideal role in the rapidly evolving health sector. 

You’ll be introduced to the anatomical organisation of the body, the basics of cell structure and function, and the fundamentals of the nervous and endocrine systems. You’ll also begin to learn how the particular characteristics and actions of a person can impact health and welfare.

Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours)
Join Australia’s only undergraduate orthoptics program and learn to detect, diagnose and manage eye conditions in a range of patients, including children and adults.

With a strong focus on clinical experience, our Bachelor of Orthoptics (Honours) will prepare you to launch a successful career as an orthoptist. You'll explore the anatomy and physiology of the eye to understand vision and visual function. Learn how to help people with eye disorders including strabismus (eye turns), eye diseases and low vision.

Clinical experiences start in your first year and will be a significant part of your degree. We work closely with industry to give you access to placements and hands-on experience in hospitals with dedicated eye clinics as well as private eye clinics. During these experiences, you'll learn how to use specialised technology, such as retinal cameras and ultrasonography machines.

You'll have the opportunity to complete a placement beyond Melbourne in your final year with one of our partner clinics in regional Victoria, interstate or overseas. You'll also have the opportunity to help where you're needed most - in a developing country.

Take advantage of an industry-based or research project, where you'll develop project management and research skills essential for a successful career in orthoptics.

You'll learn:

• Eye anatomy and physiology - Understand the anatomy and physiology of the structures of the eye and the roles these structure play in various eye functions.
• Optics and refraction - Understand the principles of optics (visible and invisible light) and how they impact the eye and visual system including long and short-sightedness.
• Eye conditions and diagnostics - Learn diagnostic tests and procedures to investigate different eye conditions.
• Patient-centred care - Develop your clinical practice around a patient-centred care framework and ensure you treat patients using evidence-based best practice.