Augenoptik, Optometrie (weiterführend)

The studies (Studium) take place at universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen). Learning locations at the university of applied sciences include lecture halls, seminar and exercise rooms, libraries, and laboratories. At home, students prepare and follow up on courses, complete assignments, and potentially participate in online courses.

The standard duration of study is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for student services, student union, semester ticket). Additional tuition fees may apply for long-term students, those pursuing a second degree, or after exhausting a set study credit. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, are also incurred. Contributions for student health insurance are typically required when exceeding the age of 25 or certain income limits. Information on funding opportunities can be found from the German National Association for Student Affairs (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) and the Federal Education Assistance Act (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

Compulsory modules include, for example: alternative optometric strategies, eye diseases, binocular vision, spectacle lens design, co-management in ocular surgery, pediatric optometry, advanced clinical optometry, contact lenses, medical lasers, neuro-ophthalmology and -optometry, orthoptics and pleoptics, and sports optometry. Elective modules may include biochemistry and biotechnology, biophotonics, and technical optics. Practical study content, depending on the university, may involve internships, practical modules, or practical semesters (e.g., in companies within the optical industry).

Students should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Attending lectures and seminars in university lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; potentially participating in online courses from home. For part-time studies (berufsbegleitendes Studium), this means working during the day on weekdays and attending university in the evenings or on weekends. Practical exercises include, for example, performing measurements of refractive errors and fitting visual aids in the optometry laboratory. Independent work involves preparing and reviewing courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (even during lecture-free periods). Scientific research skills are deepened. It is essential to plan studies independently, adhere to given study periods, and complete study and examination requirements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent are required). Career preparation may also be part of the studies.

The following fields of study can be alternatives for advanced Ophthalmic Optics, Optometry: In the field of Medical and Rehabilitation Technology: Advanced Medical Physics, Advanced Medical Technology, Advanced Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Technology. The commonality is acquiring knowledge in physics, biology, medicine, and technology. In the field of Optoelectronics and Optics: Advanced Photonics, Optical Technologies. The commonality is acquiring knowledge in optics and laser technology, physics, and manufacturing technology.

Universities typically require the following undergraduate degrees: Ophthalmic Optics, Optometry (undergraduate) or Medical Technology (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career start. Topics such as business administration, working time management, and self-organization are important. Elective modules like biochemistry and biotechnology can also provide additional qualifications. Internships, for example in companies within the optical industry, specifically prepare students for professional life. Opportunities to acquire additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities (see contact details of the respective university): Universities in Germany - Hochschulkompass university search.

This advanced study program deepens knowledge from the undergraduate program and, if applicable, from professional experience. Students usually specialize in specific topics, which can include anatomical aspects of ophthalmic optics or technical procedures for manufacturing and adapting visual aids. The program leads to a second university degree. Ophthalmic Optics, Optometry is also available as a part-time program.

Examples: Ophthalmic Optics/Optometry (Master), Clinical Optometry (Master), Vision Science and Business (Master).

For Master's graduates in Ophthalmic Optics, Optometry, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as medical, orthopaedic, and rehabilitation technology, process and product development, or production planning and control. Those aiming for a scientific career at a university typically need to pursue a doctorate. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

20th century: Inclusion of subjects like physiological optics or biology in precision engineering (Feinwerktechnik) study programs. From 1980 onwards: Development of the first departments for ophthalmic optics and optometry. Establishment of the first independent study programs for ophthalmic optics. 1999: Beginning of the Bologna Process: Reform of the European higher education landscape with goals including: Creation of a unified European higher education area, harmonization of study programs and degrees (introduction of Bachelor's and Master's programs), improvement of student and lecturer mobility.

Degree awarded: Master of Science (M.Sc.)

No remuneration is received during the Studium (university studies). Payment may be agreed upon for practical phases or internships.

Legal regulations for the Studium are determined at the federal level by the Higher Education Framework Act (Hochschulrahmengesetz - HRG) and at the state (Bundesland) level by Higher Education Acts. Additionally, inter-state agreements, qualification and university admission regulations, and the university's own statutes, study, and examination regulations apply.

A prerequisite for the Studium is a first professionally qualifying university degree; typically, an undergraduate degree (grundständiges Studium) in Ophthalmic Optics, Optometry is required. For advanced study programs (weiterbildende Studiengänge), at least 1 year of professional experience is necessary. Depending on the university, an internal selection process may take place, with selection criteria such as performance in the first professionally qualifying degree. English language proficiency may also need to be demonstrated.