Discover the best UK universities for Optometry in 2026. Find courses with excellent clinical training, strong graduate outcomes, and supportive student communities.
Best Universities for Optometry: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Manchester | 90 | 79 |
| 2 Silver | University of Bradford | 88 | 75 |
| 3 Bronze | Anglia Ruskin University | 85 | 72 |
| 4 | University of Plymouth | 83 | 74 |
| 5 | University of Ulster | 82 | 70 |
| 6 | University of Nottingham | 81 | 71 |
| 7 | University of Southampton | 80 | 73 |
| 8 | University of Hertfordshire | 79 | 70 |
| 9 | Cardiff University | 78 | 69 |
| 10 | Glasgow Caledonian University | 77 | 68 |
1. University of Manchester Gold
2. University of Bradford Silver
3. Anglia Ruskin University Bronze
4. University of Plymouth
5. University of Ulster
6. University of Nottingham
7. University of Southampton
8. University of Hertfordshire
9. Cardiff University
10. Glasgow Caledonian University
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Optometry rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to highlight the best places for studying optometry in the UK.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Optometry Universities Explained
University of Manchester
Known for cutting-edge clinical facilities, research impact, and excellent graduate employment.City, University of London
Offers comprehensive practical training and strong industry links.University of Bradford
Renowned for student support, affordable living, and hands-on learning experiences.University of Aston
Focuses on innovative teaching and real-world optometry practice.University of Plymouth
Combines strong academic standards with a friendly campus atmosphere.Glasgow Caledonian University
Affordable city living with a well-rounded optometry program.University of Hertfordshire
Offers modern facilities and high student satisfaction.University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Known for its supportive community and practical course structure.University of Huddersfield
Balances academic rigor with extensive clinical placements.University of Ulster
Provides a strong foundation in vision science and patient care.Career Prospects After an Optometry Degree
Graduates typically work as registered optometrists, clinical researchers, or in vision care technology. Related fields include Biomedical Science and Pharmacy.
Optometry Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry generally requires A-levels in biology and chemistry, with UCAS points between 120 and 160, depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Optometry in the UK
Bradford, Plymouth, and Glasgow offer affordable living options for optometry students.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, London, and Plymouth provide vibrant social scenes alongside strong optometry courses.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Manchester, Aston, and Ulster are praised for their excellent student support services.
Not Sure About Optometry? Consider These Alternatives
Look into Biomedical Science, Pharmacy, or Public Health.
Summary: Which Optometry Uni is Right for You?
Consider clinical training quality, city affordability, academic support, and social life to find the best fit.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Optometry
Leading universities for Optometry include City, University of London, Aston University, and University of Manchester, known for excellent clinical placements and research facilities.
City, University of London often ranks highest for Optometry due to its strong clinical training and graduate employability in the optical sector.
An Optometry degree offers a clear path to a rewarding healthcare career with strong job prospects in the UK and abroad, including roles in eye care, research, and industry.
Most Optometry courses require A-levels in Biology and often Chemistry or Physics. Always check individual university requirements for up-to-date entry criteria.
Graduates typically become qualified optometrists working in clinical practice, hospitals, research, or the optical industry.
Yes, demand is strong due to an ageing population and increasing need for eye care services.
Starting salaries typically range from £24,000 to £30,000, with experienced optometrists earning more depending on location and role.
The clinical and practical components can be demanding but are essential for developing professional skills and confidence.
Most work in community optometry practices, hospitals, research labs, or the optical manufacturing sector.
Yes, it is highly respected for its combination of science, healthcare, and practical skills training.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
