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 in the UK
Optometry is a specialist healthcare field combining science, technology, and patient care. Our 2025 ranking highlights the best universities for Optometry in the UK, based on teaching quality, clinical placements, facilities, and graduate employability. These universities prepare students for professional registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) and successful careers in eye health and vision science.
University of Manchester
Manchester is one of the UK’s leading centres for optometry research and clinical training. Students gain access to cutting-edge facilities, real-world patient clinics, and high employment rates after graduation. Its research excellence and strong NHS connections make it a top choice.
City, University of London
City offers comprehensive practical training with modern equipment and close industry ties. Located in London, students benefit from excellent networking opportunities and placements with major optical and healthcare organisations.
University of Bradford
Bradford combines affordable living with supportive teaching. The university is well known for its clinical focus and hands-on learning in optometry labs, making it ideal for students seeking a personal and practice-oriented education.
Aston University
Aston has a strong reputation for innovation in vision science and clinical practice. The program blends theoretical knowledge with patient-facing experience, supported by its on-campus eye clinic and close professional links with the optical industry.
University of Plymouth
Plymouth offers high academic standards in a friendly coastal setting. The optometry program focuses on practical experience, with small class sizes and access to advanced diagnostic technology for clinical training.
Glasgow Caledonian University
Glasgow Caledonian provides affordable study options and strong clinical development. The university’s modern facilities and supportive approach make it a popular choice for students pursuing a balance between quality education and city lifestyle.
University of Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire delivers modern, technology-driven optometry training with excellent student satisfaction. The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths in eye care, vision science, and healthcare innovation.
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Known for its community-focused approach, UWTSD offers small-group teaching and accessible academic support. The curriculum combines theoretical study with real-world patient care experience.
University of Huddersfield
Huddersfield provides extensive clinical placement opportunities supported by experienced teaching staff. Its affordable city setting and strong academic foundation make it a great choice for students balancing cost and quality.
University of Ulster
Ulster offers a comprehensive vision science program that integrates patient care, clinical research, and optical technology. Graduates are well prepared for professional practice across the UK and Ireland.
Career Prospects After an Optometry Degree
Graduates can become registered optometrists, vision scientists, or clinical researchers. Many also work in healthcare technology or management roles. Related courses include Biomedical Science and Pharmacy.
Entry Requirements for Optometry Degrees
Most universities require A-levels in Biology and Chemistry (or equivalent), with UCAS points typically between 120 and 160. Applicants should demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills, as patient care forms a major part of the course.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Optometry in the UK
Bradford, Plymouth, and Glasgow offer affordable living costs while maintaining excellent academic quality and student experience.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Student Life
Manchester, London, and Plymouth provide great social opportunities and lively student communities alongside top-ranked optometry programs.
Student Wellbeing and Support
Universities like Manchester, Aston, and Ulster are praised for their strong wellbeing services, academic mentoring, and dedicated healthcare student support teams.
Considering Alternatives to Optometry?
If you’re exploring related fields, consider Biomedical Science, Pharmacy, or Public Health for alternative career paths in healthcare and science.
Summary: Which Optometry University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Optometry, consider clinical placement quality, teaching facilities, city affordability, and graduate outcomes. Manchester leads for research and employment, City for professional links, and Bradford for value and support. Compare your options to find the course that best suits your goals and lifestyle.
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