The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree and the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years.
This course is also offered at overseas locations.
Optometry
Optometry and Vision Science is the study of optometry coupled with a strong foundation in health science to embrace the expanding role of optometry to the community.
Optometrists play a crucial role in primary health care, examining the population’s eyes and diagnosing vision problems including minor eye infections and providing treatment.
While the study of optometry has a professional focus, we also provide you with a strong foundation in basic and health science. These skills will enable you to keep up with the expanding role of optometry in providing lifelong eye health and vision care to the community.
Research opportunities
When you join us for your doctorate in the School of Optometry and Vision Science, you'll be part of a high-calibre research community and trained to conduct vision research to the very highest standard. This will include the opportunity to publish papers, attend international conferences and develop your network in academia and industry.
We welcome research proposals in topics relating to our key research specialisations:
- Myopia laboratory
- Neural plasticity
- Virtual reality
- Eye Tracking
- Retinal degeneration
- Colour vision
- Clinical research
Programme structure
The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree.
On possible to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of goals to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam.
As part of your PhD study, you can take part in our doctoral skills programme, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes specialist subject librarians to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community.
Where could this programme take you?
Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own startup.