Overview

The School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, provides the only English optometric training in Canada leading to an accredited Doctor of Optometry degree.

Features

The school also provides a graduate program in Vision Science and Optometry. Extensive clinic programs support practical experience for students and health services for the public.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Healthcare, Education and Delivery

Neurosciences

Ocular Biology and Pathophysiology

Technology and Optics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-06-01 00:00:00
Starting 2026-05-05 00:00:00
- Apply before 2025-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2026-09-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

7

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PTE Academic

63

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TOEFL^® IBT

90

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Waterloo, Canada

Disciplines

Optometry

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

IELTS

7

Free IELTS Mock Tests!

PTE Academic

63

Schedule a PTE test!

TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

Check IELTS test dates and locations. Book an IELTS test now!

Other requirements

General requirements

Resume

Supplementary information form (SIF)

Transcript(s)

References

Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable

The program is open to students holding an MSc degree (or equivalent), which included a substantial research thesis in an area relevant to the proposed program in Vision Science.

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Waterloo and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

14792 CAD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 7396 CAD per semester during 48 months.
National

4508 CAD/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 2254 CAD per semester during 48 months.

Living costs for Waterloo

810 - 1447 CAD /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Vision Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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