In order to work as a Doctor in Optometry or as an optometrist, you can pursue a university degree with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree. Following this university degree in optometry, a Master of Advanced Studies MAS continuing education program is also possible.

The MAS Optometry consists of three CAS courses and a Master's thesis. Currently (2016), "CAS Optometric Examination Methods", "CAS Specialized Optometry" and "CAS Optometric Practice" are offered. However, this continuing education, further training is not a Doctor in Optometry, but a Master of Advanced Studies degree.

The Bachelor's degree program for a Doctor in Optometry comprises at least 180 ECTS and is divided into subject basics (optometry, anatomy, physiology and pathology) with 129 ECTS and subject supplements with at least 9 ECTS. In addition, project work is remunerated with 6 ECTS. Contextual education, which includes various subjects such as English, law and ethics, business administration, argumentation and rhetoric, as well as writing practice, must also be attended for the Bachelor's degree program (scope at least 20 ECTS). A Bachelor's thesis with 12 ECTS completes the program.

To qualify as a Doctor in Optometry, you attend a full-time Bachelor's program at a University of Applied Sciences within three years. It is currently not possible to study for a Bachelor's degree while working. However, you can apply for part-time study or a longer period of study. Please clarify this directly with the Director of Studies. The MAS Optometry takes place once a week all day and in a block week for each CAS.

With a Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training as an optician and a technical Federal Vocational Baccalaureate, you can be admitted to a Bachelor's degree course (not a doctorate) in optometry without admission restrictions. However, you can also be admitted to the program with a Federal Vocational Baccalaureate in another field or a Baccalaureate, provided that you have completed at least one year of practical training in an optometry company. If you have a different educational background but have completed the required internship, you can also be admitted to the Bachelor of Optometry UAS after passing an entrance examination at baccalaureate level. The MAS in Optometry requires a Bachelor's degree in this subject area and at least one year of professional experience.