UHI celebrates milestone with inaugural optometry graduates

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) marked a significant milestone on Thursday 14 November, with the graduation of the first cohort from its BSc (Hons) Optometry programme. The event was presided over by UHI’s Chancellor, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal.

Held at Eden Court in Inverness, UHI welcomed 600 guests to its nursing and optometry graduation, celebrating the achievements of over 130 nursing and optometry students from its Inverness and Stornoway campuses.

The BSc (Hons) Optometry, the first new course of its kind in Scotland in nearly 50 years, was designed to address the growing demand for comprehensive eye care services in the North of Scotland, particularly within rural communities.

UHI is one of only two institutions in Scotland to offer undergraduate optometry education, and its optometry programme recently received full approval from the General Optical Council. This approval reinforces UHI’s dedication to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of local communities and brings UHI to the forefront of vision care education in the regions it serves. The programme not only addresses current demand but also aims to set new standards in vision care for future generations.

Special awards were also presented during the ceremony to recognise outstanding achievements. The prize for the best student in advanced optometric studies, provided by the Brain Tumour Charity, was awarded to Rachel Milne from Inverurie. Rachel commented:

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the outstanding teaching and support I have received at UHI. It is a privilege to have so many experienced optometrists and lecturers share their knowledge and provide support to develop the foundations on which to build a successful career in optometry. Inverness is an up-and-coming city full of opportunities and employment, both while studying and after graduation. I'm proud of my achievements at UHI, and this award is a lovely way to have them recognised. I very much look forward to using my knowledge and skills that I’ve gained to care for patients in the community."

Kiera Logan from Glasgow, received the Prize for Excellence in Community Optometry sponsored by Specsavers, and the award for Best Overall Student Performance, sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers. Speaking about her time at UHI and her awards, Kiera said:

“I have found my time at university to be very unique, as it is not often you get to experience a small year group like we have. I am grateful to all the lecturers at UHI for their dedication to my education and supporting me through some tough years. I feel very proud of myself for winning these two awards, as it shows that all the hard work I have put in has paid off!"

Kiera also delivered the students’ vote of thanks at the end of the ceremony, saying:

“Today is a day of immense pride, accomplishment, and a touch of sadness as we bid farewell to this chapter of our lives. To all the staff at UHI Centre for Rural Health Sciences, thank you for being more than just educators. You've been mentors, guides, and so much more. Your dedication to our education and future careers in healthcare has been the guiding light that led us through the challenges and triumphs. We are grateful for the knowledge, skills, and values you've instilled in us.”

UHI continues its optometry education journey with the launch of the new Optometry with Independent Prescribing (MOptom) programme, starting in autumn 2025. This programme aligns with evolving educational standards in the optometry profession across the UK, equipping future graduates with enhanced skills and qualifications.

Applicants can now apply for September 2025 entry to the Optometry with Independent Prescribing MOptom.