Entry Requirements

• Medical degree with full registration to practice in either Australia or New Zealand at the time of applying
• Citizenship or permanent resident status of Australia or New Zealand.
• Completion of a minimum of two years, full time post graduate prevocational experience, (including intern year), when they commence the VTP, which must include a minimum of 18 months of broad experience in medical, clinical and surgical settings other than ophthalmology.

Total Training Time

Total: 5 years (full-time)

• Basic Training (Year One and Year Two) - Trainees are expected to demonstrate foundation ophthalmic skills, knowledge and critical thinking milestones across all domains.
• Advanced Training (Year Three and Year Four) - Trainees are expected to demonstrate milestones which indicate integrated application of foundation skills and knowledge to clinical and surgical practice in both subspecialty and cross-specialty areas of ophthalmic practice.
• Final Year Training (Year Five) - In the final year of the VTP, trainees consolidate their specialist experience in preparation for the specialist ophthalmic qualification and to function in the community as a safe, independent, comprehensive, general ophthalmologist.

How to Apply

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) delivers a Vocational Training Program (VTP) for medical practitioners wishing to become specialist ophthalmologists in Australia and New Zealand. Information on selection into the program can be found on the RANZCO website. 

Applicants who have applied to be selected onto the Vocational Training Program must complete their Queensland Health preferencing through the Resident Medical Officer (RMO) campaign. 

Application Deadline

February of each year.  Each year may vary - please check the website.

Frequently Asked Questions