As an experienced optometrist and looking at the new apprenticeship course that the multiples are backing for training optometrists, I wouldn't touch an optometry degree at the moment. Wait until the training market settles down and study it in about 5-10 years time perhaps when the situation becomes clearer for the profession. My wages have been the same as an optometrist for the last twenty years and I have at least twice the responsibility. I love the job but I am not the breadwinner in my famil. I'm lucky to be able to enjoy working with a good boss and lovely clients but not worry about the lack of money coming in, otherwise I would be having to re-train in something else.