Clinical Optometry (MSc/PgDip/PgCert)
n/a (Full-time) / Varies (Part-time) / Varies (Distance / E-Learning)
Course Aims
Our distance learning MSc in Clinical Optometry has been developed to allow students to enhance their skills and knowledge in key areas with the opportunity to obtain quality postgraduate qualifications in a flexible and supportive environment. A wide range of modules are available with many including practical training.
Course Description
The MSc in Clinical Optometry is a part-time, distance learning (e-Learning) course with practical tutorials/workshops to accompany many modules. There are four ways to learn with us. Students can enrol for:
- A Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) – 60 credits
- A Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) - 120 credits
- A Master of Science (MSc) – 180 credits; to include a research project
- Individual modules - 10, 20 or 30 credits each
The emphasis is on flexible learning for the individual and typical progress would be to complete twenty credits per academic term, so it would normally take 2-3 years to complete the MSc, including the research project.
The course will allow eye care professionals to enhance both their knowledge and clinical skills via a unique combination of distance learning and practical tuition. Students will have access to:
- Flexible, supported learning environment for the eye care professional
- Modules relevant to today's clinical practice and professional development
- Excellent tuition from a dedicated team of tutors who are leaders in their field
- Material that has undergone academic peer-review to insure the latest evidence-based content
- Dedicated IT support for learners
- CET points and accreditation of prior learning where appropriate
Available Modules
23 modules are available including:
Many of the modules include practical, hands on training
- Low vision
- Acute eye care
- Glaucoma
- Neurology for optometrists
- Paediatric optometry
- Clinical teaching for optometrists
- Optometry for learning disabilities
- Imaging & advanced instrumentation
- Management of tear film disorders
- Research project
- Leadership skills
- Study skills
- Legal Aspects of Optometry
- Evidence based practice and clinical audit
- AMD
Course Delivery and Assessment
The majority of the course will be delivered via Learning Central, the University's e-Learning system. You will have access to multimedia lecture presentations, supporting resources and discussions led by course tutors. On many of the modules leading educators in the field also provide practical skills workshops and tutorial.
Formative and summative assessment is via online multiple-choice questions, submitted written coursework and assignments, plus practical exams where appropriate.
Library and IT Services
As a Cardiff University student you will have access to the library and computing services and will benefit from extended library loans, postal loans, email transmission of scanned articles and access to electronic information resources such as online journals. You can also become a member of SCONUL, a system allowing students to borrow material from other participating libraries in the UK and Ireland.
In addition students will be invited to a induction day at Cardiff University where they will have the opportunity to meet the tutors and attend IT and library training
Special Features
- Two of our modules (OPT009: Glaucoma Foundation and OPT010: Glaucoma Level 1) have been accredited by The College of Optometrists. Successful completion of these two modules will automatically lead to you being awarded The College’s Professional Certificate in Glaucoma.
Skills Acquired
Facilities include new and refurbished clinics and laboratories, all fitted with state-of-the-art equipment.
- Project and time management
- Develop IT skills
- Refining analytical and problem-solving skills
- Working independently
- Problem solving
- Communication skills
Entry Requirements
Applicants should normally hold a BSc (Hons) Degree in Optometry or a related subject. Please note that this is not a conversion course, you will need to be an eye care professional in order to apply for these courses.
English Language Requirements: Minimum University requirements (e.g. 6.5 IELTS)
Applicants for non-degree courses (those studying an individual module) are required to complete a paper application. Please contact pgoptom@cardiff.ac.uk for details.
Application Deadline: 1 month before the start of term.
Funding
Limited sponsorship is available for the AMD module (OPT023). The pharmaceutical company, Novartis, will cover the module fee for a limited number of eligible students. Please contact pgoptom@cardiff.ac.uk for further details.
Tuition Fees:
-
UK & EU Part Time for 2013/14
£3,196.00
MSc fee. PGCert fee: £1,551. PGDip fee: £2,068. -
International Part Time for 2013/14
£4,890.00
MSc fee. PGCert fee: £2,241. PGDip fee: £2,988.
Next intake: March each year
School Contact
Name: Lucy Hampton
Telephone: +44 (0)29 2087 0561
Fax:
Email: PGOptom@cardiff.ac.uk
School Website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/optom/pgt
