Program Overview

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Introduction to the Medical Retina Module

The Medical Retina module, coded as ACO702, is designed to extend theoretical knowledge and develop clinical skills in medical retina to an enhanced level. This module supports differential diagnosis, referral, management, and treatment pathways.

Key Features of the Module

• The module enables students to gain the College of Optometrists Professional Certificate in Medical Retina upon successful completion.
• It supports progression through the Ophthalmic Practitioner Training (OPT) framework in medical retina.
• The module is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining distance learning with face-to-face clinical teaching and assessment days.

Module Details

Module Code and Credits

• Module code: ACO702
• Credits: 20
• FHEQ Level: 7 – masters degree

Location and Delivery

• The module uses a blended learning approach, with theoretical content delivered through distance learning.
• There is one face-to-face clinical teaching day at the start, a live webinar opportunity, and one face-to-face assessment day at the end.

Units of Study

• Anatomy and Physiology relevant to medical retina conditions
• Clinical investigation of the medical retina patient
• Age-related macular degeneration
• Vitreoretinal disorders
• Further retinal disorders
• Diabetes and Diabetic eye disease
• Clinical governance, informed consent, and communication

Assessment

• Written examination
• Clinical examination (OSCE)
• Clinical portfolio with viva

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the retina.
• Demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of common and acute medical retina and macular conditions.
• Demonstrate the ability to systematically and critically analyze and interpret clinical findings.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform advanced clinical assessments.
• Systematically organize and communicate with patients to elicit comprehensive clinical information and deliver relevant advice.

Admissions Information

• Additional documentation required for the application process includes application forms, change of name forms, pre-course information, and downloadable guides.
• Visit the Professional Development Unit (PDU) admissions for full details.

Module Dates

• The module starts with an online welcome/induction, followed by specific dates for clinical teaching and assessment.
• Dates are subject to change, and it is advised to check with the module lead or PDU for the most current information.

Fees

• Please refer to the Professional Development module fees page for the most up-to-date fee information.

Module Lead

• Hannah Stewart

Entry Requirements

• Registered ophthalmic professional working in a clinical area that facilitates the completion of module learning outcomes.
• All registered optometrists are eligible to apply.
• Other ophthalmic professionals may apply but must provide a certified letter from their employer confirming an appropriate level of competence in clinical examination.
• Access to wi-fi and relevant electronic devices for engagement with module delivery, teaching, learning, and assessment is expected.
• An interview may be required to assess individual ability to meet module requirements.

Accreditation

• Successful completion of ACO702 Medical Retina results in the award of the College of Optometrists' Professional Certificate in Medical Retina.
• This entitles the use of the affix Prof Cert Med Ret, and for registrants, the GOC will be notified of the achievement.

MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology

• This module can be studied as a standalone 20 credit option or as part of the full MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology.
• The MSc programme supports the postgraduate development of registered ophthalmic professionals to an advanced level of practice in Clinical Ophthalmology.