Optometry - MSci

Program Overview

The MSci Optometry program at UWE Bristol equips students with the knowledge and skills for a successful career as an optometrist. It offers on-site optometry facilities, extensive placements, and a focus on professional development. Graduates are eligible for GOC registration and have excellent employment prospects in hospitals, community practices, and other optometry-related fields.

Program Outline

This integrated Masters program, replacing the previous BSc (Hons) Optometry, offers in-depth academic and practical skills for a successful career as an optometrist. The program benefits from:

• On-site optometry facilities: Simulation labs and a dedicated clinic provide real-world experience.
• Extensive placements: Gain experience across diverse settings like the NHS and private/independent practices.
• Strong faculty: Learn from experienced optometrists involved in current research.
• Focus on professional development: Prepare for GOC registration and confident practice.
• Global recognition: A UK optometry degree opens doors worldwide.

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills required for professional optometry practice.
• Meet the General Optical Council (GOC) education and training requirements.
• Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills for patient interaction.
• Prepare graduates for lifelong learning and professional development.

Program Description:

• Course duration: Four years, full-time.
• Level: Undergraduate (MSci).
• Accreditation: Approved by the GOC.
• Entry requirements: 136 UCAS tariff points, specific GCSEs (including English and Maths), and an A-level in two science subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Human Biology, Applied Science, or Psychology).
• Fees: £9,250 per year for UK students, £15,850 for international students.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Modules: Contact Lenses, Dispensing and Optical Appliances 1, Foundation Optometry Skills, Investigative Skills, Ocular Anatomy and the Visual System, Professional Development and Communication.
• Focus: Introduction to foundational concepts in optometry and clinical practice.

Year 2:

• Modules: Advanced Contact Lenses, Dispensing and Optical Appliances 2, Ocular Pathology, Primary Care Routine and Binocular Vision, The Ageing Eye, The Body and Pharmacology.
• Focus: Deeper understanding of anatomy, pathology, and pharmacology, along with dispensing and advanced contact lens skills.

Year 3:

• Modules: Glaucoma Advanced Studies or Medical Retina Advanced Studies, Advanced Ocular Pathology and Pharmacology, Clinical Optometry and Leadership, Clinical Optometry and Preparing for Clinical Learning in Practice, Evidence Based Optometry, Shared Care and Prescribing.
• Focus: Advanced study in chosen specialization (Glaucoma or Medical Retina), in-depth clinical optometry, and preparation for professional practice.
• Clinical placement: Begin seeing real patients under qualified optometrist supervision in the on-site clinic.

Year 4:

• Modules: Clinical Learning in Practice 1, Clinical Learning in Practice 2, Lifelong Learning Project.
• Focus: Extensive placement in association with the College of Optometrists, consolidating learning and applying skills to real-world scenarios.
• Dissertation project: Research project on a topic of optometric interest.

Assessment:

• Written examinations: Assess theoretical knowledge and understanding.
• Practical assessments: Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), vivas, and case studies evaluate clinical skills and patient interaction.
• Projects and reports: Assess research and analysis skills.
• Assignments: Evaluate written communication skills and ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.
• Tutorials and seminars: Facilitate discussion, problem-solving, and deeper understanding.
• Simulations and workshops: Provide hands-on experience with clinical scenarios and equipment.
• Patient interaction: Opportunities in the on-site clinic for real-world experience with diverse patients.
• Research projects: Develop research skills and contribute to knowledge creation in optometry.

Careers:

• Graduate destinations: Hospitals, community practices, lens manufacturers, optical laboratories, global charities providing eye care services.
• Job prospects: High demand for well-trained optometrists, excellent employment potential.
• Career support: UWE's award-winning careers service provides coaching, job placements, and networking opportunities.

Other:

• Professional body: Graduates will be eligible for GOC registration to practice as optometrists.
• International recognition: UK optometry qualifications are highly respected worldwide.

Full-time course Fees Amount (£) Home Annual (Per Year) Fee 9250 Home Module Fee (15 Credit) 1156 International Annual (Per Year) Fee 15850 International Module Fee (15 Credit) 1981 Offshore Annual (Per Year) Fee 9250 Offshore Module Fee (15 Credit) 1156