| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Ocular Surface Disease Management program from Aston University equips optometry clinicians with advanced knowledge and clinical skills in assessing and managing ocular surface diseases. Delivered online, the program covers key areas such as anterior eye imaging, corneal assessment, dry eye diagnosis and management, and therapeutic contact lens use. Graduates can pursue specialized roles in ocular surface disease management or enhance their existing optometry practice.
Program Outline
Outline:
The Ocular Surface Disease Management program aims to equip optometry clinicians with advanced knowledge and clinical skills in assessing and managing ocular surface diseases. It covers several key areas:
- Anterior eye imaging: Students will learn to analyze images of the eye's anterior structures using advanced technologies.
- Assessment of the Cornea: This section provides an in-depth understanding of corneal anatomy, physiology, and its role in various diseases.
- Definitions and pathophysiology of dry eye: Students will explore the different types of dry eye, their causes, and the mechanisms involved in their development.
- Diagnosis and Management of dry eye: The program equips students with the skills to diagnose different types of dry eye and implement appropriate management strategies.
- Ocular allergy: Students will gain insights into the mechanisms and management of ocular allergies.
- Ocular surface A&E: The program covers the management of emergencies related to the ocular surface.
- Chronic ocular surface disease: This section delves into the diagnosis and management of chronic conditions affecting the ocular surface.
- BCLA CLEAR evidence-based contact lens management: Students will learn how to use contact lenses effectively in managing ocular surface diseases based on the latest evidence.
- Therapeutic contact lens use: The program covers the application of therapeutic contact lenses for specific ocular surface conditions.
Assessment:
The program utilizes various assessment methods aligned with the learning outcomes:
- Online multiple-choice questions: This assesses students' theoretical knowledge of the different topics covered.
- Visual recognition tests: Students are evaluated on their ability to identify and interpret visual features relevant to ocular surface diseases.
- Case reports: Students will analyze and manage complex case scenarios, demonstrating their understanding and application of knowledge.
- OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations): During a compulsory two-day workshop, students' practical skills are assessed in simulated clinical settings.
Teaching:
The program is delivered online through Aston University's virtual learning environment, Blackboard. Learning activities include:
- Lecture content: Delivered online through Blackboard, covering all key topics.
- Small group activity learning: Engaging activities such as tutorials and independent study promote deeper understanding and collaboration.
- Clinical skills workshops: These intensive workshops allow students to practice and refine their clinical skills in a supervised setting.
Careers:
The program prepares students for various career paths within optometry, including:
- Specializing in the diagnosis and management of ocular surface diseases: Graduates can pursue advanced roles within hospital eye clinics or private practices, focusing on this area of specialization.
- Enhancing clinical practice: The acquired knowledge and skills can be integrated into existing optometry practice, leading to more comprehensive patient care and management of complex cases.
- Continuing professional development: The program provides valuable CPD opportunities for qualified optometrists, enabling them to stay current with advancements in this field and improve their professional standing.
Other:
The module is also offered as part of the Optometry Flexible Framework, catering to the needs of professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills on a flexible schedule.
Aston University
Overview:
Aston University is a public research university located in Birmingham, England. It is known for its focus on business and professional studies, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and employability. The university boasts a diverse and international student body, attracting students from over 120 countries.
Services Offered:
Aston University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Student support services:
The university provides comprehensive support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support.Library:
Aston University has a modern and well-equipped library with extensive resources for students.Accommodation:
The university offers a variety of on-campus accommodation options for students.Student Union:
The Aston Students' Union provides a range of social and recreational activities for students.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Aston University offers a vibrant and welcoming campus experience. Students can expect:
A global community:
The university has a diverse student body, creating a multicultural and inclusive environment.A strong sense of belonging:
The university fosters a strong sense of community among its students.A range of social and recreational activities:
The university and the Students' Union offer a variety of activities for students to enjoy.A location in a vibrant city:
Birmingham is a major city with a rich cultural heritage, offering students a wide range of opportunities for entertainment, dining, and shopping.Key Reasons to Study There:
High rankings and awards:
Aston University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, including being ranked in the top 10% of universities globally.Strong focus on employability:
The university has a strong reputation for preparing students for successful careers, with a high graduate employment rate.Award-winning careers support:
Aston University provides excellent careers support services to students, including work placements and internships.Degrees with integrated work placements:
Many of the university's programs offer integrated work placements, providing students with valuable real-world experience.Triple accreditation:
Aston Business School is one of the few business schools in the world to have triple accreditation, signifying its high quality and standards.Academic Programs:
Aston University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Business:
Aston Business School is renowned for its business programs, including MBA and other postgraduate degrees.Engineering and Technology:
The university offers a range of engineering and technology programs, including computer science, infrastructure engineering, and sustainable engineering.Health Sciences:
Aston University has a strong presence in health sciences, offering programs in medicine, pharmacy, optometry, and psychology.Law:
Aston Law School offers a range of law programs, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.Social Sciences and Humanities:
The university offers programs in social sciences and humanities, including history, politics, and sociology.Other:
Entry Requirements:
Aston University requires all applicants to hold the following:
- UK GOC registered Optometrists or other eye care professional.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
For the Ocular Surface Disease Management course, the minimum English language requirements are:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any individual component
- TOEFL iBT: 90 overall with a minimum of 20 in listening and writing and 22 in speaking and reading
Exemptions:
- Applicants with a degree taught and examined in English from a UK or other approved university may be exempt from the English language requirement.
