| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
Aston University's MSc Optometry/Ophthalmic Science is a flexible postgraduate program designed for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field. The program offers a range of modules, a research-focused dissertation, and expert faculty guidance, enabling students to advance their careers and explore new specialties in optometry and ophthalmic science.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Aston University's MSc Optometry/Ophthalmic Science
is a flexible program designed for professionals already in full-time practice. The program allows individuals to advance their skills and gain deeper knowledge in their chosen field or explore new ones.
Key Points:
- Flexible format: Enables participants to gain postgraduate certificates, diplomas, master's or doctorate qualifications.
- Personalized learning: Allows selection of modules most relevant to the individual's professional practice and an area of interest for the dissertation.
- Research and innovation: Program benefits from Aston University's internationally recognized research in health and life sciences.
- Faculty expertise: Students learn from passionate research-active academics specializing in optometry research.
Program Objectives:
- Enhance students' academic potential through diverse learning experiences.
- Foster passion and enthusiasm for optometry/ophthalmic science through a practical approach.
- Equip students with in-depth knowledge of fundamental scientific principles related to eye care, covering functional and developmental conditions, ophthalmic optics, dispensing ophthalmic appliances, ocular disease, and systemic conditions.
- Develop skills in critical review of scientific literature, clinical judgment, data analysis, and research review.
- Refine abilities in clear and accurate record-keeping, time management, problem-solving, and data analysis.
Outline:
Structure:
- Taught Stage: Includes core modules like Basic Research Methods, Advanced Research Methods, and a range of optional modules.
- Dissertation Stage: Consists of a 60-credit research review dissertation supervised by Aston University faculty.
Taught Stage Modules:
- Core Modules:
- Basic Research Methods (20 credits)
- Advanced Research Methods (20 credits)
- Optional Modules (choose 80 credits from the following):
- Ageing Eye Management (20 credits)
- General Ocular Therapeutics (20 credits)
- Glaucoma (20 credits)
- Health and Patient Psychology (20 credits)
- Medical Retina (20 credits)
- Myopia (20 credits)
- Nutrition and the Eye (20 credits)
- Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics (20 credits)
- Ocular Surface Management (20 credits)
- Prescribing for Disorders of the Eye (20 credits)
- Refractive Surgery 1 (20 credits)
- Refractive Surgery 2 (20 credits)
Dissertation Stage:
- Ophthalmic Science Research Review (60 credits)
Assessment:
The program utilizes various assessment methods, including:
- Written and oral examinations
- Class tests
- Individual and group coursework
- Projects and presentations
- Practical assessments
Teaching:
Aston University's teaching style is modern and innovative, emphasizing active learning and bridging the gap between theory and practice. This enables students to apply their knowledge throughout the program, solidifying their understanding through practical examples.
Careers:
Target Audience:
This program is designed for individuals already working in professional practice who seek to:
- Advance their skills
- Gain a deeper understanding of their area of specialty
- Develop knowledge in new areas
Career Outcomes:
- Progression within their chosen career path
- Branching out into new specialties
- Continuation to the Doctor of Optometry DOptom / Doctor of Ophthalmic Science DOphSc for advanced research
Other:
- The program is delivered online through a flexible credit accumulation framework.
- Students can exit the program at the completion of any stage (PgCert, PgDip, or MSc).
- Taught credits are valid for 5 years.
Summary:
Aston University's MSc Optometry/Ophthalmic Science
offers a flexible and personalized approach to postgraduate study, catering to the needs of professionals in the field. With its diverse modules, research focus, and experienced faculty, the program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills to excel in their chosen career path.
UK students(2023/24) Annual tuition fees: £650 per 10 credits International students(2023/24) Annual tuition fees: £650 per 10 credits
