Program Overview

Introduction to the Clinical Optometry (MSc) Program

The Clinical Optometry (MSc) program is designed to meet the continuing education and training needs of modern eye care professionals. This level 7 program aims to provide optometrists with the opportunity to undertake a challenging and rewarding Master's in Clinical Optometry, focusing on personal development as professionals leading, managing, and developing ophthalmic practice roles and models of care delivery.

Why Study This Course

• The program is accredited by the College of Optometrists for many of its modules.
• It offers a flexible module approach, allowing students to choose their specialty.
• Cardiff University is ranked 2nd for Optometry in the Complete University Guide 2024.
• The school is housed in a dedicated ｣22 million optometry facility with an in-built eye clinic.

Program Aim

The MSc Clinical Optometry is designed for optometrists in primary, secondary, and tertiary settings who wish to advance their knowledge base and specialist clinical and leadership skills. The program focuses on the personal development of professionals, leading to the advancement of optometry.

Program Structure

• The full-time MSc Clinical Optometry degree is a modular program requiring students to complete a total of 120 taught credits, including one compulsory research methods module.
• The remaining 110 credits are achieved through a selection of optional modules.
• The final 60 credits are achieved through a research project.
• Students have access to multimedia lecture presentations, supporting resources, and discussions led by course tutors.
• Practical workshops for skills training are held at convenient locations and instructed by educational leaders in the discipline.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for the program, applicants must meet all entry requirements, including:

• Evidence of full GOC registration (for UK students).
• A personal statement outlining intended modules and start date.
• For non-GOC registered applicants: a copy of the certificate and transcripts showing an honors degree in Optometry or a professional optometric qualification, an IELTS certificate, and a written professional reference.

Application Deadline and Selection Process

• Applications are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The application deadline is normally the end of August for the part-time program and the end of April for the full-time program.
• Interviews may be held with non-UK optometrists to ensure they have the relevant clinical skills required for the course.

Course Structure

• The program consists of two terms of taught modules, with 60 credits taken in each term.
• The first term runs from September to February and includes the compulsory research methods module.
• The second term runs from February to July.
• In March, the research project is confirmed, and students work with their supervisor to plan the project and gain ethics approval if needed.

Modules

Core Modules

• Study and Research Skills for Eye Care Professionals (10 credits)
• Essential Eye Care for Optometrists (30 credits)
• Research Project (60 credits)

Optional Modules

• Low Vision 1: Theory (10 credits)
• Low Vision 2: Practical (10 credits)
• Acute Eye Care in Optometry 1 (10 credits)
• Acute Eye Care in Optometry 2 (10 credits)
• Glaucoma Foundation (10 credits)
• Glaucoma 1 (10 credits)
• Medical Retina (20 credits)
• Contact Lenses 1 (10 credits)

Learning and Assessment

• Modules may differ, but teaching methods include online lectures, webinars, and workshops for clinical modules.
• Assessment methods vary by module but include assignments, presentations, discussions, case scenarios, simulated clinical workshops, and practical examinations.

Tuition Fees

• For home status: ｣12,780 for the first year, with no deposit required.
• For overseas status: ｣23,940 for the first year, with a ｣2,500 deposit.

Funding

• Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria.
• Postgraduate loans are available for students starting their Master's degree in September 2026 or later.
• An alumni discount is available for Cardiff University graduates.

Career Prospects

• The course enables optometrists to advance their careers and may act as assurance of competency to work in specialist clinics.
• Please note that this Master's degree does not lead to full professional registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) and does not qualify students to practice in the UK.