Initial Year for Extended Degree in Science - Optometry
Key information
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Typical offer:
Entry requirements -
Fees: See below
Full details -
UCAS code: B511
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Institute code: H36
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Entry requirements
The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.
UCAS points A Level BTEC 88 CCD: To include 2 A Levels from science subjects i.e. Biology, Human Biology, Maths, Physics or Chemistry. A minimum of Grade C must be obtained in either Biology or Maths. A-Levels in General Studies and the Extended Project are excluded.
MMM: BTEC Extended Diploma with a science profile (not including Early Years or Health & Social Care, must be science based subject to include Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Human Biology, Applied Science) in addition to an A-level in either Maths or Biology at grade C or above.
Additional requirements
GCSE: 5 GCSEs at grade 5/B or above, including in English Language and Mathematics and Science.
For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.
UCAS points A Level BTEC Access Course Tariff 96 CCC - To include 2 A Levels from science subjects i.e. Biology, Human Biology, Maths, Physics or Chemistry. A minimum of Grade C must be obtained in either Biology or Maths. A-Levels in General Studies and the Extended Project are excluded.
MMM - BTEC Extended Diploma with a science profile (not including Early Years or Health & Social Care, must be science based subject to include Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Human Biology, Applied Science) in addition to an A-level in either Maths or Biology at grade C or above.
Access to HE Diploma in Science, Medicine or Allied Health to include 60 credits overall (must include Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics) with 45 at Level 3, 15 of which must be at Distinction (to include Biology or Maths) and the remaining at merit. 15 credits must be in Biology and 15 credits in maths. Additional requirements
GCSE: 5 GCSEs at grade 5/B or above, including in English Language and Mathematics and Science.
IELTS score of 7.0 with 7.0 in each band is required for those for whom English is not their first language.
For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.
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- 1st in the East of England for Optometry, Ophthalmics & Orthoptics (Complete University Guide, 2024)
- Level 0
Module Credits Compulsory/optional Academic Skills 15 Credits Compulsory Foundations in Anatomy and Physiology 15 Credits Compulsory The module covers fundamental elements of human anatomy and physiology. Basic and specialist human cells and biological molecules will be introduced, along with essential processes which take place within the human body. This will allow students to undertake further study with the basic knowledge and understanding of the core concepts in place. Geometric Optics 15 Credits Compulsory The student will build up their knowledge and understanding of geometrical optics by studying four topics: the nature of light, reflection and refraction at flat surfaces, refraction and reflection at a spherical surface, and refraction by a thin lens, all taught using notation and conventions of the UK optometric profession. They will derive the fundamental paraxial equation, utilise it to analyse image formation by single and paired (thin lens) spherical surfaces, and be informed of its limitations (while stopping short of studying monochromatic aberrations). Introduction to Clinical Skills 15 Credits Compulsory This module is designed to give students a basic introduction to some of the clinical components of an eye examination Introduction to Ophthalmic Dispensing 30 Credits Compulsory Unit 1: The requirements of spectacle frames will be introduced along with different frame materials, their adjustment and repair. Unit 2: The basic principles of ophthalmic lenses are introduced for thin lenses. Different lens forms will be covered along with terminology and notation and transposition between prescription forms. Unit 3: Frame measurement and facial measurements used in the dispensing of single vision lenses will be covered. Unit 4: Students will be taught how to determine lens power using hand neutralisation and focimetry and become familiar with the British Standards relating to this. Unit 5: The students will be introduced to ametropia and the interpretation and analysis of single vision prescriptions. Unit 6: The principles of the ophthalmic dispensing process for single vision lenses will be covered. Unit 7: Students will learn about different ophthalmic lens materials, their advantages and disadvantages and the calculation to determine lens thickness. Unit 8: An introduction will be given to ophthalmic prisms and also multifocal lens forms. Laboratory Optics 15 Credits Compulsory The module will provide the student with the opportunity to engage with a range of practical activities, some bench experiments and some PC-lab simulations, concerning the nature of light, the reflection and refraction of light at flat and spherical surfaces, and the refraction of light at thin lenses. The practical content complements the optics theory taught in other modules of this programme. Mathematics for Optics 15 Credits Compulsory Theme 1 addresses algebra, e.g. how to manipulate expressions with up to five variables, changing the subject of an equation, substituting numbers into a formula whilst converting units, factorising and utilising laws of index. Theme 2 addresses trigonometry, for example the relationship between lengths and angles of triangles and the form of basic trigonometric functions, including for standard 30o and 45o right triangles. Theme 3 addresses basic statistical techniques including measures of central tendency and spread. Theme 4 will introduce fundamental mathematical functions, e.g., logarithms and exponential function. The 5th, synoptic, theme addresses strategies to solve general mathematical problems, understanding questions, the data, the objective, use of appropriate notation, and modification of the problem. This includes making approximations and using mental arithmetic.
Why choose this course?
Teaching
Teaching comprises a combination of lectures, tutorials and practical classes, supported by computer-assisted and self-directed study. This approach promotes student involvement, utilising a broad mix of progressive approaches.
During lectures you will explore the theory element of the module, the practical classes will allow you to put this theory into practice. You will also be encouraged to attend talks by external speakers from industry.
With small class sizes, you’ll enjoy quality contact time with lecturers, and the attention and support when you need it. In addition, you have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor.
Independent learning
When not attending lectures, seminars and other timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations.
What's the course about?
This course provides a thorough grounding specific to the professions of optometry and ophthalmic dispensing. It prepares students for study at undergraduate level.
Integrating theory, research and practice throughout, the Initial Year Optometry supports progression to the University of Hertfordshire’s Master of Optometry (MOptom) subject to fulfilling certain requirements.
The course comprises human biology, mathematics, problem solving skills, professional conduct and evidence based practice. In addition, further modules include an introduction to the theory and practice of subjects and skills relating to optometry and ophthalmic dispensing, including visual optics, optics and ophthalmic lenses.
With good job prospects, this career is interesting, rewarding and can make a genuine difference. The career is suited to those who enjoy working with people.
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What's next for my career?
Following successful completion of the Initial Year Optometry, you may progress onto Year 1 of the MOptom programme at the University of Hertfordshire, subject to achieving an average pass of 75%, with no less than 40% in each constituent module.
In addition, progression to the University’s MOptom programme requires satisfactory Occupational Health clearance and Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.
Students who do not achieve the required pass grade to progress onto the MOptom will have the opportunity to progress onto alternative programmes at the University of Hertfordshire within Bioscience, Nutrition and Dietetics or in the School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science.
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Further information - includes assessment method
Course fact sheets Initial Year for Extended Degree Science - Optometry Download Programme specifications Initial Year for Extended Degree Science - Optometry Download Additional information Sandwich placement or study abroad year
n/a
Applications open to international and EU students
No Course length
- Full Time, 5 Years
Location
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield
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How to apply?
2024
Start Date End Date Link 26/09/2024 31/05/2025 Apply online (Full Time) -
Fees and funding
Fees 2023
UK Students
Full time
- £9250 for the 2023/2024 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.
View detailed information about tuition fees
Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet
Other financial support
Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students
Living costs / accommodation
The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.