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MOptom Master of Optometry

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Key information

Typical offer:
Entry requirements
Fees:
Full details
UCAS code: B510
Institute code: H36
Work placement option
Find out more

UCAS points	A Level	BTEC
136-144	AAB-AAA: At least two A-Levels (and no more than 4, must be included in the tariff points calculation. At least two A-Levels at the higher grades from science subjects (i.e. Biology, Human Biology, Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry). One of the science A-Levels must be from Biology or Mathematics. Resit students will require a minimum of an A grade in the subjects being re-examined (if they satisfy the above). A-Levels in General Studies and the Extended Project are excluded. AS Levels are not included in the tariff calculation. Applicants are ideally, required to have studied Mathematics beyond GCSE level.	DDD: BTEC Extended Diploma with a science profile (not including early years or health and social care): DDD. (Must be science based subject to include Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Human Biology, Applied Science) PLUS 1 A level maths or biology at minimum grade B.

Additional requirements

GCSE: 5 GCSEs at grade 5/B or above including 5/B in English Language, Mathematics and Science.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum of 7.0 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International 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.

Professional accreditations

The Master of Optometry degree is accredited by the General Optical Council. Full registration with the General Optical Council is gained after successful completion of the degree.
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Why choose this course?

1st in the East of England for Optometry, Ophthalmics & Orthoptics (2023 Complete University Guide)
Strong clinical focus with practice throughout and access to our bespoke clinical facilities
Integrated Masters leading to full registration

Our exceptional 4-year integrated programme provides a unique opportunity to explore all aspects of Optometry, integrating theory, research and practice throughout.

Benefits of studying Optometry at the University of Hertfordshire include:

New simulation facilities
An opportunity to develop your skills with surrogate patients before entering work settings
The incorporation of the College of Optometrists’ pre-registration period means that upon completion of your degree you will be a registered Optometrist
Access to a variety of practice placements including placements in hospitals
At the end of your degree, you will be eligible for full registration with the General Optical Council, allowing you to practice professionally within the UK.

What's the course about?

This distinctive course integrates theory, research, science and clinical practice right from the start. What makes it unique is that it’s the first optometry degree to incorporate the College of Optometrists’ pre-registration period within the course. That means that once you graduate, you’ll be a fully registered optometrist.

During your degree, you’ll have access to the latest specialist laboratories, equipment and simulation facilities, and take part in innovative methods of learning that embed evidence-based practice and knowledge.

Work experience is a vital part of the course, and you’ll have placements in hospitals and community practice, getting a taste of different career paths.

Your main campus is College Lane   

This is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus pub or cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.  

What will I study?

You will undertake your studies both on campus as well as on university arranged clinical placements.

Teaching will be delivered in lecture theatres and our state-of-the-art laboratories and clinical suites, equipped with state of the art equipment and bespoke optometry cubicles.

A variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars and practical classes will be employed throughout your degree, supported by computer-assisted and self-directed study. The use of surrogate and simulated experience allows for clinical practice in a safe and supervised environment. This flexible approach promotes student involvement, utilising a broad mix of progressive approaches.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Clinical Practice 1	0 Credits	Compulsory
The module is designed to give students a practical understanding of the procedures involved in conducting an eye examination. The module will concentrate on the General Optical Council Stage 1 core competencies. To gain a qualification in optometry students and trainees of GOC approved programmes have to demonstrate that they are proficient in the associated core competencies. The core competencies for each area of practice are published and approved by the GOC.
Fundamentals of Optical Science	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module covers the theoretical aspects of physical and geometrical optics in relation to optical surfaces, elements and systems, as necessary precursors to studying the optics of the eye. This will include the following: The nature of light including the wave nature of light, wavefronts, rays, polarization, diffraction and interference The reflection and refraction of light at flat and spherical optical surfaces, wavefront vergence, and polarization. Geometrical ray tracing of light through optical surfaces, thin lenses, thick lenses, and simple optical systems having flat and spherical surfaces, for equifocal and non-equifocal systems. The mathematical calculation of image formation by optical surfaces, thin lenses, thick lenses, and simple optical systems. having flat and spherical surfaces, for equifocal and non-equifocal systems, using the fundamental paraxial equation and Newton's equation.
Laboratory Optics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module covers the practical aspects of physical and geometrical optics in relation to optical surfaces, elements and systems, as necessary precursors to studying the optics of the eye. This will include the following: The nature of light including the wave nature of light, wavefronts, rays, polarization, diffraction and interference. The reflection and refraction of light at flat and spherical optical surfaces, wavefront vergence, and polarisation. Geometrical ray tracing of light through optical surfaces, thin lenses, thick lenses, and simple optical systems having flat, spherical surfaces. The mathematical calculation of image formation by optical surfaces, thin lenses, thick lenses, and simple optical systems. having flat and spherical surfaces.
Dispensing and Contact Lenses 1	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module gives students an introduction to ophthalmic dispensing and contact lens skills for optometric practice. The module aims to give students an understanding of the most suitable optical correction for ametropia.
Visual Applied Optics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides an application of fundamental physical optics and the properties of the behaviour of light to optical systems of relevance to image formation by the eye. It introduces students to the eye as an optical instrument and the optical basis underlying disorders of refraction e.g. myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism. How images are formed on the retina and the effects of refractive error and aberrations on the eye are discussed and the module will also develop the theme of image correction through the use of optical instruments.
Foundations of Optometric Practice	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module lays the foundations of knowledge for four years of study towards the award of Master of Optometry. Students will gain an understanding of the role of the optometrist, professionalism and academic skills. Key concepts in optometry relation to vision, visual processing, refractive error and ocular disease will be introduced.
Anatomy and Physiology	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module gives students an overview of the structure and function of the healthy human body, and in detail, the structure and function of the eye. Students will gain an understanding of the various cell organelles and their role in determining anatomical function in relation to the structures of the eye. The module aims to give students an overview of each of eleven body systems (circulatory, immune, nervous, digestive, excretory, exocrine, muscular, skeletal, respiratory and reproductive). The basic principals of oncology, pharmacology and embryology will also be introduced. The module also teaches students the detailed anatomy to allow an understanding of the role of structures in the function of the visual system, from the eye to visual processing in the brain. Students will be introduced to basic ocular pathology to emphasise the importance of understanding how anatomical structure and physiology is changed in the presence of pathology.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Abnormal Ocular Conditions and Pharmacology	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module builds on 4LMS0128 Anatomy and Physiology. The module will cover the pathophysiology and aetiology relevant to optometric practice and the optometric and medical management of a range of ocular and systemic diseases.
Clinical Practice 2	0 Credits	Compulsory
The module is designed to give students a practical understanding of the procedures involved in conducting an eye examination. The module will concentrate on the General Optical Council Stage 1 core competencies. To gain a qualification in optometry students and trainees of GOC approved programmes have to demonstrate that they are proficient in the associated core competencies. The core competencies for each area of practice are published and approved by the GOC.
Clinical Skills for Optometry 1	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module will prepare students for conducting a primary examination of the eye. It is also designed to give students an understanding of the legal and ethical framework regarding an eye examination. It strengthens and consolidates the practical skills acquired in the Clinical Practice modules, with the supporting theory and knowledge.
Advanced Clinical Skills	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will focus, but not exclusively, on three elements: visual perception, binocular vision and visual impairment. Students will learn the principles, systems and processes relating to normal vision. They will also learn the consequences when normal vision is disrupted e.g. due to pathology, and how this may be managed in optometric practice.
Dispensing and Contact Lenses 2	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module gives students an advanced knowledge to ophthalmic dispensing and contact lens skills for optometric practice. The module aims to give students confidence in dispensing the most suitable optical appliance for a patient. The module will also facilitate final sign off of the General Optical Council Stage 1 core competencies and required patient episodes.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Advanced Techniques	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will deal with the presentation, identification and management of complex ocular and refractive abnormalities. This will include more complex pathology, binocular and low vision anomalies.
Evidence Based Practice for Optometry	15 Credits	Compulsory
Students will learn to construct a research question and search strategy in relation to optometric practice, conduct systematic searches of on-line databases, internet and other sources of information; appraise the evidence base of health and social care practice and interventions through the use of a range of tools; apply and critically analyse, through discussion and debate, the contextual factors which influence application of evidence to practice.
Professional Practice for Optometry	15 Credits	Compulsory
TThis module content will enable students to develop professionalism for clinical practice. Students will cover legal and ethical issues for optometry practice and develop proficient skills for record keeping and patient safety. This module is designed to develop concepts, attitudes and behaviours that are congruent with professional conduct and ethical decision-making in optometric practice. Case studies will be utilised to develop concepts, attitudes and behaviours that are congruent with professional conduct and ethical decision-making in optometry practice.
Clinical Practice 3	0 Credits	Compulsory
he module is designed to give students an understanding of the legal and ethical framework regarding an eye examination. The module will prepare students for conducting a full eye examination including management and onward referral (if required). The module will also facilitate final sign off of the General Optical Council Stage 1 core competencies and required patient episodes. To gain a qualification in optometry students and trainees of GOC approved programmes have to demonstrate that they are proficient in the associated core competencies. The core competencies for each area of practice are published and approved by the GOC.
Clinical Skills for Optometry 2	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module is aligned to the competencies assessed in the College of Optometrists Scheme for Registration. The Scheme for Registration marks the first phase of transition from being a student to being a professional optometrist. It is a structured and supported route that gives the student the chance to put into practice the skills already acquired in a safe environment. With the support of an allocated supervisor, the College of Optometrists assessment team and the University, students will be assessed against the Stage 2 competencies set out by the General Optical Council.
Clinical Skills for Optometry 3	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module is aligned to the competencies assessed in the College of Optometrists Scheme for Registration. The Scheme for Registration marks the first phase of transition from being a student to being a professional optometrist. It is a structured and supported route that gives the student the chance to put into practice the skills already acquired in a safe environment. With the support of an allocated supervisor, the College of Optometrists assessment team and the University, students will be assessed against the Stage 2 competencies set out by the General Optical Council.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Clinical Skills for Optometry 4	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module is aligned to the competencies assessed in Stage 2 of the College of Optometrists Scheme for Registration. The Scheme for Registration marks the first phase of transition from being a student to being a professional optometrist. It is a structured and supported route that gives the student the chance to put into practice the skills already acquired in a safe environment. With the support of an allocated supervisor, the College of Optometrists assessment team and the university , students will be assessed against the Stage 2 competencies set out by the General Optical Council.
Clinical Competence in Optometry	30 Credits	Compulsory
The College of Optometrists Scheme for Registration Final Assessment (OSCE). The OSCE is assessed using the Borderline Regression Method. A minimum of 10 out of 14 OSCE stations, and the pass mark for the ring, must be passed in order to pass the module, and in order to pass the Final Assessment OSCE.
Ophthalmic Project	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will enable the student to develop the skills required to research and critically analyse a field within optometry or vision science. Students will be encouraged to work independently and to draw on their learning throughout the programme. This will enhance critical thinking, presentation, statistical analysis and writing skills. Students can develop projects relating to the field of optometry, which can include clinical practice, specialist areas or vision science.
Optometry for the Workplace	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will enable the student to gain an understanding of the role of the optometrist within a variety of settings. Students will also learn advanced clinical techniques and career paths for optometrists. Students will learn business skills, the role of the NHS and review current legislation. The module will also review professionalism. Students will spend regular days in optometric placement in preparation for full GOC registration.

Work placement

In preparation for life after graduation, work placements and practice are integrated throughout the programme. This will allow you to gain hands-on work experience, applying theory into practice. Our students will complete work placements in all years including placement in the hospital. These placements are based within local NHS Trust Hospitals, specialist clinics, independent community practices, and with optical companies who manage multiple practice; to give you a taste of the different career paths available to you.

What's next for my career?

A career in Optometry is a rewarding one, offering you the opportunity to combine your interests in science and practice. Once you have graduated you may join the NHS healthcare team or private practice, working in a choice of environments along with a competitive salary.

Additionally, technical roles within the industry are a popular route for those graduating with an MOptom.

Once you graduate, you’ll be a fully registered optometrist with the General Optical Council. You’ll be qualified to perform a comprehensive eye examination, give advice on visual and ocular problems and prescribe optical appliances. You may want to work in private practice, within the hospital eye service, industry or academia.
Key staff

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Course fact sheets
Master of Optometry	Download
Master of Optometry	Download

Programme specifications
Master of Optometry	Download
Master of Optometry (MOptom)	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	n/a
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply using the links below:

2023

Start Date	End Date	Link
23/09/2023	22/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2023	27/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time)

2024

Start Date	End Date	Link
23/09/2024	22/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2024	27/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time)

Fees and funding
Fees 2023
UK Students

Full time
- £9250 for the 2023/2024 academic year
EU Students

Full time
- £14750 for the 2023/2024 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £14750 for the 2023/2024 academic year
- General Optical Council fee (currently £30)
- Personal optical equipment will need to be purchased on beginning your second year (estimated cost £1,500)
*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.

View detailed information about our accommodation

MOptom Master of Optometry

Key information

Typical offer:

Fees:

UCAS code: B510

Institute code: H36

Work placement option

Additional requirements

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Your main campus is College Lane

What will I study?

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2023

2024

Fees 2023

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation

Your main campus is College Lane   