Glaucoma eye test

Key features

This module will enable students to extend their theoretical knowledge of glaucoma investigation and management and develop their clinical skills to an advanced level to support diagnosis and complex decision making in ocular hypertension and new or established glaucoma. 
It has been designed to allow applicants to gain recognition against the College of Optometrists Professional Higher Certificate in Glaucoma and to support progression through the Ophthalmic Practitioner Training (OPT) framework in Glaucoma. 
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Module code

ACO705

Credits

20

FHEQ Level 

Level 7 - masters degree

Location 

Blended learning approach: distance learning delivery of theoretical content, with one face-to-face clinical teaching day at the start of the module, a live webinar opportunity and one face-to-face assessment day at the end of the module

Module details

The module will equip students with advanced theoretical knowledge and clinical expertise in relation to complex decision making, diagnosis and management in glaucoma. 
Units of study include:
  • Complex communication
  • Advanced Clinical Investigation
  • Classification of advanced forms of glaucoma
  • Principles of management of COAG and OHT
  • Laser and surgical management of glaucoma
  • Advanced clinical decision making in COAG and OHT management
  • Lifestyle and social aspects of glaucoma

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of the classification and pathogenesis of secondary glaucoma and risk factors for progression.
  • Demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of the principles of medical management of open and closed angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
  • Demonstrate detailed systematic knowledge and understanding of the design and application of advanced instrumentation and techniques for complex clinical decision making in glaucoma.
  • Systematically organise and communicate with patients to elicit comprehensive and complex clinical information and deliver relevant and accessible advice to support the lifestyle and social aspects of glaucoma.
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform advanced clinical assessments to aid clinical decision making in the diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
  • Demonstrate the ability to systematically and critically analyse and interpret the signs, symptoms and clinical findings recorded during the advanced assessment of a patient with glaucoma and produce complex clinical management recommendations.

Clinical Placement

In order to obtain the College of Optometrists Professional Higher Certificate in Glaucoma, students are required to work within, or complete a clinical placement within, a Glaucoma clinic, under the mentorship of an ophthalmologist who specialises in glaucoma. This placement must be arranged by the student prior to enrolment and must enable them to obtain experience of at least 150 patients of varying diagnosis and complexity. The placement is assessed through completion of a clinical logbook. As a minimum guideline, one session per week (half day), over a 6-9 month period is recommended.
Recognition Prior Learning (RPL) can be considered towards the clinical placement for those practitioners with at least 2 years’ experience working in glaucoma management on a regular basis (minimum of one session per week) within a hospital, clinic or appropriate setting. Please contact the module team for further information: acpophthalmology@plymouth.ac.uk.
NB. It is possible to complete this Advanced Glaucoma module without the clinical placement element, however this will not lead to the award of the College of Optometrists Professional Higher Certificate.

Assessment

The assessment for this module includes, written examination, clinical examination (OSCE) and a clinical portfolio with viva.

Admissions information 

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
  • Application forms. 
  • Change of name forms.
  • Pre-course information.
  • Downloadable guides.
  • Student card.
 
Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.

Module dates

Start date: week commencing 18 September 2023
Duration: one academic term
End date: 24 January 2024
Occasionally delivery dates might be subject to change – always check with the module lead or Professional Development Unit.
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers.
In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date. 
Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.

Fees

£1,140

Entry requirements

  • Registered ophthalmic professional working in a clinical area that will facilitate the successful completion of the module learning outcomes. 
  • It is a pre-requisite that students completing this module have successfully completed the Glaucoma (ACO701) module, or an equivalent Level 7 module in Glaucoma. 
  • Students looking to obtain the College of Optometrists Professional Higher Certificate in Glaucoma, must already hold the College of Optometrists Professional Certificate in Glaucoma.
  • Students looking to obtain the College of Optometrists Professional Higher Certificate in Glaucoma are required to arrange a clinical placement in a glaucoma clinic, as detailed above, and provide details of their placement location and mentor at the point of application.
  • Due to the blended learning delivery model of this module, it is an expectation that applicants will have access to wi-fi and relevant electronic devices that allow them to engage fully with all aspects of module delivery, teaching, learning and assessment. 
  • In some cases, an interview may be required to assess individual ability to meet the requirements of this module. 

MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology

This module can be studied as a standalone 20 credit option or as part of the full MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology.
An innovative and flexible MSc programme supporting the postgraduate development of registered ophthalmic professionals to an advanced level of practice in Clinical Ophthalmology.
Full programme details can be found on our MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology page. 
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You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries

Prospective student enquiries:
Current student enquiries:
Professional Development Unit, Level 4 Rolle Building, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
Monday – Thursday 8:30–17:00 and Friday 8:30–16:30.