Fundamentals of Ophthalmology (FOP601)

Develop fundamental knowledge of ocular anatomy and physiology and fundamental clinical skills
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Key features

This module provides students with the opportunity to develop fundamental knowledge of ocular anatomy and physiology and fundamental clinical skills to support their ophthalmic practice and / or their progression into enhanced or advanced clinical practice qualification routes. Core anatomy and applied physiology of both the anterior and posterior eye will be covered in this module. Students will be encouraged to then apply this knowledge practically, through development of fundamental clinical skills including, use of a slit lamp for examination of the anterior and posterior eye and intraocular pressure measurement.
Optometry

Module code

FOP601

Credits

30

FHEQ Level 

Level 6 - degree

Location 

Blended learning approach 
Optometry

Learning outcomes 

  • Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of the anatomy of the ocular system, to include the orbit, structures of the eyeball, ocular adnexa and visual pathway.
  • Demonstrate detailed knowledge and understanding of the physiology of the ocular system, to include the orbit, structures of the eyeball, ocular adnexa and visual pathway.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the ageing eye and the principles of pathology.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use a range of different instrumentation and techniques for assessment of ocular health.  
  • Demonstrate the ability to use a range of difference instrumentation and techniques for assessment of intraocular pressure. 
  • Demonstrate the ability to interpret the clinical findings recorded during the assessment of a patient and produce accurate clinical records. 

Summary of module content

Practical
  • Fundamentals of slit lamp examination.
  • Slit lamp examination of the anterior eye.
  • Examination of the fundus (inc. the optic nerve head).
  • Indirect slit lamp biomicroscopy (VOLK).
  • Intraocular pressure and tonometry.
  • Clinical uses of diagnostic drugs.
  • Imaging. 
Theory
  • Overview of the visual system.
  • Bones of the orbit.
  • Orbital blood supply.
  • Orbital nerve supply.
  • Extra-ocular muscles.
  • Ocular adnexa and lacrimal system.
  • Fibrous layer of the eyeball: cornea, limbus and sclera.
  • Uvea: iris, ciliary body and choroid.
  • Crystalline Lens.
  • Vitreous and Aqueous humour.
  • Retina.
  • Optic nerve.
  • Visual pathway.
  • The ageing eye and introduction to the principles of pathology. 
  • Eye health and public eye health awareness (including paediatrics, ECLO).

Assessment

The assessment for this module includes written examination and clinical examination (OSCE). 

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: September 2024
Duration: One academic year
End date: June 2025
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.

Module lead

Fees

£1,830

Entry requirements

  • This programme is designed for registered clinicians who are currently working clinically in an ophthalmic setting that will facilitate the successful completion of the module (primary or secondary care). For example, ophthalmic nurses.
  • Applicants will normally have a relevant first degree, BSc (Hons) at 2:2 or above; or a European first cycle equivalent. 
  • Applicants without a first degree, BSc (Hons) at 2:2 or above may be eligible to apply, if combined with appropriate practice related experience relevant to the module and following submission of a written critical evaluation marked against the Level 6 criteria. 
  • Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English through an IELTS average of 6.5, overall minimum of 5.5 in each part. 
  • Applicant must be working in an Ophthalmology clinical setting.
  • 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 programme delivery, teaching, learning and assessment. 
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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.