Glaucoma (ACO701)
Extend theoretical knowledge of glaucoma and develop clinical skills
Key features
This module will enable students to extend their theoretical knowledge of glaucoma and develop their clinical skills to an enhanced level to support accurate diagnosis, referral and monitoring of ocular hypertension and chronic open angle glaucoma patients.
It has been designed to allow applicants to gain recognition against the College of Optometrists Professional Certificate in Glaucoma (accreditation pending) and to support progression through the Ophthalmic Practitioner Training (OPT) framework in glaucoma.
Module code
ACO701
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
This module will equip students with enhanced theoretical knowledge and clinical expertise in relation to ocular hypertension and glaucoma diagnosis, referral and monitoring.
Units of study include:
- Anatomy and physiology relevant to glaucoma.
- Classification, terminology and epidemiology.
- Clinical investigation of the glaucoma patient.
- Imaging in glaucoma.
- Clinical decision making.
- Introduction to treatment and management of glaucoma.
- Monitoring and detecting change.
- Clinical governance, informed consent and communication.
Assessment
The assessment for this module includes a written examination, clinical examination (OSCE) and clinical portfolio with viva.
The assessment for this module includes a written examination, clinical examination (OSCE) and clinical portfolio with viva.
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of the classification, pathophysiology and risk factors of the glaucomas.
- Demonstrate a systematic knowledge and understanding of the differential diagnosis of relevant disorders of the optic nerve head and visual pathway.
- Demonstrate detailed systematic knowledge and understanding of the design and application of different instrumentation and techniques for assessment and diagnosis of glaucoma.
- Systematically organise and communicate with patients to elicit comprehensive and complex clinical information and deliver relevant and accessible advice.
- Demonstrate the ability to perform advanced clinical assessments to aid the evaluation 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 assessment of a patient with ocular hypertension or glaucoma and produce accurate clinical management recommendations.
Admissions information
Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
Access to:
Access to:
- application forms
- change of name forms
- pre-course information
- downloadable guides
- student card.
Visit the Professional Development Unit admissions homepage for full details.
Module dates
Start date: week commencing 30 January 2023
Duration: one academic term
End date: 8 June 2023
Duration: one academic term
End date: 8 June 2023
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
£1,100
Entry requirements
- Applicants will normally have a relevant first degree, BSc (Hons) at 2:1 or above; or a European first cycle equivalent.
- Applicants without a first degree, BSc (Hons) at 2:1 or above may be eligible to apply, if combined with appropriate practice related experience relevant to the programme and following submission of a written critical evaluation of advanced practice marked against the Level 7 criteria.
- Certified evidence of an appropriate level of competence in clinical examination of the eye, to include slit lamp examination of the anterior eye, slit lamp biomicroscopy assessment of the optic nerve head and retina and tonometry, will be required where applicable, and where necessary for the successful completion of a chosen clinical module.
- 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.
- 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.
- All applicants will be interviewed to assess their 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.
You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries
Prospective student enquiries:
Email: PDUAdmissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Phone: +44 1752 586951
Current student enquiries:
Email: pdu@plymouth.ac.uk
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.