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.

Successful completion of this module will allow eligible applicants to gain the College of Optometrists Professional Certificate in Glaucoma and will support progression through the Ophthalmic Practitioner Training (OPT) framework in glaucoma.

Module code

ACO701

Credits

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.

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.

Application forms.
Change of name forms.
Pre-course information.
Downloadable guides.
Student card.

Visit Professional Development Unit (PDU) admissions for full details.

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

26 January, 23 February, 16 March, 1 April 2026

The dates provided are those on which student attendance is needed. There are other key dates for the module (e.g. portfolio submission) which will be provided once the student has been enrolled.

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

Please see our Professional Development module fees page.

Entry requirements

Registered ophthalmic professional working in a clinical area that will facilitate the successful completion of the module learning outcomes.
All registered optometrists are eligible to apply for this module. Other ophthalmic professionals are also eligible to apply for this module, however they must be able to provide a certified letter from their employer confirming an appropriate level of competence in the clinical examination of the eye, to include slit lamp examination, optic disc assessment with indirect biomicroscopy and Goldmann applanation tonometry.
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.

How to apply

Please complete both application forms below and return to pduadmissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Accredited by The College of Optometrists

Accreditation

Successful completion of ACO701 Glaucoma will result in the award of the College of Optometrists’ Professional Certificate in Glaucoma. This will entitle you to use the affix Prof Cert Glauc and, for registrants, the GOC will be notified of your achievement.

Full UK College members will also receive a printed certificate – in addition to access to all our member resources (outlined below); for more detail about certificates please see the College policy.

Note that UK students who complete a higher qualifications course as a student registrant will not receive a certificate until they join the College with full (01-) GOC registration. They must join the College by the next (first) OSCE date following their own OSCE sitting in order to receive a certificate.

All upcoming OSCE dates are on the College website.

The College of Optometrists is the professional body for optometrists. It qualifies the profession, shapes the future of optometry and ensures that current and future optometrists are at the forefront of eye care provision. It is also the voice of the profession to local and national government, and works to support, inspire and continually develop its members and the profession. College-accredited higher qualifications equip you for new challenges and responsibilities and support your continuing professional development and career progression. Credits awarded to obtain Higher Qualifications can also be used towards other masters level qualifications.

The College is keen to support you in your career and if you are not already a member you may wish to consider the benefits of joining the College. These include access to clinical advice, online CPD, webinars, copies of Acuity and more. The College offers a range of membership options, including one for eye care professionals who are not optometrists, so please see our web page for more information on this. For more information on advancing your learning about specific topics take a look at our pages for glaucoma resources, retina resources and paediatric eye care resources.

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.