Clinical Optometry (MSc)

This level 7 programme clinical optometry MSc has been designed to meet the continuing education and training needs of the modern eye care professional whilst at the same time achieving a higher degree.

The aim of this programme is to provide optometrists with the opportunity to undertake a challenging and rewarding Masters in Clinical Optometry that focuses on their personal development as professionals leading, managing and developing ophthalmic practice roles and models of care delivery.

The MSc Clinical Optometry is designed for optometrists in primary, secondary and tertiary settings who wish to advance their knowledge base, and specialist clinical and leadership skills. You will become actively involved in the advancement of optometry.

The MSc is a 180 credit Level 7 qualification. It has been designed to meet the continuing education and training needs of the modern eye care professional providing advanced knowledge and facilitating understanding in this rapidly expanding field of healthcare, whilst at the same time achieving a higher degree.

A deliberately wide portfolio of modules is offered in order to recognise the increasing desire for specialist training within optometry, including glaucoma, acute eye care, paediatrics, dry eye, medical retina, clinical teaching and leadership, amongst others. Specific programme pathways are suggested for those wishing to focus on certain areas of practice.

Successful students on this programme will have an advanced standing both clinically and academically, taking them to the forefront of the profession, and enhancing their personal and professional development.

Please note that this Master's degree does not lead to full professional registration with the General Optical Council (GOC), and it does not qualify students to practice in the UK.

We're committed to delivering programmes that are innovative and relevant, providing the best learning outcomes and career prospects for our students. In light of this, we're currently reviewing some elements of this programme. As such, the details shown are subject to change and indicative only. You can still apply now. We'll update this page and contact all offer holders when the review is complete to confirm any changes.

Career prospects

This course will enable optometrists to advance their career. In addition, depending on which modules are chosen, it may act as assurance that practitioners are competent to work in specialist clinics as outlined in the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and College of Optometrists joint Competency Framework for Allied Health Professionals. For example the Medical Retina and Glaucoma module aligns with the Medical Retina and Glaucoma Competency Frameworks respectively.

Please note that this Master's degree does not lead to full professional registration with the General Optical Council (GOC), and it does not qualify students to practice in the UK. The GOC may request that you undertake a Pre-Registration year in supervised practice and qualify by taking the College of Optometrists’ exams, this cannot be done during your Master’s programme with us and we do not find you a Pre-Registration placement. If this is what you would like to do, you will need to get in touch with the GOC for advice. Each application to the GOC is considered on an individual basis and therefore does take some time to be processed.