• Credit value: 20 masters level credits
   
• Mode of delivery: Distance Learning
   
• Course type: Standalone Module
   
• Module code: OP4AAP
   
• Number of places available: Up to 30
   
• Start date: October. 
• Duration: 16 weeks
   
• Time commitment: Although this will depend upon the individual, a typical student can expect to spend up to 200 hours of study in total
   
• Fees: £1,100
   
• Entry requirement: You must be a clinician in the field of optometry

This research-orientated distance learning course will cover the theory of accommodation, and methods used to quantify accommodation in clinical and research environments. Further consideration will be given to the genesis, aetiology and pathogenesis of presbyopia. The final lectures in the course will consider advances in methods and techniques used to restore near visual function to the ageing eye.

Completion of an evidence-based assignment will enable you to assimilate and disseminate the preceding body of literature pertaining to a particular aspect of accommodation and/or presbyopia research.

Topics covered in this module include:

• Accommodative apparatus (Dr Leon Davies)
• Theories of Human Accommodation (Dr Amy Sheppard)
• Autonomic control of ocular accommodation (Dr Leon Davies)
• Assessment of Accommodation (Dr Amy Sheppard)
• Accommodative After-Effects and Hysteresis (Dr Amy Sheppard)
• Macro - and microfluctuations of accommodation (Dr Leon Davies)
• Presbyopia I: aetiology and pathogenesis (Dr Leon Davies)
• Presbyopia II: clinical considerations (Dr Leon Davies)
• Surgical restoration of near function I: static approaches (Dr Amy Sheppard)
• Surgical restoration of near function II: dynamic approaches (Dr Amy Sheppard).

This course is delivered via distance learning. You will access learning materials for general study, revision and assessment via our virtual learning environment, Blackboard. This platform allows you to access a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases and much more.

Assessment is by coursework submitted throughout the course and will take the form of formative assessments (MCQs) and individual assignment.

This research-orientated course has been designed by Aston Optometry School staff who are experts in this field. In the recent Teaching Excellence Framework assessment, Aston University was awarded Gold, the highest award possible. In addition, our courses are regularly reviewed by relevant professional experts.

Course lead: Dr Amy Sheppard

Our courses offer you the opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills in order to develop your career. In addition, our ethos is to equip you to make a real difference in your field.

The Optometry CPD courses allow you to develop specialist knowledge in advanced optometric topics. Clinical application and content may allow eye care professionals to widen and specialise their mode of practice.