Key information, entry requirement and fees
- Credit value: 20 masters level credits
- Mode of delivery: Online delivery
- Start date: 1 October 2024
- Deadline: 23 August 2024
- Duration: 4 months
- Fees (2024/25): £1300
- Entry requirements: Applicants should be UK GOC registered Optometrists or other eye care professional
- Language requirement: Find out more about our English language requirements
- Please note the deadline for applications is Monday 23rd August 2023.
Course outline and what you will study
The module aims to equip clinicians in the field of optometry with enhanced knowledge and clinical skills in:
1. Explaining what health psychology is and discuss the role behavioural and psychological factors have on a person’s overall health
2. Knowledge of common mental health problems and in particular, how to recognise and assist patients affected by these conditions in clinical practice
3. Appropriate methods of communication with patients with additional psychological needs, and those whose health may be impacted by behavioural or psychological factors
Learning, teaching, assessment and staff
Learning and teaching
Lecture content is delivered via distance learning through Blackboard, our virtual learning environment. This platform allows you to access a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases and much more. You will also complete small group activity learning with activities such as tutorials and independent study.
Assessments
The assessment of this course involves a multiple-choice question element and a portfolio with two distinct components:
- Assignment (2,000 words): Students are required to submit an assignment that involves analysing a case study. The focus is on utilising evidence to discuss effective strategies for managing a sample patient.
- Self-Reflection (1,000 words): Students are expected to write a self-reflection on how the module will impact and improve their approach to practice.
Rubrics for achieving passing grades for both the assignment and self-reflection components are provided on Blackboard.
Key staff
Module leader: Dr Samantha Strong
Career Prospects
Our range of continuing professional development modules offers you the opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills in order to develop your career, it is also our ethos to equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in your field.
They have been designed to 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.
