Glaucoma level 1 (College of Optometrists Professional Certificate in Glaucoma)

College of Optometrists

This module is accreditated by the College of Optometrists

Message from the College of Optometrists

The course is designed to provide an introduction to glaucoma, its epidemiology, risk factors and factors to consider when diagnosing the condition and when to refer to secondary care. It also provides specialist knowledge and skills for monitoring patients with diagnosed ocular hypertension (OHT) and suspect chronic open angle glaucoma (COAG) with an established management plan.

Entry requirements

• Possess a minimum of a BSc (Hons) in Optometry or equivalent.
• Registered optometrist with the UK General Optical Council for those who want the College of Optometrists qualification.
• Other qualifications may be accepted and will be assessed on a case by case basis.

The course structure

Online taught component

This will include online lessons, self-test activities, formative assessments and forum discussions. The online component will be delivered in the form of ten units of interactive lessons. You will have approximately 3 months to complete the online component.

At the end of each unit, you will be expected to carry out a self-test assessment or activity to reinforce what has been learned in that unit for which there will be instant feedback. In addition to this, you will be expected to carry out two assignments. You will be expected to spend approximately 8 hours a week studying the online component.

Synchronous online webinar

Online webinar lectures and tutorials to engage in conceptual thinking with the guidance of teachers will form the content of the synchronous online webinar day. This will be undertaken over a day, at the end of the online component.

Self study

You will then get 4-6 weeks after the synchronous webinar day to revise what you have learned during the online component and synchronous online webinar day before undertaking the summative assessments.

Summative assessments

After this stage, you will undertake summative assessments which will include written exams and station examinations. Results of the summative assessment will be released within 6 weeks of the written exam.

This course has been accredited by the College of Optometrists for General Optical Council (GOC) registered optometrists only. You can gain the College’s Professional Certificate in Glaucoma on completion of this qualification. Optometrists will also be able to gain CPD points.

You will also gain a certificate of participation.

Key dates

• Launch of online course: TBC
• Synchronous online webinar day: TBC
• Written exams: TBC
• Practical skills day: TBC
• Stations exams: TBC

The January 2025 course has now started but if you would like to register your interest for the January 2026 course, please contact moorfields.hq@nhs.net

Please note:

• All applications will be acknowledged on receipt.
• Applications will be processed on a first come, first served basis and you will be notified of your application outcome once you have made payment.