Course details
- Entry requirements: completion of three years of a GMC recognised undergraduate medical degree
- Full-time: 12 months
The Clinical Ophthalmology and Vision Science MSc programme is aimed at intercalating medical students and will provide you with the opportunity to develop in-depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in the connected fields of clinical ophthalmology and vision science.
This programme has been developed through the close collaboration of clinicians in St Paul’s Eye Unit and academic staff in the Department of Eye and Vision Science. You will learn about the scientific research leading to a greater understanding of vision, the mechanisms of disease leading to loss of vision and the transformative technologies being developed leading to new therapies and treatment strategies.
Through exposure to highly integrated practice across the connected fields of clinical ophthalmology and vision science, you will gain a much deeper understanding of the ‘patient journey’ and the design and operation of NHS systems that deliver optimal care to patients with ocular conditions. Including legal, ethical, governance and research components of wider clinical practice, ensuring deep understanding of the inherent linked nature of the specialties with authentic assessment and what the opportunities may be to treat patients in the future.
Course structure
MSc candidates will take all three clinical placements, and the two longitudinal components containing the research projects and extended modules. Teaching and placements are carried out throughout the year and do not follow the usual semester pattern.
The Clinical Ophthalmology and Vision Science MSc programme is for intercalating medical students who have completed three years of a GMC recognised undergraduate medical education degree.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
The COVIS MSc programme is aimed at intercalating medical students and will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in the connected fields of Clinical ophthalmology and vision science. In the core placement modules student will rotate through the specialist areas within the NHS Trusts working within clinical teams to apply knowledge, perform and develop clinical skills and learn (and demonstrate) professional behaviours, in all situations. Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection, alongside separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement.
Through exposure to highly integrated practice across, the connected fields of clinical ophthalmology and vision science, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the ‘patient journey’ and the design and operation of NHS systems that deliver optimal care to patients with ocular conditions, including legal, ethical, governance and research components of wider clinical practice, ensuring deep understanding of the inherent linked nature of the specialties with authentic assessment.
In this introductory module, students will be prepared with the underpinning knowledge and relevant clinical skills to support them on their entry into Clinical Ophthalmology placements, focusing on key basic skills needed for activities in the ophthalmology setting. Assessment is strongly aligned to these skills, supporting transition into the programme’s subsequent modules. The assessments; e-portfolio, skills record and reflection (10%), case paper planning (20%), research planning (20%) and differential analysis case presentation (30%) are designed to support the placement activities later in the programme, authentic assessment (C2021). There is also a reflection assessment designed to act as the student’s base line to help them understand the progression and development in their knowledge over the programme (20%).
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care focussing on both the acute and chronic investigation and management of the common pathologies affecting the anterior segment of the eye including infectious keratitis, keratoconjunctivitis, keratoconus, glaucoma, cataract surgery and corneal transplantation.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module. The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care focussing on both the acute and chronic investigation and management of the common pathologies affecting the posterior segment of the eye including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, macular surgical pathology ( macular holes and epiretinal membrane) and ocular inflammation.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module. Assessment is an integrated component of the module and offers students a unique opportunity to “apply as they learn” in the clinical setting. The main forms of assessment are based on authentic assessment (C2021); an e-portfolio to capture clinical activities; dependant on the order of the placement one of the following in order: 1) a structured literature review, evidence-based answers to real-life clinical questions; 2) A clinical case study written up in the form of a publishable paper; 3) a review and analysis of a clinical service/clinical or audit evaluation and literature review or a narrative critical review of evidence-based practice; or a clinical trials report and literature review.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Clinical Ophthalmology and Vision Science Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology. Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical care to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Trials Design/Governance and Ophthalmic Clinical Imaging). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas; Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology and the visual system. The programme focuses on the development of clinical and research skills, with increasing in depth and challenge over the length of the course, meaning the order in which these three clinical placements is undertaken is deliberately unimportant.
This module focuses on Neuro-ophthalmology and the visual system focussing on the clinical presentation/assessment, appropriate investigation and the acute and chronic management of the common pathologies affecting the neuro-ophthalmic and visual system including cases presenting with headaches, swollen optic nerve head, visual field defects, diplopia (double vision) or orbital pathologies affecting the visual system.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
During this teaching block you will complete your second clinical placement.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care focussing on both the acute and chronic investigation and management of the common pathologies affecting the anterior segment of the eye including infectious keratitis, keratoconjunctivitis, keratoconus, glaucoma, cataract surgery and corneal transplantation.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module. The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care focussing on both the acute and chronic investigation and management of the common pathologies affecting the posterior segment of the eye including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, macular surgical pathology ( macular holes and epiretinal membrane) and ocular inflammation.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module. Assessment is an integrated component of the module and offers students a unique opportunity to “apply as they learn” in the clinical setting. The main forms of assessment are based on authentic assessment (C2021); an e-portfolio to capture clinical activities; dependant on the order of the placement one of the following in order: 1) a structured literature review, evidence-based answers to real-life clinical questions; 2) A clinical case study written up in the form of a publishable paper; 3) a review and analysis of a clinical service/clinical or audit evaluation and literature review or a narrative critical review of evidence-based practice; or a clinical trials report and literature review.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Clinical Ophthalmology and Vision Science Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology. Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical care to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Trials Design/Governance and Ophthalmic Clinical Imaging). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas; Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology and the visual system. The programme focuses on the development of clinical and research skills, with increasing in depth and challenge over the length of the course, meaning the order in which these three clinical placements is undertaken is deliberately unimportant.
This module focuses on Neuro-ophthalmology and the visual system focussing on the clinical presentation/assessment, appropriate investigation and the acute and chronic management of the common pathologies affecting the neuro-ophthalmic and visual system including cases presenting with headaches, swollen optic nerve head, visual field defects, diplopia (double vision) or orbital pathologies affecting the visual system.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
During this teaching block you will complete your third clinical placement.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care focussing on both the acute and chronic investigation and management of the common pathologies affecting the anterior segment of the eye including infectious keratitis, keratoconjunctivitis, keratoconus, glaucoma, cataract surgery and corneal transplantation.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module. The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care focussing on both the acute and chronic investigation and management of the common pathologies affecting the posterior segment of the eye including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, macular surgical pathology ( macular holes and epiretinal membrane) and ocular inflammation.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module. Assessment is an integrated component of the module and offers students a unique opportunity to “apply as they learn” in the clinical setting. The main forms of assessment are based on authentic assessment (C2021); an e-portfolio to capture clinical activities; dependant on the order of the placement one of the following in order: 1) a structured literature review, evidence-based answers to real-life clinical questions; 2) A clinical case study written up in the form of a publishable paper; 3) a review and analysis of a clinical service/clinical or audit evaluation and literature review or a narrative critical review of evidence-based practice; or a clinical trials report and literature review.
This module has been specifically developed as one of the clinical placement-based modules for the MSc Clinical Ophthalmology and Vision Science Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology. Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical care to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Trials Design/Governance and Ophthalmic Clinical Imaging). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas; Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology and the visual system. The programme focuses on the development of clinical and research skills, with increasing in depth and challenge over the length of the course, meaning the order in which these three clinical placements is undertaken is deliberately unimportant.
This module focuses on Neuro-ophthalmology and the visual system focussing on the clinical presentation/assessment, appropriate investigation and the acute and chronic management of the common pathologies affecting the neuro-ophthalmic and visual system including cases presenting with headaches, swollen optic nerve head, visual field defects, diplopia (double vision) or orbital pathologies affecting the visual system.
Students will be expected to be on placement following the normal working practice of ophthalmologists in the clinical setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules MDSC236 & 237), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
These modules run throughout the first half of the year while completing your clinical placements.
This module has been developed as part of the 30-credit research component of the placement-based, Intercalated Masters Programmes being developed by the School of Medicine. The research carried out within these programmes is based on the specialist area of one of the first two ‘core’ clinical placements. In the core clinical placements, students rotate through specialist clinical areas (e.g. in a NHS Acute Secondary Care Trust), apply knowledge, perform and develop clinical & scientific skills and learn (and demonstrate) professional behaviours, at times in high intensity situations.
This module is designed to complement the core clinical placement modules by providing structured academic research activities, revisiting subjects and topics covered in the core modules in greater detail and developing the student’s knowledge and research skills in accordance with the specific learning needs identified by the student and supervisors.
In an average placement week, students will be expected to following the normal working practice of Specialty Clinicians in the Clinical Ophthalmology setting for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days focused on research in practice settings MDSC236 & MDSC237, research modules and 2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, MDSC231,MDSC232 & MDSC233). Assessment is undertaken through the development, presentation and writing of a short dissertation, in the format of an extended scientific research article
This module has been specifically developed as one of the knowledge and skills based modules for the MSc Ophthalmology Programme. The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme will provide students with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology. Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
Within each of the clinical placements there will be a common theme of how clinical research, audit, quality improvement and patient/clinical education can be integrated with clinical practice to provide the highest possible standard of care. The skills and behaviours developed in the clinical placements will be complemented by the two longitudinal modules running throughout the academic year (Clinical Ophthalmology Imaging module and a Clinical Trials Design and Governance module). The programme is designed to provide not only a strong foundation for a career in ophthalmology but also be translated into other areas of wider clinical practice such as neurology/neurosurgery, ENT, general medicine and primary care.
Student engagement and progress will be assessed by portfolio, guided reflection and the placement will also support the separate research modules which are co-located in the clinical placement. Each placement module will focus on one of the three clinical specialty areas: Anterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care, Posterior Segment of the eye ophthalmic care and Neuro-ophthalmology. The programme is designed so the three clinical placement modules can be taken in any order.
This module focuses on imaging techniques that are commonly used in clinical ophthalmology. Medical Imaging is an essential component of clinical practice and plays a key role in the care of patients through diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disease. The eye is the only inner organ of the human body that can be directly imaged, assisting in the diagnosis and clinical care of significant systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Various imaging techniques are used in ophthalmology due to the transparent nature of the eye. Imaging in the ophthalmology environment requires the ability to obtain high quality and high-resolution images of patients with eye diseases, many of whom may be frail and/or elderly. Clinicians must work quickly and calmly, managing clinical priorities, leading a number of decisions around the imaging process and providing the information needed for an immediate diagnosis to ensure effective treatment. An understanding of the teams, equipment, environment, and governing regulations are essential for safe working in the ophthalmology environment.
The module covers an introduction to ophthalmic imaging in the clinical setting. It outlines the scientific principles involved in the different imaging techniques and image formation and visits current issues in a modern eye department. It will consolidate students’ MBChB knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathological appearances associated with ophthalmic imaging. It will then support their further learning in understanding the role of imaging modalities in the differential diagnosis of eye diseases.
These modules run throughout the second half of the year while completing your clinical placements.
This module has been developed as part of the 30-credit research component of the placement-based, Intercalated Masters Programmes being developed by the School of Medicine. The research carried out within these programmes is based on the specialist area of one of the first two ‘core’ clinical placements. In the core clinical placements, students rotate through specialist clinical areas (e.g. in a NHS Acute Secondary Care Trust), apply knowledge, perform and develop clinical & scientific skills and learn (and demonstrate) professional behaviours, at times in high intensity situations. This module is designed to complement the core clinical placement modules by providing structured academic research activities, revisiting subjects and topics covered in the core modules in greater detail and developing the student’s knowledge and research skills in accordance with the specific learning needs identified by the student and supervisors.
When on placement, in an average week, students will be expected to following the normal working practice of Specialty Clinicians in the Clinical Ophthalmology setting for 4 days per week (2 days focused on research in practice settings MDSC236 & MDSC237, research modules and 2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, MDSC231, MDSC232 & MDSC233). Assessment is undertaken through the development, presentation and writing of a short dissertation, in the format of an extended scientific research article
This module has been specifically developed as one of the skills and knowledge-based modules for the MSc Clinical Ophthalmology and Vision Science programme.
The intercalated MSc Ophthalmology programme is specifically designed for medical students and will provide them with the opportunity to develop in depth applied knowledge, clinical practice, research skills and professional behaviours in both general ophthalmology (anterior and posterior segment pathology of the eye) and neuro-ophthalmology Through exposure to a range of pathologies and management across these speciality areas, students will gain a much deeper understanding of the presentation, investigation, specialised imaging and both medical and surgical management of the common acute and chronic ophthalmic/neuro-ophthalmic conditions.
This module focuses on the key principles of high-quality clinical research (trial design and development, research conduct, governance and delivery of outcomes). Clear, structured, and relevant contemporaneous examples of commercial national and international clinical trials, non-commercial investigator driven trials and UoL translational research will be used to illustrate the challenges in design and delivery of clinical trials. The clinical trials used will complement the experience gained in the parallel clinical placements in Ophthalmology.
The module will introduce the use and support of the Clinical Trials Units in the Royal Liverpool Hospital and Aintree Hospital along with UoL and NIHR Research Design Support services in the development of advanced study design.
The summative assessment will employ the knowledge and critical skills developed over the course of the module to design a patient information leaflet for a clinical study (750 words) and present and take part in a simulated ethics review panel (presentation and 1000 words).
This module runs longitudinally alongside and complements the clinical placement modules, nominally a half day a week. The students are in the clinical setting for each of the 3 clinical placement modules, for 4 days per week for 10 weeks (2 days devoted to learning in clinical practice, this module, with a further 2 days focused on research in the practice settings, research modules), followed by 2 weeks of module review and preparation for the next module.
On campus and in the clinical placement learning and teaching delivery will be a combination of face to face, blended and self-directed options.
Within clinical placements, students will be linked to highly experienced supervisors for support (both from a wellbeing and clinical perspective), overseeing the whole set of placements ensuring all expected experiences and activities are available. An academic supervisor will assure academic standards, progression and student support. This aims to support your confidence and development in the ophthalmology and vision science environment.
Assessments are designed to help you develop your understanding and skills, within each speciality, how they link together and support patients through a potentially traumatic experience. The use of workplace assessments will allow timely, contextualised and high personalised feedback.
We have a strong emphasis on feedback to help you improve tasks, processes and your self-regulation.
You will also be required to complete a skills portfolio throughout each module which is recorded through your e-portfolio. Portfolios are reviewed at the end of each module for each placement, encouraging continuous feedback and improvement, integrating clinical and practical skills at a higher level.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The University of Liverpool’s School of Medicine is one of the largest medical education providers in the UK. We train and develop doctors throughout their careers, enabling them to use the latest advances to provide exceptional care to their patients.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
It always said in the brochure that there would be early clinical contact, but I never really expected how much. It really is great to be on the ward - and that’s how you learn. The Medical School is very good and very supportive. It’s definitely set me up well for my future career, and I’m looking forward to getting into the job.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
You will return to your MBChB training with an enhanced understanding of Ophthalmology and the necessary skills to puruse other clinical career options. The skills and experiences you will develop during the programme will enhance any future career applications, specifically for foundation and core training programmes, as you will earn additional points for your application on completion of this course.
This course has been designed to enhance the career of all medical students, but it will be especially advantageous if you wish to specialise in emergency medicine.
After gaining an Opthalmology and Vision Science MSc you will be able to further your career, applying for vacancies in areas such as further specialisation, management or teaching. You would also be suited to pursue a research related career, for example investigating genetic diseases and possible cures, or designing retinal implants to restore eyesight.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland) | |
---|---|
Full-time place, per year | £10,400 |
International fees | |
---|---|
Full-time place, per year | £39,250 |
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about tuition fees, funding and Postgraduate Loans.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.
Your qualification | Requirements |
---|---|
Postgraduate entry requirements |
Successful completion of 3 years of a GMC recognised undergraduate basic medical education degree programme, with applicants in good academic and professional standing. Selection will be via a composite score which incorporates relative academic performance, evidence of activity in one of the specialist areas or student society or charity and a personal statement. |
International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language. International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification | Requirements |
---|---|
IELTS |
Overall 7.0 View our IELTS academic requirements key. |
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 19 April 2023 / / Programme terms and conditions /