Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Clinical Optometry

This course is only offered via distance education mode.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Clinical Optometry was established in the University of Melbourne in 1997. The course allows optometrists to re-examine the basic sciences of optometry with the benefit of the latest information and an emphasis on understanding and dealing with clinical problems. Courses are in depth, challenging and are designed to significantly advance optometrists clinical skills in selected fields.

The course can be completed in one year of full time study or over two years of part time study.

To further the knowledge and skills of optometry graduates in selected fields of clinical optometry.

The Diploma requires the completion of FOUR of the following five subjects.

The subject 655-801 Biological Foundations of Clinical Optometry must be included in the choice of four subjects, except for students who have completed the Postgraduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics. Each subject is worth 25 points and to complete the Diploma students must have completed 100 points successfully.

The modules, with the exception of 655-804 Rehabilitation of the Partially Sighted B, are designed so that they can be pursued via distance education. A study guide which includes notes and reading material is available on-line via the internet or will be provided to the student. The study notes will guide reading, ask questions and suggest exercises designed to promote understanding. It is expected that candidates will spend 6-10 hours per week study time on the course. In most modules seminars will be held once or twice during the semester to answer candidates' questions however attendance is optional.

A four year Australian bachelor degree in Optometry or equivalent; or

A three year Optometry degree followed by a year of supervised clinical practice.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their active and safe participation in a subject are encouraged to discuss this with the relevant subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Postgraduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics

Since 2000, a Postgraduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics has been run through the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences. The Postgraduate Certificate consists of two units. Students who successfully complete the certificate are eligible for credit towards studies in the Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Clinical Optometry.

Please note that the Postgraduate Certificate IS NOT part of the Postgraduate Diploma.

On completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Clinical Optometry graduates will have developed the ability to deal with and understand clinical problems.

Assessment

Formal arrangements can be made for written examinations to be taken in the city of residence of the candidate or in a nearby city. However, the candidate must organise their own proctor at an independent educational institution (ie University, TAFE, School). Any expense associated with remote proctoring is the responsibility of the candidate. Confirmation in writing must be obtained and a proctor may supervise more than one person being examined at any time.

Credit for Prior Studies

Candidates may be permitted to substitute for one of the four required subjects, a subject or short course of study offered by another Department of the University or by another institution provided it is approved by the Faculty as a subject of equivalent workload and standard and is appropriately related to the objectives of the Diploma. Students who successfully complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics (see below) are eligible for 25 points of credit towards studies in the Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Clinical Optometry.