Higher qualifications
The College's higher qualifications enable optometrists to offer enhanced services, take on more responsibility, and progress in their careers. Successful candidates can use the appropriate affixes.
Optometrists who have achieved a higher qualification tell us that as a result they have greater confidence, improved skills and enhanced short and long term professional development.
Candidates complete a blended learning course comprising coursework and assessments and, at higher levels, compile a portfolio of their clinical experience. This means that the qualifcations are highly accessible and fit in with busy lifestyles.
Higher qualifications available
Contact lens practice qualifications
The College accredited Professional Higher Certificate in Contact Lens Practice is on offer with two providers.
Glaucoma qualifications
The full suite of College accredited glaucoma qualifications is available across a range of providers.
Low vision qualifications
College accredited low vision qualifications are available at three universities.
Medical retina qualifications
The College accredited Professional Certificate in Medical Retina is available at three universities.
Paediatric eye care qualifications
The College accredited Professional Certificate in Paediatric eye care is available at three universities.
Course providers
Become a course provider
All the information you need about becoming a provider for our higher qualifications.
Affixes
Higher qualification affixes
Optometrists who have achieved a College accredited higher qualification can use an affix, or letters, after their name, demonstrating their additional knowledge and skills.
As professionals we need to develop and continue to learn so we can provide our patients with the best care and most up to date ways of practicing. My work involves teaching, researching and practising low vision, and I wanted a qualification that demonstrates my commitment in this area. It’s really helpful to be able to use the affix Prof Cert LV, to highlight to patients that this is an area that I know something about!
Dr Kezia Latham Prof Cert LV, FCOptom