The College is Fighting for your profession
Providing credentials and winning battles
While you've been away, we've campaigned for mandatory sight tests for drivers (which has been included in the government's road safety strategy), triggered a government investigation into headlight glare, and launched the UK Eye Care Data Hub to plan and protect optometry's workforce future.
College membership means you're part of a professional body that's actively shaping policy, influencing government, and securing the profession's standing. Your voice matters.
Restore your professional credentials
Your MCOptom affix, why it matters
After years of practice, MCOptom isn't just letters after your name, it's a visible marker of sustained professional commitment and adherence to the highest standards.
Rejoin today and immediately regain the right to use MCOptom after your name, display physical certificates in your clinic, and showcase your College membership and higher qualifications on your website, email signature, and LinkedIn profile.
Under £28 per month (Direct Debit) or £332 annually. Tax-deductible.
Share your expertise
Put your knowledge to work
You've built real expertise through your practice. College membership gives you ways to share it and gain recognition for your contributions.
What becomes available:
- apply for pre-registration supervision (earn the OptPE affix after your name)
- stand for regional council positions (quarterly meetings where your voice shapes College positions)
- join working groups that shape the clinical guidance practitioners rely on
- contribute your expertise to CMGs used across the profession
Giving back to the profession lets you put your expertise to work. And with College membership, you get the chance to do that.
Fellowship, the highest recognition
FCOptom: Distinction for sustained excellence
Fellowship of the College (FCOptom) is awarded to optometrists who demonstrate significant contribution and leadership. Held by fewer than 2% of practitioners, it's the highest formal recognition in UK optometry.
If you've achieved higher qualifications, led service developments, published research, or contributed to clinical guidance, Fellowship may be within your reach.
College membership is the gateway to Fellowship.
"Being a member reinforces professional credibility and ensures we stay informed and connected within the field. I see it as a commitment to the highest quality of practice."
College member
Photo is a model.
Stand alongside the profession's leaders
Optometry Tomorrow 2026: 14-15 June, Harrogate.
If you want to be recognised at the forefront of optometry, Optometry Tomorrow 2026 is where you need to be, alongside Fellowship holders, clinical leaders, and practitioners shaping the future of eye care.
- member ticket: £200 (early bird, ends 17 April)
- non-member ticket: £520
- your saving: £320
With annual College membership at £332, attending Optometry Tomorrow essentially covers your membership for the year, and you gain year-round access to all member benefits.
Two days of clinical excellence, leadership networking, and professional recognition.
Everything you need to support your professional standing
Professional credentials:
- MCOptom affix (restored immediately upon payment)
- physical certificates for clinic wall, website, email signature
- Fellowship pathway (FCOptom)
- higher qualification affixes (IP, specialist certificates)
Leadership opportunities:
- pre-registration supervision (OptPE affix)
- regional council positions
- working groups (clinical guidance, policy development)
- contributing to CMGs used across the profession
Clinical resources:
- Clinical Management Guidelines (CMGs)
- Optometrists' Formulary
- Guidance for Professional Practice
- Clinical Adviser services
- CPD resources and webinars
Professional influence:
- policy advocacy (drivers' sight tests, headlight safety, workforce planning)
- sector representation
- peer support networks
- member app communities
Your expertise deserves formal recognition. Rejoin the College and restore your professional standing.
Questions?
Contact our Membership team at membership@college-optometrists.org
Membership fees are tax-deductible. Annual renewal applies.