The Ophthalmic Nursing programme is a part-time, online and work based programme designed to develop qualified registered nurses with the knowledge and skills required to work effectively in an ophthalmic unit.
The Ophthalmic Nursing PGCert has been developed in collaboration with St. Paul’s Eye Unit and Ophthalmic Nursing Curriculum Framework drafted by NHS England.
You will learn and develop the knowledge and skills required to work effectively in an ophthalmic unit through work based learning. the programme includes two modules; “Foundations of ophthalmic nursing practice” (20 credits) and a further “Advancing ophthalmic practice” module (40 credits) designed in partnership with an ophthalmic nurse and ophthalmologist to provide an authentic learning experience.
The programme is delivered in a flexible manner where you can register and undertake one of the modules as Continuous Professional Development (CPD). Alternatively, you can register for the PGCert programme and undertake both modules. The theoretical content is delivered online in a synchronous and asynchronous manner. It is expected that you will have regular protected study time during which the synchronous content will be delivered. This will also be recorded to increase accessibility for working nurses. The programme also includes work-based learning specifically around developing clinical competencies in an ophthalmic unit.
A varied range of assessments are used throughout the programme, for example, online exams to test knowledge and understanding, a critical reflective summary, work-based clinical competencies and case studies to demonstrate reflection and professional development. We aim to enhance your employability in ophthalmic practice and provide a platform for you to advance and develop through postgraduate study to advance your career.
Nurses registered with the Nursing Midwifery Council.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| FOUNDATIONS OF OPHTHALMIC NURSING PRACTICE (HEAL492) | 20 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| ADVANCING OPHTHALMIC NURSING PRACTICE (HEAL493) | 40 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The programme is delivered online (synchronous and asynchronous) and also includes work-based learning for which you will need to identify a mentor in their workplace. Work-based learning and clinical E-portfolio development of competencies is key for the your success and supports authentic and active learning.
You will be directed to videos and guidance to support the acquisition and refinement of a range of clinical competencies as identified within the syllabus.
There will be scheduled online and asynchronous e-lectures delivered by a range of clinical experts and researchers across the themes identified in the syllabus. Interactive synchronous Q&A sessions will facilitate opportunities for students to interact with each other, ask questions, share experiences, and discuss concepts, thereby facilitating active learning.
There will be opportunities for online discussions related to anonymised patient presentations which will facilitate the integration of theoretical content with some of the more practical and patient-focused aspects of this module.
These clinical vignettes will also enable authenticity in learning and will encourage collaborative learning and develop digital fluency and allow clinical and academic experts to discuss anonymised clinical presentations synchronously with students online.
These facilitate understanding; clinical reasoning and synthesis but also enable you to reflect on your own experience, through active learning, and create communities of learning and practice to support one another during this online module and promote motivation and engagement.
HEAL492 (20 credits) will be assessed through three components:
1. An online examination consisting of quiz like questions in the format of vignettes (scenarios) and some short answer questions which will address the theoretical aspect of the module. The questions will also include images and diagrams representing the module content. This is weighted at 80% of the module.
2. Practical clinical assessment of required clinical competencies (including nursing procedures) through the use of an e-portfolio. This is a pass/fail assessment based on the attainment of specified clinical competencies.
3. A 1000-word critical reflective summary commentary of your learning. This is weighted at 20% of the module.
HEAL493 (40 credits) will be assessed through the following four components:
1. Online examination: Consisting of a range of question formats including, short answer questions, clinical case scenarios, labelling and Multiple-Choice Questions. The variety in questioning approach will ensure all relevant aspects of module content can be covered and a range of interpretation, analysis and diagnostic knowledge and skills can be assessed in a clinically authentic manner. The format of case scenarios with short answer questions will address the theoretical aspect of the module. The questions will also include images, representing the module content. A formative opportunity will be provided during the module. This is weighted at 40% of the module.
2. Case Studies submission (4000 words in total): You will be required to submit 2x 2000 word case studies of a patient selected from the your professional practice area. Case studies will include details around presentation, history and differential diagnosis; demonstrating clinical reasoning and how you helped attain a diagnosis or management. You will be required to explore the psychosocial impact of ophthalmic disease on the patient and examine the role of the multidisciplinary team in the patients care. You must demonstrate critical reflection on your own role and limitations to ensure demonstrate self-awareness and personal development.
You must ensure anonymity of all information pertaining to the case study. You will be given the opportunity for formative feedback and peer discussion via an online support webinar during the module. Each case study will be submitted separately to allow feedback from the first to be used to inform submission for the second. This is weighted at 60% (30% each).
3. Practical clinical competency assessment. This is a continuous assessment where you will be required to upload documented evidence of achievement of competency in each of the clinical skills required for the role. Workplace mentors will be required to provide guidance and feedback on performance of these skills throughout the module and you can reattempt the skill until you achieve competence. This is a pass/fail assessment based on the attainment of specified competencies by the end of the module. (Pass/fail).
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.
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This qualification will allow you to develop your digital fluency whilst improving confidence and global citizenship through authentic learning. Consequently it will enhance your employability as a nurse in an ophthalmic unit and provide a platform to advance your career.
Completing this course will help you in your career to become an:
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We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
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Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Please note, the fee for this programme will be confirmed shortly.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
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 paying for your studies.
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If you’re a University of Liverpool graduate starting this master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive a loyalty discount of up to £2,500 off your master’s tuition fees.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.
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The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | Registered NMC Nurse |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
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.
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
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Last updated 27 March 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions