COURSE CURRICULUM

The Healthcare Science (Ophthalmic Imaging) programme follows a comprehensive three-year structure designed to develop students' scientific knowledge, clinical competence, technical expertise, and professional skills required for careers in ophthalmic healthcare. During the first year, students establish a strong foundation through modules including Clinical and Professional Practice 1, Human Structure, Function and Scientific Practice, Biology of Health and Disease in Society, Ophthalmic Imaging and Assessment, and Principles of Optical Coherence Tomography Practice. These modules introduce students to human anatomy and physiology, disease processes, healthcare science principles, and the essential imaging technologies used in ophthalmology while developing professional behaviour and patient care skills. Students also gain early experience in ophthalmic imaging techniques and the use of Optical Coherence Tomography technology, which plays a major role in modern eye care diagnosis and monitoring. In the second year, students build on these foundations through Clinical and Professional Practice 2, Scientific Research and Evaluation Practice, Developing Ophthalmic Imaging Technologies, Clinical Imaging of the Anterior Segment, and Clinical Interpretation of Ophthalmic Imaging. These modules develop students' abilities to use advanced imaging technologies, interpret clinical images, evaluate scientific evidence, and understand the diagnosis and management of eye diseases affecting different parts of the visual system. During the final year, students undertake more advanced and specialised study through Clinical and Professional Practice 3, Ophthalmic Angiography, Advanced Ophthalmic Imaging Technologies, Alternative Imaging Modalities, and an Independent Research Project Dissertation. Students gain expertise in sophisticated imaging techniques used to investigate blood flow and retinal conditions while exploring emerging technologies and alternative methods of ophthalmic assessment. The dissertation project enables students to conduct independent research and apply evidence-based practice to real clinical challenges within ophthalmic healthcare. Throughout all three years, clinical and professional practice modules provide valuable placement experiences that allow students to apply their knowledge in real healthcare environments and work alongside multidisciplinary teams. Overall, the programme prepares graduates for careers as Ophthalmic Imaging Practitioners, Ophthalmic Technicians, Ophthalmic Photographers, and OCT Technicians within hospitals, clinics, and specialist eye care services.