Orthoptics B.Med.Sci

Course description
Our BMedSci is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council. It provides you with all the necessary knowledge and training for professional practice as an orthoptist worldwide.

An orthoptist specialises in the investigation, diagnosis and management of visual defects and abnormalities of eye movement. You'll explore ocular misalignment (strabismus), eye-movement (ocular motility) disorders and ocular diseases in patients of all ages.

Year 1 introduces you to the topics of strabismus, clinical skills and optics, and gives you the scientific background you need to understand the normal eye. You'll also examine the importance of, and different approaches to, interpersonal and communication skills and how this relates to working in the NHS.

In year 2 you'll examine ocular motility abnormalities and disease states, and study topics such as visual perception, pathology and medical microbiology, electrodiagnosis, medical ethics and law, and the organisation and structure of the NHS. At the end of year 2 you'll learn how to carry out research.

Year 3 introduces new subjects such as paediatric neurology, associated professional studies and sale, and the supply and administration of medicinal products.

You'll put your skills and knowledge into practice with a research project on a specialist topic. You might have the opportunity to present your findings at a conference or you could even have your work published in a medical journal.

Your third year involves more self-directed study. You'll manage your own time while you carry out assignments, presentations and your research project.

Clinical work
The course includes 33 weeks on placement. You'll work in orthoptic departments across the UK, Ireland and Gibraltar. This gives you the comprehensive clinical experience to build on communication skills and develop the practical skills needed to start your career. The final year includes a two-week clinical placement in an orthoptic clinic of your choice.

Over the three years, you'll examine patients of all ages. The most common patient groups are children, the elderly and those with disabilities.

Your future
Your career prospects as an orthoptist are excellent. Once you've completed your degree, you'll be eligible to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) to practise as an orthoptist. Most graduates gain a position in the NHS soon after graduation. There are good opportunities for progression such as specialising in various areas of orthoptic care.