Health & Social Care

• Distance learning available
• 2 - 5 years
• Enrolment date: September
• Admission enquiries: 01642 384176
• Application forms: 01642 384176
• E: sohscadmissions@tees.ac.uk

This course will give you the opportunity to study the central aspects of evidence-based practice and to focus these on your specific area of ophthalmology or optometry. The emphasis is on the integration of theory and practice and intends to develop a lifelong ability to understand how evidence is generated, retrieved, critically appraised and employed within an eye-care setting. Such a focus will ensure that you are equipped with the necessary foundations to develop further an evidence-based approach to practice throughout your career.

The course aims to:

• enable you to develop the skills and attitudes necessary to perform detailed evidence-based practice and research in the area of ophthalmology
• develop your understanding of the necessary research methodologies to locate and appraise critically ophthalmology-related research
• foster a commitment to lifelong learning and an inquisitive approach to ophthalmology practice.

A flexible approach to course delivery has been utilised. You can choose to study either by attending taught sessions or through distance learning. The course will be relevant to ophthalmologists, ophthalmology nurses, optometrists and healthcare professionals working in the field of eye care.

What you study

You will study a number of modules which aim to increase the knowledge and skills that are necessary for evidence-based ophthalmology. These will focus upon evidence-based practice, research design and methods, statistics and change management. You will be encouraged to apply these to your own area of eye-care practice. In the final year you will undertake a research project related to your own area of interest.

How you learn

A range of learning and teaching methods is used throughout, you can choose to study either by attending classes or by distance learning. Learning and teaching methods for the attendance mode of study include lectures, seminars, computer lab classes, structured online resource-based learning materials, small group work and tutorials. If you study by distance learning you will be provided with regular online structured learning materials and be encouraged to take part in online discussion with other students and the programme team. Supervision and support are provided by the personal tutor, the programme leader, the module leaders and dissertation supervisors. You will also be expected to undertake some self study to support your learning.

How you are assessed

A range of assessment methods is used throughout including formative assessment, a review of current practice, research critique, research proposal, statistical analysis, examination, change dossier, essay and a research report.

Career opportunities

Successful completion will enhance your career prospects by developing your ability to implement evidence-based practice and conduct your own research within the field of ophthalmology or optometry.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a relevant honours degree (2.2) in an area related to eye care and be working within the field of eye care. International students will be required to have IELTS level 6.5 or above.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

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