Ophthalmology Advanced Clinical Practice (Paediatrics)MMedSci

Source: https://sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/courses/2026/ophthalmology-advanced-clinical-practice-paediatrics-mmedsci Parent: https://sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/courses/2026

2026-27 entry

Ophthalmology Advanced Clinical Practice (Paediatrics) MMedSci

School of Allied Health Professions, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health\

Expand your role in providing eye care for children and young people. Take your career as an orthoptist, optometrist or ophthalmic nurse to the next level and become an advanced clinical practitioner.

Start date \ September 2026
Duration \ 3 years
Attendance \ Part-time Distance learning
Accredited
Course fee

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Apply now for 2026 entry or book a place on our online open day on 29 April 2026 to see where a Sheffield masters could take you.

Course description

Lead academic

Professor Charlotte Codina

[Professional Lead for Orthoptics and Ophthalmology \

School of Allied Health, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery](https://sheffield.ac.uk/ahpnm/people/ophthalmology-and-orthoptics/charlotte-codina)

: c.codina@sheffield.ac.uk : +44 114 215 9042

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Enhance your knowledge, skills and experience and become an advanced clinical practitioner in the field of paediatric ophthalmology.

This is the only accredited masters programme in paediatric ophthalmology advanced practice. It is designed for orthoptists, optometrists and ophthalmic nurses working in paediatrics who want to transform their careers and the services they provide.

The curriculum covers all four pillars of advanced practice: clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research.

You will learn how to diagnose and manage a wide range of paediatric ophthalmic conditions including cerebral visual impairment, blepharitis, and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Associated Uveitis. You’ll also practice a variety of advanced examination techniques such as retinal imaging, the slit lamp, ophthalmoscopy, icare, and handheld OCT.

Optional modules cover the assessment and management of low vision patients, ocular motility diseases, medical exemptions, and research methods.

Throughout the course, you’ll build confidence as a clinical leader, developing strategies to make complex clinical decisions, educate colleagues and drive positive change within your organisation.

The programme is led by practicing eye care professionals and researchers, who are experienced in supporting mature and distance learners. In your final year, you will work with them on an independent research project, either by collecting and analysing empirical data, or exploring the latest findings on a topic relevant to your practice.

Why Sheffield?

Flexible, work-based study: The course combines work-based learning with online study, giving you the freedom to fit your studies around your clinical workload.
Bespoke leadership and education module: Our second-year Clinical Leadership and Education in Ophthalmology module is the only one of its kind to focus specifically on the leadership and education skills required within eye care.

Do you have a question? Talk to us

Book a 15-minute online meeting with our programme lead to find out more information and ask further questions.

Book an appointment with Charlotte Codina or email the ACP team at ahpnm-acpcourse@sheffield.ac.uk.

Accreditation

This programme is accredited by the Centre for Advancing Practice.

NHS England’s Centre for Advancing Practice has been established to standardise post-registration education by accrediting advanced practice courses that achieve the standards outlined in the multi-professional Advanced Practice Framework.

Practitioners who have completed accredited education programmes will be eligible to be listed on the Centre’s Advanced Practice Directory.

The Centre for Advancing Practice

Hear from trainee advanced clinical practitioner, Kate Hon, as she explains how her role benefits paediatric patients in ophthalmology clinics.

Modules

A selection of modules is available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. As you progress through your course, we'll confirm additional details for the core and optional modules available to you.

CPD modules

If you are not ready to apply for the three-year MMedSci programme, most of the modules on this programme can be taken as a standalone CPD module. Find out more on our continuing professional development web pages.

First year

Second year

Third year

Core module:

Paediatrics ACP : The module is ideal for eye-care practitioners who want to advance their ophthalmic practice skills, to reach the highest levels of innovative and cutting-edge paediatric ophthalmology practice. The module is suitable for practitioners already working in paediatric care, who are forward-thinking, independent learners and who wish to pioneer new or improved services. The module will allow students to gain comprehensive and advanced knowledge of the issues surrounding paediatric ophthalmological care. As well as studying the core elements of how to diagnose and manage a wide range of ophthalmology conditions primarily affecting paediatric patients, students will practise techniques and management solutions during work based learning. Paediatric practitioners desiring to implement patient-led improvements by means of reflective practice and those wishing to reach advanced clinical practitioner status in paediatric ophthalmology, would benefit from this moduleThe core 60 credit first year module includes an introduction to the role of the ACP in paediatric ophthalmology, diagnosing and managing blepharitis, dry eye, allergic conjunctivitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, inherited retinal disease, retinal imaging, electrodiagnostic testing, retinoscopy, glaucoma, contact lenses, investigative techniques, cerebral visual impairment, communicating with vision impaired children, disc and neurological screening, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, chalazion, surgical consent and surgical listing and emergency eye treatment and continued professional development.

**60 credits**

Core module

Clinical Leadership and Education in Ophthalmology : The aim of this module is to enable eye-care practitioners developing as advanced clinical practitioners in paediatric ophthalmology, to deliver high quality, compassionate and efficient care to patients. In this speciality in particular, it is imperative that clinical practitioners are highly effective in managing and balancing uncertainty and risk. As such, they need expertise with decision-making tools and frameworks, in order to take management and leadership positions that will benefit patients. They need to be effective educators, to ensure that colleagues can adopt the strategies and changes implemented. Leadership and education in paediatric ophthalmology needs to adapt to local and national organisational strategies and agendas and implement reflective learning from significant patient events. The aim of this module is to facilitate effective clinical leadership and education for practitioners specialising in paediatric ophthalmology. It represents two of the key pillars of advanced clinical practice set out by Health Education England (clinical leadership and facilitating education). The module will be fully aligned with the Advanced Clinical Practice framework and students will be equipped with models regarding decision making and managing and balancing risk in the midst of an often evolving, incomplete and complex clinical picture. As such, they will develop effective advanced clinical practice, using resources appropriately in order that they will relieve clinical pressure on paediatric ophthalmologists. Students will critically explore and analyse theories and evidence underpinning clinical practice improvements, critical decision-making in paediatric ophthalmology and service redesign. Students will develop resourcefulness for creatively providing high quality paediatric ophthalmic care and implementing transformational change, which positively impacts patients and colleagues. As with other modules on this ACP programme, the intention is to deliver content through blended learning using online lectures, tutorials, independent and work-based learning.

**30 credits**

Second-year students also take one 30-credit module of choice from the following options (please note, Research Methods is a pre-requisite for the 3rd year clinical research project):

Insight into Disease (Orthoptics and Ophthalmology) : This module will help the clinician to a wider understanding of diseases which affect ocular motility and which are frequently encountered in clinical practice.

**30 credits**

Low Vision : This unit is delivered by Distance Learning with an Introductory day. It aims to give the qualified practitioner the knowledge to expand into the field of low vision assessment and management; also exploring local and national services and policies. It includes the optics of, and types of, low vision aids, and their method of use. The many factors relevant to reduced visual acuity, such as lighting, glare and contrast are explored along with pathology. Relevant literature will inform the unit and the students will be required to critically analyse and synthesise evidence pertaining to the subject as they complete unit exercises throughout. The student will be working in low vision clinics and will be required to provide evidence of reflection on patients seen as part of the assessment. The remaining assessments will be through an assignment and a practical examination.

**30 credits**

Medical Exemptions for Orthoptists : This module will facilitate advanced practice in the area of prescription only and non-prescription exemption listed medicines for Orthoptists, by enhancing knowledge of the pharmacokinetics and actions of these specific medicines. It will advance learning and understanding of the different non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches to modifying disease and inform practitioners of the potential for adverse effects and how to minimise them. Students will be enabled to apply the principles of evidence-based practice including clinical and cost-effectiveness. These areas of advanced knowledge and understanding will enable Orthoptists who are registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council, to become registered as qualified to use exemptions to sell, supply and administer specific listed medicines for any condition within their scope of practice.

**30 credits**

Research Methods (Orthoptics and Ophthalmology) : This unit comprises the following sections: The research question; Concepts and indicators; Validity and reliability; Data collection and sampling; Quantitative data analysis; Qualitative data analysis; Critical appraisal; Philosophy of science.

**30 credits**

Research Project (Orthoptics and Ophthalmology) : The research project allows the student to pursue an area of interest. It involves literature searching to determine previous work in the field and the design and execution of original work. Students will prepare, conduct and write-up a piece of original research in one of two ways: either an empirical research project or a literature based dissertation. This will enhance their understanding and knowledge of the conceptual research process. Students will utilise systematic research methodology to design the project, undertake the research, analyse the data collected and produce an evidence-based report

**60 credits**

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Open days

Interested in postgraduate taught study?

Take part in our online open day on Wednesday 29 April
Join us on a discovery afternoon on Tuesday 12 May
Register your interest in studying at Sheffield.

Duration

3 years part-time

Teaching

This course is taught through a combination of online and work-based learning.

Online teaching blends real-time interactive sessions with self-paced components, giving you the freedom to study around your personal and professional commitments.

During the course you should expect to spend between 10 and 12 hours each week on self-directed study units and work-based learning activities, applying your knowledge in clinical settings and building up a portfolio of your work.

Below are the provisional dates of the introductory days for 2026 entry. Please note: these dates are subject to change.

Year 1: 28 September 2026
Year 2: 28 September 2027

You will need to access additional paediatric clinics for one day per week – particularly in your first year. This is so that you can observe a variety of clinical situations and practise a range of clinical skills under supervision.

Assessment

You will be assessed through essays, videos, practical work, a portfolio and a dissertation or research project write-up. The Low Vision and Exemptions modules both have an online exam.

Your career

This programme will empower you to lead with confidence within the field of paediatric ophthalmology. You’ll gain the skills needed to guide colleagues through uncertainty, and drive positive change in your healthcare organisation.

The impact of this course goes beyond professional development. As an advanced clinical practitioner (ACP), you’ll have the knowledge, skills and experience needed to autonomously diagnose and treat a range of ophthalmology conditions in children and young people.

ACPs are an integral part of the NHS workforce, particularly in paediatric ophthalmology where the UK is facing an acute shortage of ophthalmologists and an increased need for eye care services. Our graduates have gone on to streamline service delivery, reduce wait times, relieve pressure on ophthalmology colleagues, and ultimately improve the patient experience.

School

The School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery brings together expertise from across human communication sciences, nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, and orthoptics.\ \ We aim to train compassionate, resilient and highly skilled healthcare professionals and support them throughout their working lives.

We work closely with organisations such as the Department of Health and Social Care, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, The General Pharmaceutical Council, and the Health and Care Professions Council. This means we can offer you high-quality, research-informed courses that meet the needs of the NHS.

Study with us and join a diverse and supportive community, led by passionate teachers, clinicians and researchers who can help you fulfil your ambitions.

Student profiles

Meet Jenny Earl, one of our trainee ACPs in Paediatric Ophthalmology

[I have learnt a wide range of ophthalmic examination and management techniques

Kate Hon

Current student, \ Advanced Clinical Practice Ophthalmology (Paediatrics)](https://sheffield.ac.uk/ahpnm/about/students/postgraduate-students/kate-hon) [Step up and make the difference for your patients, your colleagues and your career

Claire Dawson

Current student, \ Advanced Clinical Practice Ophthalmology (Paediatrics)](https://sheffield.ac.uk/ahpnm/about/students/postgraduate-students/claire-dawson)

Entry requirements

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in an eye care-related degree.

We may consider other eye-care related qualifications.

We assess each application on the basis of the applicant’s preparation and achievement as a whole. We may accept applicants whose qualifications don’t meet the published entry criteria but have other experience relevant to the course.

If required degree subjects and modules are listed, these are indicative only. Sometimes we may accept subjects or modules that aren’t listed, and sometimes we may not accept subjects or modules that are listed, depending on the content studied.

We also consider a wide range of international qualifications:

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

IELTS 7 (with 6.5 in writing and 7 in each other component).

Other English language qualifications we accept

Other requirements

A minimum of three years of professional eyecare experience is required.

Local mentor

You will need to identify at least one local mentor, either an ophthalmologist or ACP paediatric ophthalmologist, who will agree to help, support and supervise you during the programme.

A local mentor handbook for prospective and current mentors is available to download.

Local mentor handbook (PDF, 837KB)

You will need to complete a local mentor support form and upload this as part of your application.

Local mentor support form (Word, 67KB)

We will not ask you to provide references or referee details as part of your application.

We do not require a supporting statement for this programme.

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school.

Fees and funding

Applicants may be eligible through learning beyond registration and NHS grants via their NHS Trust.

NHS England funding

Applicants from England may be eligible for full Masters funding from NHS England via the regional faculties for advancing practice.

Find contact details for your regional faculty

Further information on advanced practice

Save on your course fees

Save up to £2,500 on your course fees

Are you a Sheffield graduate? You could save up to £2,500 on your postgraduate taught course fees, subject to eligibility.

Apply

You can apply now using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It's a quick and easy process.

Apply now

More information

School of Allied Health Professions, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery

Contact

Start a conversation with us – you can get in touch by email, telephone or online chat.

Contacts for prospective students

Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

Our student protection plan

Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

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Study with us and join a diverse and supportive community, led by passionate teachers, clinicians and researchers who can help you fulfil your ambitions.

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