Program Overview

This course provides a thorough grounding specific to the professions of optometry and ophthalmic dispensing. It prepares students for study at undergraduate level.

Integrating theory, research and practice throughout, the Initial Year Optometry supports progression to the University of Hertfordshire’s MOptom, subject to fulfilling certain requirements. 

Practice placements provide valuable exposure to clinical practice, facilitating the integration of scientific knowledge, evidence and practice, and enabling you to put theory into practice. 

The course comprises human biology, mathematics, problem solving skills, professional conduct and evidence practice. In addition, further modules include an introduction to the theory and practice of subjects and skills relating to optometry and ophthalmic dispensing, including visual optics, optics and ophthalmic lenses.

Please note that all teaching on the Initial Year Optometry takes place at City and Islington College’s Centre for Applied Sciences, enabling you to benefit from the College’s expertise in the field of Optics and providing access to optics laboratories and a range of specialist equipment and resources. The course is a separate one year programme taught at the college in London. Upon completion, you will have the opportunity to progress onto the Master of Optometry programme at the University.

Find out more about studying at City and Islington College

With good job prospects, this career is interesting, rewarding and can make a genuine difference. The career is suited to those who enjoy working with people.

Why choose this course?
Teaching

Teaching comprises a combination of lectures, exercise classes and practical classes, supported by computer-assisted and self-directed study. This approach promotes student involvement, utilising a broad mix of progressive approaches.

During lectures, you will explore the theory element of the module. You will then complete exam-style questions based on this theory in the exercise classes. The practical classes will allow you to put theory into practice, in correlation with the requirements of your Ophthalmic Dispensing work placement. You will also be encouraged to attend talks by external speakers from industry.

With small class sizes, you’ll enjoy quality contact time with lecturers, and the attention and support when you need it. In addition, you have timetabled meetings with your personal tutor. Contact time varies between modules, but typically comprises of around 2-3 hours contact per week for each module.

Independent learning
When not attending lectures, seminars and other timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities, including the library and HE hubs.

Work Placement
Practice placements are organised by the college, and provide valuable exposure to clinical practice, facilitating the integration of scientific knowledge, evidence and practice, and enabling you to put theory into practice.