Independent Prescribing for Optometrists

Entry requirements

For more information on entry requirements, visit our website.

Months of entry

March

Course content

Develop your role as a clinician in the field of optometry and become an Optometrist Independent Prescriber. Successful completion of the Aston Independent Prescribing course provides a Postgraduate Certificate in Optometry Independent Prescribing and eligibility to apply for entry into the General Optical Council’s (GOC) speciality register as an Independent Prescribing Optometrist.

Within their scope of clinical practice, Independent Prescribing Optometrists can therapeutically manage any ocular condition affecting the eye and adnexa using a range of medicines. Being an Independent Prescriber can provide new career opportunities, increase professional freedom, and improve job satisfaction.

The Aston Independent Prescribing for Optometrists combines theoretical knowledge provided on a distance learning basis and a single compulsory campus clinical skills day. A clinical placement is also required, and candidates are encouraged to secure their hospital placement and supervisor prior to the application process.

Aston University is an established GOC-accredited provider for Independent Prescribing. In line with the GOC’s recently updated ‘Independent Prescribing Education and Training Requirements’, the Aston Independent Prescribing Postgraduate Certificate has been designed to fulfil these new requirements. Aston University is the first University in the UK to be ‘noted’ by the GOC for these changes.

Upon successful completion of all three modules, optometrists will be eligible for a postgraduate certificate in Optometry Independent Prescribing and may apply to the General Optical Council (GOC) for entry onto the register as an independent Prescribing Optometrist.

Fees and funding

For more information on fees, visit our website.