PgDip/MSc Cataract and Refractive Surgery (Theory)
Laser Eye Surgery has been performed since 1983 with over 20 million procedures performed to date worldwide and approximately 500,000 performed in the UK. The rapidly increasing popularity of refractive surgery worldwide and the evolution of cataract surgery to a complete refractive procedure highlight the vital need for structured tuition and and internationally agreed standards for refractive surgery. At present, within many countries, no formal refractive surgical training exists. Most people who undertake this type of surgery teach themselves, with some help from short introductory courses available from organisations in different countries, or specific instrumentation courses organised by manufacturers. In addition, in many European countries, cataract surgery is only taught at a theoretical level, with no reference to its practical aspects, to the management of complications, or to its implementation into a true refractive procedure.
The PgDiploma / Masters course in Cataract and Refractive Surgery (Theory) aims to communicate the knowledge and understanding of cataract and refractive surgery for all professions involved in such procedures, at pre operative assessment stage, the actual surgery itself and post operative follow up. [Read prospectus here]
The majority of students undertaking this programme are ophthalmologists. Optometrists, nurses and laser technicians have also undertaken modules in the past. Therefore, this programme represents a teaching and learning initiative, which addresses the needs of a multi disciplinary team of specialists within the health care sector.
Course Structure
Students enrolled on the Masters programme are required to complete all nine taught modules and the research dissertation module. The theory required to allow entry into the Masters Research module (year 2) is covered in the 9 modules in year 1. These modules are delivered on line consecutively in the order 1-9 as shown in table below. Students are required to undertake module 1 and 2 as pre requisites for the modules that follow. Modules are also delivered as 9 short courses (credit bearing modules). [Read prospectus here]
Masters research year
Students undertaking the Masters in Cataract and Refractive Surgery will be expected to have access to clinical cases through their day-to-day work or by special clinical attachment and be able to access, discuss and report on cases throughout the Pg Diploma and the Masters Research years of study of the programme. Retrospective type research proposals are acceptable if a given student previously had access to cases and retains a log of such personal cases. Students will be asked to verify the availability of such cases upon applying for the programme of study.
For further information on the distance learning short courses available or the Masters in Cataract and Refractive Surgery email t.moore@ulster.ac.uk or apply at www.ulster.ac.uk/applyonline
