OPT010: Glaucoma 1

This module builds on the theoretical knowledge gained in OPT009 – Glaucoma Foundation.

The module increases knowledge and understanding in assessment of anterior segment, IOP measurement, disc evaluation and visual fields. It provides you with practical skills and knowledge to participate in monitoring those suspected of having glaucoma or ocular hypertension (OHT), who have been diagnosed in secondary care but who are not receiving treatment.

The online content is supplemented with a practical training day that requires attendance at Cardiff. This will provide the opportunity to develop your skillset in key techniques used for glaucoma detection and monitoring. These include Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (GAT), slit lamp (Volk) binocular indirect assessment of the optic nerve and corneal pachymetry.

OPT009 Glaucoma Foundation is a precursor for this module. Along with OPT009, this module is accredited by the College of Optometrists to provide the Professional Certificate in Glaucoma. The follow-on module, OPT031 – Glaucoma Level 2, develops these topics further and is accredited for the Higher Certificate in Glaucoma.

There are CPD points available on completion of applicable elements of the module.

Start date	September / January
Duration	100 hours
Credits	10 credits - CET points available
Prerequisites	OPT009 or Exemption via LOCSU Glaucoma/Wales Glaucoma Referral Refinement Scheme
Module tutors	Grant Robinson
Tuition fees (2025/26)	£690 - Home students £1290 - International students
Tuition fees (2026/27)	£710 - Home students £1330 - International students
Module code	OPT010

Learning objectives

Upon completion of this module, you should be able to:

• Present balanced and informed arguments, incorporating critical judgment and decision making when assessing for glaucoma (ILO1)
• Assess the signs and symptoms of potential glaucoma eye disease to make a differential diagnosis and to rank options for diagnosis and management, with a focus on community optometric practice (ILO2)
• Problem-solve and develop solutions/management plans, (in community optometric settings, in cases with potential glaucoma, OHT, suspect glaucoma and primary angle closure glaucoma) based on evidence and sound professional and clinical judgment (ILO3)
• Address and reflect on the benefit of inter-professional teamwork in the delivery of glaucoma care in optometry, demonstrating respect of the roles of others and acknowledging the limits of their own skills/experience (ILO4)

How the module will be delivered

This module is taught by means of online Xerte sessions of guided learning, online lectures and interactive webinars as well as a contact day in Cardiff which will include formative practical skills training.

Supporting resources and references will be supplied via Learning Central, the university's virtual learning environment.

Discussion boards accessed via Learning Central will provide a platform for you to discuss any questions or queries that come up throughout the term with both the course tutors and your peers.

The module map which outlines key activities and dates is available via the module on Learning Central.

Syllabus content

Glaucoma: An Introduction

• Introduction to anatomy and physiology
• Definitions, classifications and risk factors
• An introduction to the glaucoma evidence base

Assessing the Optic Disc

• Detecting glaucomatous change at the optic disc
• The role of OCT in diagnoses of glaucoma
• Disc analysis using OCT

IOP and Visual Fields

• IOP and tonometry (Overview)
• Performing Goldmann Applanation Tonometry
• Visual fields (Overview)

The Anterior Chamber and Pachymetry

• Anterior chamber and glaucoma (Overview)
• Corneal thickness
• Performing ultrasound pachymetry
• Assessing the Iridocorneal angle

Glaucoma Management

• Glaucoma mentality
• Glaucoma management strategies
• Nice Guidelines NG81
• Case studies

Skills that will be practised and developed

• Academic skills
• Digital Skills
• Researching
• Reflective practice
• Knowledge application
• Effective communication
• Ethical, social and environmental awareness
• Independent and critical thinking
• Collaboration
• Innovative, Enterprising and Commercially Aware
• Reflection and resilience

How the module will be assessed

Formative assessment will enable you to assess your progress:

• You will have the opportunity to submit a referenced written assignment related to glaucoma case finding for which feedback will be given.

Summative assessments which contribute to your module mark:

• Written Coursework (50%, ~1000 words): You are required to submit a referenced written assignment related to management of glaucoma. Details are given in the online platform (ILO1,3).
• Practical assessment (50%): During the practical day you will sit 5 OSCE station style assessments to assess your practical skills, your ability to interpret clinical findings, and give a tentative diagnosis and management plan relating to glaucoma. The stations are (i) slit lamp assessment of the iridocorneal angle and ultrasound pachymetry (ii) assessment of optic nerve using Volk BIO, (ii) measurement of IOP using Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (iv) visual field interpretation and (v) case discussion.

How to apply

Please contact our postgraduate team.