Independent Prescribing for Optometrists

Entry requirements

For entry requirements please visit our website.

Part time distance learning (1 year)

Part time distance learning (2 years)

Months of entry

September

Course content

Our innovative, clinically focussed programme prepares optometrists to practise as independent prescribers and to meet the standards set by the General Optical Council for specialist entry on to the GOC register.

The specific aim of the programme is to prepare you to practise as an independent prescriber and to meet the standards set by the General Optical Council (GOC) for entry on to the appropriate specialist register. As a qualified prescriber, you can prescribe licensed medicine (except for controlled drugs or medicines for parenteral (injected) administration) for conditions affecting the eye.

You will receive a broad education in prescribing practice that will develop your skills and strengthen your professional portfolio, enabling you to provide services to patients that would have previously only been available via hospital treatment. This advancement helps to reduce NHS waiting lists, provide timely clinical management to your patients and build your patient base.

The GOC’s standards and learning outcomes published in 2021 have incorporated significant changes in training requirements for optometrists to qualify in Independent Prescribing (IP). This programme provides the opportunity to study 2 theory modules alongside a placement, completing the course in just 9 months, to enable you to join the GOC’s specialist register for Independent Prescribers.

You will be responsible for sourcing your clinical placement including your Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) prior to admission. The DPP can be any IP eye care professional. You may already be working in an environment where the placement can be completed. Alternatively, you may need to arrange to attend clinics away from your usual place of work.

The School also offers a 2 year programme in IP to extend your period of study, providing greater flexibility to fit around your personal and professional commitments.

Fees and funding

If you’re a home-fee paying student, you can apply for a £3,000 Master’s Scholarship from Cardiff University to help cover the cost of this programme.