Modules & Duration
DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME

The minimum permitted duration for the programme is 4 years and maximum permitted duration is 6 years. This is in line with the university rules. A student may repeat a module or a year of study only once from which they will be excluded guided by the relevant university rules.

MODULES

LEVEL 1

The aim of the level 1 of study is to provide a broad knowledge and understanding of the theoretical and applied scientific principles of the geometrical and physical optics, and how they apply to the physical aspects of the human eye (anatomy) and vision (visual optics). Students learn the historical developments of the Optometry profession and basic ethical principles governing the profession. 

Clinically, students begin to learn optometry procedures with interview and interpersonal skills to get the best patient problem and how to document clearly and correctly. They also learn how to conduct preliminary diagnostic tests and educate the patients/clients about prevention of eye injuries, and promotion of eye care. Finally, they gain clinical experience by acting as patients for third level students and further participate in vision screening.

LEVEL 2

The foundational knowledge of Basic Sciences continues covering the medical and optical sciences to the practice of optometry and provides in-depth study and analysis of their applications. Clinically, second year is the gateway to clinical practice and patient care. Students are exposed to complete optometry diagnostic instruments and learn about different lens materials used in optics and how they influence vision. At the end of the year, students should be able to analyse and formulate an assessment plan, perform a comprehensive eye examination using different instruments and diagnose refrain visual problems and dispense an appropriate visual/optical aids.

 They gain clinical practice by shadowing the third level students. They observe and ultimately assist in conducting examination. They further conduct case studies by following-up on the management of the patients that were referred the campus clinic at their first year vision screening programme.

LEVEL 3

Third level introduces students to specialized optometry procedures and skills in diagnoses and clinical management of various ocular diseases and systemic disease with ocular manifestations. Clinically students are introduced to primary eye care work under supervision of qualified optometrist. They are expected to combine and use knowledge and clinical skills learnt and synthesize information obtained from patients to identify assessments/tests critical to the diagnosis of the patient’s eye and visual conditions. They also determine appropriate therapeutic and management options and identify any precaution and/or contradictions. They are also expected to prescribe and dispense suitable visual aids such as spectacles and contact lenses, as well as special telescopic and magnifying devices for the visually impaired. 

MODULES 

LEVEL 4

The fourth level of study is entirely devoted to clinical experiences but there also schedules didactic activities to contribute to the development of the advanced clinical competencies. The aim of the programme is for students to consolidate and advance their clinical skills. The clinical experiences put emphasis on primary care, ocular diseases and community outreach. The students rotate through various clinical sites including the Optometry clinic at the campus, Phelophepa train and various hospital sites located across the province. In addition, the fourth year students must conduct a vision research project, submit a research report and present the research findings for approval as a requisite for graduation. The programme demand self-discipline and sense of independence and professionalism.

MODULES