phd ophthalmology uk

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Tackle the biggest challenges in biology, medicine and health in a world leading research environment, and prepare for your future career.

Attend an open day

PhD/MPhil Ophthalmology / Programme details

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

Programme description

Researchers in the Eye and Vision Sciences group work on basic science and clinical projects to improve our current understanding of the structure and function of the human visual system and to translate new knowledge into useful clinical tests. Our PhD/MPhil Ophthalmology programme enables you to undertake a research project that will improve your understanding of Ophthalmology.

Our postgraduate research in Ophthalmology follows several key themes:

• Ocular imaging using a spectrum of innovative techniques;
• Exploring the challenges relating to the appropriate measurement and management of patients with low vision;
• Visual psychophysics and ocular electrophysiology;
• Evaluating function and dysfunction across a diverse range of ophthalmic conditions;
• Visual optics and determinants of optimal visual performance;
• Contact lenses and the cornea;

Special features

Training and development

All of our postgraduate researchers attend the Doctoral Academy Training Programme delivered by the Researcher Development team . The programme provides key transferable skills and equips our postgraduate researchers with the tools to progress beyond their research degree into influential positions within academia, industry and consultancy. The emphasis is on enhancing skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals, whether they relate to effective communication, disseminating research findings and project management skills.

Teaching and learning

Applicants are specifically matched with a Primary Supervisor and individual project based on their research interests and background.

International applicants interested in this research area can also consider our PhD programme with integrated teaching certificate .

This unique programme will enable you to gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning, whilst also carrying out independent research on your chosen project.

Scholarships and bursaries

Funded programmes and projects are promoted throughout the year. Funding is available through UK Research Councils, charities and industry. We also have other internal awards and scholarships for the most outstanding applicants from within the UK and overseas.

For more information on available the types of funding we have available, please visit the  funded programmes  and  funding opportunities  pages.

What our students say

Disability support.

Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

• Accessibility
• Graduate School
• Subject Areas

Ophthalmology, visual and circadian sciences

Oxford has long been a distinguished centre of ophthalmic and visual research since the foundation of the Oxford Eye Hospital in 1886 by Robert Doyne , and the establishment of the Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology (NLO) in 1942 thanks to a generous endowment from Lord Nuffield . In 1945, the NLO had the distinction of being the first department at the University of Oxford to offer a professorship to a woman, Dame Ida Mann , a distinguished ophthalmologist who subsequently was made a CBE (1950) and DBE (1980) in addition to her many other honours and distinctions. Today the NLO is led by Professor Russell Foster CBE, who also leads the Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute (SCNI).

Research undertaken by the NLO, SCNI and related units at Oxford investigates the dual function of the eye for vision as well as for the regulation of sleep and natural circadian rhythms. Basic scientific research is undertaken at the genetic and physiological levels in addition to the development of novel clinical treatments. Oxford is a leading centre of retinal gene therapy research and development, with a number of retinal gene therapies either already being tested in clinical trials or shortly to be so. Promising clinical trials are also being undertaken of visual prosthetic devices such electronic retinas and ‘ smart glasses ’.

Today the NLO and the Oxford Eye Hospital are located in close proximity to each other at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, providing an ideal link between a leading research facility and a high quality clinical facility and thus facilitating the translation of ocular research from bench to bedside.  In this highly integrated and interdisciplinary environment, a unique ecosystem has been created in which research, teaching, clinical training and clinical care interact, thereby permitting new approaches to the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of ocular disorders. 

Supervisors in Ophthalmology, visual and circadian sciences

Chrystalina Antoniades

A/Professor of Clinical Neuroscience

Parkinson's disease

Clinical neuroscience, neurodegenerative diseases, psychology, mental health and psychiatry, systems, cognitive and behavioural neuroscience, visual sciences.

Paul Azzopardi

Departmental Lecturer in Perception and Psychophysics

Neuroscience

Psychology and psychiatry, cognitive neuroscience, experimental psychology, psychophysics.

Rachael Bashford-Rogers

Innate immunity and inflammation, bioinformatics, statistics and computational biology, dna and protein sequence analysis, functional genomics, cancer diagnostics (biomarkers and imaging), cancer therapeutics (including biologicals) and vaccines, cellular mechanisms (including tumour microenvironment, angiogenesis and metastasis), molecular mechanisms (including dna damage and repair), developmental biology and stem cells, cell fate specification and differentiation, diabetes, endocrinology and metabolism, molecular & statistical genetics & translational genomics, gastroenterology and hepatology, inflammation-driven cancer, mucosal immunity, gene expression, genomics and statistical genetics, genetic disorders and therapies, haematology, leukaemia and lymphoma, lineage commitment and differentiation in haematopoiesis, immunodeficiency, hiv and aids, mucosal immunology and inflammatory bowel disease, microbiology, infection and tropical medicine, epidemiology and population dynamics, host-pathogen interactions, molecular, cell, systems and structural biology, cell biology and microscopy, systems biology, ophthalmology, translational medicine and medical technology, antibody and protein therapy, biomedical engineering, drug discovery and pharmacology, immunology of reproduction.

Holly Bridge

Professor of Neuroscience

Functional brain imaging

Associate Professor of Neuroscience

Genes and developmental neuroscience

Genes, genetics, epigenetics and genomics, signal transduction, circadian sciences and sleep.

Zameel Cader

Director of the Oxford Headache Centre and Director of StemBANCC

Ageing, Geratology and Degenerative Diseases

Motor neuron disease, cellular and molecular neuroscience, membranes, membrane proteins, ion channels and transporters, induced pluripotency.

Yiping Chen

Senior Research Fellow

Clinical trials methodology

Vascular disease.

Susan Downes

Professor of Ophthalmology

Huaidong Du

Population, global, and public health.

David Dupret

MRC Programme Leader

Colin Espie

Professor of Sleep Medicine

Alzheimer's disease

Abnormal psychology and mental health.

Russell Foster

Head of the Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology and the Sleep and Circadian ...

Andre Furger

Associate Professor

Biochemistry and chemical biology

Spalding Associate Professor

Respiratory Sciences

Surgical science and practice.

Stephanie Halford

Senior Research Scientist

Mark Hankins

Professor of Visual Neuroscience

Gene therapy

Stem cells and cell therapy.

Aarti Jagannath

Chromosomal biology, structural biology, protein science and proteomics, chromosomal biology, dna replication and repair.

Professor of Experimental and Clinical Sleep Research

Victoria Bajo Lorenzana

Robert MacLaren

Stuart Peirson

Professor of Circadian Neuroscience

Integrative physiology

Sumathi Sekaran

Molecular, cell and systems biology.

Hannah Smithson

Professor of Experimental Psychology

Vladyslav Vyazovskiy

Professor of Sleep Physiology

Diabetes and the metabolic syndrome

Katie Warnaby

Clive Wilson

Professor of Cell and Developmental Genetics

Cell commitment

Endocrine action in cancer and endocrine tumors, musculoskeletal science, nanomedicine, organogenesis, reproductive, genitourinary and sexual medicine, microvesicles and exosomes in pregnancy, sperm, oocytes and embryos, mathematical modeling, imaging development.

Matthew Wood

Cardiovascular sciences, cellular and molecular biology in musculoskeletal systems, clinical trials and epidemiology, embryonic stem cells, myocardial biology & energetics, parasitology, stem cell biology and tissue engineering, structural biology and proteomics, epigenetics, paediatrics.

Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Career Development Fellow

Telemedicine and telecare

Adaptive immunity and autoimmune disease.

Nicole Zitzmann

Professor of Virology & Director of Glycobiology Inst

Glycobiology

Viral and autoimmune liver disease, structural biology.

• School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery
• Ophthalmology and Orthoptics

Ophthalmology and Orthoptics MPhil and PhD opportunities

We invite enquiries from anyone wishing to carry out research in the field of ophthalmology and orthoptics. We have an excellent track record in supporting postgraduate researchers from around the world.

Research excellence

The Vision Research in Sheffield (VRIS) Centre carries out theoretical and applied research to understand many aspects of the visual system and improve patient management. Our work includes contributing to national guidelines, policies and care pathways.

Our research is grouped in four themes:

• Accommodation & Physiological Optics
• Assessment of Vision and Eye Movement
• Binocular Vision
• Visual Perception and Sensory Adaptation

The Division of Ophthalmology and Orthoptics at the University of Sheffield was the best place for me to do a PhD. It has a unique combination of excellent academic supervisors, clinical experts in my area of research and strong links with clinical eye departments. The wider support and development opportunities offered to postgraduate students by the university shows how important they consider the personal and professional development of PhD students to be. Gemma Arblaster PhD student, NIHR Clinical Research Fellow  

Important points to consider

• Have you identified any  potential supervisors ?
• Do you have a well-defined area of interest you wish to address, and are you able to describe your project plans?
• Have you considered funding for the duration of your studies?

If you would like to apply or simply learn more about our postgraduate research opportunities, please get in touch with potential supervisors.

Related information

How to apply

Fees and funding

Find a supervisor

Scholarships

Our research

Search for PhD opportunities at Sheffield and be part of our world-leading research.

• Postgraduate Research

Eye and Vision Sciences PhD / MPhil / MD

• Part time available: yes

Studying in:

• institute-of-life-course-and-medical-sciences
• Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

Eye and vision science research in Liverpool extends from basic molecular interactions through to health service implementation with the goal of translating our findings for the benefit of patients. Our team of non-clinical and clinical scientists come from a range of backgrounds and work closely together studying the mechanisms, prevention, early detection and treatment of eye diseases.

Why study with us?

research staff creating new insights into patients, lifestyles, health issues, bioscience, epidemiology and care.

annual budget with total research income at over £8m, with partners including Wellcome Trust, UK Research Councils and NIH (USA)

of our funded research awards involve collaborations between scientists and clinicians.

The Department of Eye and Vision Science and their clinical counterparts in St Paul’s Eye Unit in the Royal Liverpool University Hospital work side by side and this has allowed the Department to develop into one of the key centres in the UK for medical research into vision-threatening diseases and build its internationally recognised reputation in eye research.

The Institute of Ageing & Chronic Disease provides a powerful focus for understanding the many variables - from bioscience to social - that influence ageing and chronic disease in people throughout their lives. Our research activity ranges from molecule to population, laboratory to bedside, and we have over 100 research active staff creating new insights into patients, lifestyles, health issues, bioscience, epidemiology and care.

These insights into eye and vision science are translating into real world benefits, whether it's the new approaches we are developing to allow efficient drug delivery into the eye or the retina scan we created to detect cerebral malaria in African children. Delivering this kind of return on investments helped us attract solid funding, with partners including Wellcome Trust, UK Research Councils, NIH (USA), Unilever and GSK.

With our extensive in-house research facilities and strong UK and global academic partners, we're well-placed to continue our mission and realise our ambitious plans in the ageing and chronic disease field.

The cutting-edge facilities in the University of Liverpool’s new William Henry Duncan Building provide a state-of-the-art hub in which our clinical and non-clinical scientists carry out their research. Our translational research is facilitated and enhanced by our close links with St Paul’s Eye Unit and the Clinical Eye Research Centre both the Royal Liverpool University Hospital.

Research groups

• Molecular Biology and Mechanisms of Eye Disease
• Advanced Cell-based therapies in the Eye
• Ophthalmic Bio-Engineering and Image Analysis
• Clinical Studies in Eye Health and Disease

Study options and fees

The fees below reflect one year of study during the 2024/25 academic year

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.

Entry requirements

A good (2:1 or above) Honours first degree in an appropriate science subject is required as a minimum, which, preferably, will be relevant to the area of interest.

English language requirements

How to apply

Research degree applications can be made online.  You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.

Applications are  open all year round .

More about applying for research degrees

Apply online

Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal

Find a supervisor

Professor Simon Harding Professor Rachel Williams Professor Luminita Paraoan Dr Victoria Kearns Dr Yalin Zheng Dr Kevin Hamill

Need help finding a supervisor? Contact us

• ILCaMS PGR Administrator
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +44 (0)151 794 4225

Related studentships: self-funded and funded PhD projects

Related doctoral training partnerships.

Doctoral Training Partnerships support future researchers with funding and a rewarding learning environment where you can collaborate with leading researchers.

• University of Liverpool Doctoral Network in Technologies for Healthy Ageing

Find a scholarship

We offer a range of scholarships to help you meet the costs of studying a research degree.

See scholarships

Find a course

• A-Z of courses /
• Studentship vacancies

Undergraduate enquiries

International enquiries

Postgraduate taught enquiries

Postgraduate research enquiries

Ask the University of Liverpool a question

• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate Taught
• Online programmes
• Welcome to Liverpool

Learn about...

• Visits and Open Days
• Accommodation
• Student support
• Careers and Employability
• Continuing Education
• Continuing Professional Development

Information for...

• International students
• Mature students and access courses
• Parents and supporters
• School and careers advisors

• Interesting for you
• My settings

Ophthalmology

The PhD in Ophthalmology programme at The University of Manchester enables you to undertake a research project that will improve understanding of Ophthalmology.

The University of Manchester Multiple locations Manchester , England , United Kingdom Top 0.5% worldwide Studyportals University Meta Ranking 4.1 Read 121 reviews

About the programme

Researchers in the Eye and Vision Sciences group work on basic science and clinical projects to improve our current understanding of the structure and function of the human visual system and to translate new knowledge into useful clinical tests. This Ophthalmology programme is offered at The University of Manchester.

Programme Structure

• Ocular imaging using a spectrum of innovative techniques
• Exploring the challenges relating to the appropriate measurement and management of patients with low vision
• Visual psychophysics and ocular electrophysiology
• Evaluating function and dysfunction across a diverse range of ophthalmic conditions
• Visual optics and determinants of optimal visual performance
• Contact lenses and the cornea

Key information

• 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

• Apply before 2024-10-15 00:00:00
• Apply before 2025-01-15 00:00:00
• Apply before 2025-06-15 00:00:00

Disciplines

Academic requirements, english requirements, student insurance.

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

• Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
• Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
• Home contents and baggage

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at The University of Manchester and/or in United Kingdom, please visit Student Insurance Portal .

Other requirements

General requirements.

• We require applicants to hold, or be about to obtain, an Upper Second class Honours degree, or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK, in a related subject area for entry to a PhD programme.
• A Lower Second class Honours degree may be considered if applicants also hold a Master's degree with a Merit classification.

Tuition Fee

International.

• UK (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000
• International (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500

Living costs for Manchester

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Ophthalmology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

Read more about eligibility

• missing or incomplete ?"> Missing or incomplete content
• wrong or outdated ?"> Wrong or outdated content

Other interesting programmes for you

Our partners.

Go to your profile page to get personalised recommendations!

• About the College
• News & Views

OST Curriculum

• My RCOphth My RCOphth
• Search Search

Become an Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmology is a vibrant and diverse medical and surgical specialty. Find out what's involved and the diversity of career options for an ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmology is a small but highly competitive medical and surgical specialty, dealing with diverse ophthalmological problems and a wide range of patients from premature babies to the older population. Working alongside other professional colleagues, you will have the chance to offer sight-saving microsurgical or pharmacological treatments to patients of all ages, along with sub-specialty work in rare diseases.

Doctors training to be consultant ophthalmologists are trained in a variety of special interest areas and go on to make a career in one or more of the following:

• Oculoplastics and Orbit
• Cornea and Ocular Surface Disease
• Cataract Surgery
• Medical Retina
• Vitreoretinal Surgery
• Ocular Motility
• Neuro-ophthalmology
• Paediatric Ophthalmology
• Urgent Eye Care
• Community Ophthalmology

I became an ophthalmologist because it allowed me to blend medicine and surgery in a highly technical environment and in a discipline which is evolving. I wanted the challenge of learning new skills and knowledge and the satisfaction of highly effective treatments.

What to expect as an ophthalmologist

Whilst the surgical workload of a general ophthalmologist may include squint and glaucoma surgery, oculoplastic and nasolacrimal surgery, cataract is the most commonly known eye condition that ophthalmologists deal with.  Many of the population will need cataract surgery at some point in their lifetime. Because of the diversity of eye disease and patients, ophthalmologists may discuss a patient’s care and co-morbidities involving many other areas of medicine such as diabetes, rheumatology, neurology, ENT and maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, paediatrics and genetics.  Read the short career guide So you want to be an Ophthalmologist? for more information.

Another important part of the patient care involves partnerships with other professions that ensure a joined up approach across primary and secondary care.

The road to qualification is challenging, but there are plenty of rewards and career routes to pursue, including  academic research .

Find out more about our Ophthalmic Specialist Training (OST) Curriculum

National Recruitment for Ophthalmic Specialist Training (OST)

NHS England, Severn PGME coordinate national recruitment into OST on behalf of The Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

Candidates are able to preference all available posts across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

All queries should be made directly to the recruiting team either by ringing 01454 252610 or emailing   [email protected] . 

2024 recruitment

Applications are now closed.  Please consult the person specification to review eligibility.

OST1 2024 recruitment

National Recruitment Deanery Proforma Information

The College has, in the past, produced additional information by region to assist in made available.

• East Midlands Deanery – no information provided
• East of England Deanery Proforma 2020
• KSS Deanery Proforma 2020
• London North Deanery Proforma 2020
• London South Deanery Proforma 2020
• Mersey Deanery – no information provided
• North West Deanery – no information provided
• North East Deanery Proforma 2020
• Oxford Deanery – no information provided
• Severn Deanery – no information provided
• South West Peninsula Deanery Proforma 2020
• Wessex Deanery – no information provided
• West Midlands Deanery – no information provided
• Yorkshire & Humberside, North Deanery – no information provided
• Yorkshire & Humberside, South Deanery – no information provided

Northern Ireland

• Northern Ireland Deanery Proforma 2020
• North Scotland Deanery – no information provided
• East of Scotland Deanery – no information provided
• South-East Scotland Deanery Proforma 2020
• West Scotland Deanery – no information provided
• Wales Deanery Proforma 2020

Medical Ophthalmology

ST3 Medical Ophthalmology entry requirements changed in 2016. Trainees from an ophthalmology background – who completed OST2 and passed the FRCOphth Part 1 by August 2016 – may be eligible to apply. Successful applicants enter at ST3 level but complete a period of core medical training as part of their programme.

More information about medical ophthalmology

Your medical career in ophthalmology

Find out more about how to qualify as a ophthalmologist consultant and opportunities to get involved in research. There is a vibrant ophthalmologists in training group who are involved in all areas of the RCOphth.

RCOphth Scholarships, awards and prizes

There are plenty of scholarships, awards and prizes on offer to support your professional development.

Take the Duke Elder Undergraduate Prize Exam

The RCOphth Duke Elder Undergraduate Prize Examination enables medical students to test their knowledge on ophthalmology. Candidates from medical schools across the UK are invited to sit the multiple choice examination, held annually.

Ophthalmology for Medical Students and Foundation Doctors

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists is committed to providing medical students and foundation doctors with support to learn essential ophthalmology skills. At medical school you should leave your ophthalmology attachment feeling confident with the fundamentals of ophthalmic medicine.

Find out what to expect from the Ophthalmic Specialist Training Curriculum

Our cookies

We use cookies for three reasons: to give you the best experience on PGS, to make sure the PGS ads you see on other sites are relevant , and to measure website usage. Some of these cookies are necessary to help the site work properly and can’t be switched off. Cookies also support us to provide our services for free, and by click on “Accept” below, you are agreeing to our use of cookies .You can manage your preferences now or at any time.

Privacy overview

We use cookies, which are small text files placed on your computer, to allow the site to work for you, improve your user experience, to provide us with information about how our site is used, and to deliver personalised ads which help fund our work and deliver our service to you for free.

The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalised web experience.

You can accept all, or else manage cookies individually. However, blocking some types of cookies may affect your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.

You can change your cookies preference at any time by visiting our Cookies Notice page. Please remember to clear your browsing data and cookies when you change your cookies preferences. This will remove all cookies previously placed on your browser.

For more detailed information about the cookies we use, or how to clear your browser cookies data see our Cookies Notice

Manage consent preferences

Strictly necessary cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems.

They are essential for you to browse the website and use its features.

You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. We can’t identify you from these cookies.

Functional cookies

These help us personalise our sites for you by remembering your preferences and settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers, whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then these services may not function properly.

Performance cookies

These cookies allow us to count visits and see where our traffic comes from, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are popular and see how visitors move around the site. The cookies cannot directly identify any individual users.

If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site and will not be able to improve its performance for you.

Marketing cookies

These cookies may be set through our site by social media services or our advertising partners. Social media cookies enable you to share our content with your friends and networks. They can track your browser across other sites and build up a profile of your interests. If you do not allow these cookies you may not be able to see or use the content sharing tools.

Advertising cookies may be used to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. They do not store directly personal information, but work by uniquely identifying your browser and internet device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will still see ads, but they won’t be tailored to your interests.

Course type

Qualification, university name, postgraduate ophthalmology.

21 degrees at 10 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

Related subjects:

• Ophthalmology
• Anesthesiology
• Biomechanics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Child Dentistry
• Community Medicine
• Dental Health Education
• Dental Hygiene
• Dental Technology
• Dermatology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Emergency Clinical Care
• Emergency First Aid
• Endocrinology
• Endodontics
• Epidemiology
• Forensic Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• General Medical Practice
• Geriatric Medical Studies
• Haematology
• Medical Electronics
• Medical Radiography
• Medical Radiology
• Medical Sciences
• Medical Statistics
• Medical Technology
• Orthodontics
• Orthopedics
• Paramedical Services and Supplementary Medicine
• Paramedical Work
• Parenting and Carers
• People with Disabilities: Skills and Facilities
• Periodontics
• Personal Health and Fitness
• Pharmacology
• Prosthetics
• Prosthodontics
• Psychoanalysis
• Radiotherapy
• Respiratory & Chest Diseases
• Rheumatology
• Sports Medicine
• Surgery, Medicine and Dentistry
• Tropical Medicine
• Ultrasound: Medical
• Women's Health

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

Public Health for Eye Care MSc

London school of hygiene & tropical medicine, university of london.

Eye health has far-reaching implications for individuals and society. Yet many people face sight impairment and blindness due to inadequate Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £12,940 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree: £6,470 per year (UK)

MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology

University of plymouth.

Are you a registered ophthalmic professional who is looking to develop your career to an advanced level of practice in Clinical Read more...

• 3 years Part time degree: £3,660 per year (UK)

MCh Surgery (Ophthalmology)

Canterbury christ church university.

This course will provide you with a valuable qualification to enhance career progression in this highly competitive field. Ophthalmology Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £11,320 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree: £5,660 per year (UK)

Optometry and Ophthalmology (Advanced Clinical Practice) MSc

Ucl (university college london).

The aim of this programme is to develop clinical practice and to contribute to the advancement of eye care delivery in primary, secondary Read more...

• 5 years Customised degree
• 1 year Full time degree: £15,100 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree: £7,550 per year (UK)

Institute of Ophthalmology MPhil/PhD

The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology is a vibrant learning environment in which to carry out postgraduate research. Postgraduate students Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £6,035 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £3,015 per year (UK)

Clinical Ophthalmic Practice PG Cert

This programme will allow students to develop advanced knowledge of the eye, eye diseases and treatment and the research underpinning Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £5,100 per year (UK)

Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology (integrated degree apprenticeship) MSc

• 3 years Distance without attendance degree

Optical Biology MPhil/PhD

The Optical Biology PhD programme will train future research leaders to answer fundamental questions in biology by exploiting and Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £6,035 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £3,015 per year (UK)

Ophthalmology MSc

The Ophthalmology MSc provides an in-depth engagement with the study of Ophthalmology in a contemporary clinical and research-focused Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £19,300 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree: £9,650 per year (UK)

Optometry / Ophthalmic Science MSc

Aston university, birmingham.

The flexible Aston University Optometry / Ophthalmic Science MSc will equip you with up-to date knowledge of clinical techniques, advanced Read more...

• 5 years Part time degree: £2,232 per year (UK)

Eye and Vision Sciences MPhil

University of liverpool.

Eye and vision science research in Liverpool extends from basic molecular interactions through to health service implementation with the Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

PhD Ophthalmology

University of manchester.

Programme description Researchers in the Eye and Vision Sciences group work on basic science and clinical projects to improve our current Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

Eye Care Governance (PgCert)

Cardiff university.

The PgCert in Eye Care Governance seeks to provide those involved in the governing of eye care with a qualification that is currently not Read more...

• 2 years Distance without attendance degree

Clinical Ophthalmology (Online Learning) ChM (Clinical Ophthalmology)

The university of edinburgh.

This two year, part-time masters programme is taught entirely online and leads to the degree of Master of Surgery (ChM). It is offered by Read more...

• 2 years Online degree: £7,600 per year (UK)
• 4 years Online degree: £15,240 per year (UK)

MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research

Glasgow caledonian university.

Our MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research gives eye care professionals like you the academic knowledge and practical skills Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £7,300 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree

Doctor of Optometry / Doctor of Ophthalmic Science DOptom/DOphSc

Undertake the part-time Doctor of Optometry / Doctor of Ophthalmic Sciences course with Aston University, Birmingham, to enhance your Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £9,350 per year (UK)

Eye and Vision Sciences PhD

Msc investigative ophthalmology and vision science.

Our MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences course brings together the research expertise in vision from The University of Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £13,000 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree: £6,500 per year (UK)

Clinical Investigation and Vision Sciences PhD

Clinical Investigation and Vision Sciences is a research area in which you can focus your studies within our PhD programme in Vision Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree

Primary Care Ophthalmology (Online Learning) MSc

Study length This three year, part-time, interprofessional Masters programme in Primary Care Ophthalmology, taught entirely online. It is Read more...

• 3 years Online degree: £5,070 per year (UK)

1-20 of 21 courses

Course type:

• Distance learning

Qualification:

Related subjects:.

• Home »
• Search »
• ophthalmology

Postgraduate Research Courses in Ophthalmology in the United Kingdom - 6 Courses

• Refine your search:
• Ophthalmic dispensing

UCL (University College London) Institute of Ophthalmology

• Institute of Ophthalmology Master of Philosophy - MPhil

UCL (University College London) Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology

• Optical Biology Master of Philosophy - MPhil

University of Manchester Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

• Epidemiology Doctor of Philosophy - PhD Master of Philosophy - MPhil
• Ophthalmology Doctor of Philosophy - PhD Master of Philosophy - MPhil

Search for ophthalmology by...

• Attendance :
• All attendance types
• Online / distance learning
• All qualifications
• Masters/Diploma/PG Cert
• Research/PhD
• All countries
• Europe (any country)
• Europe non-EU (any country)
• United Kingdom
• UK Location :
• All regions

Exclusive bursaries Open day alerts Funding advice Application tips Latest PG news

Sign up now!

Take 2 minutes to sign up to PGS student services and reap the benefits…

• The chance to apply for one of our 5 PGS Bursaries worth £2,000 each
• Fantastic scholarship updates
• Latest PG news sent directly to you.

PhD/MPhil Applied Vision

Postgraduate research degree

Conduct original clinical, applied or fundamental studies in vision research under the supervision of world leading experts at the Centre for Applied Vision Research at City, University London.

Research centres and groups

Key information.

Affiliations

Our links with Bart's Trust, UCL Partners and others has helped create research-active clinical academic posts, ensuring research is undertaken under the supervision of respected clinical experts.

Applied Vision Postgraduate research degrees PhD/MPhil course Overview

Our PhD programme provides perfect foundation for practising optometrists who want to add an academic strand to their work, and for scientists with backgrounds in a variety of disciplines who want to further their career in academia, industry or public health.

You will pursue original research under the supervision of our expert multidisciplinary research staff who specialise in: visual neuroscience, psychophysics,ocular optics and instrumentation, measurement techniques in vision, and ophthalmic public health.

You may have the opportunity to develop scientific understanding of the causes and consequences of various visual impairments(e.g. glaucoma, macular disease, colour deficiencies), via our state-of-the-art City Sight laboratories and clinics and established links with eye-care practitioners, such as nearby Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Degree Pathway

A range of Masters level courses are offered at the School of Health & Psychological Sciences , including an MSc in Clinical Optometry , with other courses tailored to each of the Research Centres.

Study for an MPhil/PhD

Doctoral level study involves independent academic research, supported by supervisors, that makes an original contribution to knowledge within the discipline.

The work carried out will therefore be of sufficient quality to satisfy academic peer review and merit publication.

There are two main routes to doctoral-level research degrees (PhD):

MPhil/PhD by major thesis

The standard route involves the accepted candidate pursuing a research project under the guidance of their supervisors over a period of 3 years (full-time) or 4-6 years (part-time).

Candidates register initially for an MPhil (which is a substantial and valid qualification in its own right), and following an Upgrade examination, transfer to the PhD programme.

MPhil/PhD by prospective publication

Candidates publish generally around 3-6 peer-reviewed research papers (dependent on their depth, quality, significance and impact) addressing various aspects of their research topic during the period of MPhil/PhD registration.

For the award of PhD, the published studies are incorporated in an extended, analytical commentary (not dissimilar to a major thesis), which presents them as a coherent body of work, places them in a more general context and shows how they form a coherent contribution to knowledge in the research field.

For full details about the City PhD programme structure, please see the Guide for Research Students .

Requirements

Entry requirements.

Entry requirements vary by subject area, so applicants should approach academic staff working in their area of interest to discuss their proposal ahead of, submitting an application.

Applicants should preferably hold a Masters degree (with Distinction or Merit) in a relevant discipline and have past experience of research or professional expertise in their area of interest, with an upper second class honours degree or the equivalent from an international institution in a relevant discipline normally being a minimum requirement.

Where an applicant's academic profile shows no evidence of training in research methods, it may be recommended that they first complete an MSc or MRes programme to prepare them for MPhil/PhD studies.

For our Clinical MRes programme, applicants must be registered with a clinical professional group such as Medicine, Optometry or other Allied Health professions.

For more information see our main entry requirements page.

English requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, an IELTS score of at least 7 (with a minimum of 7.0 in writing) is required.

Visa requirements

If you are not from the European Economic Area / Switzerland and you are coming to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a visa or entry clearance to come to the UK to study.

The way that you apply may vary depending on the length of your course. There are different rules for:

• Students on courses of more than six months
• Students on courses of less than six months
• Students on a pre-sessional English language course.

For more information see our main Visa page .

Fees and funding

Full-time Home/UK: £5,500 per year

Part-time Home/UK: £2,750 per year

Full-time International: £14,500 per year

Part-time International: £7,250 per year

Fees for doctoral candidates are charged annually and cover registration, supervision and examination.

Fees are subject to review each year and may vary during your period of registration. Where applicable, fees for City's programmes will be subject to inflationary increases in each academic year of study commencing in September . Our policy for these increases is set out in our terms and conditions of study .

There are multiple funding options at City to help support your studies.

Support for PhD study

Prospective students are encouraged to explore doctoral Grants and funding opportunities such as:

• NIHR and MRC Fellowship schemes
• Commonwealth Scholarships
• Specialist scholarship schemes (such as those provided by Arthritis UK, Diabetes UK, and the British Heart Foundation)
• Research Council studentship awards , if available.

Our bursaries are non-repayable sums of money granted by the University, usually based on need.

Our loans are repayable sums of money granted by the University or other body.

Our scholarships are when the University pays towards your Study fees. You may also be eligible for further funding.

Postgraduate Doctoral Loans

The Government has introduced a new Postgraduate Doctoral Loans scheme which can provide a loan of up to £25,000 over three years to support study for a doctoral degree.

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study and can be used alongside any other forms of support you may be able to receive, for example from industry or business or through your PhD supervisor.

For more information, please see our Postgraduate Doctoral Loans page .

Additional expenses

Some of our degrees may involve additional expenses which are not covered by your tuition fees. Find out more about additional expenses .

Academic support

City has a well-established structure and processes to support your research .

Supervision

MPhil/PhD students can become integral members of the School’s research teams based in their Research Centres , which assists students in completing their studies.

MPhil/PhD students are assigned to a team of supervisors, usually two academics who are expert in the field of the student's study.

Students meet regularly with supervisors, reviewing their learning needs and planning work towards progression. Full-time students have access PhD office area in the SHPS building.

Full time students will also meet with their supervisors at least twice a term and part time students at least once a term.

Progress is monitored by an annual review, where students have the opportunity to discuss their research design and written work with an advisor.

All students working towards a PhD initially register for MPhil studies. When their study has developed, they may apply to be upgraded to PhD student status which involves an oral examination.

Research students are supported by student representatives who meet with the student-staff liaison committee responding to any student concerns that cannot be addressed by supervisors.

Research students are also supported by Senior Tutors of Research who are members of Academic Staff who have central roles of overseeing research degrees provision at Research Centre level, including liaising with Supervisory teams to facilitate student progression on the PhD programme.

All MPhil/PhD students can access a wide range of MSc modules and other training programmes (e.g., for teaching) across City, normally without charge.

Workshops, seminars and retreats are organised for students across the School and within particular areas.

Institution-wide research activities can also contribute to your development as a researcher. An annual programme of research and enterprise development activities is also run by and for students, including a one-day Doctoral Conference, at which students are able to present their work to each other and to Academic Staff in the School of Health & Psychological Sciences.

For more information, please see the visit the City Doctoral College .

How to apply

You will need to submit a formal online application with a curriculum vitae and a 1-2 page proposal of study. This should include:

Background and rationale of research proposal including other work in the area leading up to the PhD study.

Proposed methodology such as aims, design, participant groups, measures, analysis.

Potential research outcomes in the form of academic outputs (papers and presentations) and real-world impact (e.g., its potential usefulness for optometric practitioners, patient groups, clinical managers and stakeholders, etc.).

See here for guidance on writing your research proposal .

We realise that at this stage you may not have a completely clear plan of study, and that the proposal is likely to change after you begin study. The proposal gives us an idea of your writing and organisational ability, motivation and rationale for the study and potential wider benefits.

Optics & Visual Science

Select one of the available starting dates to start your application.

Visual Science

• 1 st Oct 2024
• 1 st Feb 2025

For further application enquiries please contact our PGR enquiries team .

PhD projects from SHPS

The role of optometrists in paediatric eye care in england.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of cycloplegic and non-cycloplegic refraction in children with typical development versus autism.

Research centre: Centre for Applied Vision Research

Academics: Professor Irene Ctori , Dr Catherine Suttle , Dr Rakhee Shah and Dr Miriam Conway

Status: Ongoing project

View case study site

Role of smartphone applications in glaucoma eye drop adherence

Investigating the feasibility and acceptability of using a chatbot to improve adherence to glaucoma medication.

Academics: Dr Peter Campbell , Dr Ahalya Subramanian , Professor David Edgar and Professor John Lawrenson

The importance of effective patient-practitioner communication

To investigate lifestyle modification advice currently given to patients with non-neovascular age-related macular degeneration and surmount identified barriers to non-compliance with this advice.

Academics: Dr Alison Binns and Dr Tamsin Callaghan

Improving the structure-function relationship of the macula

Analysis of the structure-function relationship in age-related macular degeneration, combining retinal imaging data from autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography with data from microperimetry

Academics: Professor David Crabb and Dr Deanna Taylor

Studies to understand the pathogenesis of myopia and the effectiveness of interventions to treat myopia

Investigating interactions between light and near work on myopia development and structural changes within the eye, and meta-analysis of various interventions for slowing myopia progression.

Academics: Professor John Lawrenson , Dr Byki Huntjens and Dr Rakhee Shah

Development and validation of a web-based CAD-Screening test for rapid detection of colour deficiency

To create and freely-available web-based screening protocol for accurately detecting hereditary and acquired colour vision defects for use in occupational health and primary healthcare settings.

Academics: Professor John Barbur and Dr Marisa Rodriguez Carmona

Classifying early markers of glaucoma using tracking eye movements and deep learning

The project aims to create a machine learning system for classifying early-stage visual-related Quality of Life deficits to prevent further vision loss in patients with eye disease.

Academics: Professor David Crabb and Dr Peter Jones

The impact of COVID-19 on individuals with visual impairment (IVI) and their care and support services: evidence to support future planning

Scoping review of COVID-19 effects on IVI, their formal and professional caregivers, remote low vision and rehabilitation services, to develop guidelines and establish principles for future support.

Academics: Dr Ahalya Subramanian , Professor David Edgar and Dr Katherine Curtis-Tyler

Structure from Motion

To investigate the potential adaptive use of motion parallax in long-standing one-eyed (monocular) individuals for 3D object perception and action control.

Academics: Professor Christopher Tyler and Professor Joshua Solomon

Binocular interactions of flicker sensitivity in visual system with interocular differences

To quantify how different temporal stimulus parameters, optimised for cone- and rod- enhanced viewing conditions, affect binocular summation ratios for flicker thresholds.

Factors influencing Ortho-K lenses for myopia control

Corneal topography and optical factors affecting potential success of Ortho-K lenses for controlling myopia.

Academics: Dr Byki Huntjens and Professor Chris Hull

Find a supervisor

See our full list of academic staff and potential supervisors in Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences.

Dr Marisa Rodriguez Carmona

Senior Lecturer

• Department of Optometry and Visual Sciences

Dr Simon Grant

Professor Chris Hull

Dr Alison Binns

Reader in Optometry & Visual Science

Useful links

• Doctoral College
• Optometry and Visual Sciences
• School of Health & Psychological Sciences
• Terms and conditions

Contact details

Shps doctoral enquiries.

+44 (0) 20 7040 5972

[email protected]

Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research

Take existing skills in eye care/optometry and apply them to postgraduate study. Progress to a career in senior roles in hospital optometry, teaching or PhD study.

• business_center Work placement
• local_police Industry standard facility
• watch_later Flexible modes

Our MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research gives eye care professionals like you the academic knowledge and practical skills they need to contribute to groundbreaking medical advancements and effectively diagnose and treat a wide range of ocular conditions.

Whether you want to pursue further academic studies or take on new responsibilities as a primary caregiver – our programme gives you the clinical skills and research experience you need. Advance your career and have a meaningful influence on the future of the field.

A combination of core and elective modules and research opportunities – with a research project making up one-third of the programme – allows you to customise your studies based on your personal interests and professional requirements. This includes the option to select a specialisation leading to a named degree on completion of your dissertation:

• MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research (General)
• MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research (Diabetes)
• MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research (Therapeutics)

The course is suited to applicants who have obtained a first degree in optometry or a related field outside of the UK. The generic stream of the course gives a broader perspective than diabetes and therapeutic routes.

Graduate prospects

Whether you choose a path in academia or clinical practice, your MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research will unlock new opportunities to advance and expand your career. The programme is ideal preparation for subsequent studies towards a PhD or other higher academic qualification. It also allows optometrists and other practitioners to advance their careers in primary eye care.

What you will study

Course Information

Find out more.

Ask a student

Read more arrow_forward

GCU community

Scholarships and funding

Social innovation

How to apply

Transformative education

Accommodation

Postgraduate fees and funding

International Study

• Skip to main menu
• Skip to user menu

The Complete Guide To Becoming An Ophthalmology Doctor

• Specialty Guides

The Role Of An Ophthalmologist

Ophthalmologists are doctors who diagnose, treat and prevent diseases of the eye and visual system. This includes acute and chronic eye conditions. Their role involves both the duties of a physician and a surgeon.

It is important to recognise that ophthalmologists are not the same as medical ophthalmologists who focus on the medical assessment, investigation, diagnosis and treatment of patients with eye disorders.

What patients do ophthalmologists see and what conditions do they diagnose/treat?

Ophthalmology is a specialty which includes both medicine and surgery. Ophthalmologists see patients of all ages. A wide range of ophthalmological conditions are seen in the UK, especially in the ageing population. Most patients are generally well and conditions are not usually life-threatening. Some common conditions ophthalmologists treat and manage include:[1]

Corneal pathology

Retinal problems, such as retinal detachment or oedema

Macular degeneration 

Intraocular inflammation 

Eye injuries, major and minor

Infectious eye disease

Neurological problems related to the eye

Diabetic retinopathy 

Mix of medical, surgical, imaging, interventional work

Most ophthalmologist job roles are ‘surgical ophthalmologists.’ Medical work involves seeing patients in outpatient clinics and often many are follow-up appointments from an existing condition. Surgery is performed with the help of an operating microscope with or without lasers. Some types of surgery include:[1]

Cataract surgery: performed through keyhole surgery, it is the commonest surgery undertaken in the NHS and in the world.

Squint and glaucoma surgery 

Retinal surgery

Corneal transplantation

Orbital surgery 

Nasolacrimal surgery

Oculoplastic surgery

Generally, most time during the working week is spent seeing patients in outpatient clinics. In the elderly population, many will have age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, etc. However, diabetes is the main cause of visual impairment in those aged under 65 years.

Diabetes is one example of how diseases of the eye may be part of underlying systemic disease. This means that working in a multidisciplinary team with doctors from other specialties is required. This may include endocrinologists, neurosurgeons, ENT and maxillofacial surgeons, neurologists, plastic surgeons, etc.

Ophthalmologists also work with ophthalmic nurses and allied health professionals including orthoptists, optometrists, electrophysiologists, visual function technicians, ophthalmic photographers, and ocular prosthetists.[2]

Proportion of men/women

Data from NHS Hospital and Community Health Service (HCHS) workforce statistics shows that in 2020, there were 1,359 consultant ophthalmologists and 70% were male.[3]

Desired skills, aptitudes, traits

Ophthalmology is a unique specialty as the eye is a transparent, delicate structure, meaning that excellent hand eye coordination and manual dexterity is required. A good ophthalmologist should have the fine level of detail required of a microsurgeon, as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic abilities of a physician. 

The future of ophthalmology

In recent years there have been massive improvements in technology to aid microsurgical procedures in ophthalmology. The discovery of novel treatments for degenerative retinal diseases have been promising in patients who would previously have a poor prognosis. Further, community or primary care ophthalmologists are likely to carry out more routine procedures, allowing patients with more complex problems to be treated in hospitals using more specialised and advanced technology.  

The Life Of An Ophthalmologist

Typical week

A typical week for a consultant ophthalmologist involves 3-4 outpatient sessions and 2-3 theatre sessions. Outpatient sessions may include general and specialty clinics, and treatment clinics using laser injections. Theatres sessions would include performing operations such as cataract surgery in the specialist eye theatre. Most acute clinics are managed by staff doctors and trainees, although senior advice is available when required. 

On call commitments and working hours

Ophthalmology is generally a nine to five specialty. Compared to other medical specialties, out of hours work is much less and shift work is unlikely. For eye emergencies some consultant ophthalmologists may be required to be on-call but working at night is unusual. The ‘hospital at night’ team can manage most routine ward work outside of normal working hours. Most consultants are on an on-call rota; rotas may range from 1:5 to 1:10 depending on the size of the unit. Smaller units would require more frequent on calls.

Under the EU Working Time Directive, a typical working week is limited to 48 hours. Consultants can work part-time, and trainees who are unable to work full-time for personal reasons may be able to train on a less than full-time basis.[1]

An example of on-call duty is shown below:

On call on weekdays - 5pm until start of next normal working day (9am)

On-call on weekend - 9am Saturday until Sunday morning (9am), 1pm Sunday until Monday morning (9am)

The Route To Becoming An Ophthalmologist

Entry requirements and training pathway

After completion of a two-year UKFPO-affiliated foundation programme, doctors can apply directly to a ST1 ophthalmology training post. Ophthalmic specialist training is a ‘run-through’ programme lasting a minimum of 7 years (ST1-7).

The programme is run by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Training Committee and approved by the General Medical Council. On completion of 7 years of training, eligible doctors will be awarded a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) or Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (Combined Programme).[4]

Some of the content covered in the specialist training programme is shown below:

ST1-2: Core training

General clinical skills of ophthalmology

Basic knowledge of conditions in ophthalmology 

Master common surgical procedures

Assist more complex operations

ST3-7: Specialised training

More time spent in specialist clinics 

More time spent in theatre and laser clinics

Examinations required to pass to progress through training include:

Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth) part 1, to be passed before entering ST3. This consists of a 3 hour MCQ paper and a 2 hour Constructed Response Questions paper.

Refraction Certificate, to be passed by the end of ST3. This is a practical OSCE examination.

Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth) part 2, to be passed by the end of ST7. This includes 180 single best answer MCQs, a structured viva and a clinical OSCE examination.

Competition

Ophthalmology is a fairly competitive specialty. In 2019, competition ratio for ST1 training post was 3.24.[5] Further, there are around 1,359 ophthalmic consultant posts in the UK with many applicants of high quality.[2]

Tips for success

For those interested in ophthalmology, it is important to begin a portfolio early on in order to demonstrate commitment and interest to the specialty. During medical school this may include student selected components or electives relating to ophthalmology.

The Duke Elder Undergraduate Prize Examination is run by the RCOphth annually. Additional qualifications (e.g. intercalated degrees, BSc, etc.), academic and research achievements, audit and research skills are all highly desirable. 

Subspecialties

Ophthalmologists are able to pursue their interests in a number of sub-specialty areas, and this can include both surgical or non-surgical subspecialties. Some specialist interests include:[1,2]

Cataract and refractive surgery

Corneal and external diseases

Medical ophthalmology (separate training programme at ST3)

Medical retina 

Ocular oncology

Paediatric ophthalmology

Primary care

Vitreoretinal surgery

Opportunities for research or an academic career

There are increasing numbers of academic ophthalmologists in the NHS. Those wishing to pursue an academic career usually undertake a higher degree during training or through fellowships and carry out research.

A clinical academic training pathway through the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is available, which includes Academic Clinical Fellowships (ACF) and Clinical Lectureships (CL). Often these lead to a PhD. 

NHS consultant salaries are the same for all specialties but vary between Scotland (highest), England, Northern Ireland, and Wales (lowest) and increase with service (up to 19 years). In 2020 the salary bands range from £77,779 to £109,849.  Salaries can be further enhanced with NHS excellence awards. 

There is also potential to enhance NHS earnings through private practice, shown below in table 3.

For more information on salaries within the NHS, please feel free to review  The Complete Guide to NHS Pay .

Societies and institutions

• Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth)  
• British Undergraduate Ophthalmology Society (BUOS) 
• Ophthalmology  
• British Journal of Ophthalmology (BJO) 
• American Journal of Ophthalmology (AJO) 
• Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology – known as ‘the Kumar and Clark’ of eyes.
• Moorfields Eye Hospital in London  
• Manchester Royal Eye Hospital  

Related Job Sources With BMJ Careers

• Hospital Jobs
• Psychiatry Jobs
• Public Health Jobs
• Research Jobs
• NHS Jobs in England
• NHS Jobs in Northern Ireland
• NHS Jobs in Scotland
• NHS Jobs in Wales

More Complete Guides By BMJ Careers

•  How To Become A Dermatologist
• How To Become A GP
• How To Become A Hepatologist
• How To Become An Intensive and Critical Care Doctor
• How To Become A Psychiatrist

NHS. Ophthalmology. Available from: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors/roles-doctors/ophthalmology [last accessed 3rd June 2020].

Royal College of Ophthalmologists. So you want to be an ophthalmologist? Available from: https://www.rcophth.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/RCOphth-Ophthalmology-Career-Feb2017.pdf [last accessed 3rd June 2020].

NHS Digital. Analysis of the representation of women across the hospital and community health services workforce. 2018. Available from: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/find-data-and-publications/supplementary-information/2018-supplementary-information-files/analysis-of-the-representation-of-women-across-the-hospital-and-community-health-services-workforce [last accessed 3rd June 2020].

GMC. Ophthalmology curriculum. Available from: https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/standards-guidance-and-curricula/curricula/ophthalmology-curriculum [last accessed 3rd June 2020].

NHS. Specialty Recruitment Competition Ratios 2019. Available from: https://specialtytraining.hee.nhs.uk/Portals/1/Competition%20Ratios%202019_1.pdf [last accessed 3rd June 2020]. 

Independent Practitioner Today.

Share this article

Related articles

The Complete Guide To NHS Pay For Doctors

The Complete Guide To Becoming an Aviation and Space Medicine Doctor

The Complete Guide To Becoming A Paediatrician

Latest articles, my top 5 tips for passing mrcp part 1 and part 2, the ultimate guide to the simulated consultation assessment (sca) for gp trainees.

UCL Institute of Ophthalmology

Studying Ophthalmology and Bioscience

Studying at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields gives you the best start, whether you’re considering a career as an ophthalmologist or you’re a scientist planning to work in research, industry or clinical practice.

Postgraduate taught degrees

Find the right programme for you.

• Ophthalmology MSc
• Optometry and Ophthalmology (Advanced Clinical Practice) MSc
• Optometry and Ophthalmology (Enhanced Clinical Practice) PG Cert
• Optometry and Ophthalmology MSc
• Optometry and Ophthalmology PG Cert
• Bioscience Innovation and Enterprise MSc
• Bioscience (Research and Development) MSc
• Bioscience (Research and Development) with Practice) MSc
• Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology (integrated degree apprenticeship) MSc
• Enhanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology PG Cert
• Orthoptics (pre-registration) MSc
• Clinical Ophthalmic Practice PG Cert

Register your interest in the Institute of Ophthalmology

Sign up for updates about events, fees and funding, studying in London, how to apply and more.

Gecko Form Widget Placeholder FOEU0294xgvzrT5T

Why study at the Institute of Ophthalmology?

• The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology is ranked the best place in the world to study ophthalmology (CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017).  
• UCL is named University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.  
• In biomedical and health sciences, UCL is 1st in Europe for papers in the top 5% of their field by citation rate (2015-2018, CWTS Leiden Ranking 2020).  
• UCL hosts more UKRI Future Leader Fellowships than any other UK university, with three academics at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology receiving the prestigious fellowships over the last three years.  
• Our longstanding partnership with Moorfields Eye Hospital represents the largest co-located site for eye research, education and care in the world.  
• As a student you will have access to innovative facilities, connection to a growing network of peers, and support from highly experienced and professional tutors.

Register your interest

Register your interest in studying at UCL and receive important information about open days, applications, and more .

To find out more about this programme, please email  [email protected] .

Meet with a Programme Director

Have questions about this programme? Contact us today to enquire about a callback or virtual meeting with a Programme Director.

Meet with a Programme Director  

Chat to a student

Have any questions about studying at UCL? Chat to one of the Faculty of Brain Sciences students on Unibuddy here.

Unibuddy Chat

Find out how to visit UCL.

Graduate Open Events

Upcoming webinars

• Ophthalmology MSc - Fridday 12 January
• Clinical Ophthalmic Practice PG Cert - Tuesday 23 January
• Orthoptics MSc (pre-registration) - Wednesday 21 February
• Bioscience Innovation and Enterprise MSc - Wednesday 6 March
• Clinical Ophthalmic Practice PG Cert - Thursday 18 April
• Clinical Ophthalmic Practice PG Cert - Monday 24 June

You can watch on-demand recordings of previous webinars here as well .

UCL Campus Tours

UK STEM Experiences camps become gateway to rewarding opportunities for all

July 10, 2024.

University of Kentucky Summer STEM Experiences Camps show what is possible when the university, local schools and community come together to bring STEM to life for youth. 

“UK stands out as one of the rare universities in the country that combines a land-grant mission, a medical center and various academic departments all within one continuous campus. This unique setup offers an excellent environment to introduce campers to a wide range of specialty areas,” said Margaret Mohr-Schroeder, PhD, professor of STEM education, STEM Experiences Camps co-founder and UK College of Education senior associate dean for academic programs and partnerships. 

For faculty members such as Clare Rittschof, PhD, STEM Experiences Camps are a chance to connect their work with the community and inspire the next generation. Showing campers career possibilities in agricultural STEM fields was a goal for Rittschof, associate professor of entomology in the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Campers went into the field with Rittschof to hear about her work with bees , supported by a $1.1 million National Science Foundation grant. 

High school campers gained access to local industries and companies during the Go! Start! STEM! portion of camp, supported by the START Program with funding from the National Institutes of Health, exploring a variety of career possibilities. Whiting-Turner Construction hosted them for hands-on learning about construction at the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging research facility renovation. 

For college students, the camps provided an opportunity to showcase their knowledge and share it with others. Some camp session leaders were UK College of Education students, including several majoring in Elementary Education and one in the Teacher Preparation Program in Visual Impairments. They gained student teaching days at camp.  

“It’s a great opportunity. I’ve loved it,” said Abbi Stratton, who will return home to Graves County in Kentucky to teach fifth grade math this fall. “I’ve gotten experiences I wouldn’t get in a traditional classroom. It’s been a great way to prepare for the future, especially in STEM and hands-on learning. Something I’ve noticed is that when kids are able to touch and feel things, they feel much more connected to the content. It’s something they can relate to. You can see the lightbulb going on and they are very engaged the entire time.”  

UK students on the Wildcat Robotics team, who recently competed at the Vex U Robotics World Championships and placed in the top 10 in their first showing, helped with the Vex Robotics section of STEM Experiences Camps, inspiring the next generation with their knowledge of coding, teamwork, and problem-solving. A postdoctoral scholar with the Kentucky Geological Survey used their work with unmanned aircraft system applications to spark interest in geology among campers attending drone camp. 

Interacting with real-life scientific artifacts in the UK College of Medicine’s Donald T. Frazier Science Outreach Center, was a highlight for elementary and middle school students in STEM Camp. 

The camps’ hands-on experiments and engaging activities are a collaboration among UK’s College of Education , Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering , College of Arts and Sciences and College of Medicine . Teachers and support staff from Fayette County and other area schools help lead campers throughout the experience. 

UK’s STEM Experiences Camps, which launched in 2010, have been replicated in seven states through partnerships with university faculty. Each has created their own version of what camp should look like based on the needs of schools and communities in their region. Together, faculty across the replication sites are studying the impact of STEM camps — such as whether camps help students gain increased interest and confidence in STEM and the camps’ effectiveness in recruiting teachers to the field. 

For more information, visit education.uky.edu/stem/camp.  

Share this Article

Latest stories.

July 3, 2024

June 28, 2024

• Allergy & Immunology
• Anesthesiology
• Critical Care
• Dermatology
• Diabetes & Endocrinology
• Emergency Medicine
• Family Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• General Surgery
• Hematology - Oncology
• Hospital Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Internal Medicine
• Multispecialty
• Ob/Gyn & Women's Health
• Ophthalmology
• Orthopedics
• Pathology & Lab Medicine
• Plastic Surgery
• Public Health
• Pulmonary Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Transplantation
• Today on Medscape
• Business of Medicine
• Medical Lifestyle
• Science & Technology
• Medical Students
• Pharmacists

Tirzepatide Tops Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Miriam E. Tucker

July 09, 2024

Individuals with overweight or obesity treated with tirzepatide were significantly more likely to achieve at least 5%, 10%, and 15% body weight loss compared with those treated with semaglutide, regardless of diabetes status.

METHODOLOGY:

• The cohort study included adults with overweight or obesity who initiated either semaglutide (Ozempic, Novo Nordisk) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Eli Lilly) treatment between May 2022 and September 2023 from US healthcare systems' electronic health records.
• Propensity score matching resulted in n = 9193 per treatment group, with 52% of each having type 2 diabetes (T2D).
• Mean duration of on-treatment follow-up was 165 days.
• Just over half of each group — 55.9% of tirzepatide and 52.5% of semaglutide — discontinued treatment.
• The proportions achieving at least 5%, 10%, and 15% weight loss within 1 year with tirzepatide vs semaglutide were 81.8% vs 66.5%, 62.1% vs 37.1%, and 42.3% vs 18.1%, respectively.
• Hazard ratios on comparing tirzepatide with semaglutide for at least 5%, 10%, and 15% weight loss, respectively, were 1.76 (95% CI, 1.68-1.84), 2.54 (2.37-2.73), and 3.24 (95% CI, 2.91-3.61).
• After adjusting for residual confounding, the absolute differences in weight loss between tirzepatide and semaglutide at 3, 6, and 12 months of treatment were −2.4% (95% CI, −2.5% to −2.2), −4.3% (−4.7% to −4.0%), and −6.9% (−7.9% to −5.8%), respectively.
• Individuals without T2D had larger weight reductions than those with T2D in both groups, but tirzepatide was still associated with greater weight loss in all analyses.
• There were no significant differences in gastrointestinal adverse events between tirzepatide and semaglutide.

IN PRACTICE:

"To our knowledge, this study represents the first clinical comparative effectiveness study of tirzepatide and semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity."

The study conducted by Patricia J. Rodriguez, PhD, of Truveta Inc., Bellevue, Washington, and colleagues. It was published online on July 8, 2024, in JAMA Internal Medicine .

LIMITATIONS:

The study had certain limitations such as possible unmeasured confounding, reliance on electronic health record reporting, and reliance on brand as dosing proxy. Moreover, health system and payer information was not available. The sample was from just 35 states, and only medications labeled for T2D were included.

DISCLOSURES:

Rodriguez had no disclosures.

Send comments and news tips to [email protected] .

TOP PICKS FOR YOU

• Perspective
• Drugs & Diseases
• Global Coverage
• Additional Resources
• Reimagining Obesity Care for PCPs
• ObesityWeek® 2022: What's Stopping Effective Treatment of Obesity?
• More Than Half of the World Will Be Overweight or Obese by 2035: Report
• Diseases & Conditions Obesity
• Diseases & Conditions Obesity in Children
• Diseases & Conditions Pediatric Obesity-Hypoventilation Syndrome
• Diseases & Conditions Obesity, FTO, and Type 2 Diabetes
• Obesity in Children
• Obesity and Pregnancy
• Pediatric Obesity-Hypoventilation Syndrome
• Abdominal Incisions and Sutures in Gynecologic Oncological Surgery
• Tracheostomy
• 9 Causes of Discolored Urine
• Kids Whose Parents Have Obesity More Likely to Have Obesity
• Obesity and Cancer: Untangling a Complex Web