Short Courses Content
CPD | Nursing
Ophthalmic Nursing
This Postgraduate Certificate deepens specialist knowledge in ophthalmic nursing by integrating advanced theory with clinical application.
| Duration | 1 academic year |
| Delivery | Blended |
| Fees from | No Fee |
| Start date | To be confirmed |
Students examine ocular anatomy, physiology, common and complex ophthalmic conditions, ophthalmic emergencies, and the pharmacological principles that support eye care. They develop advanced assessment and diagnostic capabilities, alongside skills in perioperative care, interprofessional working and patient-centred communication. It is designed for nurses working in ophthalmology services who wish to build specialist clinical expertise and deliver safe, evidence-based ophthalmic practice.
For provisional timetables, please refer to the section below titled Delivery.
Fees
| Commissioned Health Trust | No Fee |
| Self Funding / Fee Paying - 2026/27 | £2,568 |
Tuition fees and other charges are set by the University and are subject to change. | |
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have a professional qualification in Nursing, Midwifery, or Allied Health and Social Care Services. See Selection Criteria for full requirements.
The Programme
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Course Content
This Postgraduate Certificate comprises three 20 credit modules:
Advanced Ophthalmic Nursing Theory (Semester 1) – This module will develop the practitioner’s knowledge and understanding of ocular anatomy and physiology. It will explore altered pathophysiology of common ophthalmic diseases, ophthalmic emergencies and the associated pharmacological interventions. Consideration will be given to the ethical, professional and legal dimensions of ophthalmic care for individuals across the lifespan.
Advanced Clinical Ophthalmology Nursing Practice (Semester 2) - This module will enable the practitioner to apply the knowledge gained in the theoretical ophthalmic module to practical scenarios. The practitioner will develop skills in patient assessment, diagnostic techniques, and perioperative eye care. The module emphasises evidence-based practice, critical reflection, and interprofessional collaboration to support safe, high-quality ophthalmic nursing in contemporary healthcare.
HSN7076 – Evidence Based Practice - Students will examine the principles and seven step process of Evidence Based Practice, including reflection on practice, identifying topics of inquiry, forming searchable clinical questions, locating appropriate evidence sources, interpreting research quality, and evaluating how evidence informs decision making, quality improvement and practice development.
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Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will graduate with a Post Graduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Advanced HealthCare Practice (Ophthalmic Nursing).
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Delivery
Students should note that delivery may be via blended learning, with a mix of online and face to face classes as detailed within the module timetable on Canvas.
Autumn (AUT) teaching commences w/c Monday, 21 September 2026 (Week 1) and finishes w/c Monday, 14 December 2026 unless otherwise advised.
Spring (SPR) teaching commences w/c Monday, 18 January 2027 (Week 18) and finishes w/c Monday, 27 April 2027 unless otherwise advised.
Venue for first class listed below - thereafter, students should check the Weekly Planner facility on QSIS for remaining venues.
First Semester
(Day)
(Time)
TBC
Second Semester
TBC
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Selection Criteria
Applicants shall normally hold a relevant 2.2 Honours degree or above, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.
Applicants who do not hold a 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) may be considered on a case-by-case basis where they can demonstrate evidence of successful study at Level 6 in a healthcare related subject.
Applicants must provide evidence of at least 20 CAT points at Level 3/6. Certificates must clearly state level of study and credit worthiness in order to meet the entry requirements.
In addition, applicants accessing postgraduate certificates must be working in the relevant clinical area.
International Trained Nurses/Midwives: If you hold an international qualification you will need to provide a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability. This should be obtained prior to submitting your application. You can apply for a statement through the ENIC website: Statement of Comparability (enic.org.uk)
How to apply
We will advertise again in June 2026 for September 2026 entry.
Please complete the form below if you’d like to join our mailing list and be notified when applications reopen.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST - CPAD PROGRAMMES
For any queries, please email cpadsnam@qub.ac.uk.
Please note that these courses are not open to international applicants living outside the UK/ROI.