Hertfordshire course approved in spite of concerns

A new optometry course to be delivered by the University of Hertfordshire in collaboration with of the College of Optometrists has been provisionally approved by the General Optical Council – despite concerns regarding oversupply of professionals.

Its four-year Master in Optometry programme will enrol up to 50 students per year from September 2015, and feature extensive practice placement in hospital and community practice in years three and four. A newly designed centre includes 14 practice cubicles.

Cheri Hunter, associate dean and head of postgraduate medicine at Hertfordshire, said: ‘We are delighted to launch this new programme which will benefit from our strong links with practice, excellent faculty and innovative approach to delivering clinically based learning.’