MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research

The MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research at Glasgow Caledonian University is a specialised postgraduate degree for eye care professionals. It is designed to provide advanced knowledge and practical skills for diagnosing and treating ocular conditions and contributing to medical advancements in ophthalmology and vision science. 

The course covers important learning areas, including binocular vision, clinical investigation, epidemiology, and statistical methods, with special pathway options in diabetes or therapeutics. Students gain academic knowledge and practical skills relevant to ground-breaking medical advancements and effective diagnosis.

The teaching methods involve keynote lectures, clinical workshops, tutorials, and student-led seminars, with a significant research project making up one-third of the programme. Assessments include coursework, online examinations, and a dissertation. Students gain practical experience through clinical sessions in the Vision Centre.

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is a public university located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland and also has campuses in London and New York. GCU has existed since 1875, but gained its university status in 1993, through the merger of The Queen's College, Glasgow, and Glasgow Polytechnic. The university has a history of educational excellence and is known for its practical, career-focused programmes with a strong commitment to social responsibility.

The university features world-class facilities, including the Sir Alex Ferguson Library, which offers extensive study spaces and resources. The university provides comprehensive student support services, including IT assistance, student wellbeing, counselling, disability support, and a dedicated Visa Immigration Support and Advice (VISA) team for international students.

Glasgow Caledonian University offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in academic fields, including health and life sciences (such as nursing, physiotherapy, and radiography), business, computing, engineering, and the arts, preparing students for different professional careers.

Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their interest in the course and any academic or professional experience. A reference from an academic or employer is required. Students can also upload a CV to show their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants typically require a minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in optometry or a vision-related subject.
• Alternatively, degrees in related fields may be considered with relevant experience.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants who do not speak English as their first language require an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• Equivalent scores in PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge Advanced are also accepted.

The tuition fee for this programme is £16,200 per year for international students in the 2025/26 academic year. Tuition fees are reviewed annually and may change.

Glasgow Caledonian University offers scholarships to international students to support them financially. Scholarships such as the GREAT scholarships, worth £10,000 towards tuition fees,  the Postgraduate Ambassador Scholarship, and the Chancellor Yunus Scholarship are available to students who satisfy the eligibility criteria.

Graduates of the MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research programme can work as:

• Research Scientist (Ophthalmology/Vision Science)
• Clinical Optometrist (with prior optometry degree)
• Academic/Educator in Vision Science
• Biomedical Researcher (Eye Health)
• Ophthalmic Technician

Interested applicants can apply for the course directly on the university's website or through UCAS. For guidance, contact AHZ's trained counsellors.