A major update to the ocular therapeutics program, offered by the University of New South Wales School of Optometry and Vision Science, will provide optometrists with more flexibility and choice in professional development.
Previously delivered as part of the Graduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics, the program has been restructured into four standalone Professional Credentials, each designed to meet the evolving needs of the profession. Accredited by the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand, the program provides the coursework and practical experience required for therapeutic endorsement in Australia, while also catering to optometrists who are already endorsed and seeking to refresh their knowledge.
the aim is to empower optometrists to tailor their learning to their own professional needs
Flexibility Enhanced
The new structure allows practitioners to enrol in individual courses to update their skills in specific areas or complete all four credentials to meet Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA) requirements for limited registration when pursuing therapeutic endorsement.
Professor Juno Kim, Program Authority for Ocular Therapeutics at UNSW said the aim is to empower optometrists to tailor their learning to their own professional needs. “Whether you are seeking full therapeutic endorsement or simply refreshing your skills in a specific area, these courses provide a rigorous, practical, and accessible pathway,” Prof Kim said.
The four professional credentials are:
Foundations of Ocular Therapeutics
Gain essential knowledge in microbiology, inflammation and immunology, biochemistry, and pharmacology, with a focus on anterior eye disease and glaucoma. Legislative aspects of prescribing and considerations for special populations are also covered.
Dates: 2 February – 29 March 2026 | Mode: 100% online
Enrol now: navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-fot
Anterior Eye Therapeutics
Explore the diagnosis and management of anterior segment disease, including disorders of the cornea, conjunctiva, adnexae, uvea, and lacrimal system, plus post-surgical care.
Dates: 6 April – 31 May 2026 | Mode: 100% online
Enrol now: navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-aet
Glaucoma
Develop expertise in glaucoma diagnosis and co-management, aligned with current clinical guidelines and scope of practice. This course is also intended to support professional development for Optometry Australia’s Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma program.
Dates: 8 June – 2 August 2026 | Mode: 100% online
Enrol now: navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-glaucoma
Clinical Placements
Experience work-integrated learning in specialist practice, consolidating diagnostic and management skills for ocular disease under ophthalmic supervision. Includes mandatory face-to-face placements.
Dates: 10 August – 4 October 2026 | Mode: Online + clinical placements
Enrol now: navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-cp
Further Information is Available
For inquiries, contact program authority, Professor Juno Kim juno.kim@unsw.edu.au or course convenor Associate Professor Pauline Kang p.kang@unsw.edu.au
