European programme in ophthalmic optics and optometry (S1-ESOO)

University of Warsaw
First cycle programme completion diploma

Field of study: European Studies on Ophthalmic Optics and Optometry
Duration of the programme: 8 semesters
ECTS credits obtained: 240
including:
– fundamental sciences courses: 41
– practical (labs, workshops, practice): 131
– modular courses: 81,5
– professional practice: 13,5

On completion of the programme of study the graduate:

KNOWLEDGE

 Demonstrates knowledge of basic concepts, principles and theories in physical, chemical and biological science, as defined in the syllabus of the chosen field of study: ophthalmic optics and optometry;
 Demonstrates knowledge of basic principles of design and operation of apparatus and equipment used in ophthalmic optics and optometry;
 Demonstrates knowledge and terminology of health sciences essential to practice as an ophthalmic optician/optometrist;
 Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of legal, organizational and ethical conditions of the profession of ophthalmic optician/optometrist;
 Demonstrates an understanding of basic concepts and principles of protection of industrial property rights and copyrights;

SKILLS

 Uses innovatively basic techniques, research tools and technological processes essential to practice as an ophthalmic optician/optometrist;
 Understands scientific technical and biomedical literature in Polish and in other languages (mostly in English) essential to autonomously or in a team study ophthalmic and optometric problems;
 Demonstrates an ability to use basic equipment and apparatus used in ophthalmic optics and optometry;
 Demonstrates an ability to interpret data used in the ophthalmic optics/optometrist practice;

SOCIAL COMPETENCIES

 Is ready to work in a team and perform different roles; accepting and assigning tasks, organizing activities and realizing goals related to designing and undertaking professional activities;
 Is ready to conduct research, experiments or physical observations, taking into account the social aspects of the practical application of the acquired knowledge and skills and the related responsibility.

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

The practice programme consists of 405 hours. The following courses prepare the students for the practice: “Geometrical and Instrumental Optics”, “Geometrical and Instrumental Optics Laboratory”, “Vision Optics”, “Vison Optics Laboratory”, “Optometry”, “Optometry Laboratory”, “Introduction to Binocular Vision”, “Ophthalmic optics”, “Ophthalmic Optics Laboratory”, “Basic Contactology”, “Contactology Laboratory”, “Psychology of Patient Contact and First Aid”, “English in eye health care”.

The practice (optometry – on the completion of 2nd year of studies, ophthalmic optics – on the completion of 3rd year of study, ophthalmic optics/optometry during 4th year of studies) takes place in optics manufacturing companies, optometrists’ offices, optics workshops, medical centres, and at similar venues where refraction measurements and binocular vision diagnosis are conducted by a licensed optometrist, ophthalmologist or ophthalmic optic who has completed refraction courses. As part of the practice, the student’s progress is constantly monitored by the practice host institution. Part of the practice is conducted in Academic Centre for Education of Optometrists (min. 40 h), where students perform measurements of real patients under the supervision of a licensed optometrist.

Additionally, there are practical training courses conducted by the industry specialists, i.e. eyeglass lenses and optical aids manufacturers, enabling the students to gain hands-on experience and familiarise with recent developments. The students also participate in trade exhibitions and events such as optics expo, National Chamber of Optical Craft (KRIO) Congress, scientific conferences, etc.

On completion of the practice programme the student:

 Is prepared to practice autonomously in the field of ophthalmic optics and conduct eye refraction tests;
 Is prepared to collaborate with a licensed optometrist (i.e. a specialist with completed second cycle programme degree or postgraduate studies in the field or speciality of optometry) treating complex cases of vision defects or with an ophthalmologist treating diagnosed or suspected organic disorders cases.