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Qualifications - a guide

Optometrists in the UK are healthcare professionals who can practice once they achieve qualifications specified by the College of Optometrists.

BSc (Hons).  In order to become an optometrist, it is first necessary to complete a degree in Optometry.

MCOptom.   Member of the College of Optometrists. After a trainee optometrist has graduated, they have to complete a period of supervised training in the workplace. The pre-registration period lasts one year and involves a number of assessments followed by a final examination. When this has been achieved, the trainee becomes a member of the College and is a fully-qualified optometrist.

FCOptom.   Fellow of the College of Optometrists. A fellowship is the highest qualification the College awards, and is an acknowledgement of commitment to the profession, experience and accomplishments. There are a number of routes to achieving a fellowship; since 2008, fellowships have been awarded by portfolio, which replaced a fellowship by examination. This a very rigorous path that involves achievements in the workplace combined with exams. Applicants must submit a portfolio that demonstrates how their achievements have benefitted their patients and the profession as a whole.

Our partner Gavin Galloway has been awarded a Fellowship by Portfolio. At present, Gavin is one of only 30 optometrists in the UK who have achieved this distinction.

Dip CLP.   Diploma in Contact Lens Practice. All optometrists are allowed to fit contact lenses, but many take this qualification in order to gain greater expertise.

DipTP(IP).   Diploma in Therapeutics (Independent Prescribing). This is a recent qualification which enables optometrists to prescribe drugs relating to the treatment of certain eye conditions. Formerly, this had to be done by a doctor.

Prof Cert LV. Professional Certificate in Low Vision. This is a specialist qualification which enables optometrists to provide a high standard of low vision care for non-complex cases, either in the community or a hospital setting. This may involve providing low vision aids and advice about lighting and vision enhancement.

Eye Examinations

Our Optometrist measures
your vision and checks for vision-related health issues.

NHS Patients

Everyone resident in
Scotland is entitled to NHS
eye care.

Spectacles

A large choice of frame
styles. Independent advice on choosing lenses.

Contact Lenses

Virtually any type available,
backed up by professional aftercare service.

Normal Opening Hours