MSc in Ophthalmology

The flagship Ophthalmology MSc from the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Eye Hospital is ideal for medics, GPs and optometrists, and connects them to the most current clinical and research expertise. It can be studied both in-person and via distance learning.

Why study the Ophthalmology MSc?

Led by consultants and specialists at Moorfields Eye Hospital, our flagship Ophthalmology MSc programme provides a detailed study of specialist ophthalmological practice and research. The newly updated curriculum is based on research-driven innovation across ophthalmic specialities, including clinical management, translational research, digital technology and surgery.

You will have the opportunity to attend two weeks of ‘Enhancement Activities’ that will provide you with the opportunity to augment your knowledge by giving you the experience of the clinical and practical aspects of Ophthalmology, delivered predominantly face-to-face at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology in London.

Students will receive cohesive training that will form a solid foundation for them as they move on to specialist ophthalmological practice and research. The programme is delivered primarily through lectures and seminars across terms one and two, in module teaching blocks. Term three consists mainly of the dissertation. Studying with the experts at two world-leading institutions means that you will develop your knowledge in the context of the latest advancements in the ophthalmic field.

The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology is world-leading for research and teaching in ophthalmology and biomedical science. We deliver advanced ophthalmic research and education in partnership with Moorfields Eye Hospital.

At the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology (IoO), we have a long-standing partnership with Moorfields Eye Hospital. Together, we represent the largest co-located site for eye research, education and care in the world.

We offer a range of programs and short courses designed to help you advance your career in eye care, as well as a Bioscience Entrepreneurship MSc aimed at life science graduates looking to learn about the business of biotech.

Our Mission

To deliver research and education in vision and eye disease to benefit sight and society in the UK and worldwide.

Our mission is to promote and expand the unique eye research and education that we provide, and to take that from our labs to patients and the rest of society. We aim to establish collaborative networks across England to harness the strength of the knowledge and research base across the country. Our close partnership with Moorfields Eye Hospital means that we can realise this vision, ‘from bench to bedside’ in a seamless way, where the research is also aimed at clinical applications and where clinical requirements shape the research. Thanks to this strategic partnership, we offer a number of joint degree programs. For our students, this means access to innovative facilities, connection to a growing network of peers, and support from highly experienced and professional tutors.

Our Vision

We work to bring out our translational research to generate better therapies, diagnostics and knowledge of eye care.

We do this by:

• Leading globally in Fundamental Research
• Producing high-impact research for society and patients
• Fostering inclusivity, enterprise and innovation
• Equipping students with knowledge, skills and boldness to succeed

Our Core Values

• Collaboration
• Inspiration
• Integrity
• Support
• Opportunity

Why study with us?

The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology offers a research and teaching environment ranked as world-leading and is home to the largest co-located site for eye research, education and care in the world.

Academic excellence

• The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology is ranked the best place in the world to study ophthalmology (CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017)
• In biomedical and health sciences, UCL is 1st in Europe for papers in the top 5% of their field by citation rate (2017-2020, CWTS Leiden Ranking 2022)
• UCL hosts more UKRI Future Leader Fellowships than any other UK university, with three academics at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology receiving the prestigious fellowships over the last three years