The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) has announced that its Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics (COT) will now run every two years. The next intake to follow the upcoming April 2025 start date is scheduled for 2027.
a media release said ACO’s certificate course was the only online pathway for optometrists to gain therapeutic endorsement in Australia and New Zealand, and was “popular with overseas optometrists seeking registration in Australia, as well as experienced optometrists seeking therapeutic endorsement and a deeper understanding of ocular disease”.
The OCANZ-accredited and OBA-approved course provides optometrists with the expertise to diagnose and manage ocular diseases, prescribe Schedule 2, 3, and 4 medications, and minimise external referrals. Delivered online by leading experts, the program is designed to support working professionals in expanding their clinical scope.
The release said a recent survey of certificate participants highlighted the course’s impact:
- 100% of graduates agreed the course improved their disease diagnostic skills.
- 100% of graduates reported that their ability to manage diseases with therapeutic agents improved.
Optometrists looking to become therapeutically endorsed in 2025 are encouraged to apply before the upcoming intake begins on 14 April.
Those keen to learn more and apply can go to www.aco.org.au.
More reading
ACO announces certificate courses for 2025
ACO welcomes new board director and governance structure
ACO and RFDS celebrate a decade of rural eyecare services
