The Australian College of Optometry’s (ACO) Certificate in Public Health and Leadership in Eye Care returns on 2 June 2025, offering eye health professionals the chance to expand the scope of their role or pursue new career opportunities.
Designed for those wanting to make a greater impact, the course deepens understanding of public health principles, policy, and equity in vision care, and develops leadership skills to empower action at an individual and organisational level.
An ACO media release said that whether working in patient care, advocacy, education or clinical leadership, “participants gain practical tools to drive better outcomes for the communities they serve”.
For 2024 graduate Mr Ronald Nguyen, the course provided a pathway to grow from a clinician into a leader. After 10 years in practice, he wanted to go beyond individual care.
“Helping one person at a time is not enough, knowing there will be an endless stream of those needing help,” he said.
In 2024, the course was restructured to offer two tailored pathways: outreach and leadership. The outreach stream includes an optional public health placement, providing hands-on experience with delivering eyecare services in community environments.
The leadership stream emphasises strategic planning, partnerships and collaborative leadership, preparing participants to drive meaningful change within their organisations and wider networks.
ACO said the course was designed to benefit a broad range of professionals, including optometrists, orthoptists, educators, project managers and others working in public health or eyecare – such as ophthalmic nurses, ocularists, optical dispensers, vision therapists, optical assistants, technicians and allied health professionals looking to step into leadership or systems-focused roles.
The curriculum covers key areas such as epidemiology, health promotion, global and indigenous eye health, and the social determinants of health. It also encourages personal reflection, helping participants identify their strengths and areas for growth as leaders.
Delivered entirely online, the course is accessible to professionals across Australia and New Zealand, including those working in rural or remote areas.
Applications are now open for the June 2025 intake.
Those keen to learn more and apply can go to profession.aco.org.au.
More reading
ACO extends deadline for applications to advanced contact lens course
ACO announces certificate courses for 2025
ACO welcomes new board director and governance structure
