UNSW Launches Uplifted Ocular Therapeutics Short Courses for 2026
Published on the 15 December 2025 by Nicola Kapo
The UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science is excited to announce a major update to its ocular therapeutics program, offering optometrists more flexibility and choice in their professional development journey.
Previously delivered as part of the Graduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics, the program has been restructured into four standalone Professional Credentials, each designed to meet the evolving needs of the profession. This OCANZ-accredited program provides the coursework and practical experience required for therapeutic endorsement in Australia, while also catering to optometrists who are already endorsed and seeking to refresh their knowledge.
Why the change?
The new structure allows practitioners to enrol in individual courses to update their skills in specific areas or complete all four credentials to meet AHPRA requirements for limited registration when pursuing therapeutic endorsement.
The Four Professional Credentials
1. Foundations of Ocular Therapeutics
Gain essential knowledge in microbiology, inflammation and immunology, biochemistry, and pharmacology, with a focus on anterior eye disease and glaucoma. Legislative aspects of prescribing and considerations for special populations are also covered.
Dates: 2 Feb – 29 Mar 2026 | Mode: 100% online
Enrol now: https://navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-fot
2. Anterior Eye Therapeutics
Explore the diagnosis and management of anterior segment disease, including disorders of the cornea, conjunctiva, adnexae, uvea, and lacrimal system, plus post-surgical care.
Dates: 6 Apr – 31 May 2026 | Mode: 100% online
Enrol now: https://navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-aet
3. Glaucoma
Develop expertise in glaucoma diagnosis and co-management, aligned with current clinical guidelines and scope of practice. This course is also intended to support professional development for Optometry Australia’s Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma program.
Dates: 8 Jun – 2 Aug 2026 | Mode: 100% online
Enrol now: https://navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-glaucoma
4. Clinical Placements
Experience work-integrated learning in specialist practice, consolidating diagnostic and management skills for ocular disease under ophthalmic supervision. Includes mandatory face-to-face placements.
Dates: 10 Aug – 4 Oct 2026 | Mode: Online + clinical placements
Enrol now: https://navigator.agsm.edu.au/listing/pcot-cp
“This new credential structure is about empowering optometrists to tailor their learning to their professional needs. Whether you are seeking full therapeutic endorsement or simply refreshing your skills in a specific area, these courses provide a rigorous, practical, and accessible pathway,” added Professor Juno Kim, Program Authority for Ocular Therapeutics at UNSW.
Ready to plan your lifelong learning journey?
For inquiries, contact program authority, Professor Juno Kim juno.kim@unsw.edu.au or course convenor Associate Professor Pauline Kang p.kang@unsw.edu.au