SAQA

All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.

SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Bachelor of Optometry

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
111484	Bachelor of Optometry
ORIGINATOR
University of Limpopo
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)	Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services		Promotive Health and Developmental Services
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	480	Not Applicable	NQF Level 08	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2021-07-01	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2034-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to develop a distinct optometrist that has exceptional professional knowledge and skills to lead and advance eye care in Africa and globally. This will be evident by the Graduates' who has:

Courage to lead, advance and explore their profession further.

Confidence in their own culture, respect and tolerance of other cultures.

Lifelong learning skills in pursuit of personal and professional development.

Ability to think critically, creatively and reflectively to solve a range of problems.

Ability to conduct research to test the limit of knowledge and provide appropriate solutions.

Ability to work collaboratively with other professionals and network effectively to achieve a common goal.

Appreciation and understanding of the ethics and legal requirements of their professional practice.

Rationale:
Over 90% of the world's blind live in developing nations and avoidable blindness, secondary to refractive error, accounts for 13% of all blindness. Seventy five percent of blindness and visual impairment in South Africa (SA) results from preventable or treatable conditions including refractive errors, cataracts and low vision. Visual impairment and the burden of disease causing blindness have an enormous impact on the overall quality of life including the psychological, economic and social aspects, of the individual and the broader society. As many of the conditions leading to blindness are preventable there, is a need for eye care services to be more accessible within both the public and private sectors and at all levels of care.

The field of eye care comprises a complex spectrum of skills wherein optometry serves to provide both a horizontal level of integration with other eye care professionals involved in primary eye care as vertical articulation in eye health and vision science development. The qualification will allow the practitioner to make a contribution at all levels of care and within all sectors of healthcare services delivery. The qualification will equip the practitioner to be able to function in all contexts relevant and appropriate in the global society.

The qualification will provide learners with a general interest in health care and specific interest in eye health acre. It will also provide the opportunity to acquire an appropriate qualification to function in independent clinical practice within the private and public sectors, in industry, academia, technological and medical scientific development. The scope of Optometry involves numerous field example, paediatric eye care, ocular disease, contact lenses, environmental and occupational eye health etc. within which the qualifying learners can practice on completion of the qualification.

The qualification will equip learners with competencies, which are designed to be progressive in depth and complexity allowing the learner to integrate professional specific with critical cross-field outcomes enabling the application of skills and knowledge in general settings as well to engage in life-long learning through research and professional development. The qualification is designed to meet the challenges of a transforming society by including aspects that warrant continual engagement and alignment with external realities at all levels of study. The qualification retains the strengths and addresses the flaws of past offerings towards ensuring fitness and suitability of the qualification for its intended purpose as required by the NQF.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be used to access the qualification where the applicant has not achieved a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the required subminimum point score for subject requirements. This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of relevant prior learning and experience as per the University RPL policy in general, which outlines the structure and processes that must be followed to RPL an applicant when the need arises. Appropriate assessment tasks and tools are designed to assess individual candidates against the requisite outcomes on a case-by-case basis, with detailed records maintained. The University has trained RPL in various disciplinary fields to facilitate this process.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

National Senior Certificate (NSC), Level 4.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 508 Credits.
Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 88 Credits:

Chemistry for Health Sciences I, 16 Credits.

Psychology, 8 Credits.

Information Sciences, 8 Credits.

Maths for Optometry, 8 Credits.

Chemistry for Health Sciences II, 16 Credits.

Physics, 16 Credits.

Psychology, 8 Credits.

Visual Optics, 8 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 180 Credits:

Optometric Theory and Practice I, 12 Credits.

Anatomy, 12 Credits.

Optometry Theory and Practice II, 12 Credits.

Optometry Biochemstry and Nutrition, 8 Credits.

Applied Ocular Anatomy and Physiology, 8 Credits.

Diagnostic Ophthalmic Instruments I, 16 Credits.

Ophthalmic Lenses, 16 Credits.

Physiology for Health Sciences, 20 Credits.

Community Health and Health Policies, 8 Credits.

Physiology for Health Sciences, 20 Credits.

Diagnostic Ophthalmic Instruments II, 16 Credits.

Medical Microbiology, 8 Credits.

General Pathology, 8 Credits.

Dispensing Optics, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 128 Credits:

Contact Lens Practice I, 8 Credits.

Binocular Vision I, 8 Credits.

Ethics and Jurisprudence, 8 Credits.

Ocular Pharmacology, 8 Credits.

Ocular Disease Diagnoses and Management I, 8 Credits.

Environmental and Occupational Optometry, 8 Credits.

Optometry Clinical Practice 1, 12 Credits.

Binocular Vision II, 8 Credits.

Optometry Administration and Practice Management, 8 Credits.

Paedatric Optometry, 8 Credits.

Ocular Disease Diagnoses and Management II, 8 Credits.

Low Vision Rehabilitation, 8 Credits.

Contact Lens Practice II, 8 Credits.

Research Methodology and Biostatistics, 8 Credits.

Optometry Clinical Practice 11, 12 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, Credits:

Clinical Practice 1, 40 Credits.

Clinical Practice 11, 40 Credits.

Vision Science Project, 32 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Explain and apply appropriate basic science concepts relevant to optometry.
2. Describe normal and abnormal anatomical structures of the eye and their functions (i.e. development, physical and neurological anatomy).
3. Explain the pathophysiology of the eye and other systems that affect the physiology of the eye.
4. Demonstrate an ability to select measure and fit the most appropriate lenses at different media for clinical needs and planned use for the patient.
5. Demonstrate an ability to select measure and fit the most appropriate lenses at different media for clinical needs and planned use for the patient.
6. Explain different pharmacologic regimens for diagnosis and treatment in eye car.
7. Demonstrate an ability to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the Visual System.
8. Demonstrate an ability to rehabilitate different binocular vision dysfunctions using vision therapy.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Describe and explain the underpinning concepts of Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics as appropriate to Optometry.

Apply the underlying principles of the science concepts to Optometry.

Describe an eye as an optical instrument and its optical components.

Describe the optical aspect of the visual system.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Describe the embryology and development of the eye and visual system.

Identify and describe anatomical structures of the eye and orbit.

Describe and explain the anatomical function and interrelationship of various structures of the eye, neck and head and how it applies to visual performance.

Describe the central nervous system and how it regulates the functions of the eye and visual performance.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Explain the normal functioning of various organ systems of the body and their interactions with the visual system.

Explain the physiological aspects of normal growth and development of the eye and visual system.

Describe the physiological principles underlying pathogenesis of systemic and ocular diseases.

Discuss the various aspects of metabolism and their regulatory pathways as they relate to the visual system.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Accurately use assessment equipment's and techniques standard to the optometry profession.

Accurately assess and identify the following ocular parameters:
(I) Refractive status.
(II) Ocular Health status.
(III) Binocular Vision status.
(IV) Visual Pathway Integrity/Status.

Accurate identification of tests that are contraindicated in patients with specific conditions.

Ability to analyse optometric findings and make a clinical judgement.

Display consideration of hygiene and infection control during testing.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Measure and verify optical devices taking into account relevant standards were applicable.

Advise, order and dispense the most suitable form of optical correction appropriate for patient's vision.

Match the form, type and positioning of lenses to meet all the patient's needs and requirements.

Instruct and advice on how to wear and take care of the lenses.

Perform fitting techniques used in complex lenses and advise patients requiring complex visual correction.

Prescribe and dispense according to vocational use.

Advise on personal eye protection according to regulations and relevant standards.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Use appropriate diagnostics drugs safely to aid in ocular assessment.

Explain appropriate and accurate pharmacologic treatment specific to the patient.

Educate the patients on expected effects and side effects of pharmacologic agents being used.

Advice the patient on proper administration and compliance in the use of ocular medications.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Interview to obtain a clear understanding of the patient's concern and/or reasons for visits including.

Details of symptoms (onset, frequency, duration, severity, location, precipitating factors, etc.).

Relevant oculo-visual, family, medical and social history and potential risk factors.

Patient expectations.

Problem list.

Accurately and safety perform an appropriate eye examination according to the age and ability of the patient.

Use appropriate diagnostics drugs safely and properly to aid the oculo-visual assessment.

Interpret results according to national and international professional standards.

Establish evidence-based clinical judgement.

Recognise common ocular abnormalities manage and refer when appropriate.

Recognise ocular manifestations of systemic diseases manage and refer when appropriate.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Performing appropriate diagnostics procedures.

Determine the correct diagnostics for each patient.

Design a progressive, individualised management plan to achieve desired visual outcomes.

Prescribe appropriate exercises, procedures and assistive devices relevant to the visual problem.

Manage learning related vision problems using appropriate visual therapy procedures.

Identify and refer learning problems to a relevant professional.

Prescribe and educate the patient and care giver on how to perform home-based Vision therapy exercises.

Record the assessment findings, management plans and progress reports for each patient.

Integrated Assessment.
Learning and assessment are integrated throughout this qualification. Continuous formative assessment is required to ensure that learners get feedback on their progress towards the achievement of specific learning outcomes. Assignments are designed to meet the requirements of integrated assessment are such as to achieve: An integration of the achievement of exit-level outcomes in a way that demonstrates that the purpose of the qualification as a whole has been achieved, either in toto or in the component parts of the programme of study. Evaluation of learner performance to demonstrate applied competence; and Criterion-referenced assessment, which is clearly explained to and understood by the learners.

The Theory/Clinical instruction mode of the programme also enables integrated assessment across all outcomes. Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the exit level outcomes of the qualification. Such judgement includes integrated assessment, which assesses the students' ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, competencies and attitudes that are represented by the exit-level outcomes, either as a whole or as components of the qualification.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Bulgaria:
At the Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, Bulgaria, students receive a Bachelor in Optometry after eight semesters. The qualification is set on nearly four semesters of natural science foundation following which it specialises in optometric training. The programme aims to prepare specialists trained to prescribe and fit lenses to improve vision comfort and to direct the patients to Ophthalmologist in cases when eye disease is suspected. This qualification compares well in terms of outcomes, length of study as well as purpose of the qualification.

China:
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong China, offers a five-year Bachelor of Science Honours in Optometry Degree. The Degree prepares learners to become primary eye care practitioners with expert knowledge of the eye and the visual system. They gain the knowledge and skills that are necessary to diagnose visual problems and offer treatment options, which may be in the form of optical lenses or visual training. The qualification is based on a two-year science foundation followed by optometric theories, techniques and methods, culminating in a fifth year of clinical practice. Although the qualifications compare in purpose, the Hong Kong qualification extends the optometric training by a year.

India:
The Elite School of Optometry in Chennai, India, a unit of Medical Research Foundation in collaboration with Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) University, Thanjavur, India offers a Bachelor of Science (Optometry) qualification. It is a four-year qualification with three years of academic teaching in the college premises and clinical postings in the final year. Courses are divided into Basic sciences courses, Core Optometry courses, Applied Optometry and support courses.

The outcomes and scope of practice of this qualifications compares to the one offered by the University of Limpopo in that it prepares optometrists who are primary health care practitioners of the eye, that provide comprehensive eye and vision care, which includes:

Measuring refractive errors.

Prescribing glasses, contact lenses and low vision aids.

Early detection/diagnosis, management and rehabilitation of conditions of the visual system.

Providing non-surgical intervention for specific binocular vision problems like squint.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Public Health Honours, Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma: Public Health, Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Promotion, Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Optometry, Level 9.

Master of Public Health, Level 9.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

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