Joanna Thompson, MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology Degree Apprenticeship

I enjoy the apprenticeship style of the course. I have worked in ophthalmology for years and had general knowledge of a lot of areas at a surface level. This was a chance to study areas in depth and then apply the new knowledge as I was being taught to the clinical skills and application in clinic by my colleagues.

Full name: Joanna Thompson
Degree title: MSc Advanced Clinical Practice in Ophthalmology Degree Apprenticeship

Why did you choose to apply to this programme?

I was considering further education and was aware of Health Education England’s master's degree apprenticeship programme. The courses I looked at didn’t seem to be relevant enough to my work and then I was told about the UCL programme in partnership with Moorfields. I liked the idea of ophthalmology-based, clinical modules where I would have the chance to up-skill. I also liked the idea of the clinical leadership module as I had just become a clinical lead in my department and wanted to develop in this area.

What have you enjoyed most about the programme so far?

I enjoy the apprenticeship style of the course. I have worked in ophthalmology for years and had general knowledge of a lot of areas at a surface level. This was a chance to study areas in depth and then apply the new knowledge as I was being taught the clinical skills and application in clinic by my colleagues. I enjoy learning and having the whole process come together.

What are your future career goals?

In my work as an orthoptist I have always found neuro-ophthalmology a fascinating subject and longer term would like to specialise more in this area. Many of the patients I see have had a stroke or have other neurological conditions. Although the MSc programme does not incorporate a neuro-ophthalmology module, the new skills and knowledge I’m gaining will give me a more holistic approach in assessing these patients. I am enjoying working in glaucoma and think new skills being learnt here such as being able to assess optic discs will also help in assessing neuro patients.

What would be your top tip for incoming students?

Things that I found helpful include revising before face to face lectures to get the most out of them and reading articles for each unit on the tube going to work. Being in a WhatsApp group with fellow students was also a great support.