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This two-year distance education programme is open to teachers with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent, seeking the Mandatory Qualification (MQ) for specialist teachers of children and young people with vision impairments. The MQ programme has been approved by the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL). An alternative programme (Education of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments) is also open to teachers (as well as other professionals with appropriate qualifications) working with children and young people with vision impairments who are not seeking the MQ.
Approximately 100 specialist teachers of children with vision impairment are trained each year, making the University of Birmingham the largest teacher training provider in the area of vision impairment in the United Kingdom.
Please note that details of the compulsory residential study weekends may be found on the Learning and Teaching Tab.
Download information on all the postgraduate study programmes in the School of Education (PDF)
This distance learning course is aimed at teachers with Qualified Teacher Status who work with children and young people with vision impairments. You will be tutored by recognized experts in the field who work in the Vision Impairment Centre for Teaching And Research (VICTAR) and will have access to extensive research materials.
The aims of the programme are:
Students will be required to attend University based study-weekends and regional tutorials as specified throughout the programme. The programme includes an assessed Braille component, a teaching placement and a negotiated programme of visits to specialist provision. Most of the module content will be delivered online and as such students will require suitable internet access prior to commencing their studies.
On successful completion of the PG Diploma students may transfer to the MEd programme (Education of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments). This is usually undertaken as an additional year of study and requires completion of a research methods module (4,000 words) and a dissertation (15,000 words). An additional fee is payable for this period of study.
Some of our current students talk about their learning experience on the Teachers of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments course.
You may also be interested in four of our other programmes:
Delivery of the programme is mainly through Distance Learning although students are required to attend residential weekends and regional tutorials as specified throughout the programme. The programme includes an assessed braille component, a teaching placement and a negotiated programme of visits to specialist provision. The programme and individual modules draw upon a range of learning and teaching approaches, a number of which are structured around the principles of enquiry based learning (EBL).
Residential Study Weekends
Over the course of the two year programme, students are required to attend four three day residential study weekends which are held in September and March/April at the School of Education. The study weekends are a compulsory component of the course programme and attendance is a course requirement. The dates for 2018-2019 are:
Meet the regional tutors
Students will normally be allocated to a Regional Tutor who will offer support and guidance throughout the programme. The Regional Tutors will arrange to meet students in their Regional Groups on a regular basis throughout each year (approximately once per module). Online tutorials may also be offered as an alternative to face to face meetings.
On successful completion of the programme students will be awarded a PG Diploma (Mandatory Qualification for Teachers of Children and Young People with Vision Impairments). This award is recognised by the NCTL as meeting the requirements for the mandatory qualification for specialist teachers of children and young people with vision impairments.
This degree provides in-depth training for students interested in a career in industry or in research-oriented institutions focused on image and video analysis, and deep learning.
State-of-the-art computer-vision and machine-learning approaches for image and video analysis are covered in the course, as well as low-level image processing methods.
Students also have the chance to substantially expand their programming skills through projects they undertake.
Read about the experience of a previous student on this course, Gianmarco Addari.
This programme is studied full-time over 12 months and part-time from 24 to 60 months. It consists of eight taught modules and a standard project.
Example module listing
The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.
This programme in Computer Vision, Robotics and Machine Learning aims to provide a high-quality advanced training in aspects of computer vision for extracting information from image and video content or enhancing its visual quality using machine learning codes.
Computer vision technology uses sophisticated signal processing and data analysis methods to support access to visual information, whether it is for business, security, personal use or entertainment.
The core modules cover the fundamentals of how to represent image and video information digitally, including processing, filtering and feature extraction techniques.
An important aspect of the programme is the software implementation of such processes. Students will be able to tailor their learning experience through selection of elective modules to suit their career aspirations.
Key to the programme is cross-linking between core methods and systems for image and video analysis applications. The programme has strong links to current research in the Department of Electronic Engineering’s Centre for Vision, Speech and Signal Processing.
To support your learning, we hold regular MSc group meetings where any aspect of the programme, technical or non-technical, can be discussed in an informal atmosphere. This allows you to raise any problems that you would like to have addressed and encourages peer-based learning and general group discussion.
We provide computing support with any specialised software required during the programme, for example, Matlab. The Faculty’s student common room is also covered by the University’s open-access wireless network, which makes it a very popular location for individual and group work using laptops and mobile devices.
Specialist experimental and research facilities, for computationally demanding projects or those requiring specialist equipment, are provided by the Centre for Vision, Speech and Signal Processing (CVSSP).
Computer vision specialists are be valuable in all industries that require intelligent processing and interpretation of image and video. This includes industries in directly related fields such as:
Studying for Msc degree in Computer Vision offers variety, challenge and stimulation. It is not just the introduction to a rewarding career, but also offers an intellectually demanding and exciting opportunity to break through boundaries in research.
Many of the most remarkable advancements in the past 60 years have only been possible through the curiosity and ingenuity of engineers. Our graduates have a consistently strong record of gaining employment with leading companies.
Employers value the skills and experience that enable our graduates to make a positive contribution in their jobs from day one.
We draw on our industry experience to inform and enrich our teaching, bringing theoretical subjects to life. Our industrial collaborations include:
This course gives an excellent preparation for continuing onto PhD studies in computer vision related domains.
We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.
In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.
Our MSc/MRes Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences course brings together the research expertise in vision from The University of Manchester and the clinical expertise of Manchester Royal Eye Hospital .
The course is aimed at optometrists, ophthalmologists, orthoptists and nurses from the UK and overseas. It is suitable for:
This course will provide you with a firm grounding in the knowledge needed to pursue a higher degree and to conduct high quality research in ophthalmology, optometry or vision sciences.
It also gives an opportunity for vision-related professionals to advance their knowledge of the scientific foundations of ophthalmology and vision sciences.
This course aims to provide those working within the ophthalmic professions (ophthalmologists, optometrists, vision scientists, orthoptists and ophthalmic nurses) with an opportunity for professional development.
It will give you a firm grounding in the knowledge, understanding and skills you will need to pursue a higher research degree or to participate in research programmes and meet a need for researchers who can form a bridge between basic research and applied clinical research.
Through the literature review and dissertation, you will develop skills of systematically analysing and interpreting a body of literature, designing and conducting a research project, and analysing and presenting research findings within a written dissertation.
In each unit, learning will be based on a series of formal lectures on topics relating to ocular disease and treatments, and a series of more informal tutorials on current research. You will receive copies of presentations and direction to relevant literature for personal study.
Many dissertation projects have led to peer-reviewed publications in ophthalmic literature. Recent titles include the following.
The course directors are Prof Tariq Aslam and Dr Chantal Hillarby .
Assessment is via:
The course has two different pathways:
The six units are Macular Degeneration, Paediatric Ophthalmology, Cornea, Contact Lens, Vascular Disease and Glaucoma.
IOVS is a great course overall; excellent content and very enjoyable. (Abid Ali, ophthalmology trainee [UK])
I've enjoyed the insight into new and modern treatments and diagnostic techniques. (Isaac Nunoo, optometrist [Ghana])
I love the way the lecturers teach and explain, and the ease with which you can access information.(Chimdi Emma-Duru, optometrist and PhD student [Nigeria])
Ophthalmology is housed within the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, which is located on the CMFT site at the southern end of the University campus. Optometry is housed within the Carys Bannister Building. The two sites are few hundred yards apart.
Most dissertations are conducted within the confines of the University and the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital. Students may, however, embark on work outside these confines (eg an optometric practice or other hospital). This is contingent on the acceptance of the research proposal and the approval of suitable external and internal supervisors by the course director.
You will also have access to a range of library and IT facilities across the University.
Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability and Advisory Support Service .
We offer a number of CPD courses in ophthalmology and optometry .
This MSc is aimed at optometrists, ophthalmologists, orthoptists, biological scientists, nurses and those from related backgrounds, and can open up a number of career opportunities.
The course is suitable if you want to further your knowledge of the vision sciences or if you are an optometrist considering professional development or a career in the hospital eye service.
It is also ideal if you want to conduct research as part of your clinical training or pursue an academic career in ophthalmology, optometry and the vision sciences.
Our MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research gives eye care professionals like you the academic knowledge and practical skills they need to contribute to groundbreaking medical advancements and effectively diagnose and treat a wide range of ocular conditions.
Whether you want to pursue further academic studies or take on new responsibilities as a primary caregiver – our programme gives you the clinical skills and research experience you need. Advance your career and have a meaningful influence on the future of the field.
A combination of core and elective modules and research opportunities – with a research project making up one-third of the programme – allows you to customise your studies based on your personal interests and professional requirements. This includes the option to select a specialisation leading to a named degree on completion of your dissertation:
The programme is suited to applicants who have obtained a first degree in optometry or a related field outside of the UK. The generic stream of the programme gives a broader perspective than the diabetes and therapeutic routes
Modules
Advanced Binocular Vision; Advanced Clinical Investigation and Research Project; Chronic Complications of Diabetes; Clinical Ophthamology; Diabetes Care; Ocular Therapeutics; Practical and Theoretical Prescribing and Health Economics; Skills for Practice for Vision Science; Skills for Professional Practice Biosciences 2; and Public Health.
Students with an interest in diabetes can choose diabetes-related modules to enhance their understanding of how diabetes effects various structures of the human body.
Core modules: Diabetes Care; Skills for Professional Practice for Vision Sciences; Skills for Professional Practice for Bioscience 2; Chronic Complications of Diabetes; Advanced Clinical Investigation and Research Project.
Optional modules: Clinical Ophthalmology; Health Economics and Public Health.
Whether you choose a path in academia or clinical practice, your MSc Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Research will unlock new opportunities to advance and expand your career. The programme is ideal preparation for subsequent studies towards a PhD or other higher academic qualification. It also allows optometrists and other practitioners to advance their careers in primary eye care.
Vision Science is the study of ocular, systemic and neurological disease, underpinned by foundations in biomedical, computation, statistical or societal expertise. Graduates will have an advanced knowledge and understanding of vision science, with experience investigating problems, critical thinking and analysing experimental data.
This stream will provide students with a broad understanding of vision science and significant experience in a chosen specialisation. Students will have the ability to undertake independent research in vision science with the potential to progress to a PhD degree.
As a graduate of this program, one can enjoy a wide range of careers in areas such as:
At the completion of this course, students should have gained:
The fields of graphics, vision and imaging increasingly rely on one another. This unique and timely MSc provides training in computer graphics, geometry processing, virtual reality, machine vision and imaging technology from world-leading experts, enabling students to specialise in any of these areas and gain a grounding in the others.
Graduates will understand the basic mathematical principles underlying the development and application of new techniques in computer graphics and computer vision and will be aware of the range of algorithms and approaches available, and be able to design, develop and evaluate algorithms and methods for new problems, emerging technologies and applications.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research project (60 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Students must choose a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 30 credits from Group One options. Students must choose a minimum of 30 and a maximum of 45 credits from Group Two options.
Group One Options (15 to 30 credits)
Group Two Options (30 to 45 credits)
Please note: the availability and delivery of optional modules may vary, depending on your selection.
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project related to a problem of industrial interest or on a topic near the leading edge of research, which culminates in a 60–80 page dissertation.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and tutorials. Lectures are often supported by laboratory work with help from demonstrators. Student performance is assessed by unseen written examinations, coursework and a substantial individual project.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Computer Graphics, Vision and Imaging MSc
Graduates are ready for employment in a wide range of high-technology companies and will be able to contribute to maintaining and enhancing the UK's position in these important and expanding areas. The MSc provides graduates with the up-to-date technical skills required to support a wealth of research and development opportunities in broad areas of computer science and engineering, such as multimedia applications, medicine, architecture, film animation and computer games. Our market research shows that the leading companies in these areas demand the deep technical knowledge that this programme provides. Graduates have found positions at global companies such as Disney, Sony and Siemens. Others have gone on to PhD programmes at leading universities worldwide.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
UCL received the highest percentage (96%) for quality of research in Computer Science and Informatics in the UK's most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2014).
Our graduates have some of the highest employment rates of any university in the UK. This degree programme also provides a foundation for further PhD study or industrial research.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
UCL Computer Science contains some of the world's leading researchers in computer graphics, geometry processing, computer vision and virtual environments.
Research activities include geometric acquisition and 3D fabrication, real-time photo-realistic rendering, mixed and augmented reality, face recognition, content-based image-database search, video-texture modelling, depth perception in stereo vision, colour imaging for industrial inspection, mapping brain function and connectivity and tracking for SLAM (simultaneous localisation and mapping).
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Computer Science
96% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
This programme is based at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, which is world renowned for the translation of biomedical research into new therapeutic advances in eye disease. Students will be embedded in the research environment, have the opportunity to conduct an independent research project, and to work alongside world-leading experts.
Students will develop key transferable personal and professional skills to independently conduct an extended empirical research project supervised by world-leading experts in the field of vision research. Students will also learn about the fundamental biology of the eye in health and disease, providing key knowledge to support their research project.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of two core modules (30 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a dissertation (105 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Dissertation/research project
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 18,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, journal clubs and workshops. Assessment is through essays, oral presentations, problem-based tasks and a research dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Vision Research MRes
The Institute of Ophthalmology currently offers the following bursaries for successful applicants on our postgraduate taught master’s degrees: One £5,000 Duke Elder bursary for non-clinical courses (available for successful applicants on the Biology of Vision, Applied Immunobiology, Applied and Regenerative Neuroscience, and Vision Research degrees). Duke Elder bursaries are open to home and overseas students and will be received in the form of a fee reduction only.
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.
The Vision Research MRes will develop the necessary competitive skills to pursue a research degree at PhD level in the field of biomedical sciences. Graduates will offer prospective employers skills in research development and practice, suitable for further research careers in academia, industry or business.
Employability
A unique feature of the Vision Research MRes is the delivery of key elements that are essential for the development of an internationally competitive career in biomedical research. The research expertise at the institute will be fully harnessed to prepare students for a new era in research in the global employment market. Students will develop critical understanding of a range of research-related knowledge and skills, including quantitative and qualitative tools for the implementation, management and dissemination of research. The programme will give students both the fundamental knowledge and skills base to address complex issues of global significance in health and wellbeing.
The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology is recognised globally for its outstanding record in basic biomedical research, much of which has been translated into important advances in novel and innovative therapies.
The Vision Research MRes is a unique programme that will combine existing high-quality research-informed teaching at the institute with a substantial empirical research project.
The opportunity to participate fully in academic life as part of a research team will provide networking opportunities across the spectrum of biomedical research taking place at the institute, UCL and elsewhere, thereby increasing exposure to further opportunities in research.
Part time distance learning
Lead academic 2018: Dr Charlotte Codina
This is a part-time distance learning course for practising orthoptists and other eye care professionals.
It's taught online (supported by two residential weekends, an introductory day for Low Vision and virtual tutorials), so you can study for a higher degree without having to leave your current post.
As this is a distance learning programme, attendance in Sheffield is only required for two residential weekends (Year 1 and Year 2), and for the Low Vision module option only, for an Introductory Day and clinical examination. Modules with no residential weekend or introductory day are supported by virtual tutorials. Modules are accessed online, therefore broadband internet access is required.
Please visit our webpages for further information.
Teaching is by distance learning, supported by two weekend residentials that take place in Sheffield and virtual tutorials using e-technology.
This specialist option of the MSc Computational and Software Techniques in Engineering has been developed to deliver qualified engineers to the highest standard into the emerging field of digital signal and image processing who are capable of contributing significantly to this increased demand for both real-time and off-line systems operating over a range of mobile, embedded and workstation platforms.
Developed for students interested in software development within the wide spectrum of industries in which digital signal processing and/or digital image processing plays a significant role. Suitable for candidates from a broad range of engineering backgrounds, including aeronautical, automotive, mechanical and electrical engineering in addition to the more traditional computational sciences background, who wish to both develop and complement their existing skill-set in this new area. Part-time students have a flexible commencement date.
This option of the MSc in Computational and Software Techniques in Engineering aims to develop your skill-base for the rapidly expanding engineering IT industry sector, not only in the UK but all over the world. Graduates in this option have the opportunity to pursue a wide range of careers embracing telecommunications, the automotive industry, medical imaging, software houses and industrial research where demand for skills is high.
This course additionally forms part of the ESTIA (Ecole Supérieure des Technologies Industrielles Avancées) Cranfield MSc programme which gives ESTIA students the opportunity to study this degree based either at Cranfield University or ESTIA in Bidart, South-West France.
Cranfield University is very well located for visiting part-time students from all over the world, and offers a range of library and support facilities to support your studies. This enables students from all over the world to complete this qualification whilst balancing work/life commitments.
The course is directed by an industrial advisory panel who meet twice a year to ensure that it provides the right mix of hands-on skills and up-to-date knowledge suitable for the wide variety of applications that this field addresses.
A number of members also attend the annual student thesis presentations which take place at the end of July. This provides a good opportunity for students to meet key employers.
The course consists of 12 core modules, including a group design project, plus an individual research project.
The course is delivered via a combination of structured lectures, tutorial sessions and computer based workshops. Mathematical and computational methods form the basis of the specialist modules, covering the theory and application of DSIP algorithms for the analysis, interpretation and processing of data in diverse fields such as computer vision, robotics, vibro-acoustic condition monitoring, medical diagnosis, remote sensing and data visualisation. This set of specialist modules are designed to provide students with the programming techniques necessary to develop, maintain and use core DSIP solution software over a wide range of industrial settings.
Group project
The group project which takes place in the spring is designed to provide you with invaluable experience of delivering a project within an industry structured team. The project allows you to develop a range of skills including learning how to establish team member roles and responsibilities, project management, delivering technical presentations and gaining experience of working in teams that include members with a variety of expertise and often with members who are based remotely.
Part-time students are encouraged to participate in a group project as it provides a wealth of learning opportunities. However, an option of an individual dissertation is available if agreed with the Course Director.
Recent Group Projects include:
Individual project
The individual research project allows you to delve deeper into an area of specific interest. It is very common for industrial partners to put forward real world problems or areas of development as potential research project topics. In general you will begin to consider the research project after completing 3-4 modules - it then runs concurrently with the rest of your work.
For part-time students it is common that their research thesis is undertaken in collaboration with their place of work.
Recent Individual Research Projects include:
Assessment
Taught modules 45%, Group project 5%, Individual research project 50%
The MSc in Computer and Machine Vision attracts enquiries from companies all over the world who wish to recruit high quality graduates. There is considerable demand for students with expertise in engineering software development and for those who have strong technical programming skills in industry standard languages and tools. Graduates of this course will be in demand by commercial engineering software developers, automotive, telecommunications, medical and other industries and research organisations, and have been particularly successful in finding long-term employment.
Some students may go onto degrees, on the basis of their MSc research project. Thesis topics are most often supplied by individual companies on in-company problems with a view to employment after graduation - an approach that is being actively encouraged by a growing number of industries.
A selection of companies that have recruited our graduates include:
This MSc is aimed at students who wish to extend their knowledge and expertise in the eye as an integrated biological system. The programme provides a unique and integrated review of the physiology and biology of the eye, covering molecular and developmental cell biology, complex genetics, immunology and behavioural neuroscience.
The programme offers students the opportunity to develop their knowledge and expertise in ocular cell biology, genetics, visual neuroscience, development and immunology. On completion of the programme, students gain an enhanced knowledge and understanding of scientific communication skills, scientific design and analysis, sophisticated laboratory techniques and valuable research experience.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), one optional module (15 credits) and a research project (90 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Dissertation/research project
All MSc students undertake either a research or informatics project using state-of-the-art techniques and equipment. The project culminates in a dissertation of 15,000–18,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, problem classes, journal clubs, self-directed studies and laboratory practical courses. Assessment is through long essays, coursework, laboratory practicals, oral examination and the research dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Biology of Vision MSc
This programme provides excellent preparation for a PhD or a successful research career in academia or for positions in the public or commercial sectors. Previous students have also successfully obtained specialist trainee positions in ophthalmology at hospitals across the country.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
The programme aims to train first-class basic and clinical scientists in the field of ophthalmology.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The UCL Institute of Ophthalmology is one of the premier centres in the world for the study of vision and the mechanisms, diagnosis and therapy of eye disease. We embrace fundamental research, through the entire spectrum of translational medicine to clinical trials.
This MSc programme draws upon the extensive basic and clinical research experience available at the institute and at Moorfields Eye Hospital. Students gain expertise in basic cell biology, genetics, neuroscience and physiology, specialise in the biology of the eye as an integrated biological system and conduct a six-month research project within a world-class research environment.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Institute of Ophthalmology
80% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
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