ACO Launches 2025 Certificate Courses to Elevate Optometry Practice
The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) has unveiled its suite of certificate courses for 2025, offering practising optometrists an unparalleled opportunity to enhance their clinical expertise and patient care. Developed in collaboration with industry leaders, these programs provide evidence-based knowledge and practical skills tailored to the evolving demands of optometry.
Courses Available for 2025:
Advanced Certificate in Children’s Vision – Commences 10 February 2025
Advanced Certificate in Glaucoma – Commences 17 March 2025
Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics – Commences 14 April 2025
Certificate in Advanced Contact Lenses – Commences 28 April 2025
Certificate in Public Health and Leadership in Eye Care – Commences 2 June 2025
Designed for busy professionals, these programs incorporate remote learning via pre-recorded lectures, live webinars, and peer discussions. The flexibility of this approach ensures participants can balance their work commitments while advancing their professional development.
Bridging Theory and Practice
What sets ACO’s certificate courses apart is the inclusion of hands-on clinical placements. Participants gain real-world experience, enhancing their confidence and ability to apply new techniques in practice. These placements often include collaborations with local ophthalmologists, fostering stronger professional relationships and deeper insights into co-management strategies.
Graduate Anthony Wong, who completed the Advanced Certificate in Glaucoma, shared his experience:
"Through [the] placement, I gained valuable insight into how glaucoma is managed by ophthalmologists. This experience has made me more assertive in co-managing glaucoma patients and better equipped to collaborate when changes to management are needed."
Fellow graduate Celine Fung highlighted the value of tackling knowledge gaps:
"Investing time in improving your skills and confidence is always worthwhile. There’s always something to gain from facing gaps in your knowledge head-on rather than shying away from them."
Empowering Optometrists Through Education
“We are proud to offer programs that not only expand clinical expertise but also empower optometrists to provide more comprehensive and impactful care to their patients,” said Shazia Tahseen, ACO Education Manager.
By combining academic rigour with practical application, ACO ensures participants leave the program with actionable skills that enhance their practice and contribute to better patient outcomes.
Register Now
Registrations for ACO’s 2025 certificate courses are now open. Don’t miss the chance to invest in your professional growth and elevate your optometry practice.
For more information, visit the ACO website or contact Lauren Freir, Marketing and Communications Manager, Australian College of Optometry, at lfreir@aco.org.au.
The ACO is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving eye health through public services, research, and education.