Key learning outcomes
1. The Degree in Optometry and Vision Sciences is a project of the School of Sciences of the University of Minho (ECUM), involving departments and Research Centres of the ECUM. It aims to training professionals with deep knowledge of refractive anomalies, visual health, binocular vision, compensation of refractive anomalies and different optical, psychometric, psychophysical, neurological, motor, functional, biological parameters by which vision is evaluated;
2. To promote the learning and scientific knowledge of excellence in the area of Optometry, training professionals, to perform functions in a regime of professional autonomy, with deep knowledge of physics in the field of optics, biomedical and neuro-visual sciences, clinical optometry, relevant clinical ophthalmology and common problems faced in visual health care, with emphasis on eye manifestations;
3. To promote knowledge of general eye health and pathology and systems for referral, prevention and inclusive care for vision health, acting in accordance with the state-of-the-art standards of clinical guidance, good practice and scientific evidence;
4. To provide knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the visual system and understanding their functioning in the context of the human body;
5. To provide knowledge about the composition and function of ophthalmic instrumentation, observation techniques, analysis and interpretation of tests designed to observe and test visual function;
6. Promote the integration of technical knowledge and critical analysis in order to contextualize the problems that present themselves, to understand their origin, to base their forms of manifestation and approach with a sense of responsibility taking into account good technical, human and social practices;
7. To provide knowledge and understanding of visual rehabilitation techniques to allow individuals to maximize their visual capabilities and to cooperate with other professionals, namely in the area of Ophthalmology, in vision care;
8. Promote the topics related to vision in the community where it is inserted, recognize the limitations of current techniques and approaches and envisage autonomously or in groups new approaches and solutions.