Orthoptics degree: How to apply
Applications must be made through UCAS (University and College Admissions Service) and submitted online via the UCAS website: http://www.ucas.com. For any enquiries UCAS can be contacted by email: enquiries@ucas.ac.uk or telephone: +44 (0)870 112 2211. The UCAS code for The University of Sheffield is S18 SHEFD and the course code for Orthoptics is B520 BMS/Orth.
Selection process
Selection of applicants is based on content of UCAS forms with particular focus on academic qualifications and personal statements. We strongly advise applicants to contact their local orthoptic department and request the opportunity to observe the work of an orthoptist. Voluntary work, experience with children, the elderly or people with disabilities is also considered a favourable asset.
Applicants who receive an offer will be invited to a mandatory departmental open day which is an opportunity to informally meet staff and students, obtain detailed information about the course structure and university accommodation, and have a tour of teaching facilities.
Identity Check
All student orthoptists are required to undergo Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) enhanced disclosure in line with most applicants for health related courses in the United Kingdom. Admission to the course offered by the University of Sheffield, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health is subject to the Rehabilitiation of Offenders Act (1974) Section 4(2) (Exemption) Order 1975 and the Department of Health Circular HC (88)9 guidelines regarding child protection and police checks. This means that you must inform us of any criminal convictions or cautions you may have, current and spent. All offers given to applicants will therefore include a condition relating to a satisfactory enhanced CRB check.
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check will be performed at the mandatory open day.
Applications for deferred entry
If you are made an offer of a place on the Orthoptics course and choose to firmly accept it, you will need to undergo the CRB check during your gap year. We will write to you at a later date with details of how to go about this.
Overseas Applicants
If you are living overseas and have never been a resident of the UK you will not be in a position to proceed with a CRB check. If you are made an offer of a place you will be sent further details about applying for the equivalent of a CRB check.
If you have lived overseas for a period of 3 months or more since the age of 16 and are now resident in the UK you will be required to provide both a CRB check and an overseas equivalent.
Entry agreement
All students studying for a BMedSci(Hons) Degree in Orthoptic will gain clinical experience throughout the 3 years of training and be in contact with patients and many aspects of the hospital environment. Orthoptic students are required to agree and sign the entry agreement form prior to the commencement of the Orthoptic degree programme.
