ACO Opens Registrations for 2026 Certificate Courses, Introduces Advanced Ocular Therapeutics Program

The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) has opened registrations for five certificate courses commencing in 2026, including a newly developed program in advanced ocular therapeutics that aims to position practitioners ahead of anticipated regulatory changes.

The organisation announced the lineup on 1 December, maintaining its roster of established programs while introducing coursework designed to support optometrists as the profession's scope of practice continues to expand.

New therapeutic prescribing course

The Certificate in Advanced Ocular Therapeutics, launching 1 June 2026, represents ACO's response to regulatory developments currently under consideration by the Optometry Board of Australia (OBA). The program will equip practitioners to prescribe oral medications for ocular conditions, extending beyond current therapeutic endorsement frameworks.

According to Shazia Tahseen, ACO Education Services Manager, the curriculum emphasises pharmacological knowledge and interprofessional collaboration, with participants engaging across clinical disciplines to develop understanding of systemic health considerations.

"It's important that our certificate programs continue to evolve alongside the profession, giving optometrists the tools and confidence to take the next step in their practice," Tahseen said.

The course follows ACO's existing Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics, which provides therapeutic endorsement and now operates on a biennial cycle, next running in 2027.

Returning qualifications

Four established programs return for 2026:

• Advanced Certificate in Children's Vision (commencing 9 February)
• Advanced Certificate in Glaucoma (commencing 16 March)
• Certificate in Advanced Contact Lenses (commencing 20 April)
• Certificate in Public Health and Leadership in Eye Care (commencing 4 May)

Each combines online modules, live webinars and clinical placements, structured to accommodate working practitioners.

Hannah Jackson, who completed the children's vision certificate in 2024, said the program strengthened her clinical decision-making in managing paediatric cases including high anisometropia and amblyopia.

"I now feel confident in my diagnoses and management plans with the most up-to-date knowledge and assessment skills," Jackson said.

All courses are developed with clinical experts and academics, focusing on evidence-based approaches applicable to contemporary practice.

Further information is available at profession.aco.org.au/courses-and-events.