2016_SUNY_Optometry_PRR

Graduate Research: The PhD and MS programs have undergone significant reform (as shared in the 2011 Self ‐ Study) and become highly competitive. In AY 2016, we have 15 PhD students, (up from 11 five ‐ years before) and had 13 applicants for two open positions. Review of and modifications to the program are ongoing. The combined OD/MS program has attracted highly qualified candidates, but students are finding it increasingly difficult to balance the demands of the professional degree and the graduate degree. New Program Developments: Over the past three years, the College has developed (or is developing) three new educational options. These are comparatively small programs are designed to provide value ‐ added opportunities around the existing degree programs. OD/Certificate/MBA Option: In the last self ‐ study we indicated our interest in developing an MBA/OD option. The program has come to fruition through a partnership with Empire State College and is fully operational. Student enrolled in the OD program may apply for the Advanced Graduate Certificate in Optometric Business Management . Upon successful completion of the certificate program they may continue in Empire State College’s MBA in Health Care Leadership or other emphasis areas (management, finance, etc.). The program was reviewed and approved by both State University and NYSED. There are currently 8 students enrolled in the certificate program. We hope to eventually increase that to 10 new students per year (40 total). Advanced Standing International Program (OD): The College is piloting an advance standing program for internationally trained optometrists and physicians. Two students (MDs) from a partner institution in China have been enrolled in the OD degree program with advanced standing. Based upon a faculty review of their credentials, credit was given for certain courses and a plan was developed that will allow them to complete the balance of the OD degree coursework in three years. Graduate (MS or PhD)/Residency Program: The College has developed a two ‐ year combined Graduate/Residency program. Student ‐ residents will continue in the PhD program as clinical fellows following completion of the residency portion of the program. The goal is to develop clinician scientists who have an interest in pursuing a career in academic optometry. While the program has been designed and submitted to the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education for review (residency accreditation), there has been limited interest and no candidates have enrolled to date. Key Challenges: The College is well positioned to continue to provide a high quality educational experience for its students. Central to being national leader will be our ability to advance in the following three areas:  Inter ‐ professional education: As a highly specialized campus, the College needs to integrate inter ‐ professional programming into the didactic and pre ‐ clinical education programs. This is challenging as there are not currently other health professions education program on campus. However, there are collaborative opportunities in the NYC area and the possible addition of other health care degree programs as options.

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