CourseCatalog

Course Descriptions for the OD Program First Year – Fall Semester

Human Bioscience I

BVS-121FB

Instructor of Record: Dr. Melissa E. Trego 3.0 Credits Human Bioscience I is the first of a three-course sequence. This is a foundational course that provides principles of basic biochemistry, cellular physiology, molecular biology, and histology that are important for deeper understanding of systems and ocular physiology and disease processes. The framework of this course provides the basis for all successive courses in the Systemic and Ocular Health Track. Clinical correlates will be identified throughout the course. Gross Human Anatomy BVS-106FB Instructor of Record: Dr. Lisa Ostrin 2.5 Credits The objective of the Human Gross Anatomy course is to introduce students to the structural organization of the human body at the macroscopic level and to develop an understanding of the relationships among anatomical structures and organ systems. The long-term objective is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to independently apply anatomical information to the interpretation and solution of biomedical and clinical problems throughout their career. The first half of the course focuses primarily on the anatomy of the head and neck, including the skull, nervous system, cranial nerves, and neurovascular structures. The second half focuses on the thorax and abdomen and their major organ systems. The course is organized around complementary lecture and lab. Laboratory sessions reinforce concepts introduced in lecture through examination and identification of anatomical structures and their relationships. Students work collaboratively, rotating through stations, and are expected to discuss their observations. These activities are designed to promote integration of anatomical knowledge, development of spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills, and effective communication of anatomical information as future clinicians. Ocular Anatomy, Biochemistry & Physiology I BVS-181FC Instructor of Record: Dr. Michael Sullivan-Mee 3.5 Credits The Ocular Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology (OABP) sequence is given as 2 courses (76 total hours) in the Fall and Spring semesters of the first year. Comprehensive educational modules are designed to cover the normal anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of the eye, adnexa, orbit, and visual pathway. Macro-, micro-, and embryologic anatomy will be discussed, and there will be an emphasis on how abnormal anatomy and physiology serve as the basis for commonly encountered clinical conditions. Specific anatomical and physiological irregularities that underlie the rationale for medical and surgical treatment interventions will also be covered. Course material taught in histology, gross anatomy, neuroanatomy, sensory visual function, and human bioscience courses is also heavily integrated into OABP and is emphasized throughout the course. Integrated Optics I BVS-131FB Instructor of Record: Dr. Nicole Putnam 3.0 Credits This is the first in a three-course sequence on clinical optics. Students learn the fundamentals of geometrical and visual optics as they apply to clinical practice. Topics include refraction at spherical and plane surfaces; image formation; thin and thick lenses; spherical ametropia; accommodation; astigmatism and cylindrical lenses; prisms; depth of field; magnification; retinal image size; and reflection. Problem-solving skills are emphasized with the goal of developing an intuitive sense of optics that supports successful clinical interventions. Laboratories provide students the opportunity to visualize material covered in lectures.

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