MSCHE/ACOE Self Study

neuroscience, perception and psychophysics, ocular physiology and anatomy, and computational theory, replaced the optometry curriculum lecture courses that were previously required. Tutorials that provide for individualized instruction and emphasize critical thinking and writing skills were introduced with topics ranging from physiology and pharmacology of the visual system to perception and processing of visual signals. Mandatory lab rotations are now required. Greater emphasis is placed on oral presentations with annual research and journal club presentations now mandatory. To develop grant writing skills, the specialty examination was replaced with the requirement to write a dissertation proposal in the form of a grant proposal that must be orally defended. The renewed emphasis on critical thinking, writing skills and oral presentations builds upon and reinforces undergraduate general education Faculty in the Graduate Program in Vision Research and the Office of the Associate Dean continue to monitor effectiveness of the new curriculum (implemented in Fall 2008) primarily through student surveys and direct student feedback that is possible due to the small size of the program. Program implementation is reviewed at the annual September meeting of the graduate faculty. (Graduate program assessment is discussed in more detail on page 42.) MS in Vision Science The MS in vision sciences is typically awarded to students in the combined OD/MS program that is described below. Infrequently, a faculty member or former student may enroll in the program. Combined OD/MS in Vision Science Goals and Overview The goals of this program are as follows:  Provide students with a deeper understanding of the empirical basis of clinical & scientific knowledge though seminars that examine the primary literature in various areas of vision science.  Provide students with a deeper understanding of the process of vision science research through carrying out a substantial research project.  Provide students with experience in formulating and presenting research through making seminar presentations and writing a research paper.  Prepare students for careers in academic optometry and the ophthalmic research and development. Students must complete forty semester-hour credits and a research project as outlined in Graduate Policy Document (Appendix B-13 or http://www.sunyopt.edu/research/docs/POLICYDOC.pdf). A number of the required courses are part of the OD program (these provide basic background information analogous to the Introduction to Vision Science sequence completed by PhD students) while the remaining courses include Introduction to Statistical Methods and Ethics in Research and five specialty graduate seminars. Students

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