MSCHE Self Study April 2021

director monitors students’ success and progression using established checkpoints. Additional independent study may be incorporated for supplemental study if necessary. Graduate Program Overview Vision science is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses basic, translational and clinical research in areas of optometry, biology, chemistry, physics, applied mathematics and engineering as well as molecular and cellular biology and cognitive and behavioral neuroscience. The Graduate Program in Vision Science embraces this inherent diversity as the foundation for a program offering training that intersects these varied disciplines. Research at the College in these areas includes laboratory programs specializing in basic, translational, and clinical research. Consistent with its mission to “advance visual health and patient care through leadership in patient care, research and service,” the College offers the following research ‐ oriented graduate programs:

 Ph.D. in Vision Science  MS in Vision Science

 Combined OD/MS in Vision Science  Combined OD/Ph.D. in Vision Science  Combined Residency/MS in Vision Science  Combined Residency/Ph.D. in Vision Science

A brief overview of each program is given below. Additional information is provided in the Graduate Policy Document and Doctoral Student Handbook .

PhD in Vision Science The goal of the PhD in Vision Science Program is to provide comprehensive research training that positions its graduates to achieve successful careers in research. academia and industry and to make significant contributions to the field of vision science. Program learning objectives, which are given under Standard V, support attainment of this goal. PhD students participate in a series of courses, seminars, tutorials and journal clubs and receive intensive training in selected areas of vision research. Students must complete an original doctoral dissertation project in basic, translational or clinical vision research. The program combines a rigorous platform of course study and research within an interactive, collegial community. Courses stress analysis and discussion of the primary literature and provide training in key technical and communicative skills necessary for a research career in academia or industry. In fall, 2020, 3 new students enrolled in the program. The total number of PhD students is currently 14. Since 2012, 21 students have graduated from the program. Students come to our program with a broad range of interests and from diverse educational backgrounds, including biology, psychology, optometry, mathematics, and engineering. We have developed a flexible curriculum that can be tailored to suit individual student needs.

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