M.S. Degree Requirements
Degree Requirements
In general, the MS in VS program is designed so that a typical student would require 2 years, or 6 semesters, of study to complete the degree requirements. To receive the MS in VS degree, you need to complete the following requirements:
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Coursework
- If you have a vision science background in the field of optometry (e.g., as a current OD/MS student or hold an OD degree):
- you need a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate credit; at least 16 of graduate credit hours must be earned at Pacific University.
- A total of 14 semester hours of graduate credit previously earned from Pacific University or other ACOE accredited institutions, with approval of the Vision Science MS Program Committee, may be applied to the core course requirements.
- Additionally, other graduate credit previously earned from Pacific University, with approval of the Vision Science MS Program Committee, may be applied toward the elective course requirements.
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For all other students (e.g., with bachelor or higher degrees in biological sciences, psychology, etc.):
- you need a minimum of 35 semester hours of graduate credit; at least 25 of which must be earned at Pacific University.
- A total of 10 semester hours of graduate credit previously earned from Pacific University or other accredited institutions, with approval of the Vision Science MS Program Committee, may be applied to the core course requirements.
- Additionally, other graduate credit previously earned from Pacific University, with approval of the Vision Science MS Program Committee, may be applied toward the elective course requirements.
* Requirements for course-load status
- Five credit hours per semester are considered full-time course loads.
- Three credit hours per semester are considered as part-time course loads.
Grades and Terms
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No course in which the grade is below “B” may be counted toward the graduate degree. Any grade of B- or lower is considered substandard.
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All work submitted for the MS in VS degree (including transferred credits, dissertation, examination, etc.) must be completed within a period of seven calendar years from date of your matriculation.
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In any case, however, the amount of time required to meet the requirements for graduation can vary depending upon the circumstances, with approval of the Vision Science MS Program Committee.
- The degree is conferred with distinction upon graduates who have maintained a grade point average of 3.5 or higher in the MS curriculum.
Thesis Requirements
- All Master of Vision Science candidates must submit a proposal for a significant research project. Students may alternatively submit a proposal for a comprehensive and in-depth thesis.
- All Master of Vision Science candidates must pass an oral defense in front of their thesis committee.
- A completed written thesis must be approved by your faculty advisor and thesis advisory committee, and submitted to the department.
Unsatisfactory Progress
- If you do not show satisfactory progress toward meeting academic, research, or thesis requirements, your performance will be reviewed in a meeting with the Vision Science MS Program Committee. The committee may recommend a change in the student's program or recommend that the student be dismissed from the degree program.
Other regulations
- All regulations and policies related to professional and academic standards described elsewhere in the College of Optometry section of this catalog also pertain to students in the MS in VS Program; however, specific grading criteria expressed in this MS in VS catalog will apply when in conflict with College of Optometry grading policies.
- These standards relate to academic performance, course attendance, professional behavior, grades and other matters. Violations of these standards can result in the student being placed on warning or probation, or dismissal from the program.