Curriculum | Vision Science PhD

The PhD in Vision Science Program emphasizes the research training and intellectual foundation necessary for well-rounded scientific research. Students will receive solid training on research methodology and laboratory rotation in the first year, along with classroom experiences for domain-specific knowledge, including courses from at least three broad topical areas and in-depth understanding in individual’s primary area of research interests. The following is a sample curriculum for the PhD coursework, which can vary significantly across individuals. Complete course descriptions are available in the course catalog.

Year 1

Fall Spring Summer
VSC Description Credits VSC Description Credits VSC Description Credits
503 Evidence Based Optometry 1 752 Vision Science Seminar II 2 502 Scientific & Clinical Writing               1
751 Vision Science Seminar I 2 801 PhD Vision Research Colloquium 1 702         Research Methodology 1.5
801 PhD Vision Research Colloquium 1 812 Focused Study in Vision and Optics 2 703 Introductions to Statistics 2
811 Advanced Seminar in Vision & Optics 2 832 Focused Study in Ocular Diseases & Public Health 2 753 Vision Science Seminar III 2
831 Advanced Ocular Diseases & Public Health 2 Elective  Elective (area 1) 3 523* Neuroanatomy 2
861 Survey of Vision Science Research Lab 1       660* Practice of Clinical Skills 1
            Elective Elective (area2)  
  TOTAL 9   TOTAL 11 TOTAL   9.5

* Optional courses, not including in degree credits

Year 2

Fall Spring
VSC Description Credits VSC Description Credits
802 Advanced Research Methods 1.5 822 Focused Study in Ocular Anatomy & Physiology 2
803 Advanced Statistics 2 842 Focused Study in Oculomotor Functions & Visual Performance  2
821 Advanced Seminar in Ocular 2 862 Laboratory Study  3
841 Advanced Seminar in Oculomotor Functions & Visual Performance 2 Elective  Elective  2
Elective    1.5   *Qualificaiton Exam: Written & Oral*
  TOTAL 9   TOTAL 9

Year 3

Fall Spring
  Description Credits VSC Description Credits
VSC-991 Dissertation Research 3 991 Dissertation Research 3
VSC-803 Statistics Seminar 2   Elective 6
  Elective 3      
OPT-970 Teaching Experience 1      
  TOTAL 9   TOTAL 9