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Graduate Program
Our Graduate Program in Vision Science has excellent faculty and research facilities and provides a broad range of basic and clinical research opportunities with a strong emphasis on patient-based research. Extramurally funded research is being conducted in the following areas: keratoconus, infant vision, development of myopia, contact lenses and myopic progression, low vision, vision screening of children, and quality of life studies. Information about the curriculum, graduate faculty, financial support, and the application process is included.Brief History
The graduate program in Vision Science (Physiological Optics) at The Ohio State University was established by Professor Glenn A Fry in 1936 and was the first associated with an Optometric institution. The graduate program awarded its first Master’s degree in 1938 (to Howard Haines) and its first PhD in 1942. It has granted, to date, 163 MS degrees and 41 PhD degrees. Eleven of the program’s graduates have gone on to become deans or presidents of the schools and colleges of optometry, including six currently in office. The graduates count among its ranks: three Proctor Medallists, four Friedenwald awardees, and three Prentice Medal winners.
Characteristics of the Graduate Program in Vision Science
The Ohio State University graduate program in Vision Science offers Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
Requirements for the Master's Degree
Three courses of study leading to the MS degree are offered. In addition to the traditional MS degree, two other programs are specifically tailored to provide the graduate optometrist with advanced training in vision research. The MS degree requires 45 quarter-hours of coursework, an independent research project, and preparation of a thesis. Coursework is chosen according to the student’s interests, in consultation with his or her advisor.
1. Traditional MS Program
A 1-2 year post baccalaureate course of study in Vision Science leading to the Master of Science degree.
2. Combined MS / OD Program
Students currently enrolled in optometry at The Ohio State University may simultaneously pursue an MS degree and earn both degrees within the normal period for the OD.
3. MS / Advanced Practice Fellowship Programs
The MS degree may be pursued together with a two-year advanced clinical fellowship in one of four areas:
- Cornea and contact lenses
- Binocular vision and pediatrics
- Vision rehabilitation
- Family practice
Applicants to the Advanced Practice Fellowship programs must be graduate optometrists who are eligible for licensure to practice optometry in the state of Ohio. Our goal is to provide clinician/educators with research skills in these four areas of emphasis.
Requirements for the PhD Degree
Students may be admitted to the PhD program upon completion of the MS degree or an equivalent degree from another institution. An additional 90 credit hours beyond the Master’s degree and completion of a dissertation is required to earn the doctoral degree.
Financial Support
Graduate students in Vision Science are eligible for Teaching Associate positions in the College of Optometry, which provide a stipend and full fee reimbursement.
Advanced level graduate students who are optometrists may be eligible to receive training support funded from the National Eye Institute (T32), which provides full support for the period of their dissertation research. These trainees may be eligible for student load forgiveness.
Other financial aid - including fellowships - is available on a competitive basis from the Ohio State University. Student loans are normally deferred when enrolled in graduate school.
Internet Based Information
Graduate program information is available electronically from this web site. Extensive graduate admissions information is available at the university web site: http://www-afa.adm.ohio-state.edu/apps/grad-dom/intro-gd.html. Applications may be submitted electronically from the web site: http://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu .
For Additional Information:
Inquiries regarding the program should be addressed to:
Karla Zadnik, O.D., Ph.D.
Chairman, Graduate Studies Committee
The Ohio State University College
of Optometry Graduate Program
338 West Tenth Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210-1280
(614) 292- 3246
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