Program Overview
The Master of Science in Vision Science program at the University of the Incarnate Word provides students with a comprehensive foundation in vision science, optics, and research methodology. Through a 16-month residency and 34 credit hours of coursework, students develop the skills and knowledge to conduct independent research and pursue careers in academia, industry, or clinical practice. The program emphasizes a broad core curriculum and culminates in a written thesis suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science (MS) in Vision Science program at the University of the Incarnate Word's Rosenberg School of Optometry is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to conduct independent research in Vision Science. The program emphasizes a broad, graduate-level core curriculum in vision science, optics, binocular vision, ocular anatomy, physiology, genetics, statistics, and research methodology. Graduates of the program are expected to achieve proficiency in developing and presenting material as lectures and in peer-reviewed presentations at major national and international meetings.
Outline:
The MS in Vision Science program consists of a 16-month residency and requires the completion of a minimum of 34 credit hours. The core curriculum includes the following courses:
- VISC 6305: Fundamentals of Vision Science (3.0 credits)
- VISC 6310: Binocular Vision & Ocular Motility (3.0 credits)
- VISC 6115: Genomics Medicine (1.0 credit)
- VISC 6220: Ocular Physiology (2.0 credits)
- MATH 6363: Research Statistics (3.0 credits)
- VISC 6125: Teaching In Vision Science (1.0 credit)
- VISC 6530: Visual and Applied Optics (5.0 credits)
- VISC 6335: Clinical Ocular Anatomy (3.0 credits)
- VISC 6240: Functional Neuroanatomy (2.0 credits)
- VISC 6245: Research Methodology and Thesis Development (2.0 credits) In addition to the core curriculum, students must complete a written thesis, all or portions of which are suitable for publication as at least one paper in a peer-reviewed journal.
Assessment:
Students in the MS in Vision Science program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Class participation
- Quizzes
- Exams
- Presentations
- Research projects
- Thesis
Teaching:
The MS in Vision Science program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are active in research and clinical practice. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Laboratories
- Clinical rotations
- Research projects
Careers:
Graduates of the MS in Vision Science program are prepared for a variety of careers in research, academia, and industry. Potential career paths include:
- Research scientist
- Professor
- Optometrist
- Ophthalmologist
- Vision therapist
- Optical engineer
- Product manager
- Sales representative
