Program Overview
The PhD in Vision Science program at the University of the Incarnate Word's Rosenberg School of Optometry provides students with the knowledge and skills to conduct independent research in Vision Science. The 33-month residency program emphasizes a broad core curriculum, research, and a dissertation, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and industry. Students are assessed through written exams, oral presentations, and research projects, and must successfully complete both written and oral qualifying exams to advance to candidacy.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Vision Science program at the University of the Incarnate Word's Rosenberg School of Optometry is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary 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.
Objectives:
- Acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities in Vision Science
- Develop experience and focused training to conduct independent research
- Achieve proficiency in developing and presenting basic and advanced material as effective lectures
- Advance research in Vision Science
Program Description:
The PhD in Vision Science program is a 33-month residency program that requires students to complete 60 credit hours. The program consists of core coursework, research, and a dissertation.
Outline:
Year 1
Fall Semester
- VISC 7305: Fundamentals of Vision Science (3.0 credits)
- VISC 7310: Binocular Vision & Ocular Motility (3.0 credits)
- VISC 7115: Genomics Medicine (1.0 credit)
- VISC 7220: Ocular Physiology (2.0 credits)
- MATH 6363: Research Statistics (3.0 credits)
- VISC 7125: Teaching In Vision Science (1.0 credit)
Spring Semester
- VISC 7530: Visual and Applied Optics (5.0 credits)
- VISC 7335: Clinical Ocular Anatomy (3.0 credits)
- VISC 7240: Functional Neuroanatomy (2.0 credits)
- VISC 7245: Research Methodology and Dissertation Development (2.0 credits)
- VISC 7125: Teaching In Vision Science (1.0 credit)
Summer
- VISC 7125: Teaching in Vision Science (1.0 credit)
- VISC 8550: Dissertation Research, Analysis and Writing (5.0 credits)
- Written Qualifying Exam
Year 2
Fall
- VISC 7125: Teaching in Vision Science (1.0 credit)
- VISC 8550: Dissertation Research, Analysis and Writing (5.0 credits)
- Oral Qualifying Exam
Spring
- Advancement to Candidacy
- VISC 7125: Teaching in Vision Science (1.0 credit)
- VISC 8550: Dissertation Research, Analysis and Writing (5.0 credits)
Summer
- VISC 7125: Teaching in Vision Science (1.0 credit)
- VISC 8550: Dissertation Research, Analysis and Writing (5.0 credits)
Year 3
Fall
- VISC 8550: Dissertation Research, Analysis and Writing (5.0 credits)
Spring
- VISC 8550: Dissertation Research, Analysis and Writing (5.0 credits)
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a combination of written exams, oral presentations, and research projects. The written qualifying exam is an objective, multiple-choice exam that reflects a compilation of core curriculum content. The oral qualifying exam is a broad focus on the area of dissertation research. Students must successfully complete both the written and oral qualifying exams to advance to candidacy. The dissertation is a major research project that must be original and publishable in peer-reviewed journals.
Teaching:
The PhD in Vision Science program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, and laboratory work. Students also have the opportunity to participate in teaching and research activities.
Careers:
Graduates of the PhD in Vision Science program are prepared for careers in academia, research, and industry. They may work as professors, researchers, or scientists in a variety of settings, including universities, hospitals, and private companies.
University of The Incarnate Word
Overview:
University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) is a private Catholic university located in San Antonio, Texas. Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, UIW is the largest Catholic university in Texas and is known for its commitment to serving the community and providing a transformative educational experience.
Services Offered:
UIW offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Advising, tutoring, writing and learning center, career services, testing services, TRiO program, and first-generation student support.Student Life:
Residence life, student life activities, student advocacy, wellness and sports programs, counseling, and health services.Financial Aid:
Aid and award process, cost estimation, calculators, scholarship resources, work study, loan assistance, forms, tuition and fees information, verification process, consumer information, and FAQs.Military and Veterans Center:
Admissions, support services, and resources for military personnel and veterans.International Student and Scholar Services:
Support and resources for international students.School of Professional Studies (SPS):
Admissions and student success services.Health Professions Student Services:
Specific services for students in the Feik School of Pharmacy, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rosenberg School of Optometry, and School of Rehabilitation Sciences.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UIW offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities. Students can participate in athletics, intramural sports, music and arts programs, community service initiatives, and social events. The university also has a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UIW offers over 100 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations, and over 20 graduate and doctoral programs.Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:
UIW is a Hispanic Serving Institution and ranks No. 1 in the nation among faith-based universities graduating Hispanic students with bachelor’s degrees.Faith-Based Education:
UIW provides a Catholic educational experience that emphasizes values, ethics, and service to others.Excellent Faculty:
UIW has a dedicated faculty committed to student success and providing a high-quality education.Strong Alumni Network:
UIW has a large and active alumni network that provides support and opportunities for students.Academic Programs:
UIW has 11 schools and colleges, including five health professions schools:
College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences
Dreeben School of Education
Feik School of Pharmacy
H-E-B School of Business and Administration
Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions
Rosenberg School of Optometry
School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering
School of Media and Design
School of Osteopathic Medicine
School of Rehabilitation Sciences
School of Professional Studies
Other:
UIW is a leader in transformational education and inspires students to ignite change. The university is also recognized for its commitment to social mobility and has been named a Best College by U.S. News & World Report.
