The mission of the Vision Science Graduate Program is to provide opportunities for graduate students to advance knowledge in vision science, develop research expertise in advanced experimental approaches and state-of-the-art research skills, gain empirical experience in knowledge dissemination through scientific writing and research presentations, and prepare for careers in academic institutions, governmental research/regulation sectors, or private corporations.
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The College of Optometry offers a doctoral degree in Vision Science. It is generally expected that students will complete a master’s degree before beginning the PhD in Vision Science program. The PhD program is designed as a three‐year program that provides training in basic vision science research and experiences of clinical-relevant studies.
Applicants without a master’s degree but who demonstrate great potential may be accepted into the PhD program; however, the student needs to fulfill Master of Science degree requirements before advancing to the PhD candidacy.
Applicants with a master's degree (MS), a doctor of optometry (OD) degree from an ACOE accredited program, a doctor of medicine (MD) degree, or who are currently enrolled in Pacific University's College of Optometry OD program, may waive all or part of the MS curriculum. The Vision Science Graduate Committee will consider each case individually.