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Master of Science in Vision Science

Why Earn a Master of Science in Vision Science?

Supported by one of the Northwest’s top optometry programs, Pacific’s Master’s Degree in Vision Science prepares the next generation of experts through a robust curriculum, innovative self-guided research and hands-on job training. Housed alongside our renowned College of Health Professions, you will receive a truly interdisciplinary education, frequently working with your fellow healthcare peers and faculty alike to establish a holistic practice.

Combining training in biology, physics, psychology and anatomy, the preparation you receive through an MS in Vision Science program enables you to excel with a broad, in-demand skillset. Within that generalist coursework, opportunities to specialize are abundant, and the collaborative nature of the program empowers you to find your niche and pursue your passions, whether they be in neuroscience, optics design, sports vision, public health and more.

Preparing you most for a career after graduation is the master’s thesis, a research-based dive into something that interests you in the field of vision science. At the end of the MS program, you will be an expert in your chosen specialization, and can leverage your newly refined skills into further education or a professional role where you can make a difference using your expertise.

COURSE CATALOG

What Can You Do with a Master of Science in Vision Science (MSVS)?

An exceptionally versatile degree, your Master’s in Vision Science equips you to make an immediate impact across a diverse range of industries. As researchers, vision scientists can discover new innovations in vision disorders, optics and the eye’s relationship to the brain, all using the research skills gained through your master’s thesis. An MS in vision science also prepares you to help develop new technology in everything from contact lens design to augmented reality, exploring new ways to harness the power of the human eye.

For those who want to continue their education and expand their scope, the MS in vision science perfectly prepares you not only for PhD programs but related degrees in optometry and ophthalmology. Vision scientists are exceptionally qualified to thrive in these settings, and can expand the range of their abilities while gaining the capacity to earn more over the course of their career.

As our reliance on screens continues to grow, researching how to safeguard our eyes — known as optical ergonomics — is becoming increasingly important. Vision scientists use their training in eye anatomy and physics to make meaningful changes in the display industry, creating new methods to keep our vision healthy.

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Meet our Faculty

Pacific Helps Innovate New Sports Safety Standards in Eyewear


Working with campus partnMan wearing glasses, running in Pacific University gymers across a range of disciplines, MS in Vision Science professor Karl Citek led research into a new, more protective form of handball eyewear. Assisted by Pacific students and alumni, Citek used principles of optometry, physics and vision science to repeatedly test various forms of eye protection against high-speed impacts, resulting in new standards accepted at the highest level. Dr. Citek’s work is just one example of the tangible impact vision scientists can have on how people pursue their passions safely, and the ways vision science research can leave a lasting impact. 

 

Contact Us

For OD/MS concurrent degree application or applicants currently enrolled in the Pacific University College of Optometry program, please contact:

Yu-Chi Tai | Director, Vision Science Graduate Programs
Jefferson Hall 322H | 503-352-2289 | ytai@pacificu.edu

Estelle Wang | Coordinator, Vision Science Graduate Programs 
Jefferson Hall 322C | 503-352-2884 | estelle.w@pacificu.edu

For other applicants, please contact our admissions team: optadmissions@pacificu.edu