The Ohio State University College of Optometry is a leader in optometric education in the United States and is the only optometry program in Ohio. It is the oldest university-based program in the nation and was the first public university program to grant the Doctor of Optometry degree. We share the resources of the most comprehensive health sciences center in the U.S. and we are a leader in:
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contact lenses
visual perception
corneal physiology
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vision standards
infant and pediatric vision
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myopia research
geriatric vision
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Our faculty members are recognized internationally for their academic credentials, real-life experience, and cutting-edge research. The Ohio State Doctor of Optometry program provides a well-rounded learning experience and fully prepares you for optometric practice both today and in the future.
One of the Nation's Best Clinical Programs
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Ohio State's clinical optometry program is one of the premier programs in the nation. As a student clinician, you will have the opportunity to work side by side with international leaders in the field.
Student interns are involved in over 100,000 patient visits per year within our campus and affiliated clinics. By working and learning in these clinics, you will gain valuable direct patient care experience in all aspects of optometric practice.
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The science and practice of optometry continually evolve as research produces new information and better ways of providing optometric care. A primary goal of the College of Optometry is to foster the desire in students to seek and critically analyze new information to be used more effectively to serve patients.
Strong Tradition of Excellence
Graduates of our program consistently achieve scores exceeding the national average in all 10 sections of the basic and clinical science examinations of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry.
Ohio State Optometry alumni are in high demand for employment in a variety of settings, including private practice, medical facilities, hospitals, industry, the military, and educational institutions. Graduates of our program are known for their broad clinical science knowledge, and their extensive experience with patient care.
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The Master of Science degree in vision science is a desirable additional credential for optometrists wishing to pursue industry or educational career opportunities. A combined program is available to outstanding students enrolled in the Doctor of Optometry program who also wish to complete a simultaneous Master's in Vision Science degree. Additionally, we offer a Ph.D. program in vision science for graduates who intend to pursue higher education careers in research and teaching.
Valuable and Varied Learning Opportunities
We have a long tradition of service to the community through vision screenings and home-based vision care programs. Our multiple outreach programs focus on the community and meeting the needs of underserved populations. Each year we provide screenings to more than 3,000 schoolchildren and vision care to hundreds of Ohio veterans at Veterans Affairs hospitals.
The fourth year curriculum includes three externship programs that provide extensive training and hands-on exposure to a variety of practice settings, including primary care, co-management clinics, VA hospitals, ophthalmology practices, and community clinical facilities, ensuring a diverse patient base. You will have the opportunity to see many hundreds of patients with different conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, and other diseases. Clinical externships are available in Ohio and many other states as well.
Cutting Edge Research Facilities
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The new E. F. Wildermuth Optometric Research Clinic was dedicated February 3rd, 2007. This state of the art facility allows the College of Optometry to continue to be at the forefront of vision research and patient care. The expansion of our research program will provide you with opportunities to learn from the many exciting studies taking place at the College. |
A Message from the Dean
On behalf of all of us at the Ohio State College of Optometry, welcome! We appreciate your interest in optometry, and I invite you to explore the information provided on our web site to learn more about the Doctor of Optometry program as well as graduate study in Vision Science. I hope that you will plan to make a visit to campus to meet with our admissions staff, take a student-led tour of the College and clinics, and get valuable information on admissions and financial aid.
I also look forward to meeting you at our 2009 Open House and Career Day program on Saturday, April 18th, which will provide an excellent opportunity for you to meet with faculty, staff, students and alumni, and to learn why we say Ohio State Optometry is all about "Great Vision."
Please let us know how we can best serve you!
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Melvin D. Shipp, OD, MPH, DrPH
Dean
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