PhD in Vision Science

The doctoral program provides intensive training for students interested in a research career in academia or industry. PhD students participate in a series of courses, seminars, tutorials, and journal clubs and receive intensive training in selected areas of vision research. Students must complete an original doctoral dissertation project in basic, translational, or clinical vision research.

The PhD in Vision Science requires the completion of 80 semester hours of course credit. The core curriculum requirements include a year-long Proseminar, a comprehensive introduction to vision science, a minimum of five seminars/tutorials, an introduction to statistical methods, and a course in ethics in research. Also, students must complete a minimum of two laboratory rotations during the first year. During the laboratory rotations, students develop technical laboratory skills needed for research and gain experience interacting with various researchers in different laboratory settings. By the end of their third year in the program, students complete a qualifying exam consisting of the submission of a written Dissertation Proposal followed by the proposal's oral defence. Successful completion of the dissertation defence is the final requirement of the doctoral degree. PhD students are eligible for financial support through graduate student stipends, tuition waivers, grants, and fellowships.

The Graduate Program in Vision Science provides comprehensive research training that positions our students to achieve career success and make significant contributions to the field. It combines a rigorous, intellectual study and research program with an interactive, collegial sense of community.