VISION SCIENCE, MS
Vision Science
| Degree Offered: | PhD, MS, OD/MS |
| Program Director: | Michael Twa, OD, PhD |
| Program Manager: | Stefanie B. Varghese, PhD |
| Phone: | (205) 934-6743 |
| E-mail: | sbvarghese@uab.edu |
| Website: | http://www.uab.edu/vsgp/ |
Program Information
Vision Science is a multidisciplinary field where basic scientists and clinicians focus on the discovery of new knowledge that will further our understanding of the eye and vision. This discovery includes virtually every scientific discipline where advances come from biologists, neuroscientists, optical engineers, epidemiologists, psychologists, optometrists, physicians and others.
The Vision Science Graduate Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham provides comprehensive training for the next generation of leaders in vision science. Your decision to pursue graduate training in this program will place you at the center of one of the nation’s top biomedical research institutions and will immerse you in collaborative multidisciplinary research environment that is today’s model for biomedical research leadership. Moreover, our training environment will present opportunities for creative career paths such as dual degree programs with business, law and public health that will allow you to position yourself for a career as unique as your individual talents and interests.
Admission and Financial Aid
Applications for admission to the graduate program in vision science are reviewed by the Vision Science Graduate Program Admissions Committee. Qualified students admitted to the program may receive financial assistance in the form of annual stipends, tuition support, scholarships, and student health insurance.
Master of Science Degree
Two calendar years are generally required to complete the Master of Science degree (MS) in the Vison Science Graduate Program. Each candidate must complete a minimum of 30 hours of credit: 24 credit hours in vision science and 6 credit hours in related graduate courses. In addition, the candidate must successfully complete and defend a research thesis.
Admission Requirements:
- GRE Required (subject tests are optional)
- TOEFL or IETLS tests required for international students (see program website for minimum scores)
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B average)
- Strong background in the biological, physical or health sciences
- Three letters of recommendation
Doctor of Optometry / Master of Science—Dual Degree
Selected students in the UAB optometry professional program are encouraged to combine the clinical doctorate degree with additional research training in Vision Science. Financial assistance is available for qualified students. Potential candidates should have completed an undergraduate degree in a biological, physical, or health science field.
Admission Requirements:
- See Master Degree Requirements
- OAT scores can be used in lieu of GRE requirement
Doctor of Philosophy Degree
Doctoral research training leading to the PhD degree in vision science is based upon completion of graduate course work, a qualifying examination, research accomplishments, and successful defense of a dissertation. There is considerable flexibility in the coursework for the PhD in vision science. Each student is required to take the first-year core curriculum for their respective track, as well as courses in statistics and the ethical conduct of research. Students then take three additional courses, selected by the student in consultation with their academic advisor, which can include a wide range of interdisciplinary topics. Other graduate level courses can be substituted so that students can take maximum advantage of offerings in other programs at UAB. Individuals with previous clinical training will have opportunities for further clinical development and research integration. Students are also required to gain teaching experience.
Admission Requirements:
- GRE Required (subject tests are optional)
- TOEFL and/or IETLS tests required for international students (see program website for minimum scores)
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B average)
- Strong background in the biological, physical or health sciences
- Three letters of recommendation
Additional Information
| Deadline for Entry Term(s): | Summer and Fall (No Spring admission) |
| Deadline for All Application Materials to be in the Graduate School Office: | January 15th |
| Number of Evaluation Forms Required: | Three |
| Entrance Tests: | GRE (TOEFL and TWE also required for international applicants whose native language is not English.) OAT is considered for combined degree programs, e.g. OD/ MS. |
| Web site: | http://www.uab.edu/vsgp/ |
For detailed information, contact the graduate program manager, Dr. Stefanie Varghese, UAB School of Optometry Vision Science Graduate Program, HPB 516, 1720 2nd Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35294-4390 (office location: Henry Peters Building, Room 516, 1720 University Blvd.).
Telephone 205-934-6743
E-mail sbvarghese@uab.edu
Web http://www.uab.edu/vsgp/
