Programs
The four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) program provides preparation for the practice of optometry, with both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Graduates must pass board exams for their home province after graduation in order to practise, as with other health professions. Classes cover the general sciences as well as specific aspects of vision. Extensive clinical experience is provided through the School's clinic, as well as one term of clinical externship and several weeks of off-site training. In 2005, eighty students were admitted to the program; in 2006, that number has increased to 85. Currently the entering class size is limited to 90 students.
Graduate studies in Vision Science (MSc, PhD) are available at the School of Optometry. The MSc program was established in 1972 and the PhD program began in 1980. Both are open to graduates from optometry and from other undergraduate programs. The programs are designed to further knowledge in specific aspects of vision, and often this involves integration with the other sciences. A combined Doctor of Optometry–Master of Science in Vision Science option exists as well; this is typically a five-year program.
A two-year Diploma of Residency is available, for individuals who already hold the OD degree but wish to improve and advance their clinical knowledge.
The International Optometric Bridging Program (IOBP) is a new program designed for optometrists trained outside Canada and the USA, to help learning the language, academic, and clinical skills needed to practise in Canada. After an initial assessment of credentials, applicants undergo a month-long orientation program and a year-long academic program. This is designed to adequately prepare internationally-trained optometrists for the Canadian Standard Assessment in Optometry, the national Board exam required to practise optometry in Canada.
Annually, a Continuing Education (CE) program is offered to practising OD's which provides approximately 20 or more certified hours of CE credit.
Read more about this topic: University Of Waterloo School Of Optometry
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