Academic Programs
Curriculum 2010/11
Courses by Year (First, Second, Third, Fourth)
First Professional Year Curriculum
Number |
Course Title |
Lecture Hours |
Lab Hours |
Clinic Hours |
Units |
First Year Fall Quarter |
|||||
| BVS5110 | Anatomy & Physiology | 4 | 1 | 0 | 4.50 |
| BVS5111 | Applied Biochemistry & Microbiology | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.00 |
| BVS5140 | Optics I | 4 | 2 | 0 | 5.00 |
| BVS5150 | Eye Movements | 3.5 | 1.5 | 0 | 4.25 |
| CLS5180 | Practice Management I | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2.50 |
| CLS5181 | Professional Ethics | 0.5 | 1 | 0 | 1.00 |
| Total | 16 | 6.5 | 0 | 19.25 | |
First Year Winter Quarter |
|||||
| BVS5210 | Ocular Anatomy | 4 | 2 | 0 | 5.00 |
| BVS5240 | Optics II | 4 | 2 | 0 | 5.00 |
| BVS5250 | Visual Optics | 3.5 | 1 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLS5260 | Clinical Methods I | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4.50 |
| CLS5280 | Public Health and Optometry | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.00 |
| CLE5290 | Optometric Clinical Service I | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0.25 |
| Total | 16.5 | 8 | 1 | 20.75 | |
First Year Spring Quarter |
|||||
| BVS5310 | Neurophysiology | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4.50 |
| BVS5320 | Clinical Medicine I | 4 | 1 | 0 | 4.50 |
| BVS5340 | Ophthalmic Optics I | 2 | 2 | 0 | 3.00 |
| BVS5350 | Visual Psychophysics | 3.5 | 1.5 | 0 | 4.25 |
| CLS5360 | Clinical Methods II | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4.50 |
| CLE5390 | Optometric Clinical Service II | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0.25 |
| Total | 15.5 | 10.5 | 1 | 21.00 | |
Second Year Fall Quarter |
|||||
| BVS6110 | Ocular Physiology | 3 | 1 | 0 | 3.50 |
| BVS6120 | Clinical Medicine II | 3.5 | 1 | 0 | 4.00 |
| BVS6140 | Ophthalmic Optics II | 2.5 | 2 | 0 | 3.50 |
| BVS6150 | Sensory Vision | 3.5 | 1.5 | 0 | 4.25 |
| CLS6160 | Clinical Methods II | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4.50 |
| Total | 15.5 | 8.5 | 0 | 19.75 | |
Second Year Winter Quarter |
|||||
| BVS6210 | Systemic Pharmacology | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4.00 |
| BVS6250 | Binocular Vision & Space Perception | 4 | 2 | 0 | 5.00 |
| CLS6260 | Case Analysis & Prescribing I | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2.50 |
| CLS6261 | Ocular Health Procedures I | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4.50 |
| CLS6270 | Cornea & Contact Lenses I | 3 | 2 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLE6290 | Optometric Clinical Service III | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0.75 |
| Total | 16 | 8 | 3 | 20.75 | |
Second Year Spring Quarter |
|||||
| BVS6310 | Ocular Pharmacology | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4.00 |
| BVS6350 | Biostatistics & Research Design | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3.00 |
| CLS6360 | Case Analysis & Prescribing II | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3.00 |
| CLS6361 | Ocular Disease Diagnosis & Management I | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLS6370 | Cornea & Contact Lenses II | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3.50 |
| CLS6371 | Management of Non-Strabismic Binocular Vision Conditions | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3.50 |
| CLE6390 | Optometric Clinical Service IV | 0 | 0 | 4 | 1.00 |
| Total | 18 | 6 | 4 | 22.00 | |
Third Year Summer Quarter |
|||||
| CLS7060 | Pediatric Optometry | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.00 |
| CLS7070 | Cornea & Contact Lenses III | 3 | 0.5 | 0 | 3.25 |
| CLS7071 | Vision, Perception & Learning | 3 | 2 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLS7080 | Practice Management II | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.00 |
| CLE7090 | Optometric Clinical Service V | 0 | 0 | 14 | 3.50 |
| Total | 10 | 2.5 | 14 | 14.75 | |
| Third Year Fall Quarter | |||||
| CLS7150 | Research Proposal I | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0.50 |
| CLS7160 | Geriatric Optometry | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.00 |
| CLS7161 | Ocular Disease Diagnosis & Management II | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLS7162 | Ocular Health Procedures II | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3.50 |
| CLS7170 | Strabismus & Amblyopia Diagnosis | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4.50 |
| CLE7190 | Optometric Clinical Service VI | 0 | 0 | 14 | 3.50 |
| Total | 11 | 7 | 14 | 18.00 | |
| Third Year Winter Quarter | |||||
| BVS7250 | Research Proposal II | 0 | 0.5 | 0 | 0.25 |
| CLS7260 | Ocular Disease Diagnosis & Management III | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLS7270 | Strabismus & Amblyopia Management | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3.00 |
| CLS7271 | Low Vision Rehabilitation | 3 | 2 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLE7290 | Optometric Clinical Service VII | 0 | 0 | 14 | 3.50 |
| Total | 10 | 2.5 | 14 | 14.75 | |
| Third Year Spring Quarter | |||||
| CLS7360 | Ocular Disease Case Management | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1.00 |
| CLS7361 | Ocular Health Procedures III | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2.50 |
| CLS7370 | Cornea & Contact Lenses IV | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1.50 |
| CLS7380 | Practice Management III | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2.00 |
| CLS7381 | Health Promotion | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1.00 |
| CLE7390 | Optometric Clinical Service IX | 0 | 0 | 14 | 3.50 |
| Total | 5 | 5 | 14 | 11.50 | |
| Fourth Professional Year Curriculum | |||||
| BVS8050 | Senior Research | 0.5 | 1 | 0 | 1.00 |
| CLE8090 | Clinical Seminars | 4 | 0 | 0 | 4.00 |
| CLE8490 | Optometric Clinical Service IX | 0 | 0 | 48 | 12.00 |
| CLE8491 | Outreach Clinical Service I | 0 | 0 | 48 | 12.00 |
| CLE8492 | Outreach Clinical Service II | 0 | 0 | 48 | 12.00 |
| CLE8493 | Outreach Clinical Service III | 0 | 0 | 48 | 12.00 |
| Total | 4.5 | 1 | 192 | 53.00 | |
First Professional Year Course Descriptions 2010-11
FALL QUARTER
BVS 5110 Anatomy and Physiology
- Four and one-half credit hours. Four lecture hours and one laboratory hour per week.
A study of organ systems important to optometrists is presented. Topics include homeostasis, and the anatomy and physiology of the heart, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine and nervous systems. Laboratory instruction includes the demonstration of physiological concepts, principles of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and diagnostic medical procedures.
BVS 5111 Applied Biochemistry and Microbiology
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours per week.
This course involves the study of the structure and function of the biological macromolecules (proteins, lipids, polysaccharides and nucleic acids), intermediary metabolism and regulation. Also discussed are energy generation, signal transduction, and an introduction to molecular biology. In addition, reference is made to unique aspects of biochemistry as it relates to normal and abnormal vision function. This course also includes a concise review of clinically important aspects of microbiology. Basic and clinical aspects of bacteriology, virology, mycology, and parasitology are covered. Infections of the eye are discussed in relation to techniques for laboratory isolation, culturing, and identification of the infectious agents.
- Five credit hours. Four lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
This course is an introduction to the geometrical optics of prisms, mirrors and lenses. Emphasis is placed on the characteristics of optical images formed by these basic elements and their combinations. Applications of the subject matter to vision and clinical optometry are discussed.
- Four and one-quarter credit hours. Three and one-half lecture hours and one and one-half laboratory hours per week.
Eye movements are described with an emphasis on their functional characteristics. The anatomy and physiology of the extraocular muscles and the various neural pathways serving eye movements are presented within a framework of the functions they serve. Emphasis is placed on the basic oculomotor kinematics that will be necessary for clinical interpretation of eye movement disorders. Classes of eye movements that are considered in detail include vestibulo-ocular and optokinetic eye movements, pursuits, saccades, vergence, fixational eye movements and reading eye movements.
CLS 5180 Practice Management I
- Two and one-quarter credit hours. Two lecture hours per week and ten workshop hours per quarter.
This course provides learning experiences for students in planning personal and professional goals, and in the financial planning and arrangements necessary to reach these goals. Personal finance strategies are introduced and developed to manage debt and prepare for future business goals. Career choices using the Doctor of Optometry degree, modes and scope of optometric practice, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the various paths are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the marketing steps that should be initiated to prepare for a professional career. The historical events affecting the profession of optometry, the state of optometry today, and optometric organizations supporting the profession are also presented. Ethical implications of career choices are discussed throughout the curriculum.
- One credit hour. One lecture hour per week for seven weeks. One-hour discussion groups for five weeks.
This course introduces ethical theory and presents case studies that are commonplace in clinical optometric practice. The initial lecture sequence on ethical theories, legal state regulations and clinical examples is supplemented with small group discussions of case studies using a problem-based learning format. Students examine and address issues by applying ethical theory and values to resolving situations that challenge practitioners. Ethical issues dealing with confidentiality, professional referrals, advertising, record keeping, informed consent, and conflicts of interest are presented.
WINTER QUARTER
- Five credit hours. Four lecture hours and one laboratory hour per week.
A detailed study of the human visual apparatus and related structures is presented. Topics are approached from gross anatomical, histological and embryological perspectives. The laboratory is devoted to the demonstration of basic ocular anatomy concepts. Laboratories include dissection of the mammalian eye and examination of the human eye.
- Five credit hours. Four lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
This course presents advanced topics in geometrical optics and an introduction to physical optics. Of primary interest are optical instruments and their properties, chromatic and monochromatic aberrations, interference, diffraction, and polarization. Applications to vision science and clinical optometry are discussed.
- Four credit hours. Three and one-half lecture hours and one laboratory hour per week.
The eye is studied as the physiological optical element of the visual system. The optical components of the eye are discussed in terms of their geometrical, physical, physiological, psychophysical and optical properties. The eye is considered as an image-forming mechanism, where each component contributes to the nature and quality of the retinal image. The relationship between optics and visual performance is discussed, including the effects of ametropias and oculomotor systems on vision.
- Four and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
This course is the first in a series of three courses that present the basic clinical tests and procedures comprising a comprehensive primary eye care examination. The content of this course includes the principles and clinical methods of patient interviewing, history taking, entrance testing and clinical refraction. The laboratory provides demonstration and practice of these clinical methods.
CLS 5280 Public Health and Optometry
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours per week.
This course provides an overview of public health and its core functions of assessment, policy development, and assurance as related to the profession of optometry. In addition to these core functions, specific topics presented include community health and assessment; epidemiological principles, social justice, cultural competency, government’s role in public health and optometry, infection control, and quality assurance.
CLE 5290 Optometric Clinical Service I
- One-quarter credit hour. One clinic hour per week.
This course serves as an introduction to optometric patient care. Student interns are assigned to the Primary Care Service at the Eye Care Center where they conduct portions of a comprehensive eye examination along with fourth-year students, under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty. Clinical discussions are included to enhance the learning experience.
SPRING QUARTER
- Four and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
This course presents the study of the central nervous system, including cellular neurophysiology, organization of sensory pathways, voluntary control of movement, and the physiology of central visual pathways. Laboratory instruction includes the gross and microscopic anatomy of the nervous system, the study of the major sensory and motor pathways of the brain, and discussion of the clinical correlations of neuro-anatomical structure.
- Four and one-half credit hours. Four lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
This course provides the fundamental principles of general pathology. Topics of discussion include cell injury and death, cellular repair, inflammation, infection, blood and circulatory disorders, neoplasia, genetics, and environmental diseases. The pathophysiology of each topic is emphasized. The laboratory portion concentrates on clinical procedures, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment and management, and enables application of those theories learned in lecture. The laboratory topics presented include glucometry, blood pressure, and carotid artery assessment, cranial nerve evaluation, headache history, and systemic emergencies.
- Three credit hours. Two lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
This introductory course in ophthalmic prescription measurement includes the use of instruments to design and measure spherical and cylindrical lens powers, and the determination of surface powers and base curves. The course emphasizes the basic calculation principles and use of ophthalmic lens measuring devices.
- Four and one-quarter credit hours. Three and one-half lecture hours and one and one-half laboratory hours per week.
This course is concerned with the study of visual stimuli and the response they evoke in the human organism. Included are the principles of photometry and radiometry as well as topics related to the visual response to light stimuli such as intensity discrimination, light and dark adaptation, visual acuity, and the psychophysical methods used to investigate these aspects of the human visual system.
- Four and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
This course is a continuation of Clinical Methods I. Presented in this course are the principles and clinical methods for the assessment of binocular vision and accommodation. Other topics presented include color vision screening, and selected ocular health procedures. The laboratory provides demonstration and practice of these clinical methods.
CLE 5390 Optometric Clinical Service II
- One-quarter credit hour. One clinic hour per week.
This course serves as an introduction to problem-based learning. Students work collectively to solve clinical case scenarios which provide the basis for understanding the clinical decision making process. Faculty serve as the facilitators in this discussion based course.
Second Professional Year Course Descriptions 2010-11
FALL QUARTER
- Three and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and one laboratory hour per week.
This course presents a systematic study of the physiology of the eye. Lecture topics include function, physiology and biochemistry of the lids, lacrimal apparatus, cornea, uveal tract, intraocular fluids, lens, retina and optic nerve. Where appropriate, clinical correlations are presented. Clinical assessment of physiological function utilizing instruments and/or pharmaceutical agents within the scope of contemporary primary care optometric practice is included.
- Four credit hours. Three and one-half lecture hours and one laboratory hour per week.
The course builds upon the principles of general pathology learned in Clinical Medicine I. The didactic portion of this course involves the presentation of diseases of organ systems. These include blood vessels, the heart, the blood and lymph systems, lungs, kidney, oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, endocrine system, musculoskeletal system, skin, and nervous system. The laboratory portion concentrates on clinical procedures, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment and management, and enables application of those theories learned in lecture. The laboratory topics presented include glucometry, blood pressure, and carotid artery assessment, cranial nerve evaluation, headache history, and systemic emergencies.
- Three and one-half credit hours. Two and one-half lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
This course presents the optical principles and concepts of ophthalmic lens parameters and characteristics including lens thickness, impact resistance, multifocal design, absorptive tints and coatings, lens power effectivity, and lens magnification. Clinical applications of specific lens designs for occupational use and for compensation of prismatic imbalance are also discussed. The laboratory includes instruction in the fitting and adjusting of ophthalmic frames and eyewear.
- Four and one-quarter credit hours. Three and one-half lecture hours and one and one-half laboratory hours per week.
This course emphasizes the fundamentals of color vision and contrast sensitivity (spatial and temporal). Additionally, the differences in the vision function in the infant and geriatric visual systems are discussed with application to clinical care. The subject matter is explored both from the basic anatomical and physiological mechanisms involved in these sensory processes, as well as the clinical tests and procedures used to evaluate them. Clinical proficiency in the diagnosis and management of color vision deficiencies, and contrast sensitivity testing is expected after successful completion of this course.
- Four and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
This course is a continuation of Clinical Methods I. Presented in this course are the principles and clinical methods for the assessment of phorias, vergences and accommodation. Other topics presented include color vision screening, and selected ocular health procedures. The laboratory provides demonstration and practice of these clinical methods.
WINTER QUARTER
BVS 6210 Systemic Pharmacology
- Four credit hours. Four lecture hours per week.
This fundamental course in pharmacology introduces the student to basic concepts of drug effects on body organs and systems, including the eye. The pharmacological actions, mechanisms, clinical applications, and potential adverse effects of systemic drugs in current clinical use are considered in detail.
CLS 6260 Case Analysis and Prescribing I
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours and one discussion hour per week.
This course introduces the principles and concepts of clinical case analysis and prescribing. The topics presented include graphical analysis of accommodation and vergence, prescribing guidelines, clinical problem solving, decision making, and record keeping, assessment of accommodation disorders, computer vision syndrome, and the comprehensive case history. The discussion sessions include the study of sample clinical cases with respect to analysis of clinical findings and prescribing options.
BVS 6250 Binocular Vision and Space Perception
- Five credit hours. Four lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
This fundamental course in theoretical binocular vision discusses, in detail, topics such as physical and perceived space, the horopter, retinal correspondence, fusion, fixation disparity and stereopsis. Clinical relevancy of these fundamental concepts is emphasized. Additional topics concerned with visual perception will be presented including perception of size, visual direction and visual attention. Information processing theory will be used to develop a model for visual perception. Various clinical and visual phenomena including figure ground relationships, visual illusions, and neurological deficits will be used to illustrate the model.
CLS 6261 Ocular Health Procedures I
- Four and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
This course presents basic procedures and techniques in ocular health assessment for the primary care optometrist. The principles, performance and interpretation of various health assessment procedures utilized in clinical practice are discussed. A systematic, problem-oriented approach to the diagnostic evaluation of the eye and neuro-visual system is emphasized. Standards of care and medico-legal issues in ocular health assessment are presented along with insurance codes and reimbursement guidelines. The laboratory provides experience in the use of these procedures, as well as the clinical utilization of pharmaceutical agents commonly used in primary care optometric practice. The laboratory requires that students actively participate as doctors and patients while learning these procedures.
CLS 6270 Cornea and Contact Lenses I
- Four credit hours. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
The basic characteristics and design features of rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses are presented. Specific topics addressed in this course include lens fabrication, verification and analysis, contact lens optics, and fluorescein pattern interpretation. Approaches to fitting rigid gas permeable contact lenses considering the contributions of corneal topography, refraction and over-refraction, and tear lens calculations are demonstrated. Care of RGP contact lens patients and the anatomical and physiological changes associated with adaptation and long-term wear are discussed.
CLE 6290 Optometric Clinical Service IV
- Three-quarter credit hour. Three clinic hours per week.
A series of discussions/seminars on various aspects of optical dispensing are presented by the Optical Service Staff of the Eye Care Clinic. Additionally, some time is spent in the provision of Optical Service. This course is designed to provide practical, clinical experience to reinforce the knowledge gained in Ophthalmic Optics I and II. Students gain clinical experience through proficiencies and direct patient care under the supervision of licensed optometrists within the Primary Care Service. Student interns also participate in vision screenings of children at various school sites.
SPRING QUARTER
- Four credit hours. Four lecture hours per week.
This course presents the pharmacology of drugs used for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases, and discussions of other drugs that may affect the eye. Specific topics include cycloplegic, mydriatic, anti-inflammatory, glaucoma, anesthetic, diagnostic and anti-infective drugs. Both prescription and non-prescription preparations are considered and discussed.
BVS 6350 Biostatistics and Research Design
- Three credit hours. Three lecture hours per week.
The fundamental concepts in research design are presented. Included is a special emphasis on skills used in lifelong learning and independent study necessary in optometric practice. Discussions include how to design clinical research studies, an overview of statistical methods including sample size determination, how to apply research results to optometric practice and how to access and evaluate research literature. The course introduces guidelines for the student research projects conducted during the third and fourth professional years.
CLS 6360 Case Analysis and Prescribing II
- Three credit hours. Three lecture hours per week.
This course is designed to enable the student to confidently work-up, analyze and manage clinical cases. The use of scientific principles and epidemiology to review patient history, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses to arrive at a clinical diagnosis and management is stressed. Students are taught the art and science of prescribing lenses and prisms for ametropias, presbyopia and binocular anomalies. Emphasis is placed on consideration of occupational, avocational, and safety factors in determining a treatment and management plan.
BVS 6361 Ocular Disease Diagnosis and Management I
- Four credit hours. Four lecture hours per week.
This course presents a comprehensive discussion of anterior segment diseases and disorders. Pathophysiology of ocular tissues is related to the disease processes to provide a strong understanding of the ocular disease presentation and patient symptomology. Clinical cases are presented to enhance student learning. Clinical and laboratory evaluation is discussed along with the diagnosis, treatment and management of anterior segment diseases. Current management strategies will emphasize the utilization of appropriate therapeutic agents and modalities for proper follow-up care. Selected readings help to emphasize current thoughts on treatment and management.
CLS 6370 Cornea and Contact Lenses II
- Three and one-half credit hours. Two lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
Continuing applications of rigid gas permeable contact lens fitting and management are presented. Rigid toric lens analysis and lens modifications are described and applied. An overview of soft lens characteristics, fit assessment and patient management is taught. Bifocal and toric contact lens indications and options are outlined. Current research in cornea and contact lenses, and its clinical implications, is introduced.
CLS 6371 Management of Non-Strabismic Binocular Vision Conditions
- Three and one-half credit hours. Two lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
This course will cover the diagnosis and management of non-strabismic binocular vision conditions including anomalies of the vergence, accommodation, and ocular motor systems. Lecture topics include the clinical evaluation, case analysis, diagnosis, and management of these systems. A range of treatment options will be discussed, including lenses, prisms, and vision therapy. Active vision therapy utilizing a sequential approach will be emphasized. The laboratory provides experience in the use of instrumentation to diagnose and treat vision anomalies that affect efficiency of visual performance.
CLE 6390 Optometric Clinical Service IV
- One credit hour. Four clinic hours per week.
Student interns will provide comprehensive primary care examinations to the limits of their education under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists at the Eye Care Center. Student interns provide primary vision care utilizing all procedures learned in the preceding pre-clinical courses. Additionally, optical dispensing experiences and observations in other clinical services will prepare students for their summer internship. Student interns also participate in vision screenings of children at various school sites.
Third Professional Year Course Descriptions 2010-11
SUMMER QUARTER
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours per week.
The diagnosis and management of common vision problems in young children requires an understanding of vision development, as well as the utilization of diagnostic procedures that are developmentally appropriate. This course provides diagnostic strategies for examining the infant, toddler, and pre-schooler. Application of pediatric tests for special needs children is presented, as well as the implication of ocular health on normal visual development. Finally, management of common vision problems in the pediatric population is presented in a case discussion format.
CLS 7070 Cornea and Contact Lenses III
- Three and one-quarter credit hours. Three lecture hours per week and six laboratory hours per quarter.
Advanced and more complex contact lens designs and fitting options are reviewed. The cases include management of astigmatism with gas-permeable toric lenses and contact lens management of special corneal topographies such as those found with post-surgical corneas, post-traumatic corneas, keratoconus and orthokeratology patients. Contact lens management of presbyopia and pediatric patients is discussed. A description of corneal dystrophies and degenerations including contact lens options and treatment plans is included. Discussion of the physiologic impact of contact lenses on the cornea is presented in increased depth. Diagnosis, treatment and management of contact lens related complications in various lens wear modalities are described.
This course also includes the advanced topic of ocular prosthetics. The care, fitting and management of ocular prosthetic devices are presented and discussed. Case examples and options for care are featured. There is a hands-on lab dealing with the procedures and techniques used in fitting, creation, and fabrication of various styles of ocular prosthetic devices.
CLS 7071 Vision, Perception and Learning
- Four credit hours. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
The course will give the student a systematic approach for the diagnosis and management of developmental visual information processing (DVIP) disorders. The role of the optometrist as part of a multidisciplinary team in evaluating children with learning disabilities will be emphasized. The course will provide a review of child development, principles of standardized testing, learning disabilities, and dyslexia. The purpose of the tests used in the DVIP profile will be discussed along with relating specific disorders to symptoms that are found in the case history. Finally, a sequential management plan for treating patients with DVIP dysfunction will be presented.
CLS 7080 Practice Management II
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours per week.
This course coincides with the introduction of students to patient care in a clinical setting. Emphasis is placed on enhancing a student’s interpersonal skills and professionalism as part of patient care. Using a seminar/workshop format, emphasis is placed on the ethical implications of professional practice. Doctor/patient communication methods are practiced and clinicians are taught how to enable patients to fully evaluate the consequences of various treatment and management options. The business concepts of staff management, public relations and practice marketing, patient retention, recall and office production monitoring are presented. Clinico-legal aspects from record keeping, patient confidentiality, documentation, coding and billing, record release, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) issues are also covered. Optometry’s role in community disaster preparedness is discussed.
CLE 7090 Optometric Clinical Service V
- Three and one-half credit hours. Fourteen clinic hours per week.
Student interns are assigned to patient care in the Primary Care, Optical, Cornea and Contact Lenses, Vision Therapy and Chronic Care, Special Testing and Ophthalmology Consultation Services at the Eye Care Center. Emphasis is placed on optometric examination skills and the utilization of problem-oriented records in all services. Demonstrations of differential diagnostic treatment and management techniques in ocular disease and special testing methods are provided. Diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents are utilized in all clinical services under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists. Completion of a certified course in cardiopulmonary resuscitation is required during this quarter.
FALL QUARTER
- One-half credit hour. Independent study.
Based on the prerequisite course work covering general research design principles and applicable statistical analysis of research data, a completed research proposal is to be submitted at the beginning of the Fall Quarter. Research projects may be in any of the basic or clinical sciences related to the practice of optometry.
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours per week.
This course introduces the principles of vision rehabilitation with respect to the geriatric and visually impaired populations. The topics presented include the clinical characteristics of aging, etiology and visual impairment, demographics and psychosocial factors of geriatric and visually impaired patients, the case history and clinical examination of these patients, and optics of treatment options for the visually impaired. The laboratory presents examination procedures and techniques utilized for geriatric and visually impaired patients in traditional and non-traditional settings; motility procedures; geriatric case management; and an introduction to rehabilitation optics and optical systems for visual impairment.
CLS 7161 Ocular Disease Diagnosis and Management II
- Four credit hours. Four lecture hours per week.
The evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases of the retina, the optic nerve, and the glaucomas are presented. Emphasis is placed on understanding the disease process, and the clinical presentation and appropriate use of diagnostic modalities, including new technologies. Therapeutic strategies emphasize medical and surgical management, co-management and follow-up care. Medico-legal issues, patient education, and standards of care are presented including record keeping, coding and reimbursement guidelines.
CLS 7162 Ocular Health Procedures II
- Three and one-half credit hours. Two lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
Clinical procedures used in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of ocular disease, such as anterior segment eye disorders, retinal disease, the glaucomas and the ocular manifestations of systemic disease, are presented in this course. Emphasis is placed on the appropriate integration of the procedures in the ocular health examination. The laboratory solidifies the competence of the techniques utilized in the effective treatment and management of ocular disease.
CLS 7170 Strabismus and Amblyopia Diagnosis
- Four and one-half credit hours. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
The evaluation of patients presenting with strabismus and/or amblyopia is discussed. A sequential examination strategy is presented with emphasis on the administration and interpretation of diagnostic testing procedures to arrive at an accurate diagnostic summary. Etiology, prevalence, and characteristics of the more common types of strabismus and amblyopia are highlighted. Communication of prognostic and diagnostic outcomes with parents, patients, and other health care professionals is discussed.
CLE 7190 Optometric Clinical Services VII
- Three and one-half credit hours. Fourteen clinic hours per week.
Student interns are assigned to patient care in the Primary Care, Optical, Cornea and Contact Lenses, Vision Therapy, and Chronic Care, Special Testing and Ophthalmology Consultation Services at the Eye Care Clinic. Emphasis is placed on the use of the problem-oriented examination and technical proficiency in evaluating the visual system. Diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents are utilized in all clinical services under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists.
WINTER QUARTER
- One-quarter credit hour. Independent study.
This course is a continuation of Research Proposal I.
CLS 7260 Ocular Disease Diagnosis and Management III
- Four credit hours. Four lecture hours per week.
The course covers ocular complications associated with systemic disease. The lectures emphasize the diagnosis, treatment, and management of the ocular sequela of systemic diseases as well as ocular signs that may preempt the onset of the systemic disease. Areas of emphasis include neurology, orbitopathy, endocrinology, connective tissue disorders, uveitic syndromes, rheumatology, autoimmune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), and ocular emergencies. Optometric co-management with internal medicine and medical subspecialties is emphasized.
CLS 7270 Strabismus/Amblyopia Management
- Three credit hours. Three lecture hours per week.
Clinical management of patients with strabismus and/or amblyopia is discussed. Sequential treatment programs, including the use of lenses, prisms, occlusion, active vision therapy, and appropriate surgical referrals for prevalent types of strabismus and amblyopia are presented for prevalent strabismus/amblyopia syndromes are presented. Treatment components including lenses, prisms, occlusion, active vision therapy and appropriate surgical referrals are highlighted. Emphasis is placed on early treatment, prevention and elimination of anomalous sensory-motor responses and the reestablishment of efficient binocular vision, including the necessary post-operative care for patients requiring surgical intervention.
CLS 7271 Low Vision Rehabilitation
- Four credit hours. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week.
The topics presented include the performance characteristics of optical and non-optical treatment options for the visually impaired; assessment, treatment, and management of geriatric and visually impaired patients; development of a vision rehabilitation plan; the multi-disciplinary team approach to rehabilitation; patient communication and education; management of special populations; and practice management considerations. The laboratory presents the performance characteristics and clinical application of optical and non-optical treatment options for visual impairment.
CLE 7290 Optometric Clinical Service VIII
- Three and one-half credit hours. Fourteen clinic hours per week.
Student interns are assigned to patient care in the Primary Care, Optical, Cornea and Contact Lenses, Vision Therapy, and Chronic Care, Special Testing and Ophthalmology Consultation Services at the Eye Care Clinic. Emphasis is placed on the use of the problem-oriented examination and technical proficiency in evaluating the visual system. Diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents are utilized in all clinical services under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists.
SPRING QUARTER
CLS 7360 Ocular Disease Case Management
- One credit hour. Two discussion hours per week.
The purpose of this course is to effectively integrate the information presented in the prior ocular disease courses. Utilizing an interactive, small group case discussion format, students will be able to enhance their abilities in proper differential diagnosis, testing protocol, treatment and management, and patient education of conditions related to ocular disease.
CLS 7361 Ocular Health Procedures III
- Two and one-half credit hours. Two lecture hours and one laboratory hour per week.
The purpose of this course is for the student to become knowledgeable in the protocol of advanced complex diagnostic and therapeutic clinical procedures involving ocular disease conditions. Special emphasis is placed on the indications and procedural application of anterior and posterior segment lasers, ocular imaging devices, neuro-imaging, diagnostic and therapeutic injections and ocular surgical procedures.
CLS 7370 Cornea and Contact Lenses IV
- One and one-half credit hours. Two laboratory hours and two clinic hours per week.
This course consists of contact lens seminars and grand rounds. The major topic areas for student discussions and grand rounds patient presentations include management of regular and irregular astigmatism, presbyopia, irregular corneas such as keratoconus and pellucid marginal degeneration, management of orthokeratology and post-surgical corneas as well as prosthetics and dry eye. This course is designed for students to present patient cases and to submit a written case report.
CLS 7380 Practice Management III
- Two credit hours. Two lecture hours per week.
This course is designed to provide educational information and exercises that facilitate the acquisition of knowledge and skills necessary for entering independent practice. Students will be taught modern business principles and be able to select their preferred mode of practice. The desired outcome of the course is that the student will be able to select and enter the best practice situation to meet his/her personal goals upon graduation. Each student will prepare a loan proposal to secure funding for the practice opportunity chosen.
- One credit hour. One lecture hours per week.
The course provides students with an understanding of the optometrist’s role in health promotion. Program planning, implementation, and evaluation of health promotion activities are discussed. Students are given the opportunity to participate in the creation of a community-based project of their choosing to gain firsthand experience in public health optometry.
CLE 7390 Optometric Clinical Service VIII
- Three and one-half credit hours. Fourteen clinic hours per week.
Student interns are assigned to patient care in the Primary Care, Optical, Cornea and Contact Lenses, Vision Therapy, Low Vision Rehabilitation, and Chronic Care, Special Testing and Ophthalmology Consultation Services at the Eye Care Clinic. Emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis of visual and ocular conditions, case analysis, recommendations for treatment, management, continuing care and referral criteria. Diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents are utilized in all clinical services under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists.
Fourth Professional Year Course Descriptions 2010-11
The fourth professional year is designed to promote continued development of the student's emerging clinical problem-solving abilities. The focus is on higher order cognitive thought processing (analysis, evaluation), rather than basic levels of knowledge and comprehension. The instruction material is designed to advance the student's content knowledge (beyond the first three years) through challenging patient care problems that highlight or emphasize differential diagnosis, management decisions, referral decisions and follow-up, as well as address newer techniques and procedures for diagnosis and management.
- One credit hour. Independent study.
The proposed research project is completed and a formal research report is written and submitted by the end of the third Outreach clinic rotation. Selected projects are presented at the Student Research Symposium, held during Commencement Week.
- Four credit hours. Forty seminar hours.
This seminar series is presented as a weekly program during each clinic rotation at the Eye Care Center. The seminars highlight patient care topics including, but not limited to primary care, contact lenses, vision therapy, low vision rehabilitation, ocular therapeutics, practice management, and career preparation. Basic science and clinical science concepts are integrated within the context of these topics. The format of the seminar program includes lectures, workshops, laboratories, grand rounds, demonstrations and small group discussions.
CLE 8490 Optometric Clinical Service X
- Twelve credit hours. Forty-eight clinic hours per week for a twelve-week rotation.
Student interns continue outpatient care assignments in the Primary Care, Optical, Cornea and Contact Lenses, Pediatric Optometry, Vision Therapy, Low Vision Rehabilitation, and Chronic Care, Special Testing and Ophthalmology Consultation Services at the Eye Care Center. Emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis of eye conditions, case analysis, treatment, patient management, and efficient problem-solving skills. Quality assurance by record review and direct patient care experience is emphasized. Diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents are utilized in all clinical services under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists. Students also participate in school screening programs and rotate through specialty clinical practices.
CLE 8491 Outreach Clinical Service I
CLE 8492 Outreach Clinical Service II
CLE 8493 Outreach Clinical Service III
- Twelve credit hours each. Forty-eight clinic hours per week for three twelve-week rotations.
The Outreach Clinical Programs provide students with comprehensive clinical education in the diagnosis, management and treatment of conditions of the visual system. Patient groups served are diverse in age, race, culture, socio-economic level and health delivery systems. Patient care is provided in various settings including optometric and co-management centers; Department of Veterans Affairs centers; HMOs; military; public health and USPH Indian Health clinics; medical ambulatory clinics; community health centers; and general and specialty hospitals. Under direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty, students provide full-scope optometric care in specialty clinics. Interdisciplinary team training in vision rehabilitation and primary care educate students for the role of optometrists as vital members of the health care team. Advanced clinical instrumentation, and diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents are utilized, in all clinical care settings, under the direct supervision of licensed optometric faculty and/or board-certified ophthalmologists