Full approval has been received by the Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO), for its Master of Science in Vision Science (MS), program by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). SCCO was notified of this important decision on September 3.

"Today marks a red-letter day in the 106 year history of SCCO as we join the ranks of other optometric institutions that have chosen to offer graduate education as a means to advance the knowledge-base of vision science and prepare individuals for careers in research and teaching," announced SCCO President Kevin L. Alexander, O.D., Ph.D. "Our graduate program in Vision Science elevates our role in optometric education by providing advanced education to graduate optometrists and scientists.

"This program will enhance the teaching program for the Doctor of Optometry degree because the graduate program will facilitate opportunities for our faculty to participate in front-line vision research," continued Dr. Alexander. "The program will increase opportunities for SCCO to attract research dollars from industry and government agencies that will help grow our program. The new graduate program provides depth to an already rich history of optometric education at SCCO."

SCCO's MS Committee includes: Professor and Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies William H. Ridder III, O.D., Ph.D.; Professor and Associate Dean for Research Jerry R. Paugh, O.D., Ph.D.; Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Kenneth E. Brookman, O.D., Ph.D., M.P.H.; and Professor and Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs Morris S. Berman, O.D., M.S.

The MS program will prepare students to embark on a career in teaching and/or research in the basic or clinical science of vision. Students accepted into the program must be enrolled at SCCO in the professional optometry program or hold a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited school or college of optometry in North America.

Four tracks are currently offered. The first is a combined OD/MS dual degree program, started upon entry into the optometry program or later in the first year of the optometry program. Two stand-alone, full-time, two-year MS tracks are also offered. The fourth option is a part-time MS program for practicing optometrists. For more information contact, Dr. William Ridder at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Established in 1904, SCCO is a private, non-profit, educational institution dedicated to educating today's minds to provide tomorrow's eye, vision and health care. SCCO grants a four-year, professional degree, Doctor of Optometry (OD) and a Master of Science in Vision Science (MS). The College's superior clinical education program provides patient care experiences in community optometric clinics; exposure to the delivery of optometric care in multi-disciplinary settings; and experiences in practices serving a wide variety of ethnic and socio-economic patient groups.