Overview

The Physiological Optics - Vision Science programme at the University of Houston is designed to prepare students for advanced careers in the basic or clinical science of vision. This academic track provides a robust foundation for those aiming to work in research or teaching roles within professional, industrial, or academic environments.

Students entering the programme typically hold a degree in a related field, such as optometry, medicine, neuroscience, or bioengineering. The curriculum is structured to ensure a broad base of scientific knowledge while remaining flexible enough to allow for specialised expertise in areas of personal or professional interest.

Research is a central component of the experience, with students joining faculty labs to investigate normal and abnormal visual processes.

Why Physiological Optics - Vision Science at the University of Houston?

The University of Houston College of Optometry provides a distinctive environment where students work alongside faculty mentors on cutting-edge visual science. Research approaches range from molecular and cellular studies to behavioural and optical analysis, offering a comprehensive educational experience.

The programme benefits from strong links to both academia and industry, with external experts often serving on thesis and dissertation committees. This ensures that the research conducted is relevant to current professional standards and addresses real-world challenges in eye health and vision preservation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 1210 per credit
National fee: USD 1210 per credit
Local fee: USD 705 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Physiological Optics
Vision Science
Visual Processes
Diseases and Disorders of the Eye
Visual Optics
Central Visual Pathways
Eye Movement Control Systems
Vision Loss Treatments
Functional Biosciences
Neuroscience

Careers with Physiological Optics - Vision Science

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in academic, industrial, and professional settings. Many pursue careers as university professors, clinical researchers, or scientists within the biotechnology and medical device industries, focusing on the development of new diagnostic and treatment tools.

The programme's emphasis on original research and teaching experience ensures that alumni are competitive candidates for positions in ophthalmic research centres and healthcare organisations. Graduates contribute to the global understanding of vision and the prevention of visual impairment.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Vision Science

Pathophysiology of the Anterior and Posterior Segments

Visual Neuroscience

Optics and the Eye

Professional Development for Vision Scientists

Optical Sensing & Biophotonics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Houston, United States

Disciplines

Physics Physiology Optometry View 398 other Masters in Physics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Bachelor of Science (BS) or an undergraduate Engineering degree from an accredited academic or professional institution comparable to the degrees awarded at the University of Houston in biological or physical sciences and engineering, or a BS or doctorate (or equivalent) degree in optometry or medicine

Sufficient training to undertake graduate level study in physiological optics/vision sciences

GPA of B (3.00) or above in all previous college-level or higher work with particular attention being given to science courses

Completed Application

Official Transcripts

Three Recommendation Letters and Form

Personal Statement of Purpose explaining why you want to join the specific graduate program

GRE requirement is waived, submission of scores is optional: GRE (≥300 V+M to be competitive)

Curriculum Vitae /Resume

Signed Letter of Understanding

Letter of Financial Backing or statement that student can enroll with financial support

Test of English Proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

36300 USD / year

≈ 36300 USD / year
Out-of-State

36300 USD / year

≈ 36300 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

21150 USD / year

≈ 21150 USD / year

Living costs

Houston

United States

1067 - 1950 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Physiological Optics - Vision Science.

Available Scholarships

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Houston

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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