Overview

The Optometry - Vision Science dual-degree programme at The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a unique opportunity to integrate clinical training with high-level scientific enquiry. Students are equipped to provide exceptional eye care while simultaneously investigating the biological and neurological foundations of sight. This integrated pathway is designed to be completed within the standard four-year timeframe of optometry school.

The curriculum begins with a strong foundation in classroom-based learning, covering essential topics such as gross anatomy and optics. As students progress, they transition into clinical environments, gaining hands-on experience by treating patients at the university and various off-site facilities.

Why Optometry - Vision Science at The University of Alabama at Birmingham?

The University of Alabama at Birmingham provides a world-class environment for vision science, featuring dedicated faculty and specialised research centres. Students benefit from a curriculum that allows them to earn two challenging degrees side-by-side without extending their time in university. The programme's emphasis on patient-based vision research and biomedical optics ensures students have access to cutting-edge facilities and diverse clinical populations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 1635 per credit
National fee: USD 1550 per credit
Local fee: USD 628 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum combines optometric clinical training with vision science research. Modules may include:

Optics
Gross Anatomy
Eye Movements
Public Health Optometry
Pediatric Eye Care
Ocular Biology
Systems Neuroscience
Biomedical Optics
Patient-Based Vision Research

Careers with Optometry - Vision Science

Graduates of this dual-degree programme are uniquely positioned for diverse roles within the healthcare and scientific sectors. Many pursue careers as clinician-scientists, combining private or hospital-based practice with ongoing clinical research. Others find opportunities as dedicated researchers in academic settings or as specialised eye care providers. The programme also prepares individuals for leadership roles in the biomedical industry, focusing on the development of new diagnostic tools and vision therapies.

Programme Structure

Courses:

Fundamentals in Health Sciences
Geometric and Clinical Optics
Basic Science and Clinical Optometry
Ocular Anatomy
Physiology of the Eye
Biochemistry of the Eye

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-05-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

33 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Birmingham, United States

Disciplines

Optometry View 25 other Masters in Optometry in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

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

Three letters of recommendation
Resume or curriculum vitae
Personal statement/essay
Official transcripts from undergraduate degrees along with transcripts from other institutions where transfer credits were obtained
Minimum undergraduate GPA of at least a B (3.0) average
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional. If applicant has taken the GRE, scores may be submitted along with the application.

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

17985 USD / year

≈ 17985 USD / year
Out-of-State

17050 USD / year

≈ 17050 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6908 USD / year

≈ 6908 USD / year

Living costs

Birmingham

United States

1019 - 1648 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 Optometry - Vision Science.

Available Scholarships

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Optometry - Vision Science

About

On this page

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

Birmingham

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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