ICO is on track to launch a new dual–degree option for students enrolled in its Doctor of Optometry program. This thesis–based joint degree, a Master of Science in Clinical Vision Research (OD/MS), will allow students to graduate with both degrees on schedule with their pre–established OD graduation date. Students may apply to the program during the summer between their first and second years, with coursework beginning in the fall of the second year.

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The OD/MS program will be open to all first–year students, but it may be especially appealing to those participating in ICO’s Summer Research Program. Students in that program can apply their projects toward the required research and thesis work for the joint degree. They may also take certain didactic courses during the summer research period and earn tuition–free credit for that coursework if they later enroll in the OD/MS program.

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Students in the OD/MS program will conduct a clinical research project, complete concurrent research–related coursework, write a thesis based on their project’s background, methods and results, and present an oral defense to the ICO community. The curriculum will include concurrent credit for coursework required for the OD degree, along with additional graduate–level MS courses. The first applications will be reviewed in early July 2026.

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Each student will work with a primary mentor and a thesis committee to guide and review their progress. Coursework will include biostatistics, research design, scientific writing and ethics. Students will also participate in research seminars and other activities to build the skills necessary for designing, conducting and reporting scientific studies.

The joint degree offers an attractive, convenient option for students interested in optometric research and for those seeking to expand their career opportunities. Graduates may go on to pursue advanced degrees such as a Ph.D., conduct research in academic settings, or work in various roles within the optometric industry. Earning an OD/MS degree may also enhance competitiveness for residency positions that emphasize clinical research.

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ICO launched its Summer Research Program in 2019 to provide first–year students with the opportunity to conduct mentored clinical research during the summer before their second year. Participants present their work at professional meetings and are often published in scientific journals. Due to the success of, and growing interest in, the Summer Research Program, the OD/MS joint degree in Clinical Vision Research represents a natural next step to expand ICO’s research training opportunities.

This OD/MS program is expected to not only benefit ICO students, but also the broader academic culture at ICO. By strengthening research engagement and expanding scholarly infrastructure, the program aims to help advance the field of optometry by contributing to the development of future clinical researchers.