Master of Science in Optometry
Master of Science in Optometry
The first and only program of its kind in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East — preparing the next generation of optometric researchers, scientists, and clinical educators.
About the Program
The Master of Science program in Optometry is the first and only program of its kind in Saudi Arabia and the entire Middle East region. The program contributes to the preparation of leading optometric cadres that can advance the educational process and research projects at universities and research centers.
Furthermore, this program provides opportunities to those who wish to continue their postgraduate studies (PhD) in the future. The graduates contribute to the development of clinical skills and studies related to the assessment, diagnosis, and management of the visual system and vision problems.
Mission & Goals
The program aims at graduating students with a master's degree in Optometry Sciences, which qualifies the graduates to practice professionally in the field of Optometry and provide health services, and scientific and clinical research to the expectation of community, national and international standards.
- 1Raise the level of service in the health and education sectors in Saudi Arabia by preparing highly qualified national cadres in optometry sciences.
- 2Encourage scientific competencies through training on creativity and innovation in scientific and clinical research in optometry.
- 3Enable distinguished graduates to continue their higher studies and contribute to the academic and research ecosystem.
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
Two Paths to Your Master's Degree
Coursework-only pathway. Students complete a comprehensive curriculum across four levels covering advanced clinical, research, and applied optometry courses, culminating in a research project.
Research-focused pathway. Students complete a focused curriculum alongside a supervised master's thesis — ideal for those intending to pursue doctoral studies or research careers.
Curricular Plan
First Year
9 Credit Hours
| Code | Course Name | Theory | Practical | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPTO 541 | Advances in Ocular Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 556 | Visual Perception and Visual Psychophysics | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 597 | Visual Development | 2 | 1 | 3 |
9 Credit Hours
| Code | Course Name | Theory | Practical | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPTO 565 | Advanced Management Techniques | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 595 | Advanced Low Vision Studies | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 542 | Neurology of Oculo-motor Systems | 2 | 1 | 3 |
Second Year
14 Credit Hours
| Code | Course Name | Theory | Practical | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPTO 557 | Advanced Contact Lenses Studies | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| OPTO 571 | Experimental Design and Data Management in Visual Sciences | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 591 | Public Health Optometry and Professional Ethics | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 566 | Advanced Clinical Studies | 0 | 4 | 4 |
10 Credit Hours
| Code | Course Name | Theory | Practical | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPTO 567 | Optometric Co-management of Refractive Surgery Patients | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 592 | Interactive Discussion and Visual Cases Analysis | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| OPTO 599 | Research Project | 0 | 4 | 4 |
Track II shares Levels 1 and 2 with Track I (18 credit hours). In the second year, students complete Level 3 below then proceed to the Master's Thesis.
10 Credit Hours
| Code | Course Name | Theory | Practical | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPTO 571 | Experimental Design and Data Management in Visual Sciences | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 591 | Public Health Optometry and Professional Ethics | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| OPTO 566 | Advanced Clinical Studies | 0 | 4 | 4 |
Master's Thesis
| Code | Course Name | Credit Hours | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPT 600 | Master's Thesis | Supervised Research | ||
Download the complete Master of Science in Optometry Handbook for detailed information about program requirements, course descriptions, regulations, and graduation criteria.
