Course Descriptions

Health Care, Professionalism, and Diversity

7030

Credits: 2

This course is designed to develop a foundational understanding of the U.S. health care system and the role of optometry within this changing system. This course provides insight into the impact of technology, economics, population trends, managed care, and the emerging value-based health care on clinical practice. It introduces the concept of primary care, the interprofessional coordinated care models, the evolving scope of practice and its financial, political, and professional implications. Additionally, this course will prepare students to understand and respect the values, beliefs, and expectations of their patients, and then apply the requisite attitudes, knowledge, and skills to each patient encounter to achieve improved clinical outcomes. This course will examine ways in which culture intersects with health, and how public health efforts can be most productive by understanding cultural processes. The national challenge of improving our health care system provides a public health platform for understanding the continuing evolution of the profession of optometry.

Biochemistry and Genetics

7101

Credits: 1.5

The course is separated into two components. The fist component is genetics and we will look at the basics of DNA, RNA, and proteins examining their structures and how they are synthesized. We will discuss mutations and how they are repaired. We will examine the different inheritance patterns and be able to predict the likely phenotypic and genotypic outcomes from indicated alleles. During the biochemistry portion of this course we will examine cells and some of their biochemical functions. We will examine the structure, function, and metabolism of the three major macromolecules; carbohydrates, proteins and lipids. In addition, we will see how vitamins play an important role in these processes. And finally, we will learn the basics of enzymology.

Systemic Pathology and Physiology

7103

Credits: 2

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the systemic physiology and pathology of the human body. It describes the core principles that will allow students to develop an understanding the unique role of each organ and body system in maintaining normal body functions starting from the molecular level and proceeding to the cellular, tissue, organ, body systems and finally the organism level. The course will integrate anatomy, histology and physiology to form the basis for the understanding of normal and pathological function whether caused by pathogens or non-infectious physiological disorders. The body systems covered in this course include nervous, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, renal, endocrine and gastrointestinal.

General Anatomy and Histology

7105

Credits: 1

The General Histology course will introduce the microscopic structure of cells and tissues. It begins with an overview of the differentiation of cells and their organization into tissues. The structure and function of the basic tissue types will be presented. Emphasis is placed on normal structure (histology of cells, extracellular components and tissues) as a basis for understanding normal physiological and biochemical functions. It follows that knowledge of normal structure and function provides a framework for understanding abnormal findings and the pathogenesis of disease processes. The General Anatomy then follows with an introduction to the Organ systems. The structure and function of each organ is presented. Emphasis is placed on normal anatomy of the organs beginning with the heart, then proceeding to the lungs, the kidneys, the endocrine system, the gastro-intestinal system and finally ending with the integument. Normal anatomical structures will be presented prior to abnormal and pathological in subsequent courses. Clinical consequences of cell and tissue related diseases as well as organ disease may be presented for context and understanding.

Ocular Anatomy and Histology

7106

Credits: 2.5

Ocular anatomy and histology forms the framework for many of the biomedical aspects of primary vision care by presenting the gross and microanatomy of ocular tissues and fluids. The course provides the knowledge base in ocular tissue structure which enables the student to understand patho-physiological processes present in primary and secondary ocular diseases and congenital anomalies. Clinical correlates and case-based materials are an integral part of the course presentation. The course includes a laboratory component, which is designed to give the student an opportunity to reinforce classroom material through the utilization of anatomic specimens, as well as clinical slides, which reinforce the clinical application of the course.

Ocular Immunology and Microbiology

7109

Credits: 1

This course builds on the knowledge attained in the Systemic Immunology and Microbiology course. Lectures on ocular immunology and microbiology provide the framework for understanding the etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of immune-mediated inflammatory and microbial ocular diseases. The ocular immunology aspect of the course will focus on immunopathogenesis/immunopathology of immune mediated ocular diseases, epidemiology, clinical manifestations of immune-mediated ocular diseases and ocular correlates of systemic immune-mediated diseases, and pharmacotherapy. The ocular microbiology aspect of the course will focus on microbial structure/classification, epidemiology, microbial pathogenesis, clinical manifestations of ocular infections and ocular correlates of systemic infections, diagnostic/laboratory studies, and antimicrobial pharmacotherapy. This course will emphasize major themes in the four core areas of ocular microbiology (bacteriology, virology, mycology, and parasitology). Major themes will be applied and highlighted through reading of the required/recommended textbooks and lectures.

Systemic Pharmacology 1

7130

Credits: 2

This course will provide a survey of the general principles of pharmacology and the application of these principles to patient care situations. Evidence-based medicine is weaved through the above areas where available and appropriate. This course will cover an introduction to pharmacology and therapeutic terminology, routes of administration, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles, processes of drug development, antimicrobials (anti-bacterials, antifungals, anti-virals, anti-parasitics), drugs that affect platelets and coagulation factors, cardiovascular medications, lipid medications, endocrine medications, and prescription writing principles.

Systemic Pharmacology 2

7131

Credits: 1

This course will provide a survey of the general principles of pharmacology and the application of these principles to patient care situations. Evidence-based medicine is weaved through the course where available and appropriate. This course will cover drugs utilized in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, select cardiovascular medications, immunomodulators, anti-seizure medications, antidepressants, anxiolytics, sleep agents, pain medications and addiction, neurodegenerative disorders, and prescription writing principles.

Ocular Pharmacology 1

7140

Credits: 1.5

Ocular Pharmacology I provides students with a thorough understanding of ocular drug classifications and mechanisms of action employed by ophthalmic drugs. The student learns indications, off-label indications, contraindications, appropriate dosing, and adverse effects of pharmaceutical agents employed in an eye care setting. Drug interactions and diagnostic uses are also examined in addition to basic pharmacology concepts and terminology. Emphasis is placed on the clinical utilization of drugs in optometric practice.

Ocular Pharmacology 2

7141

Credits: 1

Ocular Pharmacology 2 provides students with a thorough understanding of ocular drug classifications and mechanisms of action employed by ophthalmic and systemic drugs. The student learns indications, off-label indications, contraindications, appropriate dosing, and adverse effects of pharmaceutical agents employed in an eye care setting. Ocular side effects of systemically delivered drugs are also emphasized in the course. The student will also learn considerations in prescribing topical ophthalmic and oral drugs in special population including pregnant patients, children, and elderly patients. Additionally, the use of compounding pharmaceuticals will be reviewed and their place in optometric eyecare will be discussed.

Management of the Glaucomas

7300

Credits: 1.5

The purpose of this course is to present the clinical study of the glaucomas to the second-year intern. The course begins with a presentation of the relevant anatomy and physiology as it relates to glaucoma. Glaucoma is defined and an overview of the epidemiology and risk factors are presented. The specific types of glaucoma are discussed including primary, childhood, and secondary glaucomas. Diagnosis of glaucoma is approached with an emphasis on proper technique used with a well-defined concept of the disease. Finally, the medical and surgical management of the glaucomas are discussed in detail and cases are presented.

Ocular Emergencies and Differential Diagnoses

7301

Credits: 1

This course provides the student with an overview of the epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management of selected ocular emergencies. There is an emphasis on conditions requiring the most emergent and/or urgent care. Students will have combined lecture and recitation instruction which will highlight determining a list of differential diagnoses. Furthermore, students will be guided through selection of appropriate diagnostic test selection and clinical findings for each condition.

Binocular Vision 1 with Laboratory

7320

Credits: 2

This course will cover diagnosis and management of accommodative, eye movement and non-strabismic binocular vision disorders. The course will include theoretical models of binocular vision, diagnostic testing and common management options for visual efficiency disorder. This course will also introduce students to the concepts of management of visual disorders with vision therapy.

Binocular Vision 2 with Laboratory

7321

Credits: 2.5

This course will cover the diagnosis and management of amblyopia and strabismus. The course will include diagnostic techniques for amblyopia including diagnosis of eccentric fixation and management techniques from penalization to vision therapy. This course overviews the different type of strabismus and management strategies for each type of strabismus including surgery, lenses, prism and vision therapy.

Anterior Segment Disease 1

7340

Credits: 1.5

The Anterior Segment Disease I course will explore the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases of the orbits, eyelids, eyelashes, and nasolacrimal system. Anterior segment tumors and anterior uveitis will also be covered. Course material will be presented in lecture with supplemental recitation sessions to enhance diagnostic evaluation of the conditions presented.

Anterior Segment Disease 2

7341

Credits: 2.5

The Anterior Segment Disease 2 course will explore the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, treatment, pharmacological and surgical management of diseases of the conjunctiva, cornea, dry eye, lens, sclera, episcleral, and uvea. Course material will be presented in lecture with supplemental recitation sessions to enhance diagnostic evaluation of the conditions presented.

Systemic Medicine and Disease 1

7342

Credits: 2

This course is the first part of a two-term sequence to advance the student’s knowledge of systemic diseases that they are likely to encounter in the primary and specialty eye care setting. For each organ system presented epidemiology of disease, risk factor analysis, pertinent history and physical examination findings, differential diagnosis, treatment and management, pertinent laboratory evaluations, and ocular manifestations will be stressed. The Systemic Medicine laboratory provides certification in both Cardiac Life Support and First Aid by the American Heart Association.

Systemic Medicine and Disease 2

7343

Credits: 2

This course is the second part of a two-term sequence to advance the student’s knowledge of systemic diseases that they are likely to encounter in the primary and specialty eye care setting. For each organ system presented epidemiology of disease, risk factor analysis, pertinent history and physical examination findings, differential diagnosis, treatment and management, pertinent laboratory evaluations, and ocular manifestations will be stressed.

Posterior Segment Disease 1

7350

Credits: 2.5

Posterior Segment I sets the stage for the evaluation and management of retinal disorders with an introduction to special testing of the posterior segment (fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography) and examination of the peripheral retina, as well as management of retinal breaks and retinal detachments. In addition, commonly encountered developmental abnormalities and their embryologic basis are reviewed. Various retinal vascular diseases and disorders, as well as macular pathologies, are discussed with emphasis on treatment and management.

Posterior Segment Disease 2

7351

Credits: 1.5

Posterior Segment Disease 2 continues to build on the concepts introduced in the Posterior Segment Disease 1 course, regarding special testing of the posterior segment (fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and fundus photography) in the various conditions presented throughout this course. Specifically, there will be a comprehensive analysis on macular disorders, including age-related macular degeneration and other subretinal diseases which implicate Bruch’s membrane and can be complicated by the development of choroidal neovascularization. Additionally, the infectious and inflammatory conditions of the posterior segment will be explored, including but not limited to proper diagnosis and management.

Head and Neck Anatomy with Laboratory

7400

Credits: 2.5

Head and Neck Anatomy is an introductory course, and serves as a prerequisite to Neuroanatomy, Neurological Examination and Neuro-ophthalmic Disease courses in the curriculum. The course emphasizes anatomical relationships which support clinical application including imaging and the relationship of the head and neck to organ systems. A case-based approach is often used, especially in lab, to emphasize the anatomy that supports the understanding of visual/ocular emergencies and morbidity as well as common problems of the visual system. This course is designed to specifically facilitate the understanding and integration of normal function and pathological changes in the eye and the nervous system.

Ocular Motility with Laboratory

7402

Credits: 2

This course emphasizes the basic mechanisms of the 5 major classes of eye movements (vestibulo-ocular reflex, optokinetic reflex, saccades, pursuits and vergence eye movements). In addition it covers ocular fixation and accommodative eye movements. While the student will mainly learn the functional and neurophysiological aspects of ocular motility, it is expected that the student will also be able to integrate this information with previously learned anatomical sites and structures. This will provide continuity in the student’s learning experience and serves as a basis for acquiring new and future knowledge about ocular motility in disease and dysfunction. Key clinical examples of eye movement disorders will be discussed along with their neural substrates and mechanisms.

Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 1 with Laboratory

7404

Credits: 1.5

Neuro-ophthalmic disease is an area that focuses on specific testing of the afferent and efferent visual systems, ocular health assessment, and neurologic examination to observe and correlate clinical signs and symptoms. These signs and symptoms are used to aid in anatomic localization of the problem as it relates to the visual and nervous system. Accurate information and assessment is critical in determining the necessary diagnostic work-up, which often includes neuro-imaging and laboratory testing.

Neuroanatomy with Laboratory

7405

Credits: 2.5

The Neuroanatomy Course covers the anatomy of the nervous system in addition to neuroanatomy and neuroscience principles. This course offers students the opportunity to learn the important basic science concepts that will later be applied clinically. Specifically, this course covers pathways of the brain and spinal cord, cranial nerves, and specifics regarding the brainstem, cerebrum, and cerebellum. This course builds on the information taught in the Head and Neck Anatomy course.

Ocular Physiology and Biochemistry

7406

Credits: 2

Ocular physiology forms the framework for many of the biomedical aspects of primary vision care by presenting the development and physiology/biochemistry of ocular tissues and fluids. The course provides the knowledge base in ocular tissue structure and function, as well as normal and abnormal development concepts, which enable the student to understand patho-physiological processes present in primary and secondary ocular diseases and congenital anomalies. Clinical correlates and case-based materials are an integral part of the course presentation. The course includes a laboratory component, which is designed to give the student an opportunity to reinforce classroom material through the utilization of anatomic and embryologic specimens, as well as clinical images, which reinforce the clinical application of the course. The laboratory setting, the smaller lab student numbers, along with the assistance of the laboratory instructors will enhance the students’ understanding of the course lecture content.

Systemic Immunology and Microbiology

7407

Credits: 1

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to systemic immunology and microbiology. The immunology aspect of the course will focus on basic and clinical immunology. The basic immunology content will focus on basic concepts of immunology, innate and adaptive immunity, the complement system, and lymphocyte development and effector function. Clinical immunology will provide a brief overview of clinical immunological disorders such as autoimmune disease, transplant rejection, tumor immunology, immunodeficiency, and hypersensitivity. The microbiology aspect of the course will focus on microbial structure, microbial replication, pathogenic mechanisms of microbes, diagnostic/laboratory studies, and major antimicrobial targets. This course will emphasize major themes in the four core areas of microbiology such as bacteriology, virology, mycology, and parasitology.

Public Health Optometry and Research Methods

7408

Credits: 1.5

Public health professionals care for populations while individual health care providers, including primary care optometrists, care for individual patients. Primary care optometrists also practice within the population based public health community. This course introduces the student to the core principles in public health: epidemiology, epidemics, screening, public health organizational structure, and public health law. The student will also learn skills to evaluate observational and experimental studies by study design and biostatistics.

Neurologic Examination and Imaging with Laboratory

7409

Credits: 1

In this course students will learn the basics of a neurologic examination and the clinical implications that these tests have in optometric care. This course will review and apply concepts from neuroanatomy through a case-based approach.

Diagnostic Imaging and Technology with Laboratory

7410

Credits: 1

The Diagnostic Imaging and Technology course provides introductory knowledge on functionality of commonly employed diagnostic imaging methods in optometric practice. The basic skills acquired in this course will be built during additional advanced disease courses in the curriculum. This course will cover imaging principles, acquisition techniques, and imaging interpretations. The imaging procedures and diagnostic testing presented will include optical coherence tomography with and without angiography (OCT, OCT-A), visual field perimetry, ocular photography with and without the use of contrast dye, fundus auto-fluorescence (FAF), and ophthalmic ultrasound. The material will be presented in lecture (either synchronous or asynchronous sessions) while hands-on acquisition techniques will be elaborated on during laboratory and workshop sessions.

Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 2 with Laboratory

7414

Credits: 1

The Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease Course Series builds on the foundation laid in the Head and Neck Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, and Neurologic Examination Courses. This course series consists of 3 courses which take place in the Fall and Spring terms of the second year (Neuro Ophthalmic Disease 1 and 2, respectively) and the summer of the third year (Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 3) of the traditional OD program. This course series covers the clinical application of the neuroscience, anatomy and neuroanatomy principles learned in previous courses. This course offers students the opportunity not only to apply those important basic science concepts clinically, but to learn how to properly examine, diagnose, and treat patients with neuro-ophthalmic manifestations. Specifically, this course, Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 2, covers evaluation and management of disorders of the efferent visual system.

Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 3

7424

Credits: 1

The Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease Course Series builds on the foundation laid in the Head and Neck Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, and Neurologic Examination Courses. This course series consists of 3 courses which take place in the Fall and Spring terms of the second year (NeuroOphthalmic Disease 1 and 2, respectively) and the summer of the third year (Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 3) of the traditional OD program. This course series covers the clinical application of the neuroscience, anatomy and neuroanatomy principles learned in previous courses. This course offers students the opportunity not only to apply those important basic science concepts clinically, but to learn how to properly examine, diagnose, and treat patients with neuroophthalmic manifestations. Specifically, this course, Neuro-Ophthalmic Disease 3, takes concepts learned in NOD 1 and NOD 2 about the afferent and efferent visual systems, and applies them to systemic and neurologic diseases and conditions.

Optics 3: Physical Optics with Laboratory

7500

Credits: 2

This course, which is the third part of a four-term sequence, centers around physical optics principles. The course begins with a discussion of interference, diffraction, and polarization, which are relevant to optometry and the optical devices used in patient care. Aberrations and other limitations to good optical clarity are discussed within the context of lenses, optical equipment, and visual acuity. Students will examine the optics of telescopes and learn about the topics of ‘stops’, field of view, and depth of field, and emphasize these concepts within the context of the telescope, the eye, and the clinical instruments that are used as part of an eye exam.

Environmental & Sports Vision

7502

Credits: 1

The online portion of this Environmental Optometry course concentrates on the study, management, and control of natural and human factors in the environment that can affect the health and visual status of patients. The second online portion of the course will concentrate on the study, management and treatment of Sports Vision issues. Because of specific risk factors in the occupational, recreational, sports and home environments, optometric practitioners should be well versed concerning visual demands and potential sources of hazard in their patients’ environments and avocations. This course will briefly introduce environmental optometry and sports vision concepts that apply to optometric practice.

Optics 4: Physiological Optics with Laboratory

7507

Credits: 2.0

This course, which is the fourth part of a four-term sequence, presents the eye as an optical instrument and the reviews the optical characteristics of vision. Students will learn to apply optical principles to the ocular structures and to visual function. Within a study of the pupil, students will examine range of clarity and stimulus to accommodation. Students will learn about retinal image size, spectacle magnification and relative spectacle magnification within the context of axial and refractive ametropias, culminating in a discussion of aniseikonia. Students will explore the optics of commonly prescribed low vision devices. Ocular biometry is discussed in reference to intra-ocular lens (IOL) calculations and refractive surgery as well as the science of emmetropization.al principles as they relate to visual function and optical devices.

Minor Surgical Procedures

7509

Credits: 1.5

The Minor Surgical Procedures course explains surgical evaluation and management including pre-operative candidate selection, pre-surgical testing, and patient counseling and preparation. Post-operative management and complications are also presented. Periocular surgical procedures topics include informed consent, OSHA guidelines, aseptic and sterile techniques, types of lesion removal, and post-operative care. Head and neck anatomy and evidence-based practice are applied in surgical planning, procedures, and anesthesia. Injection topics including indications, contraindications, side effects, complications, and techniques are reviewed. Specific injection types include periocular injections, intravenous, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intradermal, subconjunctival, and intralesional injections. The associated laboratory provides a hands-on experience in performing various injections, simulated removal of lesions using multiple techniques, and suturing procedures.

Ophthalmic Lasers

7510

Credits: 1

The Ophthalmic Laser course explains surgical evaluation and management including pre-operative candidate selection, pre-surgical testing, and patient counseling and preparation. Post-operative management and complications are also presented. Ophthalmic laser topics include basic laser physics and tissue interactions, laser safety and hazards, indications and contraindications for specific laser procedures, laser procedure protocols, and post-operative management. Students will perform simulated ophthalmic laser surgery in the Ophthalmic Laser laboratory.

Optics 1: Foundation of Light and Lenses

7530

Credits: 2.5

This course, which is the first part of a four-term sequence focuses on the fundamentals of geometric and ophthalmic optics. The course begins with an introduction to the properties and behavior of light, particularly how light bends across different surfaces to produce an image. Students will examine the imagery of single spherical refractive surfaces, thin lenses, astigmatic lenses, and mirrors, both from a mathematical perspective, as well as visually through the use of ray diagrams. These basic properties of optical systems will support the discussion of refractive error and ophthalmic lenses and form the basis for skills and examination procedures used in clinical practice. Students will explore frames and lenses and learn a variety of optical skills critical for optometric practice including frame adjustments, repairs, and lens neutralization.

Optics 2: Applications of Optical Principles

7531

Credits: 2.5

This course, which is the second part of a four-term sequence, continues the study of geometric and ophthalmic optics. The course includes a study of prism and the optics of multifocal lens options including bifocal, trifocal and progressive lenses. Students will learn to measure, order, and verify these lenses. Students will be introduced to lens fabrication, digital surfacing, tints, polarization and lens coatings. The course will review refractive surfaces leading into a discussion of thick lenses. Students will learn about surface power, vertex power, and equivalent power, and examine the behavior of light through thick lenses and multiple lenses in series and learn how these optical systems are different from thin lenses.

Vision Science and Perception 1 with Laboratory

7600

Credits: 1

The purpose of Vision Science and Perception I (VS & P I) is to guide student study of the functional aspects of the visual, vestibular and auditory systems and to introduce methods and techniques of research in visual physiology and general psychophysics. VS & P 1 includes introductory concepts of monocular visual perception, its physiological basis and application to clinical practice. Concepts will be applied to understanding dark and light adaptation and increment thresholds. VS & P 1 serves as a foundation for continuation of these concepts on a more expanded basis in VS & P 2 through VS & P 4. Students will also study the basics of sensory perception in the modalities of auditory and vestibular sensitivity. Psychophysical measurements will be an important emphasis of this course and this begins with specification of the stimulus and techniques of eliciting data from human observers through the auditory and visual systems. Laboratory exercises will demonstrate how to clinically measure psychophysical functions and how dark adaptation is measured in a clinical setting.

Vision Science and Perception 2 with Laboratory

7601

Credits: 2

The purpose of Vision Science and Perception 2 (VS & P 2) is to further guide student study of the anatomical, physiological and functional aspects of the visual system and to continue to introduce clinical and research methods and techniques in visual physiology and general psychophysics in order to elicit data from human observers. VS & P 2 reviews and delves further into concepts in retinal physiology that relate directly to both objective and psychophysical testing of retinal and visual pathway functions and their application to clinical practice. VS & P 2 serves as a foundation for continuation of these concepts on a more expanded basis in VS & P 3 and VS & P 4. Laboratory exercises will demonstrate how to clinically measure and interpret retinal and visual pathway function through objective electrophysiological testing and how contrast sensitivity a psychophysical function is measured and applied in a clinical setting.

Vision Science and Perception 3 with Laboratory

7602

Credits: 1.5

The purpose of Vision Science and Perception 3 (VS & P 3) is to further guide student study of the anatomical, physiological and functional aspects of the visual system and to continue to introduce clinical and research methods and techniques in visual physiology and general psychophysics in order to elicit data from human observers. VS & P 3 builds upon concepts covered in VS&P 1 and 2 to introduce measurement of light and how we perceive light and color and their application to clinical practice. A summary of psychophysical measures applicable to optometry as well as an overview of the development and changes in visual skills covered in VS & P 1-3 will conclude this course. VS & P 3 also serves as a foundation for the vision science of amblyopia and binocular vision in VS & P 4. Laboratory exercises will include a demonstration lab for Photometry and Radiometry, measurement of color and color vision beyond Ishihara testing as well as demonstrations of color anomalies.

Vision Science and Perception 4 with Laboratory

7603

Credits: 1.5

This course will cover vision science and perception concepts related to binocular vision. The course will include the physiological basis for binocular vision, monocular and binocular depth cues, horopters and binocular illusions, visual direction, summation, binocular rivalry, aniseikonia and the neurophysiology of amblyopia.

Practice Management

7710

Credits: 1

The Practice Management Course prepares students at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry to run their own Independent Practice. This course covers content in curriculum vitae writing, social media and marketing, preparing a business plan, medical billing and coding, business taxes, calculating chair time/cost of goods and services, and building a business model.

Clinical Problem Solving 1

7730

Credits: 1

Clinical Problem Solving (CPS) courses provide the opportunity for students to work together in a small group setting as the collective mind of a Doctor of Optometry to explore optical conditions and ocular health conditions that impact the optical system as presented in case-based scenarios. Students will conduct a complete optometric history on each patient as well as evaluate how the results of entrance testing, keratometry, objective and subjective refraction, common binocular and accommodative testing all combine to contribute to determine the functional status of the visual system.
During each session, as case information is progressively disclosed, students develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills, applying and integrating their knowledge in support of the clinical decisions they propose. Where knowledge is lacking, students identify specific learning issues that are then researched, ideally during the session as time allows, or prior to the next scheduled session, at which time findings are discussed and applied to diagnosis and management of the patient’s problems.

Clinical Problem Solving 2

7732

Credits: 1

Clinical Problem Solving (CPS) 2 serves as an integrative educational bridge between basic science courses and patient care experiences. As with CPS 1, the case scenario discussions provide students with opportunities to identify clinical issues, develop analytical skills, and communicate effectively. In addition, students will continue developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to attain proficiency as clinicians. The educational emphasis in CPS 2 is on utilizing critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and related abilities inherent in appropriate and effective patient care. The ultimate goal is to develop the ability to distinguish abnormal clinical findings from normal ones, understand the mechanisms underlying clinical presentations, accurately diagnose visual and ocular pathologic conditions, identify related systemic conditions, and develop appropriate patient assessments and management plans consistent with the education and clinical training to date of students enrolled in CPS 2. The small group format of CPS 2 provides an opportunity for students to develop effective communication skills, including the verbalization of ophthalmic / medical terminology as well as personal and clinical confidence. Student research on case related topics serves to enhance the knowledge base and application of basic science principles.

Clinical Problem Solving 3

7734

Credits: 1

Clinical Problem Solving (CPS) 3 continues to serve as an integrative educational bridge between basic / vision science courses and patient care experiences. The case discussions provide students with opportunities to identify clinical issues, develop analytical skills, and communicate effectively. In addition, students will continue developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to attain proficiency as clinicians. The educational emphasis in CPS 3 is on utilizing critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and related abilities inherent in appropriate and effective patient care. The ultimate goal is to develop the ability to distinguish abnormal clinical findings from normal ones, understand the mechanisms underlying clinical presentations, accurately diagnose visual and ocular pathologic conditions, identify related systemic conditions, and develop appropriate patient assessments and management plans consistent with the education and clinical training to date of students enrolled in CPS 3. The small group format provides an opportunity for students to develop effective communication skills, including the verbalization of ophthalmic / medical terminology as well as personal and clinical confidence. Student research on case-related topics serves to enhance the knowledge base and application of basic / vision science principles.

Clinical Problem Solving 4

7736

Credits: 1

Clinical Problem Solving (CPS) 4 continues to serve as an integrative educational bridge between basic / vision science courses and patient care experiences. The case discussions provide students with opportunities to identify clinical issues, develop analytical skills, and communicate effectively. In addition, students will continue developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to attain proficiency as clinicians. The educational emphasis in CPS 4 is on utilizing critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and related abilities inherent in appropriate and effective patient care. The ultimate goal is to develop the ability to distinguish abnormal clinical findings from normal ones, understand the mechanisms underlying clinical presentations, accurately diagnose visual and ocular pathologic conditions, identify related systemic conditions, and develop appropriate patient assessments and management plans consistent with the education and clinical training to date of students enrolled in CPS 4. The small group format provides an opportunity for students to develop effective communication skills, including the verbalization of ophthalmic / medical terminology as well as personal and clinical confidence. Student research on case-related topics serves to enhance the knowledge base and application of basic / vision science principles.

Clinical Problem Solving 5

7737

Credits: 1

Clinical Problem Solving (CPS) 5 continues to serve as an integrative educational bridge between basic / vision science courses and patient care experiences. The case discussions provide students with opportunities to identify clinical issues, develop analytical skills, and communicate effectively. In addition, students will continue developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to attain proficiency as clinicians. The educational emphasis in CPS 5 is on utilizing critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and related abilities inherent in appropriate and effective patient care. The ultimate goal is to develop the ability to distinguish abnormal clinical findings from normal ones, understand the mechanisms underlying clinical presentations, accurately diagnose visual and ocular pathologic conditions, identify related systemic conditions, and develop appropriate patient assessments and management plans consistent with the education and clinical training to date of students enrolled in CPS 5. The small group format provides an opportunity for students to develop effective communication skills, including the verbalization of ophthalmic / medical terminology as well as personal and clinical confidence. Student research on case-related topics serves to enhance the knowledge base and application of basic / vision science principles.

Pediatric & Infant Vision with Laboratory

8500

Credits: 2.5

This purpose of the Pediatric and Infant Vision and Laboratory course is to provide a model for the evaluation and management of children’s vision that can be incorporated into the practice of primary care optometry. Concepts learned can also serve as a foundation of further learning for those students who choose to specialize in this area of practice. General human development and developmental changes in visual skills throughout life will be reviewed. The prevalence of vision disorders in this population is significant and many organizations now recommend early screening and/or examinations of children. The unique needs of infants and preschool children as well as concepts in vision and learning for school age children will be addressed during this course. This course provides an opportunity to develop a basic working knowledge for the detection, assessment and intervention of vision problems for children of all ages. This course also serves as a foundation for the binocular vision series of courses which follow in the curriculum.

Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation with Laboratory

8501

Credits: 2.5

This course is designed to provide each student with a basic understanding of low vision rehabilitation. It will provide the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to properly care for patients whose visual capabilities utilizing conventional therapy are inadequate for the performance of vision-directed or vision-related tasks in their vocation, avocation, social interaction or daily living.

Contact Lens 1-Soft Contact Lenses

8530

Credits: 1.5

This course, which is the first part of a three-term sequence, introduces the student to the fundamentals of soft contact lenses. Historical development of contact lenses will be reviewed and placed in context of modern developments. This course will develop the principles of contact lens physiology and optics, and integrate them with the student’s understanding of the cornea, tear film, and adnexal anatomy. Ocular measurements necessary for contact lens design will be correlated with on-eye evaluation of soft contact lenses. Oxygen requirements for safe lens wear will be contrasted for daily wear (soft and rigid lenses), extended wear hydrogel. Students will learn how to design, fit, and manage standard daily wear soft lenses, silicone hydrogel lenses worn for extended and/or continuous wear, and toric soft lenses for the correction of astigmatism. Students will also learn about contact lens cleaning and disinfection solutions that are used in order to maintain healthy contact lens wear. Students will have the opportunity to work through calculations and fitting procedures during weekly laboratory sessions. During these labs, students will work with a variety of different lens types and materials in order to gain confidence with fitting principles and problem solving prior to entering patient care at The Eye Institute.

Contact Lens 2 - Rigid Contact Lenses

8531

Credits: 3

This course, which is the second part of a three-term sequence, introduces the student to the fundamentals of gas-permeable (GP) contact lenses. Students will learn how to handle, care for, design, fit, and manage standard gas-permeable rigid contact lenses. Students will also learn about nuances of lens design including aspheric, lenticular, and ultrathin lens modifications to fit a larger segment of the GP lens wearing population. This also includes learning about presbyopic fitting for both rigid and soft lenses, and ortho-keratology. Students will learn to interpret corneal topography imaging, as well as learn to clinically manage a wide array of potential rigid lens complications.
Students will have the opportunity to work through calculations and fitting procedures during weekly laboratory sessions. During these labs, students will work with a variety of different lens types and materials in order to gain confidence with fitting principles and problem solving for their patient care at The Eye Institute.

Integrated Decision Making/NBEO Prep

8540

Credits: 2

The Integrated Decision Making/National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Preparation coruse will provide students with a structured review of material covered during the first three years on campus. This course includes lectures on study tips and skills, making and sticking to a study schedule, faculty review lectures, quizzes, and small group collaboration projects. This course will also emphasize the integration of basic science and clinical decision making so students can apply their didactic knowledge to clinical care.

Clinical Skills 1

8630

Credits: 2

This course will focus on the theory and clinical application of Clinical Skills in optometric medicine. The skills presented in this portion of the course are visual acuity, pupillary distance, ocular dominance, color vision, stereopsis, extra-ocular motility testing, confrontation fields, automated equipment use, cover test, keratometry, retinoscopy and optometric history. These will be presented in a lecture and laboratory setting.

Clinical Skills 2

8631

Credits: 3.5

This course will focus on the theory and clinical application of Clinical Skills for Patient Care. The topics reviewed in this portion of the course include visual acuity, pupillary distance measurement, extraocular muscle testing, automated refraction/keratometry, near point of convergence, noncontact tonometry, color vision, stereopsis, manual keratometry, cover testing, retinoscopy and direct ophthalmoscopy. The topics presented in this portion of the course are subjective refraction, external testing of pupil responses, slit lamp biomicroscopy, photometry, accommodative testing, near point testing, history taking, cycloplegic refraction techniques, and dyes/stains used in biomicroscopy. There will also be continued use of the simulation lab – direct ophthalmoscopy and an introduction to simulation lab - binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. These topics will be presented in a lecture and laboratory setting.

Clinical Skills 3

8632

Credits: 1.5

This course will focus on the theory and clinical application of Clinical Skills in Patient Care. The topics and techniques covered in CS1 and CS2 will be reviewed/ reemphasized in this course. The topics presented in this portion of the course are Cycloplegic refraction techniques Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscopy, Goldmann tonometry and other forms of Tonometry, Slit lamp Biomicroscopy illumination techniques, Binocular vision testing, Gonioscopy and dilated retinal assessment with a 3 mirror Goldmann lens. These topics will be presented in asynchronous lectures and face-to-face laboratory setting.

Clinical Skills 4

8635

Credits: 2.5

This course will focus on the theory and clinical application of Clinical Skills in Patient Care. The topics and techniques covered in CS1, CS2 and CS3 will be reviewed/ reemphasized in this course. The topics presented in this portion of the course are Electronic Medical Recording in NextGen, additional refractive techniques, additional binocularity testing techniques, and Visual Field testing. There will also be continued use of the Simulation lab – binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. These topics will be presented in a lecture and laboratory setting.

Advanced Clinical Skills

8636

Credits: 1

This course will focus on the theory and clinical application of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic clinical skills in optometric medicine. The skills reviewed in this portion of the course include: Dry eye evaluation, interpretation of diagnostic imaging of OCT, VF, photography, auto-fluorescence, ultrasound and a comprehensive double vision evaluation (some components of NBEO). In preparation for the NBEO Part 3 examination, the students will review the following skills: binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy, 90 D funduscopy, 3-mirror gonioscopy. The topics presented in this portion of the course include: Foreign body removal, pressure patching, amniotic membranes, carotid auscultation, ocular cultures, punctal plug insertion (NBEO), epilation, dilation and irrigation, scleral depression, undilated and off-axis 90 D fundus evaluation, rotational 3-mirror retinal evaluation, extended ophthalmoscopy, rotational and indentation gonioscopy. Corneal crosslinking, anterior stromal puncture, epithelial debridement, paracentesis and conjunctival cyst removal will also be introduced. These topics will be presented in a laboratory setting, readings with supplemental electronic material, lecture and grand rounds presentations.

Patient Care 1

8640

Credits: 0.5

The Traineeship stage of the Patient Care program of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University is a series of clinical sessions for patient care in the Salus University clinical settings. The intent of the Traineeship Program is to provide the optometric student the opportunity to observe and begin training by upperclassmen and faculty/resident practitioners in primary eye care. The Traineeship Program is an integral part of the curriculum and is designed to develop the novice optometric student into a student intern who will begin to examine patients. Salus University is committed to providing students with the highest quality clinical education. Entrance into the clinical facilities of Salus University adds a special dimension of personal and professional responsibility for the student of optometry, who must be in good clinical and academic standing in order to participate in the program. The student-clinician assumes responsibility for the care and welfare of patients assigned for care and to the College in the service component of its mission as a provider of eye care. The student is expected to practice, under the instruction and guidance of the attending faculty, according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, professional, and ethical conduct. Competent and successful optometric health care practitioners require a large number of clinical skills to be able to provide appropriate patient care to the public. The specific skills identified to allow patient interaction in clinical settings on and off campus are taught in multiple courses, but especially in the Clinical Skills courses. The Traineeship Program represents the theory and clinical application of Clinical Skills in optometric medicine. Since no clinical skills have been verified in the Clinical Skills course setting, all patient interactions during this semester will involve active observation of the eye examination.

Patient Care 2

8641

Credits: 0.5

Patient Care 3-Optical Clerkship

8642

Credits: 1.5

The Summer Clerkship is a two-week (70 hours) optical rotation in a Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) approved clinical setting. It is designed to reinforce skills acquired during first year coursework in ophthalmic materials and management. The student is expected to practice, under the instruction and guidance of the preceptor (optometrist or optician) according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, and ethical conduct.

Patient Care 4

8643

Credits: 1

The Traineeship stage of the Patient Care program of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University is a series of clinical sessions for patient care in the Salus University clinical settings. The intent of the Traineeship Program is to provide the optometric student the opportunity to observe and begin training by upperclassmen and faculty/resident practitioners in primary eye care. The Traineeship Program is an integral part of the curriculum and is designed to develop the novice optometric student into a student intern who will begin to examine patients. Salus University is committed to providing students with the highest quality clinical education. Entrance into the clinical facilities of Salus University adds a special dimension of personal and professional responsibility for the student of optometry, who must be in good clinical and academic standing in order to participate in the program. The student-clinician assumes responsibility for the care and welfare of patients assigned for care and to the College in the service component of its mission as a provider of eye
care. The student is expected to practice, under the instruction and guidance of the attending faculty, according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, professional, and ethical conduct. Competent and successful optometric health care practitioners require a large number of clinical skills to be able to provide appropriate patient care to the public. The specific skills identified to allow patient interaction in clinical settings on and off campus are taught in multiple courses, but especially in the Clinical Skills courses. TheTraineeship Program represents the theory and clinical application of Clinical Skills in optometric medicine.

Patient Care 5

8644

Credits: 3.5

The Patient Care 5 curriculum (PC 5) is one of four clinical courses, Patient Care 5-Patient Care 8, which occurs over a 15-month continuum. The course is designed to develop intern knowledge and skill to an expected level of clinical competency. Interns will routinely perform supervised complete eye examinations throughout the year and participate in other patient care activities as described in Section 4. Supervision is provided by TEI clinical faculty. Students must successfully complete each Patient Care course to advance to the next course in the sequence.
This Patient Care 5 syllabus for the Internship stage of the Patient Care curriculum delineates course expectations, evaluations, grading and various policies and protocols to be followed by students.

Entrance into The Eye Institute at Salus University adds a special dimension of personal and professional responsibility for the student of optometry; the candidate must be in good clinical and academic standing in order to participate in the clinical program. The intern assumes responsibility for the care and welfare of patients to which they are assigned. The intern shall practice, under the instruction and guidance of the attending faculty, according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, professional, and ethical conduct.

Patient Care 6

8645

Credits: 5

The Patient Care 6 curriculum (PC 6) is one of four clinical courses, Patient Care 5 through Patient Care 8, which occurs over a 15-month continuum. The course is designed to develop intern knowledge and skill to an expected level of clinical competency. Interns will routinely perform supervised complete eye examinations throughout the year and participate in other patient care activities as described in Section 4. Supervision is provided by TEI clinical faculty. Students must successfully complete each Patient Care course to advance to the next course in the sequence.
This Patient Care 6 syllabus for the Internship stage of the Patient Care curriculum delineates course expectations, evaluations, grading and various policies and protocols to be followed by students. Entrance into The Eye Institute at Salus University adds a special dimension of personal and professional responsibility for the student of optometry; the candidate must be in good clinical and academic standing in order to participate in the clinical program. The intern assumes responsibility for the care and welfare of patients to which they are assigned. The intern shall practice, under the instruction and guidance of the attending faculty, according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, professional, and ethical conduct.

Patient Care 7

8646

Credits: 6

The Patient Care 7 curriculum (PC 7) is one of four clinical courses, Patient Care 5 through Patient Care 8, which occurs over a 15-month continuum. The course is designed to develop intern knowledge and skill to an expected level of clinical competency. Interns will routinely perform supervised complete eye examinations throughout the year and participate in other patient care activities as described in Section 4. Supervision is provided by TEI clinical faculty. Students must successfully complete each Patient Care course to advance to the next course in the sequence.
This Patient Care 7 syllabus for the Internship stage of the Patient Care curriculum delineates course expectations, evaluations, grading and various policies and protocols to be followed by students. Entrance into The Eye Institute at Salus University adds a special dimension of personal and professional responsibility for the student of optometry; the candidate must be in good clinical and academic standing in order to participate in the clinical program. The intern assumes responsibility for the care and welfare of patients to which they are assigned. The intern shall practice, under the instruction and guidance of the attending faculty, according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, professional, and ethical conduct.

Patient Care 8

8647

Credits: 2.5

The Patient Care 8 curriculum (PC 8) is final course in the four clinical internship courses, Patient Care 5 through Patient Care 8, which occurs over a 15-month continuum. The course is designed to develop intern knowledge and skill to an expected level of clinical competency prior to transitioning to the externship phase of the curriculum. Interns will routinely perform supervised complete eye examinations throughout the year and participate in other patient care activities as described in Section 4. Supervision is provided by TEI clinical faculty. Students must successfully complete each Patient Care course to advance to the next course in the sequence. This Patient Care 8 syllabus for the Internship stage of the Patient Care curriculum delineates course expectations, evaluations, grading and various policies and protocols to be followed by students. Entrance into The Eye Institute at Salus University adds a special dimension of personal and professional responsibility for the student of optometry; the candidate must be in good clinical and academic standing in order to participate in the clinical program. The intern assumes responsibility for the care and welfare of patients to which they are assigned. The intern shall practice, under the instruction and guidance of the attending faculty, according to the highest standards of clinical, moral, professional, and ethical conduct.

Externship 1

8800

Credits: 5.5

Clinical externships of the Salus University Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) are a series of clinical rotations to various sites for patient care. The intent of the externships is to provide the optometric student the opportunity to be trained by outstanding practitioners in primary and/or secondary eye care. Externships are an integral part of the curriculum and are designed to transform the optometric student into a complete health care professional who can apply scientific knowledge in concert with clinical insight and overall concern for the patient. The University is committed to providing students with the highest quality education.
Clinical externships begin in March of the third year and proceed through the entire fourth year. Clinical externships are the culmination of the patient care preparation programs of Salus University. The on and off-campus clinical experiences at the University (Professional Practice 1-7) during the first 2-1/2 years of the core program prepare the student in the basic clinical skills so that the student can assume the more intensive clinical demands of externships. The first externship (spring semester) of the third program year is a primary care off-campus rotation. The remaining 12-month period (fourth professional year) includes four (4) rotations of three or six month duration. Three of the rotations are predominantly in off- campus private practice, group practice and/or hospital settings. Externships are classified into four categories, each with specific associated educational objectives: The Eye Institute, interprofessional/collaborative care hospital-based site, ocular disease and private practice contact lens/specialty/primary care.