Degree Options

The Clinical Vision Science Program is a unique initiative in Graduate Studies. Students have the option to complete their studies in the program including research thesis, or exit from the program after all academic and clinical requirements are met but without the thesis component. The certification level granted by Dalhousie University depends on what requirement set has been completed:

Master of Clinical Vision Science

Master's students complete two years of training including 7 and 1/2 class credits and two extended clinical practica. With the thesis requirement they usually finish the program in three years. Students may stay longer in the program if they need more time to complete their thesis research. The upper time limit for graduation from the MSc program as outlined by the Faculty of Graduate Studies is 5 years. Master's students are required to pay program fees for two years (six terms), and a continuing education fee in each term after the first two years until thesis defence.

Students graduate with Master of Clinical Vision Science with Concurrent Graduate Diploma in Orthoptics and Ophthalmic Medical Technology.

Graduate Diploma in Orthoptics and Ophthalmic Medical Technology

Students have the option to exit after two years in the program, without fulfilling the thesis requirement of the Master's degree. On completion, they are granted Graduate Diploma in Orthoptics and Ophthalmic Medical Technology.

Students interested in the Graduate Diploma have to apply to MSc in Clinical Vision Science. They take and complete the same courses and clinical practica as required for the Master's degree, and earn the same credits. They may exit the Program after all academic and clinical requirements have been met but without completing the professional thesis research component of the Master's Program. They pay program fees for two years (six terms).  If they wish to return to the program to complete a thesis at a later date, lapse registration fees and continuing fees will apply.