The practice of optometry evolves as research produces new information and better ways of providing optometric care. In view of this, a primary goal of the College of Optometry is to foster the desire in students to seek and critically analyze new information to be used more effectively to serve patients. A solid background in basic sciences and a thorough understanding of the principles of visual science is the foundation of optometric education. Pre-clinical optometry courses cover the areas of general optometry and optometric specialties. Clinical courses provide students with the opportunity to work with patients in primary vision care and a variety of specialty services.
Clinical work is done under the close supervision of experienced licensed optometrists.
Both classroom instruction and clinical experience offer optometry students substantial education in recognizing those conditions of the eyes and visual system which require medical services. Students also gain the knowledge and experience needed to serve as vision consultants to schools, government, business, and industry. Through Ohio State's program, students acquire an understanding of the legal, social, economic, and professional phases of optometric practice, as well as the role of the optometrist in public health and in community and national health care. The general standards for awarding these degrees are described in the section Graduation with honors. This medal is awarded each year to the member of the graduating class who has achieved the highest cumulative point-hour ratio on work completed in the College of Optometry.