In addition to a rich clinical education, ICO gives its students a strong foundation rooted in biomedical science. Basic biomedical courses are spread across the first two years of our program: human anatomy, immunology, and pharmacology. Many of these are complemented by interactive laboratories.

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From basic human sciences to high-level ophthalmic studies, ICO courses are presented through the lens of eye care. Our curriculum visits optics, ocular anatomy and physiology, visual perception, neuroanatomy, sensory aspects of vision, and color vision.

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At ICO, students gain high-quality experiences in primary eye care, pediatric optometry, binocular vision, low vision rehabilitation, contact lenses, emergency care, and ocular disease. The clinical program is student-centered, beginning in the lecture-laboratory setting and advancing to one-to-one relationships between students and patients. ICO’s supportive faculty members work in both classroom and clinic environments. Read more about our clinical education.

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Below is a year-by-year breakdown of the required curriculum. Please note, elective courses, including topics like financial literacy and practice management, can be added on to each year: