The University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science’s mission is helping people see, literally and figuratively.
Educating tomorrow’s optometrists and vision scientists
We not only help students understand optometry and vision science, we strive to open their eyes to ideas and possibilities.
Our accredited four-year Doctor of Optometry program trains talented students to become highly skilled optometrists. With award-winning instructors and state-of-the-art equipment, our students are prepared for the future of optometry, anywhere in North America.
Our vision science graduate program offers research-based master’s and PhD studies under the mentorship of distinguished faculty members. Our interdisciplinary program welcomes students from varied backgrounds – engineering, psychology, math, chemistry, aviation, clinical optometry and more.
We also offer continuing professional development opportunities for working optometrists to engage in evidence-based learning, from flexible online modules to our flagship fall conference.
Innovating from cell to society
We seek to expand knowledge and understanding of vision and the eyes, and to apply our research in areas where it will have most impact.
Our researchers examine everything from fundamental processes at the microscopic level to population-level studies in areas such as improving access to eye care. In the middle of that spectrum, researchers help bring scientific discoveries from the lab to the clinic.
From undergraduate students to professors, our researchers are involved in interdisciplinary projects including developing eye drops that could treat the effects of aging on the lens, using quantum physics to detect macular degeneration earlier, and developing standards for visually impaired athletes to compete in the Paralympics, just to name a few. We’re ranked fifth worldwide – third in North America – in research impact for schools of optometry.
Comprehensive eye and vision care
At our optometry clinics, we help patients of all ages see as well as possible.
In addition to comprehensive eye exams that check vision and ocular health, we offer specialized services such as advanced eye disease care, low vision rehabilitation and brain injury visual rehabilitation. Patients come from across the province and sometimes further afield to access our experts and the students who are learning from them.
With some 28,000 patient visits a year at locations in Waterloo and Kitchener, plus a range of outreach services, we’re arguably the largest, most comprehensive centre of excellence for optometric eye care in Canada.
Building the Waterloo Eye Institute
All the ingredients are already present to build the Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI) as Canada’s premier centre for optometric care, research and education. We just need a little extra push to complete a once-in-a-generation project that’s at once an expansion and modernization. When construction is complete, expected to be in late 2026, the WEI will feature a state-of-the-art clinic, more space for clinical research and new integrative research centres.
We’ve raised more than $29 million of our $35 million goal – if you can help us get all the way to our target, please give now. Together, we can help people see.
Benjamin Thompson
Director, School of Optometry & Vision Science
