Why Study Visual Function in Learning?
A truly unique program that fuses vision science and pediatric optometry, the Master of Education in Visual Function in Learning degree at Pacific equips optometrists to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children. Created specifically for those already pursuing a doctor of optometry degree, the MEd/VFL gives you the additional skills needed to help young people overcome challenges related to vision disorders in an educational setting.
Service is at the core of many Pacific programs, and the innovative MEd/VFL optometry pathway places a special emphasis on giving back to the community and making it so that all children, regardless of background, can receive the care they need to thrive. Whether helping young people address cognitive, linguistic or visual challenges associated with reading, or advocating for healthy habits in the school system, optometrists with educational specializations can leave a lasting impact.
Through Pacific’s close collaboration with local school districts and healthcare institutions, getting hands-on training in educational environments is seamlessly integrated into your degree, allowing you to Â鶹ӰÊÓ with a ready-made resume and connections with employers in the region. Combined with the completion of a research-based thesis, this real-world experience empowers prospective optometrists to find new ways to integrate vision science into the classroom, improving the educational experience of students and teachers alike.
What Can You Do with a Visual Function in Learning Degree?
MEd/VFL Â鶹ӰÊÓs enter the workforce not only as professional optometrists with many hundreds of hours of training, but also as specialized experts in helping students with vision challenges learn to read, an essential life skill. Expertise from both the College of Education and College of Optometry staff come together to form a foundation upon which MEd/VFL can jump from and into an exciting career filled with compassionate care and complex problem solving.
Poised to pursue research as well as make a difference in classrooms around your area, optometrists who specialize in childhood education can follow diverse career pathways while still being able to work as licensed optometrists, servicing a variety of patients on a daily basis. Pacific’s MEd/VFL degree gives you the flexibility to pursue your passions while still maintaining a traditional optometric practice.
Diana Watkins | Associate Director of Graduate & Professional Admissions
503-352-1435 | teach@pacificu.edu