M.S. and Ph.D. Programs

Admission requirements

  • CV
  • Transcript
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation (if you have research experience, at least one letter from a previous research mentor is valuable)
  • Non-native English speakers must have taken the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) within the last five years and demonstrate English proficiency.
  • Optional: GRE Scores

Recommended for thesis-based M.S.

The successful candidate for the thesis-based M.S. in Vision Science will have identified a faculty mentor prior to applying. This ensures that there is an opening for the student and that the work can be completed within two years.

Interested in the O.D./M.S. Scholarship program?

IU School of Optometry will provide a scholarship for highly-qualified optometry school applicants who are committed to completing the demanding rigors of both the OD degree and the MS in Vision science. This scholarship is for incoming students.

Learn more

Recommended for non-thesis-based-M.S.

The typical candidate for the nonthesis Master of Science program is a practitioner who has an undergraduate degree in optometry or its equivalent and is licensed or license eligible to practice optometry in their home country. Nontypical candidates also may be considered. However, they should correspond with the Associate Dean of Graduate Programs before applying.

Step 1: Apply to the University Graduate School

All applicants—domestic and international—must complete the University Graduate School application. This application will put you in consideration for admission to the M.S. or Ph.D. graduate programs and also for financial aid.

The application fee is $70 for domestic students and for international students. Applications are not reviewed until this fee is paid.

International applicants should work with the Office of International Services to submit supporting documents, including official academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and financial records.

Step 2: Request and submit letters of recommendation

In addition to the basic information on your application, we require three letters of recommendation from former professors, supervisors, professional optometrists, or anyone else who can give an overall honest assessment of your abilities and character.  Reference requests are submitted via the online application.

Most graduate application deadlines are in January. Start your application today.

Apply now