There are three items to consider when looking for the best ophthalmology course: course description, accreditation, and faculty qualifications. An ophthalmology course is available from a university, community, or career college. Courses offered at the university level are at the graduate level, with the expectation that all the students have completed an undergraduate degree. College courses are usually focused on more task-oriented training, and are intended for ophthalmology technicians.
People who report the highest level of satisfaction with ophthalmology courses have a very clear understanding of what material will be covered and at what level of detail. The field of ophthalmology is very broad, so most instructors provide a detailed course description to help students prepare for the material. Almost all universities that offer an ophthalmology program also offer continuing education courses that meet the requirements of the professional ophthalmological association.
When looking for an ophthalmology course, the first item to check is the accreditation status. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party which has looked at the school's academic and administrative policies. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other post-secondary institutions and are accepted by the society that manages the licenses for ophthalmologists.
Review the qualifications of the faculty or course instructors. Most schools publish biographies of their faculty, listing their academic credentials, experience, publications, and areas of expertise. Take the time to review this information to obtain valuable background on their areas of expertise, expectations, and focus. At the university level, look for instructors that have published on a regular basis. At the college level, look for instructors who have relevant, recent field experience.
When looking for the best ophthalmology course, take the time to read the program syllabus. Detailed descriptions of the courses, prerequisites, and recommended reading are all provided. Some schools even provide the estimated study time commitment for each class. This can be very helpful when looking to balance multiple courses and obligations in a short period of time.
The best ophthalmology course ensures that students have absorbed the material and are able to apply the concepts and skills learned in practice. There are many different teaching styles that can help to pass on complex material, but the lecture format is the most popular. The instructor must be knowledgeable to add context to the textbook material. Be advised that students are expected to have read the materials in advance, and come prepared with questions to reinforce the lesson.
