The School of Optometry and Vision Science (SOVS) at the University of Cape Coast was established following the transition of the Department of Optometry and Vision Science. Founded in 2002 as part of the School of Allied Health Sciences, the department was instrumental in providing education, research, and outreach in eye care. Over time, the department significantly expanded its responsibilities, accommodating a growing student population and an increasing number of academic programs.
These programs included the Doctor of Optometry (OD) and Top-up OD programs, with additional postgraduate offerings such as the Master of Science (MSc), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Optometry. The introduction of the Bachelor of Science in Dispensing Optics, along with MSc, MPhil, and PhD programs in Vision Science, further marked the department's expansion.
To support its academic offerings, the department established several key training and service delivery centers, including the Department of Optometry Eye Clinic and UCC Eye Clinic on campus, and the Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU) Eye Clinic off campus. These clinics provided critical clinical experience for students and essential eye care services to the surrounding communities. The department also broadened its scope through the establishment of Outreach and Clinical Units.
In response to growing global and national challenges in eye care, such as complex eye conditions and various socioeconomic and demographic factors, the department restructured its curriculum to emphasize specialized areas of optometry. This included the introduction of new postgraduate programs and the strengthening of clinical training.
As a result of this growth and the need to provide a more structured academic environment for research and specialized education, the Department of Optometry and Vision Science was officially upgraded to the School of Optometry and Vision Science. This transition reflects the university's commitment to enhancing academic coordination, faculty development, and research capacity in eye care. The school will institutionalize the advancements made over the past decade, consolidate its growth, and enhance the international visibility of the University of Cape Coast.
The School of Optometry and Vision Science is the first of its kind in Ghana and aligns with international best practices observed in countries such as Australia, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong. This transition supports the university’s strategic goals of advancing teaching and learning, fostering knowledge creation and sharing, and promoting international visibility. Furthermore, the establishment of the school is expected to increase student enrollment at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 by ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
Leadership:
The School is led by the Founding Dean, who is responsible to the Vice-Chancellor through the Provost. The Dean provides visionary leadership to the School, ensuring it maintains high standards of academic and professional excellence. The Dean is supported by the Vice-Dean, School Accountant, and Faculty Officer, along with Heads of Departments and the Director of the Eye and Vision Research Centre.
Integration and Vision:
The School of Optometry and Vision Science is fully integrated into the University of Cape Coast's system, with all academic certifications awarded by the university. The School adheres to the university’s statutes and policies, while also seeking to innovate and modify programmes to meet the evolving needs of the optometry field.
Research and Training Units:
• Eye and Vision Research Centre: This centre is a hub for cutting-edge research in eye and vision science, funded by notable grants like the €400,000 from Velux Stiftung. It brings together clinicians, scientists, and industry experts to advance the study of vision and eye health.
• Clinical Training and Services Unit: The unit manages clinical training for students and provides essential eye care services to the university and surrounding communities. It operates on-campus and off-campus clinics and is accredited to conduct eye exams for the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).
• Community Outreach and Externship Unit: This unit delivers eye care services to underserved communities and coordinates externship programmes for students, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in diverse settings.
Vision
To become a center of excellence in optometry and vision science, recognized for its innovative approach to education, research, and service.
Goals
- To produce highly qualified Optometrists with OD degrees who are capable of working independently in the healthcare profession.
- To produce specialists in optometry who will be capable of manning the optometry units of various hospitals and health Centers.
- To produce graduates who can undertake research in optometry and create new ideas and concepts in Vision Science.
- To provide a solid foundation for students to pursue advanced and specialized training in optometry up to graduate level.
Mission
To train highly skilled professionals who will contribute to improving eye health and vision nationally and globally. The School aims to be a leader in optometry and vision science through research, education, and community service.
Core Values
The core values of the School of Optometry and Vision Science (SOVS) is.
Excellence: To pursue excellence in optometric and vision science education
Professionalism: To upholds professionalism and ethical conduct amongst staff and students of the school.
Innovation: To embraces innovation in the training of optometrists and vision scientists, and in the provision of eye care services.
Service-Mindedness: To promote an attitude of altruism and service in staff and students of the school.
Teamwork: To instil the spirit of teamwork amongst its staff and students.
The school is structured around three academic departments and a research center, supported by a community outreach unit. Together, these divisions provide comprehensive education, innovative research, and essential clinical services in optometry and vision science.
- Department of Vision Science: The Department of Vision Science forms the backbone of the foundational training at SOVS. Students are immersed in both basic and applied sciences, covering topics such as the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the eye, as well as visual optics and perception. The department fosters collaboration across various scientific fields, equipping students for careers in eye and vision research. Advanced degrees, including MPhil and PhD programs in Vision Science, are hosted by this department, promoting interdisciplinary research and industry partnerships to address global challenges in eye health.
- Department of Clinical Optometry: The Department of Clinical Optometry trains students to become proficient eye care professionals, capable of diagnosing, managing, and treating various eye conditions. The curriculum includes practical, patient-centered programs and hands-on experience in clinics and hospitals. The department offers specialized courses in areas such as pediatric and geriatric optometry, low vision rehabilitation, and post-surgical co-management. MPhil and PhD programs in Clinical Optometry are available, preparing graduates for advanced clinical practice and research.
- Department of Ophthalmic Sciences: Focusing on optics and ophthalmic dispensing, the Department of Ophthalmic Sciences prepares students to excel in ophthalmic technology and optical services. The department offers the BSc in Dispensing Opticianry and is developing postgraduate programs like MPhil/PhD in Dispensing Science. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training, students gain expertise in areas such as mechanical and physiological optics, contributing to the broader goal of providing quality vision care.
- Diagnostic and Visual Function Research Centre: This center serves as a hub for research in eye and vision science, advancing knowledge in electrophysiology, psychophysics, and visual function. Supported by seed funding from international bodies, the center integrates the expertise of clinicians, basic scientists, and industry players to conduct groundbreaking research aimed at preserving vision and promoting eye health. The center also offers practical training in vision research, supporting both academic and industry collaborations to enhance eye care services across sub-Saharan Africa.
- Community and Outreach Services Unit: The Community and Outreach Services Unit is dedicated to extending eye care services to underserved populations, particularly within the Central Region of Ghana. The unit organizes outreach programs that provide essential eye care to communities lacking access to such services. It also coordinates externship programs for students, ensuring they gain real-world experience through supervised practice in community settings. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between theoretical learning and clinical practice, reinforcing the school’s commitment to service and public health.