Since 1941, Columbia University's Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute/Department of Ophthalmology has offered one of the world's premier courses in ophthalmology. Designed primarily for resident training but invaluable to the entire vision science community, this comprehensive course explores the fundamentals of vision, ocular anatomy, and pathology, with an emphasis on how foundational knowledge informs outstanding patient care.
Each year, an expert program committee of active researchers and practicing clinicians thoughtfully updates the curriculum to reflect the latest scientific advances and address emerging controversies in the field. Feedback from previous participants is continuously integrated to ensure the course remains current, relevant, and impactful.
An international faculty of nearly 100 clinicians and scientists is selected based on their expertise, teaching clarity, and exceptional visual presentations. In addition to over 100 hours of engaging lectures, participants benefit from rich hands-on experiences, including over 20 laboratory hours, featuring orbital dissection, an oculoplastics workshop, practical training in retinoscopy and refraction, an ultrasound imaging workshop, a glaucoma dry lab, a phacoemulsification wet lab, and an introduction to state-of-the-art cataract surgery simulation.
Whether you are a resident at the start of your career or a member of the broader visual sciences community seeking a deeper understanding of ophthalmic fundamentals, this course provides the essential knowledge and skills to advance your practice and improve patient outcomes.
