Courses

Phase 1 – Mind and Motion
Held on two Saturday mornings in the eye clinic, students participate in a single 3–4 hour session as part of the final Phase 1 course in UW–Madison’s ForWard medical school curriculum, Mind and Motion. The goal of this session is to teach the ophthalmic exam at a level appropriate for any general practitioner. Students gain their first exposure to assessing pupils, testing visual acuity, evaluating anterior chamber depth, and using essential tools of the trade such as ophthalmoscopes and slit lamps.

Phase 2 – Surgical and Procedural Care (622-813)
This two-week course provides an introductory review of the eye examination combined with clinical experience across a variety of settings, working alongside residents and faculty. Students will also observe ophthalmic procedures in the surgical suite and gain exposure to multiple subspecialties within the service, including Comprehensive, Retina, Cornea, Glaucoma, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Oculoplastics, Uveitis, and Neuro-Ophthalmology.

Phase 3 – Independent Reading and Research for 4th Year Medical Students (702-910)
Independent research conducted under the direct supervision of Ophthalmology faculty. Each student’s project is tailored to align with their individual research goals while supporting the ongoing work of the faculty mentor. The student and supervising faculty member (Research Mentor) will collaboratively establish a research plan and define outcomes appropriate to the selected timeframe and credit load.

Phase 3 – Introduction to the Visual System (702-911)
This course provides a comprehensive overview of four common ophthalmic diseases: ocular surface infections and immunology, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Students will participate in weekly didactic lectures and will have one month to complete a research project within a laboratory setting.

Phase 3 – Individualized Phase 3 Clinical Elective in Ophthalmology (702-919)
Direct supervision is provided by Ophthalmology residents, fellows, and attending physicians. Students will participate in regularly scheduled supervisor–student meetings, engage in operative procedures, and discuss patient cases. Independent learning activities include reviewing relevant literature, studying patient conditions, and preparing for direct patient care as appropriate.

Contact Details:
Jess Benton, Graduate Medical Education Coordinator
jlbenton2@wisc.edu