The Basic & Clinical Science Course in Ophthalmology

Now in its 86th year, the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute at the Columbia University Department of Ophthalmology has been offering an annual ophthalmology basic science course since 1941. 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. The curriculum is developed by a committee of active scientists and practicing clinicians, and is updated annually to reflect the latest scientific advances as well as any controversial developments in the field. Feedback from previous participants is continuously integrated to ensure the course remains current, relevant, and impactful. 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.

We are excited to share that the Basic & Clinical Science Course in Ophthalmology will be held at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center in January 2027. As in previous years, this 4-week course will be taught by an international faculty of nearly 100 clinicians and scientists who are experts in their respective fields within vision science and ophthalmology. In addition to over 125 hours of engaging lecture, 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.

Registration Fees Early Bird: $3,400 | August 1st, 2026 – October 31, 2026 | 3% credit card processing fee added to the registration Regular: $3,800 | November 1, 2026 – December 29, 2026 | 3% credit card processing fee added to the registration Registration for targeted-topic modules: Please see our Neuro-Ophthalmology and Genetics pages for details. Last day to register is December 29th, 2026