该协调学位课程由UAB验光学院和UAB公共卫生学院提供。学生可以将其MPH集中在以下四个领域中的任何一个上：（1）环境卫生科学，（2）流行病学，（3）健康行为，（4）卫生保健组织和政策或二者结合（通用MPH）。MPH重点课程可以根据学生的经验和需求进行定制。在国内和国际上，视力障碍和眼睛疾病都是主要的公共卫生问题。需要经过培训并在公共卫生方面有经验的验光师来评估社区对视力保健服务的需求，确定哪些因素有助于治疗和预防视力系统异常，开发和应用质量保证体系，参与并提供与健康相关的领导力机构，并提高公众对视力保健
The coordinated Public Health/Optometry (OD) degree program is offered through the UAB School of Public Health (SOPH) and the UAB School of Optometry. Students in this coordinated program earn an MPH with a concentration in Population Health. In this individualized concentration, students gain a solid foundation in public health through completion of the MPH core (based on the Evidence-based Public Health framework), an Applied Practice Experience (Internship), and an Integrative Learning Experience (Capstone). Students also select from among all master's-level Public Health courses (e.g., maternal and child health, global health, health behavior) to build a unique curriculum that supports their career goals. Specialized advising is provided to assist students in designing their individualized curriculum.<br><br>Vision disorders and eye diseases are major public health problems, both nationally and internationally. Optometrists with training and experience in public health are needed to assess community needs for vision care services, to determine which factors contribute to treatment and prevention of visual system anomalies, to develop and apply quality assurance systems, to participate and provide leadership in health-related agencies, and to foster public awareness of the need for vision care. The MPH at the UAB School of Public Health prepares students for careers to improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, communities, and populations, locally and globally.