Boston Orthoptic Fellowship Program

The Boston Orthoptic Fellowship Program is a two-year fellowship based at Boston Children’s Hospital. Accredited by the American Orthoptic Council, the program is designed to comprehensively prepare students to become Certified Orthoptists, equipped to diagnose and manage complex binocular vision disorders and ocular motility issues. The Boston Orthoptic Fellowship Program became an official program in 2018 and was a collaborative effort between Boston Children’s Hospital and Tufts Children’s Hospital from 2018 until mid-2025.

Educational excellence

The program provides a curriculum encompassing both didactic instruction and practical clinical experience. Students benefit from learning in a dynamic clinical environment where they encounter a diverse range of cases involving patients of all ages. This firsthand experience is complemented by instruction from a respected faculty comprising experienced orthoptists and pediatric ophthalmologists.

Clinical environment

Situated within Boston Children’s Hospital — the largest pediatric medical center in the United States — the fellowship program offers students access to innovative resources and facilities. The Ophthalmology Department’s comprehensive services and subspecialty expertise provide a rich learning environment ideal for cultivating the next generation of leaders in orthoptics.

Research and professional development

A component of the fellowship program involves a research project, where students engage in studies that contribute to the field’s growing body of knowledge. Fellows are encouraged to present their findings at national and international conferences, fostering professional development and facilitating networking within the orthoptic community.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Boston Orthoptic Fellowship Program are well prepared to pursue successful careers in clinical practice, research, and academia. The program’s rigorous training and its emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and compassionate patient care make its alumni highly sought after in the healthcare field.

The Boston Orthoptic Fellowship Program is more than just an educational opportunity; it is a transformative experience that equips future orthoptists with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their careers while making meaningful contributions to patient care and the broader medical community.

About Boston Children’s Hospital Department of Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology at Boston Children’s Hospital is a leader in pediatric eye care, renowned for its comprehensive services and pioneering research. As one of the preeminent pediatric ophthalmology departments in the world, it serves as a pillar of excellence in both clinical care and education.

Comprehensive Clinical Services

The department offers a full spectrum of ophthalmic services tailored to children and adolescents, addressing conditions such as strabismus, amblyopia, pediatric cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal disorders. The team includes specialists with advanced expertise in areas such as pediatric neuro-ophthalmology, ocular genetics, and pediatric oculoplastic surgery, ensuring that patients receive highly specialized care.

Research and innovation

Boston Children’s Ophthalmology is at the forefront of medical research, continually exploring novel treatments and interventions to advance pediatric eye care. The department collaborates with scientists globally to explore innovative technologies, from gene therapy to cutting-edge imaging techniques, to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Education and training

As a major training center, the department is committed to cultivating the next generation of healthcare providers. It hosts ophthalmology residents from local hospitals as well as fellowship programs in orthoptics, pediatric ophthalmology, pediatric inherited retinal disease, and pediatric retina. Trainees benefit from exposure to a diverse patient population and the mentorship of leading experts in the field.

Community engagement and global reach

Beyond the clinical setting, Boston Children’s Department of Ophthalmology engages in community outreach initiatives that promote eye health awareness and education. The department’s global outreach effort also extends to underserved regions, where it provides education and resources to improve access to eye care.

Patient-centered care

Dedicated to providing compassionate care, the department emphasizes a patient- and family-centered approach. With a focus on creating a supportive environment, it ensures that each family receives the educational resources and emotional support necessary throughout their treatment journey.

The Boston Children’s Hospital Department of Ophthalmology remains committed to setting the standard for excellence in pediatric eye care, combining clinical innovation, research, education, and community service to make a lasting impact on children’s vision health.