The Cole Eye Institute welcomes medical students in the final quarter of their third year or in the fourth year to participate in a one-month rotation in the Cole Eye Institute. The experience includes lectures, demonstrations, discussions and exposure to a diverse patient population. Patients who come to the Cole Eye Institute represent not only the most common clinical problems encountered in this field, but also the most challenging cases referred to a tertiary care institution, affording medical students an unparalleled learning opportunity.

Students observe and learn from leading ophthalmologists in some of the most challenging and exciting subspecialties in the field, including ocular oncology, refractive surgery, pediatric ophthalmology, ocular genetics and uveitis. In addition to intense instruction in ophthalmologic clinical procedures, students also have the opportunity to observe surgery, attend Grand Rounds and participate in the Cole Eye Institute’s world-class bench and clinical research. Translational research is a hallmark of the Cole Eye Institute, and students can choose to become involved in significant research that will impact future patient care.

A maximum of two one-month rotations are available to students who have completed all of their prerequisites, including core clinical rotations. Because of the large number of applicants, interested students are encouraged to apply at least six months in advance. International students should apply six months in advance to allow for adequate processing time.

More information

To apply for a rotation or obtain additional information, please visit the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine Electives Program.

Program Director 
Elias Traboulsi, MD, MEd