A Remarkable Journey
Professor Gerald Westheimer is Berkeley’s charismatic centenarian vision scientist. “A one-of-a-kind, a giant in the field of optics and vision.”
Welcome to Berkeley
Berkeley is a place where the brightest minds from across the globe come together to explore, ask questions, and improve the world. It is a place where distinguished faculty gather to educate, challenge, mentor and inspire tomorrow’s leaders.
Why Berkeley?
Berkeley is the no. 1 public university in the world. Our students and faculty come from many places and backgrounds; together we create a vibrant and dynamic community that seeks to create a better world. Join us!
Get Clinical Experience
Our students examine 1,800 patients by the time they graduate, among the highest in optometry. To get you ready for your first patient, we provide over 400 hours of preclinical training during your first two years.
Student Testimonials
Facts and figures only tell part of the story. Hear what our students have to say about their experience at the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science. We asked them about their classes, seeing patients, and life in Berkeley.
Vision Science
Vision is one of our most valuable senses. At the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science, world-renowned Vision Science faculty are exploring a rich array of research questions relating to how we see and why vision fails. The answers have the potential to change lives.
Introducing “See” Magazine
Our annual school magazine has been printed and is available to view online. For this year’s issue we have a fresh new design, and a new name! See. Click here to read more.
Our Vision, Our Future
Introducing the final $25 million component of the $100 million campaign initiated by the transformational $50 million gift from the Wertheim Family Foundation. The campaign is focused on the future of eye health, vision care, and research.
Opto-Twirlers!
Learn about two optometry students, Angelina Chen and Benjamin Zietz, and their role in a memorable Berkeley milestone.
Dr. Gorski Wins Silverman Award
Congrats to Assistant Clinical Professor Emily Gorski on being named a recipient of the 2026 Silverman Excellence in Community Partnerships Award.
Specialty Clinic Chiefs Appointed
Four faculty members appointed to lead Emeryville’s specialty clinics.
COA Educator of the Year
Congrats to Dr. Debora Lee Chen on being named the 2025 COA Educator of the Year by the California Optometric Association Recognitions Committee.
New Emeryville Satellite Campus
The new space will double our clinical capacity and expand opportunities for world-class education and research.
Wertheim Foundation Pledges $50 million to Berkeley Optometry
A lead gift for a 10-year, $100 million investment.
