Who we are

About us

The Institute for Research and Studies in Optics and Optometry (IRSOO) in Vinci (Florence) offers training and professional continuing education in healthcare, optics, ophthalmology and vision sciences. In the same fields, IRSOO also carries out experimental research.

IRSOO has long been organizing and delivering a comprehensive three year training program that includes a two year course leading to qualification as an Optician, followed by a one year specialization in Optometry. In addition to its core educational pathway, the Institute offers continuing education programs designed for professionals already active in the field. These programs typically include advanced training, specialization, and professional development courses across various areas of optometry and vision sciences. The Institute also supports its educational activities through experimentation and research in the aforementioned fields, with a particular focus on human vision, providing valuable integration and reinforcement for theoretical learning.

Our history

The school originates directly from the National Institute of Optics in Arcetri, on the hills of Florence, where professional certification courses in optics began in 1929. During the academic year 1969-1970, the school moved from Arcetri to Vinci, where a course in optometry was also introduced.

The institute underwent major cultural growth and development in the ‘70s, when, for the first time in Italy, a two-year optics and optometry high-level course allowed students to obtain a socially useful and legally recognized profession. At the end of the ’70s and during the first half of the ’80s, IRSOO became the best Italian institute for optical and optometric studies and many of the students who trained here in those years are now recognized optometry teachers in best Italian schools and universities.

The institute was renowned then, as it is today, for its high standard of education, effective organization, reliability, well-equipped laboratories and for the high-professional level of its staff of teachers and external co-workers.

Since 2006, courses for the Degree in Optics and Optometry of the University of Florence are run in collaboration with IRSOO and the National Institute of Optics of the National Research Council (CNR).

Experimental research at IRSOO began in 2010, complementing and enhancing the Institute’s education plans and offering a continuing training program for operators already working in the optical and optometric field.

On July 15, 2021 Luxottica announces its acquisition of the Institute of Research and Studies in Optics and Optometry (IRSOO) in Vinci (FI), a historic school of optics and optometry that is among the most prestigious in Italy.

Our vision

The purpose of IRSOO is to serve as a leading hub for high quality, evidence based education and professional development in ophthalmic optics and optometry. The Institute strives to be a national point of reference for professionals and companies seeking advanced training or wishing to operate within the optical and ophthalmic optics sector.

Our mission

IRSOO’s mission is to educate future professionals and support the ongoing development of those already working in the fields of ophthalmic optics and optometry. The Institute provides high quality, evidence based training that aligns with scientific and technological progress, ensuring strong professional skills and long term employability.

Alongside education, IRSOO integrates research and experimental activities that actively involve students and enrich continuing education programs, fostering shared scientific, cultural, and professional growth.

This mission is supported through continuous monitoring of industry needs, the design of training programs that reflect market developments, rigorous quality management at every stage of course delivery, and ongoing efforts to enhance institutional efficiency through well defined and controlled processes.