Optometry
While several optometry schools admit students after their junior year, many require that applicants obtain their Bachelor’s degrees prior to admission. Most pre-optometry students choose to major in biology, but a student may choose to major in any discipline. While optometry schools look favorably upon applicants with a strong foundation within the sciences, they also look for a balance between science courses and courses in the humanities and social sciences. Optometry schools expect that applicants have gained an understanding of the profession through internship and employment experiences and are committed to the profession. Students are encouraged to learn about the optometry profession and patient care through internships, volunteer experiences and employment.
Most optometry schools have specific admission requirements. A student interested in a career in optometry should identify the schools in which he or she is interested as early as possible. Pre-optometry students should then consult with their advisors and the coordinator on a regular basis to discuss course selection and optometry school application procedures. Optometry schools select students on the basis of 1) undergraduate academic performance; 2) OAT (Optometry Admission Test) scores; 3) letters of evaluation from professors and other professional people; and 4) a personal interview (most programs). Admission to optometry school is competitive.
Suggested Pre-Optometry Program of Study:
The following is a suggested program of study which should meet the general admission requirements for most schools. Students are responsible for checking the specific admissions guidelines for each optometry school and consulting with their advisor or the Coordinator to ensure that they are meeting all requirements.