Description

Optometrists are the major providers of primary eye care in the U.S.  They examine the eyes for vision problems, disease, and other abnormal conditions.  They test for proper depth and color perception, the ability to coordinate and focus the eyes, and they prescribe lenses and/or treatments including glasses, contact lenses, corrective eye exercises, therapy, and in some states, therapeutic drugs for specific diseases.

Degree

O.D.

Program Length

4 Years

Professional Schools’ Organization

ASCO (Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry)

http://www.opted.org

Application Service

None (Obtain from individual schools)

Academic Admission Requirements

Minimum three years; BA or BS preferred; two semesters General Chemistry; one to two semesters Organic Chemistry; two semesters each of Physics, Biology, Math.  Microbiology, Psychology, English, (specific additional requirements recommended by individual schools)

Admission Exam

OAT (Optometry Admissions Test) www.opted.org/info_oat.cfm

Personal Attributes & Experiences

Optometry students must be intelligent, scientifically curious, motivated, and socially conscious.  Evidence of good citizenship and professionalism.  Demonstrated knowledge of profession.

Recommendation Letters

Health Professions Committee letter (usually confidential) sent with additional individual letters of support.