A guide to become an Optometrist in US and the best optometry schools in US
Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating vision problems. They are also called OD-Doctors of Optometry. Optometry is a satisfying eye profession because the happiness you get in helping people see is just unmatches.
If you want to know how to become an Optometrist in US, This is a guide for you.
What are the benefits of attending an optometry school in the USA?
There are several benefits to attending optometry school in the US, including:
- High-quality education: Optometry schools in the US offer comprehensive and rigorous education in the field of optometry, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful optometrists.
- Career opportunities: The demand for optometrists is high in the US, and graduates of optometry schools have a wide range of career opportunities, including private practice, group practice, academic positions, and research.
- Strong networking opportunities: Optometry schools in the US often have strong connections with alumni and industry professionals, providing students with valuable networking opportunities that can lead to internships, residencies, and job offers.
- Advanced clinical training: Many optometry schools in the US offer advanced clinical training, including rotations in various specialty clinics, providing students with hands-on experience in a variety of optometric settings.
- Research opportunities: Optometry schools in the US often have active research programs, providing students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects and contribute to the advancement of the field.
- Prestige and recognition: Optometry schools in the US are highly respected in the field of optometry and are recognized for their high standards of education and training. Graduates of these programs are well-respected and sought after by employers.
What are the requirements for admission to optometry schools in the USA?
The specific admission requirements for optometry school in the US may vary slightly depending on the school, but generally, the following requirements must be met:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree: Most optometry schools require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
- Prerequisite coursework: Applicants must complete specific prerequisite coursework, including biology, chemistry, physics, and math.
- Optometry Admissions Test (OAT): Applicants must take the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), which measures their academic ability and scientific knowledge.
- Letters of recommendation: Applicants must provide letters of recommendation from professors, advisors, or other professionals who can attest to their academic abilities and potential.
- Personal statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement that outlines their reasons for pursuing a career in optometry, their relevant experiences, and their goals.
- Clinical experience: Many optometry schools require applicants to have some clinical experience, such as shadowing or working with an optometrist.
- Minimum GPA and OAT scores: Each optometry school has its own minimum requirements for GPA and OAT scores, which may vary depending on the competitiveness of the applicant pool. optometry schools typically require applicants to have a minimum GPA in order to be considered for admission. The minimum required GPA varies depending on the school, but generally, a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is required.
What is OAT Score?
The Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) is a standardized test that is required for admission to optometry school in the US and Canada. The test is designed to assess the academic ability and scientific knowledge of applicants and is used by optometry schools as a factor in their admissions decisions.The OAT is offered year-round at Prometric Test Centers throughout the U.S. and Canada. Once you have received your eligibility letter confirming that your test application has been accepted, you must contact Prometric to secure an appointment.
The OAT consists of four sections:
- Natural Sciences: This section covers biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry. It includes 100 multiple-choice questions and lasts for 90 minutes.
- Physics: This section covers basic physics concepts, including mechanics, electricity, magnetism, optics, and waves. It includes 40 multiple-choice questions and lasts for 50 minutes.
- Reading Comprehension: This section measures the ability to understand and analyze complex written material. It includes 50 multiple-choice questions and lasts for 60 minutes.
- Quantitative Reasoning: This section measures the ability to reason mathematically and to solve problems using mathematical concepts. It includes 40 multiple-choice questions and lasts for 45 minutes.
The OAT is a computer-based test that is administered year-round at Prometric Test Centers. Applicants can take the test up to three times in a 12-month period, but must wait at least 90 days between test dates.
Best optometry schools in US
Here is a list of some of the best optometry schools in US on various rankings and reviews:
University of California, Berkeley School of Optometry
The UC Berkeley School of Optometry is widely recognized as one of the top optometry schools in the world. It is known for its cutting-edge research, exceptional clinical training, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as advanced degree programs in vision science, public health, and more.
Location: Berkeley, California
Website: https://optometry.berkeley.edu/
The Ohio State University College of Optometry
The Ohio State University College of Optometry is a leader in optometric education and research. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as graduate programs in vision science and clinical research. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, a diverse patient population, and opportunities to participate in research and clinical rotations.
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Website: https://optometry.osu.edu/
University of Houston College of Optometry
The University of Houston College of Optometry is committed to educating the next generation of optometrists and advancing the field of vision care. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as residency programs in a variety of specialties. Students have access to cutting-edge technology and facilities, as well as opportunities to gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations.
Location: Houston, Texas
Website: https://www.opt.uh.edu/
Indiana University School of Optometry
The Indiana University School of Optometry is one of the oldest and most respected optometry schools in the United States. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as graduate programs in vision science and clinical research. Students benefit from a diverse patient population, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to participate in research and clinical rotations.
Location: Bloomington, Indiana
Website: https://optometry.iu.edu/
University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry
The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry is dedicated to providing excellent clinical training and advancing the field of optometry through research and innovation. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as residency programs in a variety of specialties. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse patient population.
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Website: https://www.uab.edu/optometry/
Pennsylvania College of Optometry, Salus University
The Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University is one of the oldest optometry schools in the country. They offer a comprehensive curriculum with early clinical experience and extensive externships.
You can also enhance your program through elective courses and/or a residency program. An accelerated program is also available, allowing you to complete your optometry degree through a 36-month campus-based program.
Address: 8360 Old York Road, Elkins Park, PA 1907
Website: https://www.salus.edu/optometry
Phone: (215) 780-1400
University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Optometry
The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry is dedicated to providing excellent clinical training and advancing the field of optometry through research and innovation. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as residency programs in a variety of specialties. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse patient population.
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Website: https://www.umsl.edu/divisions/optometry/
New England College of Optometry
The New England College of Optometry is one of the oldest and most respected optometry schools in the United States. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as graduate programs in vision science and clinical research. Students benefit from a diverse patient population, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to participate in research and clinical rotations.
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Website: https://www.neco.edu/
University of California, Los Angeles School of Optometry
The UCLA School of Optometry is committed to providing exceptional clinical training and advancing the field of vision care through research and innovation. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program, as well as residency programs in a variety of specialties. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse patient population.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Website: https://www.uclahealth.org/optometry
University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science
The University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science is a leading optometry school in Canada. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry program
Location: Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Website: https://uwaterloo.ca/optometry-vision-science/
Pacific University College of Optometry
Location: Forest Grove, Oregon
Website: https://www.pacificu.edu/optometry
Midwestern University Arizona College of Optometry
The Midwestern University Arizona College of Optometry opened its Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree program in the Fall of 2009. Although relatively new, the program is already highly respected.
Their curriculum offers face-to-face instruction, an inter-health professional campus, and early exposure to clinical settings.
Address: 19555 N 59th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85308
Website: https://www.midwestern.edu/academics/our-colleges/arizona-college-of-optometry
Phone: (623) 572-3200
