Optometry Colleges and Schools prepare individuals to become optometrists. Doctors of optometry (O.D.’s) are independent health care providers who examine, diagnose, treat and mange diseases and disorders of the eye and associated structures (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts, nearsightedness, farsightedness, etc.) as well as diagnose related systemic conditions (e.g., hypertension and diabetes). Acceptance into optometry school is competitive.

Statistics: An average GPA of 3.3 OAT score of between 320-340 (be aware that these can vary some what from school to school)

Medical School Curriculum

• Four year program
• The first two years emphasize classroom and laboratory work in the basic health and visual sciences. During the final two years, students study diagnostic and treatment techniques in clinical areas.
• Studies include coursework in biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology, visual anatomy and physiology, systemic diseases, pharmacology and optics.
• State licensure required.

• Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (OSCO):
  www.opted.org
• Frequently asked questions:
  http://www.opted.org/info_faq.cfm
• Optometry schools and colleges:
  http://www.opted.org/info_links.cfm
• OAT information and application:
  http://www.opted.org/info_oat.cfm

Additional OAT information and application may be obtained by contacting:

Optometry Admission Testing Program
211 East Chicago Avenue, Suite 1846
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 440-2693