Optometrists (O.D.) are the independent primary healthcare professionals for the eye. They examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and the associated structures as well as identify related systematic conditions affecting the eye. Optometrists practice in many settings, some of which include:
- Individual Private Practice
- Partnership or Group Practice
- Academic / Research
- Retail / Optical Settings
- Interdisciplinary Care
- Corporate / Industrial
- Military / Public Health
- Health Maintenance Organization
- Optometric / Ophthalmologic Professional Settings
Formal optometry education takes four years, with residency and extern programs taking place during the fourth year. Upon graduation, a board certification test is required. In order to remain certified, optometrists must complete at least 30 hours of board-approved continuing education each biennial period.
Resources
Professional Organizations:
- American Optometric Association
- Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
- Virginia Optometric Association
Sources for Knowledge in the Field:
Requirements and Involvement
Learn more about pre-requisite course requirements, advanced placement credit options, extracurricular opportunities, and more!
Application Process
Are you prepared to enter the application process? The review process includes many factors involving academics, career exploration and clinical experience, life experience, aptitude tests, letters of evaluation, personal statements, and more.
- Application Process for Optometry
- OptomCAS
- Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
- Selecting Schools
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Personal Statement
- Interview Preparation
Application Timeline
Find out key deadlines for school applications and view a sample application timeline to keep you on track.
