Pre-Optometry
Optometrists take care of people’s eyes and vision.
They conduct eye examinations, diagnose and treat eye diseases and injuries, and identify conditions affecting the eye. Doctors of optometry also perform certain surgical procedures. They work in a range of settings, from general-practice community health centers to pediatric specialty clinics. Optometry is a rewarding field that combines the satisfaction of improving people’s ability to see with a flexible schedule, service to the community and a stable lifestyle.
Yes, you’ll need to complete a four-year doctoral degree program in optometry at one of the colleges of optometry. After you earn your professional degree, you’ll need to pass the licensure examination in order to practice optometry.
As a pre-optometry student, you may choose any major, as long as you complete all the application requirements, including prerequisite courses. Students interested in applying to optometry school through our partnership with Midwestern University can also pursue any major. Those applying for the 3+4 track with Illinois College of Optometry must be biology majors. To learn more about the requirements to apply for these partnerships, please review the academic affiliations webpage.
As a pre-optometry student, you may choose any major, as long as you complete all the application requirements, including prerequisite courses. Students interested in applying to optometry school through our partnership with Midwestern University can also pursue any major. To learn more about the requirements to apply for this particular program, please review the academic affiliations webpage.
Prerequisites vary by program, so it’s best to contact the professional school that interests you for specific information. Also, you should complete the Optometry Admission Test (OAT) at least one year before enrolling. Recommended courses include:
- General Biology I and II with labs
- General Chemistry I and II with labs
- Organic Chemistry I and II with labs
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology with lab
- Statistics
- Physics I and II with labs
- Calculus
- Psychology
You will meet with the health professions advisor to discuss your specific academic and professional interests. Your advisor will work with you throughout your Elmhurst career, clearing obstacles and giving expert guidance.
You can start by visiting these useful websites: