Students who are interested in Optometry programs should know that they have a number of different requirements, and there is no standard curriculum that can be guaranteed to meet all requirements. Coursework, in general, can include requirements from any of the following areas:
- Anatomy (offered through cross-registration)
- Physiology (BIOL 4270)
- Biochemistry (BIOL 4760)
- Biology (BIOL 1010/1015 & BIOL 2120/2125)
- Microbiology (BIOL 4310 or 4320)
- Chemistry (CHEM 1110/1120 & CHEM 1200)
- Organic Chemistry (CHEM 2230/2250) - one semester
- English Composition/Writing (Any two WRIT, LITR, or COMM courses)
- Psychology (general) (PSYC-1200)
- Statistics (BIOL 4200, MGMT-2150, or PSYC-2310)
These courses are strongly recommended, but students are encouraged to view the OPTOMcas website for more information about individual schools. Most programs also require or strongly recommend up to 50 hours of shadowing experience with a licensed optometrist. Standardized test requirements vary by program and students should contact individual programs for requirements.
The OPTOMcas
The OPTOMcas is the standardized application service for optometry programs. Application cycles run from June to May each year, but students are recommended to apply as early as possible.