What is Optometry?

Doctors of Optometry (O.D.s/optometrists) are the independent primary health care professionals for the eye.  Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye.

• Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain surgical procedures.
• Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations, and lifestyle.
• An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.
• Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.

Individuals who are looking to pursue an education as an optometrist must first acquire a Bachelor’s Degree. That four-year degree should be in a field that is related to optometry, such as biology or physiology. Once a Bachelor’s Degree is earned, candidates are then eligible to apply for admission to an optometry program. There are currently 23 American educational institutions that offer the Doctor of Optometry degree. 

Steps to becoming a Doctor of Optometry:

1. Start with earning a bachelor's degree in pre-med or biological science.
2. Next, prepare for and pass the Optometry Admission Test (OAT), and select a four-year doctor of optometry program.
3. Obtaining your doctoral degree, prepare for and pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exams.
4. Finally, secure your license to practice. 

https://optometriceducation.org/students-future-students/member-schools-and-colleges/

https://www.optomcas.org/information-about-schools-colleges/school-college-prerequisites/

https://help.liaisonedu.com/OptomCAS_Applicant_Help_Center/Starting_Your_OptomCAS_Application/Getting_Started_with_Your_OptomCAS_Application/01_Quick_Start_Guide