Optometry Career Training

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Optometry Education and Training Requirements 

Becoming an optometrist requires completing a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program, which typically takes four years to complete. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help navigate optometry training and education. 

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree or Optometry School Prerequisites 

The journey to becoming an optometrist begins with a strong foundation in science. Most optometry programs require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree or at least some higher education coursework in biology, chemistry, physics and math. Identify a few potential optometry programs that align with your education goals and preferences, and make a plan to enroll in classes that will count toward prerequisite requirements for optometry school. 

Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience

While completing your undergraduate coursework, seek out opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the field of optometry. Consider shadowing optometrists in different practice settings to get a firsthand look at the day-to-day responsibilities of the profession. Additionally, volunteering or working as a technician in an optometry clinic can provide valuable insight into patient care and clinic operations.

Step 3: Take the Optometry Admission Test (OAT)

Before applying to optometry school, you’ll need to take the Optometry Admission Test (OAT), a standardized exam that assesses your knowledge and aptitude in science, math, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. Be sure to thoroughly prepare for the OAT by studying the relevant subject material and familiarizing yourself with the test format.

Step 4: Apply to Optometry School

To make applying easier, use the Optometry Centralized Application Service (OCAS), a standardized application that all 24 optometry schools in the United States and Puerto Rico utilize. Through OCAS, applicants can complete one application and send it to multiple optometry programs. Be sure to submit a strong application package, including your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement highlighting your passion for optometry and your commitment to patient care. The application process is also a good time to explore scholarship opportunities to help offset the cost of tuition and other expenses. 

Step 5: Complete a Doctor of Optometry (OD) Program

Optometry school typically takes four years to complete and leads to a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. During your optometry program, you’ll study a wide range of topics related to eye health and vision care, including ocular anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical skills. You’ll also gain practical experience through clinical rotations in various specialty areas, such as pediatric optometry, geriatric optometry, and contact lens fitting.

Step 6: Obtain Licensure

After graduating from optometry school, you’ll need to obtain licensure to practice as an optometrist. Licensure requirements vary by state but generally include passing the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exams and fulfilling any additional state-specific requirements, such as completing a certain number of supervised clinical hours.

Step 7: Consider Specialization or Advanced Training

Once you’ve become a licensed optometrist, you may choose to pursue additional specialization or advanced training in a specific area of optometry, such as pediatric optometry, low vision rehabilitation, or ocular disease management. Specialization can enhance your expertise and open new career opportunities in both clinical and academic settings.

Step 8: Maintain Continuing Education

As a healthcare professional, it’s important to stay up to date on the latest advancements and best practices in optometry. Participate in continuing education courses, conferences, and workshops to expand your knowledge and skills throughout your career. Additionally, maintaining active involvement in professional organizations such as the American Optometric Association (AOA), or completing continuing education courses at events like Vision Expo can provide valuable networking opportunities and resources for ongoing professional development.

Embarking on the journey to become an optometrist requires dedication, perseverance, and a genuine desire to improve the vision and eye health of others. By following these steps and staying committed to your education and training, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a rewarding career in optometry.View list of optometry programs in the United States