Preparing for a career as an optometrist

Optometry is a profession that often attracts students with a strong desire to connect with patients individually and develop long-term relationships with them. Optometrists do much more than prescribe glasses or contact lenses! Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures, and identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye.

If you are thinking about becoming an optometrist, you need to have very strong skills in math and science, and be able to complete a rigorous set of courses before starting optometry school. You will need to develop good communication and interpersonal skills for your work with patients.

Students interested in a career in optometry need to build a strong foundation in the sciences, as well as skills and abilities in a number of other areas as undergraduate students. You should plan your college education with the goal of building a diverse set of skills, and select a major that challenges and interests you. Optometry schools also expect students to develop their communication and professionalism.

Preparing for medical school can be challenging, but we are here to help. This guidebook, as well as our advising services, will help you make a solid plan for your success.