Optometry

Optometrists, doctors of optometry, or ODs, are the main providers of vision care. They diagnose vision problems and test patients' depth and color perception and ability to focus and coordinate the eyes. Optometrists may prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses, or they may provide specialized treatments like vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation. Optometrists also test for eye diseases and diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. They can prescribe medication to treat vision problems or eye diseases, and some provide preoperative and postoperative care to cataract and laser eye surgery patients.

A career as an optometrist can offer a great deal of freedom than other professions, since often they are independent practitioners.  Work hours are often regular and reasonable and the job is not physically demanding.  

Optometrists should not be confused with ophthalmologists. Ophthalmologists are physicians who have graduated from medical school and have completed a residency in ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists perform eye surgery, as well as diagnose and treat eye diseases and injuries. Like optometrists, they also examine eyes and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses.

 

*Please note that WashU does not offer an optometry program. This page provides information for those interested in applying to programs offered elsewhere.

Exposure to the Field

Shadowing & Volunteering

Schools of optometry encourage prospective students to spend time shadowing or volunteering with a Doctor of Optometry. Not only will this experience confirm one’s decision in this career but it will also increase one’s knowledge of the profession. In addition to strong academic performance, students who display a sincere disposition to serving others and who have skills in interpersonal communication will be considered a well-rounded candidate. Thus participating in community service projects that serve to help others, vision-related or not, is recommended.

The Application Process

The American Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) uses a single web-based application called the Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS) that allows prospective students to apply to multiple schools. Additionally, most optometry programs also have their own supplemental applications. Visit the OptomCAS site for more information. Applications may include questions about the applicant’s own most recent eye exam.

Standardized Testing 
All schools and colleges of optometry in the United States and Canada require the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).

Undergraduate Experience 
Prospective students can major in any degree as long as all of the prerequisite courses are completed.

Specialization 
There are several areas of specialization in optometry that require an additional one-year in a clinical residency, after the completion of the four year O.D. program. Some examples would be low vision therapy for patients who are legally blind or developmental optometry for those who have suffered eye injuries, or have amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (cross-eye). An occupational optometrist would focus on developing ways to protect workers' eyes from on-the-job strain or injury. Others may focus on pediatrics, sports vision, head trauma, or ocular disease.

Professional Opportunities

Most optometrists are general practitioners in either an independent or group practice.  Private practitioners would also be responsible for the business aspects of running an office and hiring personnel. Other places for employment would include hospitals, in the public health sector like community health centers, military organizations like the Department of Veteran Affairs, the corporate/industrial environment, and even in research and teaching.

Resources

PreOptometry Advisor

Elizabeth Heidger

Email: eheidger@wustl.edu | Drop-in Advising schedule