Pre-Optometry

Why choose pre-Optometry at WSU?

• You will be adequately prepared for post-graduate studies in a pre-medical professional field.
   
• You will have resources such as facutly, staff and advisors who have years of experience in the medical field and can offer expert advice and insight.
  
• You will be getting involved in a field that is exciting and can make a difference to many individuals.
  

What do optometrists do?

Doctors of optometry (ODs) are the 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. 

For more information, go to Career Services.

What are the graduate study requirments?

Applicants to optometry schools must take the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT). This test is offered twice yearly, usually in February and October. 

Optometrists are required to complete a four-year post-graduate degree program to earn their doctor of optometry titles. The four-year program includes classroom and clinical training in geometric, physical, physiological and ophthalmic optics, ocular anatomy, ocular disease, ocular myotology, ocular pharmacology, neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the vision system, color, form, space, movement and vision perception, design and modification of the visual environment, and vision performance and vision screening. 

After graduation from an accredited school or college of optometry, optometrists must successfully complete a state board examination to become licensed to practice in that state. 

There are 19 accredited schools and colleges of optometry in the U.S and Canada. More information on graduate schools  can be found at http://www.aoanet.org or see the following list.

What will I learn in the program?

When you complete a rigorous study of pre-optometry you'll learn the principles of study as well as the necessary study habits to be ready for post-graduate studies.