Optometry is a highly competitive medical field — one that requires intense doctoral-level preparation and state licensure to enter. But Edinboro's Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences — Pre-Optometry concentration provides a laser-sharp focus on the skills you'll need to apply to a professional school, pursue your Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and become an optometrist.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of optometrists is projected
to grow 10 percent between now and 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
Because vision problems tend to occur more frequently later in life, an aging population
will lead to demand for more optometrists.
As a Pre-Optometry student at Edinboro, you'll follow a rigorous curriculum that is
heavy on the sciences, including courses in the nature of light and color that are
required by well-known optometry programs in the area. Balance these classes with
general education and core courses that improve your critical thinking skills and
ethical decision-making and you'll be a qualified candidate for Optometry school.
Small classes taught by faculty members with a wide array of research interests will
enable you to participate fully in your education and appreciate the importance of
evidence-based medicine. Faculty mentors will ensure you're equipped to do well on
the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) and meet the requirements for the professional
program that interests you.
A high undergraduate GPA and passing OAT scores are a must for Optometry School. But it's never too early to build a resume that demonstrates your commitment to the field. Opportunities at Edinboro include:
Students like you who are focused and serious about careers in health care are here at Edinboro. They could be following any one of these pre-professional tracks:
Dr. Nina Thumser
Department Chair
126C and 146 Cooper Hall
Email: nthumser@edinboro.edu
Phone: 814-732-2158
Curriculum Sheet Course Sequence
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