Optometry

Optometry combines the biological and physical sciences into a clinical discipline that diagnoses and corrects a wide range of vision difficulties. Doctors of Optometry (O.D.'s) provide treatment by prescribing ophthalmic lenses or other optical aids, providing vision therapy to preserve or restore maximum efficiency in vision, and in some states, are authorized to prescribe drugs in the treatment of certain eye diseases. O.D.'s are also able to detect diseases of the body that may have the potential to affect vision, such as diabetes, hypertension, and arteriosclerosis. Optometrists work in private practice, as part of a group practice, or in government or military service. Most optometrists are self-employed and have flexible working hours. Career opportunities in optometry include optometric education, research, and health care administration. Specialties include pediatrics, low-vision services for the visually impaired, contact lenses, sports vision, vision therapy, geriatrics, and occupational vision.

The need for optometrists is growing as career opportunities increase in the service and IT fields, where the need for good visual functioning is high. The aging U.S. population also adds to the need for optometrists. USA Today rates optometry as one of the top-ten income-earning professions in the U.S., and the third-largest healthcare industry. The Occupational Outlook Handbook states that growth will be fastest in retail optical stores and outpatient clinics.

Optometric Skills and Attributes

To be successful as an optometrist, it is vital that one possesses business ability, self-discipline, and the ability to deal with patients. The work itself requires attention to detail and good manual dexterity.

Recommended Undergraduate Preparation

Almost any major is appropriate, as long as the required courses are completed in order to be competitive when applying to schools of optometry. As with other graduate programs, extracurricular activities are encouraged, as schools often seek candidates that are "well-rounded." If possible, working with an optometrist is highly recommended, in order to gain a better understanding of the field.

Application Process

Doctor of Optometry programs consist of 4 years of specialized professional education and training. Some programs will accept students who have completed only 3 years of undergraduate study, though most programs require an undergraduate degree to be completed before matriculation. Students need to obtain application materials from the schools in which they are interested in applying. Along with the application materials, students must also submit Optometry Admission Test (OAT) scores to each school. Students should apply one year before they plan to enter optometry school. Each school varies as to its application deadline, but the sooner the application is received the better. Most schools also require an interview for each applicant. Optometry programs consider such criteria as academic competitiveness (GPA and OAT scores), and professional potential, (biographic info, knowledge of profession, and letters of reference).

It is suggested that applicants get a copy of "Optometry: A Career With Vision," from the American Optometric Association, by writing the Association at 243 N. Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141, or calling them at 314.991.4100. The booklet contains descriptions and comparisons of various optometric school programs, entering class profiles, costs, etc.

Links for More Information

• American Optometric Association, Educational Services: http://www.aoanet.org
• Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry: http://www.opted.org
• American Optometric Student Association: http://www.nationalosa.org
• American Academy of Optometry: http://www.aaopt.org

Illinois Wesleyan Contact Person

For more information on optometry, contact Director of the IWU Career Center, Warren Kistner, wkistner@titan.iwu.edu, 556-3071.