Pre-Optometry Track
Is it better here at 1 or 2?
Do you see yourself working as an optometrist? There is more to optometry than prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses. Did you know that often the first sign of a chronic disease is seen in the eye? You could be the healthcare professional who first sees signs of diabetes or high blood pressure in a patient.
The requirements for admission to the schools of optometry vary, but if you wish to study optometry, you will take the following:
- At least a year of biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, general physics, and microbiology
- English
- College mathematics through calculus
- Social science and humanities courses
Although there is only one optometry school in Alabama, there are two others that you should consider applying to if you are serious about a career as an optometrist. They are:
- University of Alabama School of Optometry, Birmingham, AL
- Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, TN
- Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry, Davie, FL
The science courses should be pre-professional level courses designed for science majors or health professional students and should offer laboratory experience. Brief survey courses in the sciences will not prepare you for optometry school. Be sure to consult with the Pre-Health Professions Advisor at UNA about course selection.
Generally, colleges of optometry admit students who have demonstrated strong academic commitment and who exhibit the potential to excel in deductive reasoning, interpersonal communication, and empathy. Potential optometry students will be evaluated on the basis of grade point average, performance on the Optometry Admission Test (OAT), extracurricular and community activities, personal interview, professional potential, etc.
Optometry schools are looking for "well-rounded" candidates who have achieved not only in the classroom, but also in other areas. Leadership ability, a disposition to serve others, and a work ethic characterized by dedication and persistence are just a few of the qualities that impress most admission committees.