They treat vision problems by prescribing opthlamic lenses or contact lenses when appropriate, by prescribing vision therapy or by referral to medical professionals who specialize in the treatment of diseases of the eye. In order to enter this dynamic field of health care, it is first necessary to earn the Doctor of Optometry degree. This can be achieved through admission to one of the thirteen optometry schools in the United States. Admission to the professional school requires a minimum of two years of undergraduate college work. However, it should be noted that the majority of today's optometry students have a four-year baccalaureate degree.
Some schools also require a personal interview with school representatives.
Since requirements vary slightly from one optometry school to another, it is advisable to check with the specific college of optometry to which you plan to apply regarding their admission requirements. The courses listed on the back of this sheet fulfill the requirements for most programs. According to the American Optometry Association, the need for optometrists throughout the United States is significant. The profession of optometry is growing rapidly and opportunities for future optometrists are projected to be excellent. A number of factors such as population growth, an aging population, and emphasis on prevention of vision disease have increased the demands for these professionals.