  Information for Pre-Optometry StudentsThe Doctor of Optometry degree requires completion of a four-year program at an accredited optometry school preceded by at least three years of pre-optometric study at an accredited college or university. Most optometry students hold a bachelor's degree prior to admittance to optometry school. There are 17 schools and colleges of optometry in the United States. UWM offers all of the prerequisite coursework necessary for students to apply to schools/colleges of optometry. Although specific requirements may vary among schools, the following courses generally are required:
In addition, many schools of optometry recommend and/or require the following courses:
Due to the fact that each optometry school may have specific required/recommended courses, it is very important to consult with the pre-optometry advisor each semester prior to selecting your courses. In addition to course selection, the pre-optometry advisor will discuss a pre-optometry timeline of suggested activities. The Prevent Blindness Wisconsin program contacted UWM in the Spring of 2005 to offer a vision screening training program to UWM pre-optometry students. This program trains our students to conduct both child and adult vision screening. Students may participate in the program as volunteers or interns. Interns may earn college credit for participation in the program. Students interested in participating in this program should contact the pre-optometry advisor. According to the "2008-09" Occupational Outlook Handbook, optometrists held about 33,000 jobs in 2006. Salaried jobs for optometrists were primarily in offices of optometrists; offices of physicians, including ophthalmologists; and health and personal care stores, including optical goods stores. A few salaried jobs for optometrists were in hospitals, the Federal Government, or outpatient care centers including health maintenance organizations. Nearly 25 percent of optometrists are self-employed. According to a 2005 survey by the American Optometric Association most self-employed optometrists worked in private practice or in partnership with other health care professionals. A small number worked for optical chains or franchises or as independent contractors. Employment of optometrists is projected to grow 11 percent between 2006 and 2016 which is as fast as average for all occupations. A growing population that recognizes the importance of good eye care will increase demand for optometrists. Also, an increasing number of health insurance plans that include vision care, should generate more job growth. Job opportunities for optometrists should be very good over the next decade. Demand is expected to be much higher, and because there are only 16 schools of optometry, the number of students who can get a degree in optometry is limited. In addition to growth, the need to replace optometrists who retire or leave the occupation for other reasons will create more employment opportunities. Median annual earnings of salaried optometrists were $91,040 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $66,530 and $118,490. Median annual earnings of salaried optometrists in offices of optometrists were $86,760. Salaried optometrists tend to earn more initially than do optometrists who set up their own practices. In the long run, however, those in private practice usually earn more. According to the American Optometric Association, median net annual income for all optometrists, including the self-employed, was $105,000 in 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $84,000 and $150,000. For more information about the Pre-Optometry studies at UWM, please contact Patricia Cobb (Pre-Professional Health Advisor) at (414) 229-3922 or email here at: pacobb@uwm.edu. If you would like to make an appointment to see Ms. Cobb, please call (414) 229-4654. Links to Optometry Programs |
