Optometry (Pre)
Why choose pre-optometry at North Central College?
Admission to optometry schools is very competitive - only one in three applicants is accepted (22-23 acceptance rate was 73%). Medical schools, other graduate programs, and employers are looking for well-rounded applicants who not only excel academically but also bring diverse perspectives and skills to the table. That’s why at North Central we encourage you to pursue both your passions AND your prerequisites.
You’ll have opportunities to job shadow alumni who are optometrists. You’ll personally get to know professors who will write letters of recommendation for you when you apply to graduate schools, and you’ll gain a solid understanding of biology, chemistry and other areas of study.
You can also:
• Conduct research with faculty, independently or with other students during North Central’s Summer Undergraduate Research Colloquium and present your findings at the Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research or the National Conference on Undergraduate Research.
• Study abroad or apply for a Richter Independent Study Fellowship grant to conduct health-related research in a foreign country.
• Get personalized attention in small classes from professors who know you and can write letters of recommendation to graduate schools on your behalf.
• Work with a dedicated health programs advisor who will help you develop a personalized plan for college and beyond.
• Gain valuable experience with our student Pre-Health Organization.
Healthcare done differently
North Central College is a leader in healthcare education, with more than 38 undergraduate and graduate healthcare programs. Our focus is on developing excellent clinicians, educators, scholars and leaders who are driven not just by optimistic career outcomes, but also by a desire to serve. This is what makes North Central stand apart.
Explore our healthcare programs
Wentz Science Center
Take a virtual tour of the state-of-the-art Wentz Science Center, home to the lab science classes, labs and faculty offices.
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Pre-Optometry Opportunities
A North Central education integrates career preparation with rich academic study. Our faculty encourages you to refine and apply your knowledge in an interconnected world. Here you'll learn to think independently and work globally to solve problems and lead.
Graduate Schools
Graduates have been accepted at:
- Illinois College of Optometry
- Pennsylvania College of Optometry
- University of Missouri at St. Louis
Careers
Graduates include:
- Optometrist, Malbar Vision Centers, Omaha, NE
- Optometrist, Danada Vision Center, Wheaton, IL
- Optometrist, Advanced Eyecare and Laser Center, Wheaton, IL
What major should I choose at North Central College?
A degree in Biology or Biochemistry is recommended unless you have a strong interest in another major. Regardless of your major, optometry programs require a set of prerequisite courses (see list below).
Will I need graduate education?
Yes, after earning your bachelor’s degree at North Central becoming an optometrist requires an additional four years of optometry school that focuses on biomedical sciences, high-level ophthalmic studies, and clinical education leading to the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. The average GPA for students accepted to optometry school is about 3.4 or higher.
What prerequisite courses do optometry schools require?
Minimum course requirements for optometry school admission are:
- General Biology with lab
- General Chemistry with lab
- Organic Chemistry with lab
- Physics with lab
- Microbiology
- Calculus
- Psychology
Many optometry schools also require or recommend:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Sociology
- Statistics
What else should I consider?
While a student at North Central, you will participate in activities that will help you develop into a competitive applicant for optometry school. These include: observing in the optometry field to demonstrate that you realize how an optometrist works and are comfortable in a clinical environment; research experience to understand how new knowledge is generated; leadership activities like lab assistant, serving as an officer in a student organization, or tutoring; and, a commitment to others demonstrated through volunteer service. The Pre-Professional Health Program Coordinator will guide you in these activities, connect you with alum that have pursued this path, and advise you throughout the application process to optometry schools.
Invest in your future
Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.
Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.
Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College
Apply to North Central College
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