Are you interested in studying optometry and learning about some schools where admission is easier? I compiled a list of the top 10 optometry schools that are currently the easiest to enter compared to others. See them below.
- Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science
- Indiana University School of Optometry
- University of Alabama Birmingham School of Optometry
- New England College of Optometry
- Southern College of Optometry
- Oklahoma College of Optometry
- Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry
- Michigan College of Optometry
- University of Houston College of Optometry
- University of Missouri St. Louis College of Optometry
The course “Optometry” is such a beautiful one that guarantees a job and stands as one of the highest-paying doctor’s specialties globally. The demand for optometrists is ever-increasing, hence the upsurge in students from different backgrounds applying to study the course.
Key Takeaways on Optometry
U.S News ranks optometrists #11 in best healthcare jobs, #22 in best-paying jobs, and #51 in 100 best jobs.
There is projected growth employment of 9% (higher than average) from 2022- 2032 according to the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics
An average optometrist in the United States earns about $151, 253 annually according to indeed.com.
This article will explore the easiest optometry schools with fewer requirements to get into. I implore you to read through this with undivided attention as I unveil all you need to know about this topic. You are ready.
What is Optometry?
Optometry is a healthcare profession that examines the eyes and related structures for defects or abnormalities. The occupation specializes in measuring eyesight, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting eye disease.
Easiest Optometry Schools To Get Into
Here are the schools with less stringent admission requirements. Our data is obtained from deep research on individual schools’ websites.
1. Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science
Location: California
Acceptance Rate: 20.6%
Application Fee: $66
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $22,521.75 (CA residents), $28,644.25 (Non-CA Residents)
This is the optometry school of the University of California. It is well known for its groundbreaking investigation into the origins of vision disorders and the development of improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of visual defects and diseases.
The school offers an intensive four-year clinical training program taught by a prestigious group of educators and researchers. Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science is a place to be for quality education.
2. Indiana University School of Optometry
Location: Indiana
Acceptance Rate: 22.09%
Application Fee: $70
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: Vary based on the degree you are earning.
The Indiana University School of Optometry offers comprehensive eye health education, research, and patient care. It focuses on advancing the vision field through research and training future generations to do the same using cutting-edge curriculum.
The Accreditation Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association accredits this school.
3. University of Alabama Birmingham School of Optometry
Location: Birmingham
Acceptance Rate: 25%
Application Fee: $40
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $29,841 annually (resident), $54,012 annually (Non-resident), $40,012 annually (Non-resident with merit scholarship)
This school offers one of the top optometry programs in the nation. It helps prepare students to provide comprehensive evidence-based eye care, discover new principles of vision science, and conduct groundbreaking research.
This school holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education. UAB School of Optometry is among the easiest optometry schools to get into.
4. New England College of Optometry
Location: New England
Acceptance Rate: 47%
Application Fee: $30
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $23,158 – $63,362
New England College of Optometry is another one of the easiest optometry schools to enrol in. It offers high-quality programs across the field of optometry. The Doctor of Optometry program offered at this school lasts four years and is taught by industry experts.
Other programs are offered, such as accelerated OD programs, International and dual-degree programs, and a Master of Science in Vision Science.
5. Southern College of Optometry
Location: Memphis, Tennessee
Acceptance Rate: 38%
Application Fee: $50
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $43,406 (Non-regional Tuition) & $23,606- $36,906
Southern College of Optometry is one of the nation’s leading optometry schools that focuses on providing students with in-depth training on all that concerns optometry. This school has a low student-to-faculty ratio, high-quality technology, interactive course curriculums, etc.
It is worth noting that the school offers professional clinical training through the eye centre and that tuition fees are affordable.
6. Oklahoma College of Optometry
Location: NSU Tahlequah Campus
Acceptance Rate: 53.9% (for early decision application)
Application Fee: $45
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $11,763 (in-state) and $27,144 (out-of-state)
Oklahoma College of Optometry is well-known for its prowess in high-quality optometry programs. It offers programs such as a doctor of optometry degree, postgraduate clinical residency certification, and continuing optometric education.
Upon graduation from any of these programs, you must have been equipped to diagnose and treat various eye and vision problems.
7. Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Acceptance Rate: 26%
Application Fee: $50
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $40,500
NSU’s College of Optometry prepares you to become a competent, compassionate professional who will see that there is preservation and enhancement of the gift of sight. You will be equipped with the knowledge to make a difference in your patients daily.
A doctor of optometry degree (OD) is offered, as are clinical experiences, extended programs, preparatory optometry programs, etc.
8. Michigan College of Optometry
Location: Michigan, USA
Acceptance Rate: 27%
Application Fee: $185 to enter the OptomCas system and an additional $75 for the program you wish to apply for.
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $40,420 annually
Michigan College of Optometry is a school of optometry located at Ferris State University. It aims to give students an in-depth foundation in optometric healthcare.
The Doctor of Optometry program is taught by expert faculty members who will help you develop the skills, knowledge, and integrity to join the next generation of leaders in the optometry field.
9. University of Houston College of Optometry
Location: Houston, Texas
Acceptance Rate: 21.29%
Application Fee: $50
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $27,090 (Texas Resident) and $46,106 (Non-Resident)
The University of Houston College of Optometry is also on our list of easiest optometry schools to get into. The college has three aims: to educate future leaders in clinical eye care to serve their patients with integrity, respect, and compassion, to pursue discoveries in biomedical research that advance the fundamental understanding of human health, the eye, and the visual system, and lastly, to provide quality evidence-based care that improves health outcomes in our communities.
This institution prides itself on being the leading institution in myopia research globally.
10. University of Missouri St. Louis College of Optometry
Location: Missouri
Acceptance Rate: 21.29%
Application Fee: $50
Financial Aid: Yes
Accreditation: Yes
Tuition: $14,080 (Missouri Resident) and $23,240 (Non-Resident)
University of Missouri St. Louis College of Optometry is another optometry school with less stringent admission processes. The school holds you by hand and walks you through all you need to begin a career in optometry.
There are labs, clinics, small class sizes, and industry-trained teachers to teach, encourage, and support you immensely.
How to Become an Optometrist?
Here are the steps you can take to become an Optometrist.
- Study and earn your bachelor’s degree.
- Prepare and write the Optometry Admission Test (OAT) to enrol in optometry school.
- Attend the optometry school and obtain your Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree.
- Gain hands-on experience and practical skills by working under an experienced eye care specialist.
- Apply and write the National Board of Examiners’ Optometry Test. Ensure you pass the exam as well as other tests required in your area before you start practising.
- You can also get additional certifications like the America Board of Optometry certification.
- Obtain your license from the state you wish to practice in.
How to Choose the Right Optometry School?
Here are some things you can look out for while choosing an optometry school to study in.
- Tuition fee and Financial Aid: If you are not financially buoyant, you should consider applying to schools with low tuition and those with financial aid to help you study stress-free.
- Accreditation: Ensure the school you are applying to is accredited by the appropriate bodies.
- Quality of education and availability of modern equipment & labs: There is every need to verify that the college has labs and equipment to foster learning. It is best to go to school with the latest technological innovations.
- Class size and acceptance rate: Check the rate at which students are admitted and know if it is okay to shoot your shot or not. This anyway is usually considered if you are not applying with an excellent academic record. The class size should be as small as possible for better learning.
- Faculty with experienced teachers and industry experts: Always consider schools with faculties that have sought-after teachers. Their expertise and knowledge are all you need to succeed in optometry.
Key Takeaways
Now, just like other medical programs, getting admission into an optometry school is not an easy task. There are usually higher stringent admission requirements so as to filter those who are serious from those who are not. Health is a very delicate thing, and those studying any health-related course should be really interested in it.
Being an optometrist opens you up to a lot of opportunities. You can work as a specialist in eye care, optician, paraoptometric technician, ophthalmic scribe, retinal angiographer, optometrist, orthoptist, and so many others. You can see for yourself here that you have the choice to join the career path that best aligns with your interest in the field.
Conclusion
I can say at this point that I have successfully walked you through the top optometry schools that are easy to get into. Visit any of them that best matches your interest, get the requirements ready, and shoot your shot.