What is an Optometrist?
Optometrists (O.D.) examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system. They also diagnose and treat visual problems and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.
Optometrists typically do the following:
- Perform vision tests and analyze results
- Diagnose sight problems, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, and eye diseases, such as glaucoma
- Prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other visual aids, and if state law permits, medications
- Perform minor surgical procedures to correct or treat visual or eye health issues
- Provide treatments such as vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation
- Provide pre- and postoperative care to patients undergoing eye surgery鈥攆or example, examining a patient鈥檚 eyes the day after surgery
- Evaluate patients for the presence of other diseases and conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, and refer patients to other healthcare providers as needed
- Promote eye and general health by counseling patients
Application process for Optometry programs vary by school. It is important for students to be aware of the specific process of the schools to which they may apply.
There are many factors that are evaluated throughout the application process.
- Academic Record
- The Standardized Test 鈥� The Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
- Letters of Evaluation
- The Interview
- Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience
- Experience with Optometry
- Research Experience
- The Value of Work
- The Centralized Application Service 鈥� Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS)
Please visit the Center for Health Sciences and Student Success in the College of Sciences and Engineering at 正澳门六合彩开奖直播 for more information on the application process.
OptomCAS opens in July every year. Students interested in applying to optometry school should complete the application one year before you expect to begin the program.
Pre-Optometry students are encouraged to apply early and to work with the Center for Health Sciences and Student Success in the College of Science and Engineering at Wilkes University in preparation of the application process.
Application requirements for Optometry programs vary by school. It is important for students to be aware of the specific requirements of the schools to which they may apply.
Typical course requirements include general chemistry with laboratory, general biology with laboratory, physics, organic chemistry, English, college algebra and trigonometry, calculus, psychology and statistics.