Pre-Optometry

The Pre-Optometry program is a one of HBU’s Health Professions Programs. It is designed to help prepare you to apply to optometry schools.

Doctors of Optometry are independent primary health care providers who specialize in the examination, diagnosis, treatment and management of diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures as well as the diagnosis of related systemic conditions. Doctors of Optometry must successfully complete a four year accredited degree program at one of 18 schools or colleges of optomertry in the United States.

Please be aware that pre-optometry is not a major. You should select a major based on your area of interest, but science majors are recommended in order to satisfy the prerequisite courses while you pursue your HBU degree. Biochemistry/Molecular Biology, Biology or Chemistry majors are especially compatible with the above designated courses and are recommended by the Health Professions Office.   

The following is a guide to some of the courses a student may need when applying to Optometry graduate programs. Students should check with individual schools for any changes in requirements.
 

*Other advanced Biology courses may be substituted with permission of the graduate school

Admission to optometry school is highly competitive. Therefore emphasis is placed on a high GPA (grade point average) and OAT (Optometry Admission Test) score.  The OAT measures general academic ability, and comprehension of scientific infromation. The OAT includes Quantitative Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Physics, Biology, General and Organic Chemistry. As an example, The University of Houston's last admitted class had an average GPA of 3.53 and and OAT Academic Average Score of 324.

Students are also evaluated based on extra-curricular and community service activities, a personal interview and professional potential. Students should concentrate on academic strength in the sciences. Students nearing completion of requirements should check with the professional school as requirements change frequently.

POPS

Participation in our chapter of POPS (Pre-Optometry Professional Society) will provide information about optometry and optometry schools, and provide opportunities for leadership and service to the community. Please contact their Faculty Sponsor, Dr. Jackie Horn at jhorn@hbu.edu.

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