The Requirements for an Optometrist
An optometrist provides vision care for patients, ranging from simple eye exams to testing for conditions and prescribing medication. Job opportunities should continue to increase rapidly, with more than a 20 percent growth in employment expected through 2018. Optometrists earn an average of $96,000 per year, as of May 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Education requirements are extensive, followed by state licensing examinations and continuing education.
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Undergraduate Education
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Students must complete at least three years of undergraduate work, although most complete a bachelor's degree. Important courses during this time include English, math and science, with optometry schools varying in their specific requirements. Taking many science and lab courses increase the chance of admission to optometry school. Students normally take the Optometry Admissions Test, required for admission to optometry programs, during this time as well, after completing at least one year of study.
Optometry School
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Only 19 accredited optometry schools exist in the United States, with only 33 percent of all applicants accepted, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Students demonstrating a strong work ethic and leadership skills have the best chances of acceptance. Optometry programs include four years of both classroom and laboratory education in chemistry, biology, pharmacology and vision-specific courses. Clinical practice begins about halfway through the program, culminating with one year of clinical work with multiple rotations in various locations.
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Additional Education
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Students wishing to work in a specialized area must complete an additional 12-month residency program after graduating from an accredited optometry program. Examples of areas of specialization include pediatric, geriatric or therapy and rehabilitation. Some optometrists also complete a master's or Ph.D. level work to move into the areas of teaching or research, although this may be done after obtaining experience in the field.
State Requirements
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All states license optometrists, although specific requirements vary slightly by state. Applicants must complete an optometry program and pass national and state written and clinical exams. Renewal periods range from one to three years, with continuing education credits being a major requirement.
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