So You Want to Be an Optometrist?

Optometrists (O.D.s) are primary healthcare providers who examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures. They evaluate patient vision, prescribe corrective lenses and contact lenses, manage conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, and refer patients to medical specialists for advanced surgical care.

What Optometrists Do:

  • Perform comprehensive visual and ocular health examinations.
  • Test depth perception, color vision, and binocular eye coordination.
  • Prescribe corrective eyeglasses, contact lenses, and low-vision aids.
  • Diagnose and treat ocular diseases like glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, and diabetic retinopathy.
  • Provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing cataract or refractive surgeries.

Educational & Licensure Requirements

To practice as an optometrist in the United States, you must earn a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree from an accredited optometry school. The professional degree program spans 4 years following 3 to 4 years of undergraduate coursework. Most admitted applicants hold a bachelor’s degree with a strong pre-medical or biological sciences background.

Following graduation, optometrists must pass all parts of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) examination and meet state licensure rules, which may include state law exams and ongoing continuing education requirements. Optional 1-year residency programs are available for advanced clinical specialization (e.g., pediatric optometry, cornea/contact lenses, or ocular disease).

Regional Program Spotlight

Pacific University College of Optometry

Located in Forest Grove, OR, Pacific University hosts the only Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) program in the Pacific Northwest region.

Admissions Exam

Optometry Admission Test (OAT)

Applicants must take the OAT, a computer-based exam evaluating four core areas: Natural Sciences (Biology/Chemistry), Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning.

Pre-Optometry Coursework at PLU

Pre-Optometry is an advising track rather than a specific major. PLU provides all foundational coursework required for O.D. admissions. Most Pre-Optometry Lutes major in Biology or Chemistry, completing prerequisites including:

  • General Biology & Chemistry: BIOL 225/226, CHEM 115/116
  • Organic Chemistry & Biochemistry: CHEM 331 (with lab), CHEM 403
  • Physics Sequence: PHYS 125/126 (or 153/154)
  • Anatomy & Physiology: BIOL 205 & 206
  • Microbiology & Calculus: BIOL 342 / Microbiology, MATH 151 + Statistics
  • Behavioral Sciences: PSYC 101

Career Outlook & Demand

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of optometrists is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Demand is driven by an aging population requiring vision care for conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma, expanding rates of diabetes, and broader vision insurance coverage.

Helpful Pre-Optometry Resources

Explore national associations and central application portals:

Ready to Plan Your Pre-Optometry Pathway?

Schedule a 1-on-1 appointment with PLU Pre-Health Advising to map out course prerequisites, OAT preparation, and clinical shadowing opportunities.


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*Adapted from literature of the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).