How To Become An Optometrist

By Author: Andrzej Wozniak
Total Articles: 1
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Optometry is chosen by many students interested in medicine these days. No wonder, to become an optometrist one needn't spend over 10 years for medical school and then residency training. Way to this career is much easier, and earnings are still high. In addition, optometrists profession is one of the most prestigious and highly paid medical profession. Here is a short guide on how to become optometrist.

How to Become an Optometrist: Undergraduate Degree

After the school choose a college you would like to visit and major in something you are keen on. It should not necessarily be biology or other field connected with medicine. Choose whatever you like, still you will have to take some extra time and visit courses needed for your admission to optometry school (if you choose Biology major, all the prerequisites will be the part of your curriculum).

Somewhere on your third year in college you are required to take Optometry Admission Test (OAT), which is administered by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. Your ...
... scores will be the most important thing for admission. In addition, to get into the optometry school you are required to watch the work of optometrists in different work settings (around 30 hours). Make sure you find the time for this requirement.

How to Become an Optometrist: Optometry School

If you succeeded in getting to the school, next four years will be spent for intensive training. Education combines theoretical lectures, laboratory work and clinical training. On the second year you will be required to write a thesis project, and a NBEO (National Board of Examiners in Optometry) testing is also waiting for you at the end of studying.

If you are interested in specific specialization within the field of optometry, one more year of training will be needed.

Next, you will take a licensing test for practicing in a certain state. All in all, education to become an optometrist will take you eight-nine years (compare it with around 12 years to become an ophthalmologist). Note that you are required to visit continuing education courses every year.

If you feel that optometrist career is your cup of tea, don't hesitate, it promises decent earnings and interesting duties. This guide on how to become an optometrist will show you the right direction on schools research. Look around and learn what optometry schools are available for you.