Optometry (Pre)

As a Pre-Optometry student at Aurora University, you will major in Health Science, acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the ever-changing field of health care. You will also enroll in the Pre-Optometry program, which offers a curated collection of prerequisite courses necessary to be accepted into a graduate optometry program.

To help you navigate your academic career and prepare for optometry school, AU offers one-on-one guidance with our own Pre-Medical Professions Advisor C.J. Chen. A longtime biology professor at AU, Chen is an expert in the application process for health profession schools. Advanced coursework prepares you for the Optometry Admission Test (OAT) examination and the optometry school application process. Internship opportunities are also available so you can experience firsthand what it is like to practice optometry.

At AU, you will also have an opportunity to participate in research, a step that will enhance your optometry school application. AU offers students unique opportunities to conduct laboratory research with expert faculty in the field. Developing research experience deepens your understanding of what you learn in the classroom and prepares you with the skills to succeed in optometry school.

After you earn your undergraduate degree, you need to attend optometry school for four years to earn your Doctor of Optometry. You then take the National Board of Examiners in Optometry test to get your license. Some states have additional licensing requirements.

Qualified Pre-Optometry students can benefit from AU’s agreements with Illinois College of Optometry, Midwestern University, and Southern College of Optometry. Please visit our academic affiliations page to learn more.