Pre-Optometry
If you have a strong desire to help people enhance their quality of life and want to maintain a flexible work schedule, a career in optometry could be a good fit for you. The pre-optometry advising program at UMHB is designed to help students who seek a career in optometry by providing them with information and support they need as they prepare for and apply to optometry school.
Students wishing to pursue a career in optometry may major in any field of study, as long as they also complete the foundational courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics that optometry schools require. UMHB’s pre-optometry advisors are equipped to help you tailor your studies to your particular interests, complete the foundational coursework required for optometry school, and navigate your way through the application process.
What courses do I need for optometry school?
Course prerequisites vary at different schools. The American Optometric Association offers list of accredited optometry schools and the courses they require for admission.
How can I prepare for the OAT?
The AOA offers advice and resources for preparing for the Optometry Admission Test.
Caring for patients like professors cared for her
Kristen Pratt '14 is a therapeutic optometrist in Longview, Texas. She says, "I was able to grow as a leader and as a person in a safe, nurturing environment. This university truly helped me develop and learn more about myself as well as science. It benefited me to have professors know me as an individual and have small class sizes, so I was not overlooked. As an optometrist, I strive to care for my patients in the same way that I felt my professors at UMHB cared about me and pushed me to achieve greatness."
How can I meet other pre-optometry students at UMHB?
The Pre-Health Professionals Club offers activities for all students who desire a career in healthcare.
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What optometry schools have accepted UMHB alumni?
Pre-optometry students from UMHB have gone on to study at the University of Houston College of Optometry and the University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry, the two optometry schools in Texas.
To what kinds of jobs can this career path lead?
- Optometrist in a solo or group practice
- Optometrist in a community health center
- Optometrist in a retail setting
- Optical researcher
- Clinical mentor to optometry students
