Optometry

The Doctor of Optometry (OD) is the degree awarded to optometrists, who serve as independent primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain surgical procedures. (Learn more from the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry).

Prerequisites

Check individual schools. Often include:

  • General Chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
  • Organic Chemistry with lab (1 semester)
  • Physics with lab (2 semesters)
  • Introductory Biology with lab (2 semesters)
  • Anatomy & Physiology with lab (2 semesters)
  • Biochemistry (1 semester)
  • Microbiology with lab (1 semester)
  • Psychology (1 semester)
  • Math: 1 semester calculus, 1 semester statistics
  • English (2 semesters)

For more details: OptomCAS School-Specific Prerequisites

Application logistics

Find a program

OptomCAS Directory of Schools and Colleges

For more information

Princeton does not have an optometry program. We share this information for Princeton students and alumni who may be interested in becoming optometrists.