Pre-Optometry
ºÚÁϳԹÏ’s pre-professional track for optometry is a sequence of courses and advising that will give you a solid foundation for your applications to competitive optometry schools around the country. The pre-optometry track should accompany a major—most often or —where you’ll gain a foundational knowledge of life sciences and the human body.
Advising
Pre-optometry students are advised by the director of health professions advising, Kristine Aronsson. Drawing from over 25 years experience and established relationships within the health industry, Kristine advises students in utilizing Chicago as a resource for their education and career. Kristine will speak with you about your particular interests in optometry, and help you stay on track throughout your program at ºÚÁϳԹÏ. Our Pre-Health Advising Committee—a group of faculty in the Division of Life and Physical Science and the director of health professions advising—will work with you to make sure you are prepared for your applications and interviews for optometry school.
Course Sequences and Activities
We recommend you take the following courses alongside your major and requirements to prepare for optometry school and a career in healthcare. These courses meet the prerequisite requirements for most optometry programs. However, you should investigate programs you’re interested in to make sure you complete any other specific requirements. Some courses may also meet major/Core Curriculum requirements. For full course descriptions and major requirements review the academic catalog.
Optometry School Admission Prerequisites
- Introduction to Human Anatomy
- Introduction to Cell Biology
- Microbiology
- Introductory Chemistry I
- Introductory Chemistry II
- Organic Chemistry I
- Introductory Physics I
- Introductory Physics II
- Calculus I
- Introductory Statistics
- Introduction to Psychology
- Social & Behavioral Science
Other Recommendations
- You should complete your optometry school applications during the summer prior to your fourth year.