Pre-Optometry Program

About the Pre-Optometry Program

On Campus

The Pre-Optometry program at UNK is your first step towards becoming an Optometrist. Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the body related to vision. They also diagnose, treat and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes. Most optometrists work in stand-alone offices of optometry, though some work in doctors’ offices, retail stores, outpatient clinics and hospitals.

The Pre-Optometry program will prepare you for higher education in the field, and is designed to fulfill the admission requirements for most optometry schools. However, students should check with the optometry schools they intend to apply to and work with their academic advisor to make sure requirements are met.

A minimum of 90 semester hours are required for admission at most optometry schools. The Pre-Optometry program is intended to be completed concurrently with bachelor's degree as the majority of students entering optometry school have a baccalaureate degree. 

PROGRAM INFORMATION GUIDE

Responsibilities of an optometrist:

• Performs vision tests to check for nearsightedness or farsightedness
• Prescribes eyeglasses, contact lenses and medications
• Checks for eye diseases, such as glaucoma
• Provides pre and postoperative care to patients undergoing eye surgery
• Provides other treatments, such as vision therapy or low vision rehabilitation
• Promotes eye health by counseling patients, including explaining how to clean and wear contact lenses

Median Salary: $118,050 per year*

9% Projected Employment Growth*

*from 2020 to 2030 according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics