Pre-Optometry program

Become an optometrist.

Optometry is a healthcare profession focusing on the eyes and related structures, as well as vision, visual systems, and vision information processing in humans. Optometrists are trained to prescribe and fit lenses to improve vision and are trained to diagnose and treat various eye diseases. Learn more about optometry at Explorehealthcareers.org.

Coursework

Biology

General Biology (BIO 105)
Organismal Biology (BIO 203) or Anatomy & Physiology I and/or II (BIO 312/313)
Fundamentals of Microbiology (MIC 230)

Chemistry/Biochemistry

General Chemistry I & II (CHM 103 & CHM 104)
Fundamental Organic Chemistry (CHM 300) and laboratory (CHM 302)
Also acceptable: Organic Chemistry Theory I & II (CHM 303 & CHM 304) plus laboratory (CHM 302 or CHM 305)
Fundamental Biochemistry (CHM 325)

Mathematics and statistics

Calculus I (MTH 207) recommended
Elementary Statistics (STAT 145) or Mathematical Models in Biology (MTH 265)

Physics

Fundamental Physics I & II (PHY 103 & PHY 104) or (acceptable but not common): General Physics I & II (PHY 203 & PHY 204)

Social sciences

General Psychology (PSY 100)
Additional social science course (100-level PSY, SOC, HIST, etc.)

Additional requirements - highly recommended, sometimes required

Anatomy & Physiology I & II (BIO 312 & BIO 313)
Genetics (BIO 306)
Several schools require a “writing-intensive course”, in addition to College Writing (ENG 110); often satisfied during completion of an undergraduate degree at UWL

Declaring a Pre-Optometry track will help you determine common requirements for optometry schools in our region. However, each program's requirements vary. When selecting coursework, it is important to consult the websites of the programs to which you plan to apply, and meet with your advisor.

Dr. Tony Sanderfoot works with pre-optometry students.

QR Code for https://www.uwlax.edu/academics/pre-professional/optometry/

UWL offers a Pre-Optometry track

Make your intention to pursue a career in optometry official by adding it as an "intended pre-professional track." Pre-Optometry is NOT a major at UW-La Crosse. It is a statement of your intention to apply to optometry schools. You will still need to select a major to complete a degree at UWL.

Grow through experience

Join the club!

Students interested in optometry are encouraged to check out the Pre-Optometry Club.

Gain experiences

Job shadowing, full or part time work, research experience and more. See Gaining experience for ideas of how to get involved and learn more about the profession.