Pre-Optometry

 
 
 

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW

At Morningside University, our pre-optometry program aims to provide comprehensive coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics while cultivating strong critical thinking and writing skills. We understand the importance of the OAT for optometry school applications, and our recommended majors in biology and/or chemistry ensure you are well-prepared. With personalized advising and opportunities for additional science courses and internships, our Morningside graduates consistently achieve high acceptance rates and excel in their degree pursuits.

Degrees

Pre-Optometry

Preprofessional

A Great Fit For

  • Detail-oriented individuals: With the extensive prerequisites and requirements for medical school, being detail-oriented is crucial to ensure all the necessary coursework and experiences are completed accurately and efficiently.
  • Science enthusiasts: Pre-medical majors typically involve significant coursework in biology and chemistry.
  • Goal-driven and ambitious individuals: Pursuing a career in medicine requires dedication, perseverance, and a strong drive to succeed.
  • Collaborative team players: As future healthcare professionals, being able to effectively collaborate with peers, communicate well, and contribute positively to group dynamics is essential.

Your Undergraduate Path

Students at Morningside University who identify as Pre-Optometry typically major in Biology and/or Chemistry and then add appropriate prerequisites. Morningside University Pre-Optometry students have also been successful by taking business courses or adding a business minor; these courses are not required, but in the past 5 years, we have had a 100% entrance rate. Each institution offering an Optometry program has its own undergraduate prerequisites, so applicants should contact the school or college of their choice for specific requirements. The science courses should be pre-professional level courses designed for science majors or health professional students and should offer laboratory experience. Brief survey courses in the sciences will not prepare you for Optometry school. Be sure to consult with your Academic Adviser, Faculty Adviser, or an adviser at the school or College of Optometry that you plan to attend.  

*Each optometry school has its own undergraduate prerequisites, so applicants should contact the school or college of their choice for specific requirements. Be sure to consult with your Academic Adviser, Faculty Adviser, or an adviser at the medical school that you plan to attend.

Typical Plan of Study

  • General Biology with Lab (2 semesters)
  • Physics with Lab (2 semesters)
  • General Chemistry (Inorganic Chemistry) with Lab (2 semesters)
  • Organic Chemistry with Lab (2 semesters)
  • Calculus, or in some cases Algebra/Statistics (1-2 semesters)
  • English (2 semesters)

COMMON PRE-OPTOMETRY MAJORS

Typically, students at Morningside University who identify as Pre-Optometry major in Biology and/or Chemistry and then add appropriate prerequisites.

MEET YOUR ADVISOR

Aaron Bunker

Aaron Bunker

Professor

Aaron’s Profile

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Applying to Optometry School

Requirements for admission usually include the following:

  • Academic prerequisites
  • Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Interview
  • Extracurricular activities and community involvement
  • A competitive GPA

Maximize your Undergraduate Experience

Students need to also consider the following requirements during their undergraduate path:

  • Academic prerequisites
  • Maintain a strong GPA
  • Seek out research experiences in biology, chemistry, or other relevant fields
  • Gain exposure to the healthcare field through volunteering or shadowing experiences
  • Engage in extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and commitment to community service
  • Cultivate strong relationships with professors, advisors, and mentors who can guide and support you throughout your journey toward optometry school

Next Steps

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Financial Aid

Financial aid is available. Learn how you can qualify.

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Contact Us

Our admissions team is eager to answer your questions about this program and how to apply.

Lewis Hall Illustration