Optometry

Overview

• Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses, and perform certain surgical procedures.
• Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations, and lifestyle.
• An optometrist has completed preprofessional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.
• Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Optometry program from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is to support the Optometric profession by educating future optometrists to the fullest extent of clinical scope within an interprofessional and community-oriented environment, while providing care to all members of society, especially those who are underserved.

Career

A field of growth

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for optometrists is expected to grow at a much faster rate than many other occupations, with a potential 10% increase in jobs needed by 2028. This growth is partly driven by an aging population, with vision problems tending to occur more frequently later in life.

Well-prepared

With innovative training and immersive clinical opportunities, our graduates are extremely well prepared to enter and advance in the field of optometry. Clinical education experiences are varied so that students are prepared as independent practitioners of contemporary optometry.

Well-paid

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for optometrists was $111,790 in May 2018, with the highest 10% earned more than $188,160.