College of Science and Health
Pre-Optometry
Empowering Visionary Professionals: Benedictine University’s Pre-Optometry Program
Optometrists play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our vision, serving as primary care providers for eye health. They conduct comprehensive eye examinations, diagnose eye diseases and disorders, and prescribe corrective lenses, ensuring we can see the world clearly and comfortably.
Benedictine University’s pre-optometry program provides a solid foundation for aspiring optometrists, guiding them towards a successful career in this rewarding field. Our non-degree program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the admissions requirements for four-year optometry schools accredited by the American Optometric Association (AOA).
Your Path to a Visionary Career
Through our pre-optometry program, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the human visual system, develop essential clinical skills, and cultivate the professional demeanor required for a successful career in optometry. With our comprehensive preparation and personalized support, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue a doctor of optometry degree and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
The BenU Difference
Program Highlights
- Rigorous Coursework: Delve into a comprehensive curriculum that covers the fundamentals of optometry, including optics, anatomy and physiology of the eye, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.
- Hands-on Experience: Gain practical experience through shadowing opportunities with experienced optometrists, allowing you to observe and participate in real-world patient care settings.
- Personalized Mentorship: Receive individualized guidance from our dedicated pre-health advisors, ensuring you are well-equipped for success in both the pre-optometry program and your future optometry education.
What Should My Major Be?
While optometry schools do not typically require a specific major, many students find our BS in Health Science or BS in Biology to match well with the pre-requisite courses needed to gain entry. Other majors work as well, and we recommend your finding one that suits your personal interests.
What’s Required to be and Optometrist
An optometrist generally must complete a four-year college degree program with specific pre-requisite courses, plus four years of post-graduate professional training in optometry school. Admission to schools of optometry is competitive. Admissions teams look for candidates who demonstrate an understanding of the profession and community engagement.
Our graduates are accepted into top-tier medical, dental and other health professional schools, including University of Michigan, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, The University of Texas, New York University, Saint Louis University, Loyola University Chicago and Midwestern University. They have gone on to work at Rush University Medical Center, Northwestern Medicine, Edward-Elmhurst Health and Mayo Clinic, among many others. In fact, if you go to any clinical site in the region, odds are a Benedictine alumnus works there.
Here is an example of some courses you may take in the Pre-Optometry program:
- Biology
- Human Anatomy
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Essentials of Biochemistry
- Physics
The Pre-Optometry Program at Benedictine University requires students to take a variety of courses, including biology, chemistry, organic chemistry English, physics, anatomy, and mathematics. These courses provide students with the foundation they need to succeed in optometry school.
