Pre-Optometry

Pre-Optometry students are those who identify themselves as such, formally or informally with Health Professions Advising. Western does not offer a “Pre-Optometry” major, and there is no formula for getting into optometry school. Selection committees evaluate applicants across multiple areas through a holistic review process. Important components include Optometry Admission Test (OAT) score, GPA (both cumulative and science/math), letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, community service, diversity awareness, and an interview, as well as background checks (including legal, conduct, and social records).

Optometry schools vary somewhat in admission requirements. Research the schools of your choice to confirm all required courses. Schools do emphasize the importance of a liberal arts education giving you flexibility in planning your educational program around pre-optometry requirements. Use your undergraduate years to explore many academic fields, to develop basic skills and knowledge, to demonstrate expertise and to experience a field of study (major) of your choice. Align with a major in which you both excel and enjoy. While Biology and Chemistry are popular choices, majors of recent pre-healthcare students include Anthropology, Behavioral Neuroscience, Business, Kinesiology, Languages (i.e. Spanish), Psychology, and Fairhaven self-designed programs. Some pursue combined majors such as Anthropology/Biology, Biochemistry, and Cellular & Molecular Biology.