The path to becoming an optometrist is not as long as an ophthalmologist’s, but it still takes a minimum of seven to eight years to complete. Usually, a student must have completed their bachelor’s degree (although some schools accept three years of college) before applying to a four-year optometry program.

What education do you need to become an optometrist?

How to become an Optometrist

• Complete an undergraduate optometry degree, or alternatively, a degree in vision science or a related area followed by a postgraduate qualification in optometry.
• It’s important you check the entry requirements to properly understand the different course requirements.

What kind of degree do you need to become an optometrist?

To become an optometrist, you must earn a doctor of optometry (O.D.)degree from one of approximately 20 schools of optometry in the U.S. or its territories. There are specific steps for accomplishing this:

What kind of work can you do as an optometrist?

Optometry Education & Career Overview. Optometrists are doctors who provide vision care to individuals. As an optometrist, you would perform eye examinations, diagnose vision problems, test for eye diseases and prescribe corrective lenses. You may choose to practice general vision care or specialize in such areas as sports or occupational vision.

How long does it take to become an optometrist in Bradford?

You would still need to complete the approved optometry degree and pre-registration year, but the University of Bradford has a career progression course that would allow you to graduate with a degree in optometry in around 18 months. To work as an optometrist, you’ll need: an interest in health and a desire to improve people’s quality of life

How much money can you make as an optometrist?

Through the National Board of Examiners in Optometry, you can learn the pass rates on the optometry licensing exam for graduates of each school of optometry. As of May 2016, optometrists earned a median annual salary of $106,140, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.