Pre-Optometry

Why Study Pre-Optometry?

Belmont University's Pre-Optometry Program will provide you with the foundation you need to excel in your future optometry studies. Our comprehensive education will prepare you for a successful career in optometry.

The hands-on clinical experience you'll get at Belmont will give you the the opportunity to apply the knowledge you have gained in the classroom to real-world scenarios. The program will also provide access to experienced faculty members who are dedicated to providing the resources and support you need to succeed, both academically and professionally.

Furthermore, Belmont's state-of-the-art facilities will provide you with access to the latest technology and equipment, which is essential in training future optometrists. Choosing pre-optometry emphasis can open the door to a fulfilling and rewarding career in healthcare, where you can make a positive impact on the lives of others.

What You'll Learn

The foundational knowledge and skills required for optometry
A deeper understanding of the field through advanced coursework and hands-on experience
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in graduate-level programs
The opportunity to engage in research or other forms of scholarly activity, which can be beneficial for graduate school applications
Exposure to the professional community through networking opportunities and mentorship programs, which can help you make informed decisions about your future career path

Career Possibilities

Optometrist
Ophthalmologist
Optician
Contact Lens Practitioner
Optometric Technician
Low Vision Therapist
Optometric Assistant
Ocularist
Optometry Office Manager
Eye Research Scientist

Note that this list is not exhaustive and some careers may require additional education or certification.

Program Details

Students seeking entrance to Optometry Schools should consider taking courses in biology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, calculus, statistics, English and human anatomy and physiology.

These courses apply to a majority of optometry schools, but students should check the schools they are interested in for required coursework. Science majors such as biology, microbiology and chemistry are most common for pre-optometry students, but a student can choose any major as long as they complete the pre-requisite curriculum.

While a majority of our students choose majors in the sciences (such as biology), we see students choose a different route. Because graduate programs are increasingly seeking well-rounded applicants, this can be a great choice! Students may choose to major in math, social sciences or even the humanities.

Regardless of what major you choose, you'll be able to complete all the pre-requisite courses you need for Dental School.

Possible majors include:

Discover Pre-Health Clubs

Belmont has several pre-health student organizations, housed in the College of Sciences and Mathematics. Discover the groups here.

Understand Belmont’s Academic and Mental Health Resources

Belmont is here to help you succeed and thrive! Learn about important resources, and do not hesitate to connect with our staff to help you reach your highest potential:

BOLD: Belmont Office of Leadership Development

- The Belmont Office of Leadership Development exists to provide experiences that enhance student’s capacity to lead and serve ethically. The BOLD values of service, experience and ethics (S.E.E.) are directly aligned with the university's.

Career and Professional Development

- We provide a wide variety of services and resources to assist our students and alumni throughout the entire career planning process. We are eager to offer individualized assistance to you.

Counseling Services

- Belmont Counseling Services is committed to providing free, convenient access to professional mental health assessment, emergent care, short-term treatment and wellness education, as well as referral to off-campus specialists and services. This essential program equips students to manage life transitions as well as serious emotional issues.

GPS: Growth & Purpose for Students

- We’re here to coach you through discerning your unique path, help you avoid or recover from academic setbacks, and aid you in identifying the best opportunities and resources available as you work toward arriving at your final destination: graduation from Belmont!

Learning Centers