Optometrists typically do the following:

• Diagnose sight problems, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, and eye diseases, such as glaucoma
• Prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other visual aids, and if state law permits, medications
• Perform minor surgical procedures to correct or treat visual or eye health issues
• Provide treatments such as vision therapy or low-vision rehabilitation
• Evaluate patients for the presence of other diseases and conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, and refer patients to other healthcare providers as needed

**Optometrists should not be confused with ophthalmologists. Ophthalmologists are physicians (MDs) who perform eye surgery and treat eye diseases in addition to performing eye exams and prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Prerequisites: General and School-Specific Prereqs

Application: OptomCAS and Applicant Data Report

Entrance Exam: Optometry Admission Test (OAT)

Possible Degree: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.)

Years of Study: 4 years

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

• The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO)
• Directory of ASCO member schools and colleges
• Unite for Sight [a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization]
• American Optometric Association