Pre-Optometry
Prepare for optometry school and a career in vision care
The Pre-Optometry program at Kentucky Wesleyan College equips students with the science background needed for admission to optometry school. With coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences, plus faculty mentorship and advising, students gain the preparation required for successful careers in eye and vision health.
Pre-Optometry Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Pre-Optometry track provides rigorous academic and professional preparation for optometry school. Students complete foundational courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics while gaining experience in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Small classes ensure personalized attention, and faculty mentors guide students through prerequisites, admissions planning, and preparation for the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). Engaged learning includes advanced labs, research opportunities, and service-learning that connects science to healthcare practice. Shadowing optometrists and interning in clinical settings allow students to gain direct professional experience and strengthen applications. With this strong foundation, graduates enter optometry school prepared for success in a growing healthcare field.
Career Paths
Optometrist (with Optometry School) – Optometrists examine eyes, diagnose vision problems, and prescribe corrective lenses or treatments. They also detect eye diseases and manage ongoing eye health.
Vision Research Scientist – Vision researchers study the eye, vision disorders, and treatments. They often work in universities, medical schools, or research labs developing innovations in eye care.
Pediatric Optometrist – Pediatric optometrists specialize in diagnosing and treating vision problems in children, supporting early development and long-term eye health.
Ocular Disease Specialist – These optometrists focus on managing complex eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy, often collaborating with ophthalmologists.
Public Health Optometrist – Public health optometrists design and implement programs to improve vision care in underserved populations, working in government, nonprofits, or community clinics.
Optical Industry Professional – Professionals in the optical industry design, test, and improve lenses, frames, and vision technologies, blending healthcare knowledge with product development and innovation.
Pre-Optometry Program Requirements
Pre-Optometry is a pre-professional track that integrates with majors such as Biology or Chemistry. Students complete required courses for optometry school admission, including General Biology I & II, General Chemistry I & II, Organic Chemistry I & II, Physics I & II, Calculus, and Biochemistry. Recommended electives include Human Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, and Psychology. Laboratory courses build strong experimental and analytical skills essential for success in optometry school. Pre-professional advisors provide guidance on course planning, OAT preparation, and professional experiences. Shadowing optometrists and participating in clinical or community health opportunities are encouraged to enhance applications. This track provides the academic rigor and professional readiness for admission to optometry school and careers in vision health.