Schools and colleges of optometry welcome students from all academic majors, but applicants must complete prerequisite coursework before entering a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program. While many optometry schools share similar admission requirements, prerequisites vary by institution. Students should always review the admission requirements for each optometry school they plan to apply to.
The table below outlines common prerequisite courses for many U.S. schools and colleges of optometry, the corresponding NIU course(s) and whether the content is important for the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).
Optometry school prerequisites vary by institution. Some programs require anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology or additional mathematics coursework. Admission testing requirements also vary, as some schools have become test-optional. Students should review the admission requirements for each optometry school they plan to apply to and meet regularly with the Pre-health Professions Program to develop an individualized academic plan.
| Requirement | NIU Course(s) | Required by Most Programs | Important for the OAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Biology I | BIOS 208/210 | Yes | Essential |
| General Biology II | BIOS 209/211 | Yes | Essential |
| General Chemistry I | CHEM 210/212 | Yes | Essential |
| General Chemistry II | CHEM 211/213 | Yes | Essential |
| Organic Chemistry I | CHEM 330/332 or CHEM 336/338 | Yes | Essential |
| Organic Chemistry II | CHEM 331/333 or CHEM 337/339 | Frequently | Essential |
| Physics I | PHYS 210 or PHYS 253 | Yes | Essential |
| Physics II | PHYS 211 or PHYS 273 | Yes | Essential |
| Biochemistry | CHEM 470 | Some programs | Helpful |
| Statistics | STAT 200 | Frequently | Helpful |
| English Composition | ENGL 103 | Yes | Helpful |
While not required by every optometry program, these courses strengthen your preparation for optometry school and clinical practice.
| NIU Course | Why Take It? |
|---|---|
| BIOS 311 - Functional Human Anatomy | Provides a strong foundation in human anatomy |
| BIOS 355 - Human Physiology | Reinforces understanding of body systems and ocular physiology |
| BIOS 313 - Microbiology | Valuable preparation for infectious disease and patient care |
| BIOS 302 - Cell and Molecular Biology | Reinforces biological concepts tested on the OAT |
| BIOS 308 - Genetics | Helpful preparation for genetics and inherited eye diseases |
| CHEM 472 - Biological Chemistry II | Strengthens preparation in advanced biochemistry |
This timeline combines guidance from the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and OptomCAS and has been adapted for NIU students. Individual timelines may vary depending on academic preparation and whether students complete all prerequisites before applying.
| Timeline | Recommended Activities |
|---|---|
| First year | Meet with the Pre-health Professions Program. Begin biology and chemistry coursework (if placement allows). Join a pre-health student organization. Develop strong study habits. Begin exploring optometry through shadowing and volunteer experiences. |
| Second year | Continue prerequisite coursework based on your individualized academic plan. Continue shadowing optometrists in different practice settings. Explore research, leadership and community service opportunities. Develop relationships with faculty and optometrists for future letters of recommendation. |
| Third year | Continue or complete prerequisite coursework. If required by the programs you are considering, begin OAT preparation based on your planned test and application timeline. Research optometry schools and admission requirements. Request letters of recommendation. Draft your personal statement. Meet with the Pre-health Professions Program to review your application plan. |
| Summer before application | Take the OAT (if required). Finalize your school list. Request official transcripts. Prepare your OptomCAS application. |
| June–September | OptomCAS typically opens in late June. Submit your application as early as possible and complete any supplemental applications required by individual schools. |
| Fall–Spring | Participate in interviews. Maintain strong academic performance. Continue shadowing and service experiences while preparing for matriculation. |
| Gap year (optional) | Many successful applicants strengthen their applications through additional clinical experience, research, leadership or community service before applying. |
Competitive optometry school applicants demonstrate more than academic success. Schools value applicants who have shadowed optometrists in a variety of practice settings, developed strong communication skills and gained a clear understanding of the profession through meaningful patient care experiences.
The following organizations provide reliable information about optometry education, admissions, licensure, and careers.
Pre-health Professions Program
prehealth@niu.edu