Back to Programs
Pre-Optometry Program
Doctors of Optometry examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the eyes and the entire visual system. If you’ve got an eye for helping people with their vision, the Pre-Optometry path from Dordt University will prepare you for success. Along the way, you’ll learn the importance of working for God’s glory in everything you do.
Request Info
Program Overview
The comprehensive training you'll get at Dordt can pave your way to optometry school. You’ll get the personal assistance you need to thrive. You’ll work closely with faculty as you develop expertise in your field. And you’ll develop an understanding of how God wants to use your unique skills and abilities for his glory.
Students accepted into optometry programs today should have strong academic backgrounds, know about solving complex problems, understand good relationships, act with integrity and honesty, and be involved in their communities. These characteristics are best developed through a core curriculum that provides an education with breadth. Dordt's Core Program and Christian perspective will give you a framework and a solid knowledge base for your professional studies.
What can I do with a degree in pre-optometry program from Dordt University?
Pre-Optometry at Dordt will help you prepare for a career in or related to the optometry field. This foundation will set you up for success when you pursue further education through optometry school. Whatever you choose to do professionally after that, Dordt’s Pre-Optometry program will prepare you for the next steps.
Optometry Technician
An Optometry Technician educates patients on the care and maintenance of lenses.
Optometrist
Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system. They also diagnose and treat visual problems and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes.
Optician Apprentice
The Optician Apprentice helps the optician with all their tasks such as helping customers pick out glasses, teaching clients how to use contact lenses, and managing customer data.
Career Preparation
Dordt University's 2023 Career Outcome Rate was 99.4%! “This data point tells us that Dordt graduates are prepared for the careers of their choosing,” said Amy Westra, director of Career Development. “A Dordt education provides students with industry-relevant courses and connections that make a difference.”
Pre-Optometry Program
Studying science alongside history, English, communication, philosophy, psychology, and the arts—all taught in the light of God's Word—will help you understand how you can most effectively serve in the optometry field. The knowledge you gain in your courses will open your eyes and heart to the needs and concerns of others, and prepare you to help and heal them through your work.
Most optometry schools require:
- Four years of college.
- Passing the Optometry Admission Test.
Particular requirements can vary, so at Dordt, students work with the pre-professional advisors to determine which courses they need to prepare them for their professional school.
The Pre-Health Professions Club (PHPC) at Dordt University alongside the Chief Health Professions Advisor, Dr. Joseph Keryakos, are dedicated to providing the tools and resources needed to help pre-optometry students pursue a successful career in the field of optometry. PHPC hosts a number of open workshops every school year that focus on topics such as the OAT, OptomCAS application, optometry school, life as an optometrist, and much more. Additionally, we try to bring in optometrists and optometry school representatives to our meetings in order to help answer questions that our general members may have about the field of optometry. PHPC memberships are open to all persons interested in pre-health studies. To learn more about how to get involved in PHPC, please contact PHPC@Dordt.edu or feel free to join us at any of our events or meetings.
Ready to take the next step?
Faculty
With experience in a variety of fields, our faculty members are equipped and ready to help you succeed.
Science and Technology Center
As a Pre-Optometry Major, you'll have the opportunity to spend time in Dordt's Science and Technology Center. Informally known as the "Science Building", the Science and Technology Center is home to Dordt's 180-seat lecture hall.
Learn more
Student Stories
Dordt students and alumni use their gifts to make a difference in the world. Check out their stories to see how Defender Nation lives out our mission to work effectively toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life.
When Worlds Collide
Becca Groninga Merging rap music and an engineering degreeEngineering and rap seem like two separate worlds, but at Dordt, Becca was able to pursue both interests.
Becca Groninga Merging rap music and an engineering degree
Read MoreConnect with us
Submit your information to request more information about Dordt and this program. We'll also use this information to connect you with your admissions counselor!
Related Program Options
Still looking for the right fit? Here are some additional program options that we think might interest you or are often paired with this program. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.
