To work as an optometrist, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete three or more years of pre-optometry education;
• graduate from an optometry program; and
• have a license.

Education after high school

Optometry programs take four years to complete and grant a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Optometry training programs include classroom and laboratory study. You take courses in pharmacology, optics, biochemistry, and systemic disease. You also receive clinical training in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders.

Most people who enter optometry programs have at least a bachelor's degree. Regardless of your major, you should take college courses in English, math, physics, chemistry, and biology.

Optometrists who wish to teach or do research need a master's or doctoral (PhD) degree.

Work experience

Optometrists who want to specialize in an area of optometry need additional training. This means you spend one year in a clinical residency program after graduating from optometry school.

On-the-job training

New optometrists may receive up to six months of training (although less is common) at their place of employment. This means you may spend time learning about specifics such as equipment, paperwork, and other office procedures.

Military training

The military does not provide the initial training to become an optometrist. However, it can provide work experience to those who have a Doctor of Optometry degree.