Optometrists examine patients' eyes to diagnose vision problems. They prescribe corrective lenses or other treatments.
| Quick Facts: Optometrists | |
|---|---|
| Wages | Earn $133,422 per year |
| Employment | Small occupation |
| 10 Year Growth | More slowly than average |
| Annual Openings | Very few |
Preparation
An optometrist typically needs to:
- have a high school diploma or equivalent
- complete three or more years of pre-optometry education
- graduate from an optometry program
- have a license
Working Conditions
In a typical work setting, optometrists:
- Have a high level of social contact. They work closely with patients.
- Always work indoors.
- Must be very exact in their work. Errors could seriously injure patients or prevent them from seeing as well as they could.
- Generally work a standard 40-hour week.
Wages
In Illinois, optometrists earn a median wage of $133,422 per year.
| $0 | $50 | $100 | $150 | $200 |
| Illinois |
$ amounts are in thousands of dollars.
Employment and Outlook
In Illinois, 1,658 optometrists work in this small occupation.
| Location | Employment | 10 Year Growth | Annual Openings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 1,658 Small | 3.7% Slow | 57 Very few |