In every state and in the District of Columbia, an optometrist must have a license. Licensing requirements include a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited school of optometry. The Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) is the accrediting body for optometry programs.
Sixteen schools in the United States are accredited by ACOE. Programs last four years and generally are preceded by three years of pre-optometry study at the undergraduate level. Applicants to optometry school must take the Optometry Admissions Test to be considered for admission. Applicants should also have strong backgrounds in science with lab courses in biology and chemistry.
More advanced degrees for optometrists are also available. Those interested in research and teaching might consider a master's degree or Ph.D. in physiological optics or visual science.
Post-graduate clinical residencies are also an option for those seeking more advanced practice or for those who wish to specialize in areas such as pediatric optometry, vision therapy, or refractive surgery.
After completing an accredited program, aspiring optometrists can take the national optometry exam administered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry for licensure. The exam consists of written and clinical components. States also require licensure applicants to take an examination that covers state laws on optometry.
Finally, to maintain licensure, every state requires continuing education credits be taken during each renewal period. All prospective optometrists should familiarize themselves with the requirements of their home state to ensure they will be able to become licensed and maintain licensure.
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