BA/BS in Optometry

The Doctor of Optometry (OD) at the University of Waterloo is an accredited, professional four-year program covering visual optics, neurophysiology, clinical techniques and ocular health. The first two years focus on foundational sciences, while the final two years emphasize clinical training, including comprehensive eye exams, management of ocular disease, contact lenses, myopia control and low-vision rehabilitation. Clinical experience is gained through the university's own optometry clinic and clerkships at private practices, with the fourth year structured as three consecutive 15-week clerkship terms. Applicants must have completed at least three years of university-level science coursework with specific prerequisite courses before applying, since the OD program is not entered directly from high school. Admission also requires the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), the CASPER online assessment of personal characteristics, an Admission Information Form, and references from an optometrist and character referees.