Pre-Optometry Pathway
Doctor of Optometry (OD) Degree
Optometrists provide most of the primary vision care that people need. They examine, diagnose, treat, and manage eye diseases and disorders. Traditionally, they prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, and low vision aids. They may also use special tests and tools to identify and evaluate vision defects that are symptomatic of other diseases.
EXPLORE THIS CAREERTimeline and HPO Resources
UTSA does not offer a degree for Optometry. Students can complete their pre-requisites toward Optometry school application.
Semester Pre-requisite Course Sequence Guide | Activity Log Template |
Timeline for optometry school applicants. This timeline is subject to change based on students’ competitiveness and readiness to apply.
Pre-requisite Coursework
Before applying to an optometry programs, schools will expect you to establish academic readiness through undergraduate coursework. Optometry schools have specific coursework that is required for admission.
Research the requirements of the schools where you plan to apply as course requirements will and can vary from school to school. You can consult the individual Optometry school websites for information on admission requirements.
Common Coursework Requirements for Texas Optometry Programs
The below science and math courses are common among each individual Optometry program; students should check individual websites for additional course pre-requisite requirements.
Biology
BIO 1203 + BIO 1201(lab) and
BIO 1223 + BIO 1221 (lab) (new course numbers effective fall 2022*)
MMI 3713 + MMI 3722 (lab) (previously BIO 3713 + 3722)
Chemistry
CHE 1103 + CHE 1121 (lab) and
CHE 1113 + CHE 1131 (lab)
Organic chemistry
CHE 2603 + CHE 2612 (lab)
Biochemistry*
BIO 3513 or CHE 3303 or CHE 3313
Physics
PHY 1603 + PHY 1611 (lab) and PHY 1623 + PHY 1631 (lab); or
PHY 1943 + PHY 1951 (lab) and PHY 1963 + PHY 1971 (lab)
Statistics (Approved courses)
STA 1053, or STA 1403
Mathematics
Calculus: MAT 1214 or MAT 1193
Social & Behavioral Sciences
PSY 1013
* BIO 1404 and BIO 1414 (previous Biology course numbers still meet approved Biology pre-requisites)
*indicates additional UTSA pre-requisite course required