Biology/Pre-Optometry
Program Requirements
Biology/Pre-Optometry, BS Program Checksheet
Includes:
- Major Courses and General Education Courses
- Admission and Transfer Requirements
- Graduation Requirements
Why Choose Pre-Optometry? - Program Spotlight
The Pre-Optometry program stresses a foundation of chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics to meet the requirements of the Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University and most other optometry schools. In addition to completing coursework, students can serve as practice patients in the University's optometry clinic and can join the Pre-Optometry Club, a supportive network of students with common goals and interests. Superior academic preparation and awareness of optometry as a profession are very important factors in a candidate's preparation.
The Michigan College of Optometry (MCO) prefers to accept applicants who have completed a bachelor degree. However, MCO will continue to accept applications from candidates who have completed a minimum of three years (90 semester hours) of specified course work at a college or university. The listing of courses presented in this program sheet fulfills the minimum specified course work to be contained in the initial 90 credits as well as the additional course work necessary to complete the Bachelor's Degree in Biology. An application to the Michigan College of Optometry may be submitted while the minimum requirements are being completed. The Michigan College of Optometry website at www.Ferris.edu/mco will provide additional information on application issues.
The coursework also prepares students to take the Optometry Admission Test. This test should be initially taken in early summer of the year prior to the year of entry to MCO. This test may be retaken without penalty ninety days after the initial test.
Career Opportunities
Pursuing a career in optometry can be demanding, but graduates find the career both financially and personally rewarding. Students who are interested in becoming optometrists and who are enrolled in the Pre-Optometry program are assured of programming that meets the specific requirements of the Michigan College of Optometry.
Students have the opportunity to interact with fellow students and faculty of the Michigan College of Optometry and to explore the program and facilities firsthand.
Generally, admission to a college of optometry requires at least three years of undergraduate preparation. The doctor of optometry degree offered by Ferris requires a minimum of three years of pre-professional study followed by four years of study in the Optometry curriculum.
More Information
LEAD ADVISOR: Dr. Chris Westerkamp
PHONE: 231-591-5037
EMAIL: [email protected]
PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR: Jenice Winowiecki
PHONE: 231-591-2555
EMAIL: [email protected]
Department of Biological Sciences
Ferris State University
820 Campus Drive/ASC 2004
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone: 231-591-2550
Pre-Optometry BS, Biology - Minimum 121 Credits
Choose One:
Biology Electives - 6 Credits
300 or higher (consult advisor)
Choose from Biology Elective list below.
In addition to *MATH 251, choose at least one from the Application Area list below.
Additional Credits in BIOL courses may also be used.
Choose One:
Note: MCO will accept either STQM 260 or PSYC 210 as a substitute for MATH 251. However, MATH 251 applies toward the BS in Biology.
Note: the Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is required for admission to MCO. Students should consider taking the OAT in early summer of the year prior to the year of entry into MCO. This test may be taken as often as desired without penalty imposed by MCO, however the OAT imposes mandatory wait periods between test dates. More information can be found at www.opted.org.