| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Elkins Park, Pennsylvania
Type: Private
Founded: 1919 (as PCO), renamed Salus University in 2008
Specialization: Health sciences, including optometry, audiology, physician assistant studies, public health, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and blindness & low vision studies
Motto: "Salus populi suprema lex esto" (The health of the people should be the supreme law)
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Salus University has four main colleges:
Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) – One of the oldest and most prestigious optometry schools in the U.S.
Osborne College of Audiology – Offers Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degrees.
College of Health Sciences, Education & Rehabilitation – Includes physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, public health, and blindness & low vision studies.
College of Graduate Studies – Provides advanced research and academic programs in health sciences.
Modern clinical facilities, including The Eye Institute (TEI) for optometry training.
The Pennsylvania Ear Institute for audiology services.
The Speech-Language Institute for speech therapy training.
Strong focus on clinical training and interprofessional education.
Offers hands-on experience through affiliated clinics and healthcare partnerships.
Well-regarded optometry and audiology programs with a strong alumni network.
Smaller class sizes and personalized attention for students.
Doctor of Optometry (OD) – Traditional, Accelerated Scholars, and Advanced Placement Pathways
Master of Science in Clinical Optometry (MSCO) – Designed for international optometrists
Residency Programs in Optometry – Specializing in areas such as pediatrics, vision therapy, and ocular disease
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Residential (for new students)
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Online (for practicing professionals)
Advanced Studies Certificate Programs in Audiology – Specialties include Cochlear Implants, Tinnitus, and Vestibular Sciences
Physician Assistant (PA) Studies
Master of Medical Science (MMS) – Physician Assistant Studies
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) (post-professional program)
Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP)
Blindness and Low Vision Studies (BLVS)
Master of Science in Blindness and Low Vision Studies (MS-BLVS)
Graduate Certificate Programs in areas like Vision Rehabilitation Therapy and Orientation & Mobility
Public Health
Master of Public Health (MPH) (online program)
Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biomedicine
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Medical Science (MMS) – Physician Assistant Studies |
2 years |
$42,000 - $45,000 |
|
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) |
2 years |
$38,000 - $40,000 |
|
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) |
2 years |
$35,000 - $38,000 |
|
Master of Science in Blindness and Low Vision Studies (MS-BLVS) |
2 years |
$30,000 - $35,000 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) (Online) |
2 years (flexible) |
$16,000 - $20,000 |
|
Master of Science in Clinical Optometry (MSCO) (For International Students) |
1-2 years |
(Contact University) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) – Traditional Program |
4 years |
$43,000 - $47,000 |
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) – Accelerated Scholars Program |
3 years |
$52,000 - $55,000 |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Residential |
4 years |
$38,000 - $42,000 |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Online (For Professionals) |
2-3 years (part-time) |
$15,000 - $20,000 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biomedicine |
4+ years (flexible) |
$30,000 - $35,000 |
|
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) (Post-Professional) |
2 years (part-time) |
$20,000 - $25,000 |
Globally Recognized Programs – Especially in Optometry & Audiology
Clinical Training & Hands-on Experience – Affiliated clinics for practical exposure
Dedicated International Student Support – Visa guidance, cultural support, and career counseling
Flexible Learning Options – Online and hybrid programs available for some courses
Scholarships & Financial Aid Opportunities – Limited scholarships available for qualified students
Here are some of the most common graduate and doctoral programs international students apply for:
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) – Traditional |
4 years |
$43,000 - $47,000 |
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) – Accelerated Scholars |
3 years |
$52,000 - $55,000 |
|
Master of Science in Clinical Optometry (MSCO) (For International Optometrists) |
1-2 years |
Contact University |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Residential |
4 years |
$38,000 - $42,000 |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Online (For Practicing Professionals) |
2-3 years (part-time) |
$15,000 - $20,000 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) – Online |
2 years (flexible) |
$16,000 - $20,000 |
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biomedicine |
4+ years |
$30,000 - $35,000 |
International students must meet the following admission requirements:
Completed Bachelor's or Master’s Degree (depending on the program)
Official Transcripts (Evaluated by WES or ECE)
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL/IELTS)
TOEFL: Minimum 80 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Letters of Recommendation (Usually 2-3)
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV (For some programs)
Interview (If Required) (May be conducted online)
International students accepted to Salus University will need to apply for an F-1 Student Visa. The process includes:
Receive I-20 Form from Salus University
Pay the SEVIS Fee ($350 USD)
Schedule a Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Attend the Visa Interview and provide required documents
Travel to the U.S. before the program start date
To apply to Salus University, you must meet the following basic requirements:
Completed Bachelor’s Degree (from an accredited institution, required for all graduate programs)
Minimum GPA Requirement (Varies by program, usually 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale)
Prerequisite Coursework (Some programs require specific undergraduate courses)
English Proficiency Test (For International Students)
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Letters of Recommendation (Usually 2-3 from professors or employers)
Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV (For some programs)
Interview (If Required) (Online or in-person)
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Step 1: Research Programs |
Choose the program you want to apply for (Optometry, Audiology, PA Studies, etc.) and review the admission requirements. |
|
Step 2: Submit an Online Application |
Most programs require applications through Centralized Application Services: |
|
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee |
Application fees vary by program ($50 - $150). |
|
Step 4: Submit Required Documents |
Upload transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statement, and test scores (if required). International students must submit evaluated transcripts (WES or ECE). |
|
Step 5: Attend an Interview (If Required) |
Some programs require a virtual or in-person interview as part of the selection process. |
|
Step 6: Receive Admission Decision |
Salus University will notify applicants via email once decisions are made. This can take 4-8 weeks after submission. |
|
Step 7: Accept the Offer & Pay Deposit |
If accepted, confirm enrollment by paying the seat deposit (varies by program, typically $500 - $1,000). |
|
Step 8: Apply for a Student Visa (For International Students) |
International students receive an I-20 Form from Salus University, then apply for an F-1 Student Visa. |
Salus University follows a rolling admission process for most programs, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, some programs have priority deadlines:
Program |
Application Opens |
Priority Deadline |
Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
July |
December 1 |
Rolling |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) |
July |
February 1 |
Rolling |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) MMS |
April |
October 1 |
March 1 |
|
MS in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) |
August |
January 15 |
Rolling |
|
MS in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) |
August |
February 15 |
Rolling |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
Year-round |
No fixed deadline |
Rolling |
|
PhD in Biomedicine |
Year-round |
No fixed deadline |
Rolling |
Rolling Admissions = Applications are accepted and reviewed until seats are filled.
International students must complete the same admission process as domestic students, with some additional requirements:
Credential Evaluation – All international transcripts must be evaluated by WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
Proof of English Proficiency – TOEFL (80 iBT) or IELTS (6.5) required unless you studied in an English-speaking country.
Financial Support Documents – To obtain the I-20 Form for the F-1 Student Visa, you must show proof of sufficient funds.
Health Insurance – Required for all international students.
Most programs at Salus University follow a rolling admissions process, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received until seats are filled. However, some programs have priority deadlines.
Program |
Intake Period |
Priority Deadline |
Final Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
Fall (August) |
December 1 |
Rolling |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Residential |
Fall (August) |
February 1 |
Rolling |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) – Online |
Fall (August) |
Rolling |
Rolling |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) MMS |
Summer (June) |
October 1 |
March 1 |
|
MS in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) |
Fall (August) |
January 15 |
Rolling |
|
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) |
Fall (August) |
Rolling |
Rolling |
|
MS in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) |
Fall (August) |
February 15 |
Rolling |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) (Online) |
Fall (August) / Spring (January) |
No Fixed Deadline |
Rolling |
|
PhD in Biomedicine |
Fall (August) / Spring (January) |
No Fixed Deadline |
Rolling |
Rolling Admissions – Applications are accepted until all seats are filled.
Some programs allow early decision applications, which can increase admission chances.
Bachelor’s Degree (Required for Master’s and Doctorate programs)
Minimum GPA: Usually 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
Prerequisite Courses: Some programs require specific undergraduate coursework
Standardized Tests: (Depends on the program)
GRE: Required for some programs (e.g., Physician Assistant Studies)
OAT: Required for Doctor of Optometry (OD)
English Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Letters of Recommendation (Usually 2-3)
Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Resume/CV (For some programs)
Interview (If Required)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Salus Institutional Scholarships |
Academic merit, financial need |
N/A |
All programs |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
High academic achievement, leadership skills |
$5,000 - $10,000 |
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Outstanding academic record |
$2,000 - $5,000 |
Optometry, Audiology, PA, OT, SLP |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Work as a teaching/research assistant |
Partial Tuition Coverage |
Master’s & Doctoral Programs |
|
Public Health & Service Scholarship |
Commitment to community health & public service |
N/A |
MPH, PA, OT, SLP |
|
National Optometric Association (NOA) Scholarships |
Minority students in optometry |
$1,000 - $5,000 |
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
|
American Academy of Audiology Scholarships |
Students in Audiology programs |
$1,000 - $5,000 |
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) |
|
Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship (HPSP) |
U.S. citizens willing to serve in the military |
Full Tuition + Stipend |
OD, PA, AuD |
|
International Student Scholarships |
High academic performance (limited availability) |
N/A |
All graduate programs |
|
External Scholarships (AAPO, AOTA, ASHA, etc.) |
Industry-sponsored scholarships |
$500 - $10,000 |
Optometry, OT, SLP, PA |
Facility Name |
Description |
|---|---|
|
The Eye Institute (TEI) |
A state-of-the-art optometry clinic for hands-on training and patient care. |
|
Pennsylvania Ear Institute (PEI) |
Advanced audiology clinic for student training and hearing care services. |
|
Speech-Language Institute (SLI) |
Clinical training center for Speech-Language Pathology students. |
|
Clinical Skills Lab |
A simulation-based learning center for healthcare students. |
|
Technology & Learning Resource Center |
Offers digital libraries, study spaces, and research tools. |
|
Fitness Center & Student Lounge |
Gym, recreation rooms, and relaxation areas for students. |
|
Interprofessional Education Programs |
Collaborative learning opportunities for healthcare students across different fields. |
Since Salus University does not have on-campus dormitories, students must rent off-campus housing in Elkins Park, Jenkintown, or Philadelphia. Below is an estimate of rental costs:
Accommodation Type |
Estimated Monthly Rent (USD) |
Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
$800 - $1,200 |
$9,600 - $14,400 |
|
Single Apartment (1-bedroom) |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
$14,400 - $21,600 |
|
Studio Apartment |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
$12,000 - $18,000 |
|
Luxury Apartment (Fully Furnished) |
$1,800 - $2,500 |
$21,600 - $30,000 |
Expense Type |
Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas, Internet) |
$100 - $200 |
$1,200 - $2,400 |
|
Food & Groceries |
$300 - $500 |
$3,600 - $6,000 |
|
Health Insurance |
$125 - $200 |
$1,500 - $2,400 |
|
Transportation (Public & Car Expenses) |
$50 - $150 |
$600 - $1,800 |
Salus University is known for its intensive hands-on training in optometry, audiology, physician assistant studies, and other health sciences programs. Students gain real-world experience through clinical rotations, research opportunities, and interprofessional education.
Salus offers a range of student-run organizations catering to professional development, cultural interests, and recreational activities. Some popular clubs include:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Represents students and organizes events.
National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) – Supports students in optometry programs.
Audiology Student Association (ASA) – Networking and research opportunities for audiology students.
Physician Assistant (PA) Student Society – Provides mentorship and professional connections.
Salus Cares Club – Community service and volunteer activities.
Fitness & Recreation – The university has a fitness center, yoga classes, and wellness programs to help students stay active.
Library & Study Spaces – The Learning Resource Center provides quiet study areas, digital resources, and research assistance.
Career Services – Helps students with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement after graduation.
Salus University hosts annual events, cultural celebrations, and networking meetups to foster community engagement. Some highlights include:
Welcome Week for New Students
Salus Spring Gala & Cultural Festivals
Health Awareness Events & Workshops
Guest Lectures from Industry Experts
Salus University is located in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, a quiet suburban area with easy access to Philadelphia. Students enjoy:
Affordable housing options
Nearby restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment venues
Outdoor parks and recreational activities
Public transportation for commuting
Salus University graduates have high placement rates across different programs due to the university’s focus on clinical experience and professional development.
Program |
Average Placement Rate |
Common Job Roles |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
95%+ |
Optometrist, Vision Care Specialist |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) |
90%+ |
Audiologist, Hearing Aid Specialist |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) MMS |
98%+ |
Physician Assistant (Hospitals, Clinics) |
|
MS in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) |
90%+ |
Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist |
|
MS in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) |
92%+ |
Speech Therapist, Communication Specialist |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
85%+ |
Public Health Consultant, Policy Analyst |
|
PhD in Biomedicine |
85%+ |
Research Scientist, University Faculty |
Note: Placement rates vary based on specialization, location, and licensing requirements.
Salus University’s Career Development Center offers various resources to help students with job placement:
Resume & Interview Coaching – One-on-one career counseling and workshops
Job Fairs & Networking Events – Connect with top healthcare employers & alumni
Internships & Clinical Rotations – Hands-on experience leading to job offers
Licensing & Certification Guidance – Assistance with national board exams
Salus graduates work in hospitals, private clinics, rehabilitation centers, research institutions, and corporate healthcare settings. Some top employers include:
Mayo Clinic
Johns Hopkins Hospital
Kaiser Permanente
Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals
Specsavers & Visionworks (Optometry)
ENT Clinics & Hearing Aid Centers (Audiology)
Public Health Organizations & Research Institutes
Graduates from Salus University earn competitive salaries based on their specialization:
Program |
Average Starting Salary (USD/Year) |
Experienced Professionals (USD/Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
$100,000 - $120,000 |
$150,000+ |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) |
$75,000 - $90,000 |
$110,000+ |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) MMS |
$95,000 - $110,000 |
$130,000+ |
|
MS in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) |
$70,000 - $85,000 |
$100,000+ |
|
MS in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) |
$65,000 - $80,000 |
$90,000+ |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
$50,000 - $70,000 |
$90,000+ |
|
PhD in Biomedicine |
$60,000 - $80,000 |
$100,000+ |
Note: Salaries depend on location, experience, and industry demand.
International students at Salus University can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and H-1B Visa sponsorships to work in the U.S. after graduation.
OPT (12-24 months) – Allows students to work in their field after graduation
H-1B Visa Sponsorship – Many employers sponsor graduates for long-term employment
State Licensing Requirements – Some fields (Optometry, PA, Audiology) require additional exams for state licenses
Program |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
40% - 50% |
Moderately Competitive |
|
Doctor of Audiology (AuD) |
45% - 55% |
Moderately Competitive |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) MMS |
30% - 40% |
Highly Competitive |
|
MS in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) |
50% - 60% |
Less Competitive |
|
MS in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) |
50% - 60% |
Less Competitive |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
60% - 70% |
Less Competitive |
|
PhD in Biomedicine |
30% - 40% |
Highly Competitive |
Salus University is located in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, USA—a suburban area just outside Philadelphia.
Salus University
8360 Old York Road,
Elkins Park, PA 19027,
United States
Philadelphia, PA – 10 miles (16 km) south (Approx. 20-30 minutes by car or public transport)
New York City, NY – 100 miles (160 km) northeast (Approx. 2-hour drive or train)
Washington, D.C. – 140 miles (225 km) south (Approx. 2.5-3 hours by train)
