| 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: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
Type: Private, Specialized Optometry School
Founded: 1932
Accreditation: Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE)
Ranking: Recognized as one of the top optometry schools in the U.S.
Southern College of Optometry (SCO) is a leading optometry school in the United States, offering Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degrees and specialized clinical training. The college is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, hands-on clinical experience, and community outreach programs.
One of the oldest and most prestigious optometry schools in the U.S.
Over 500 students enrolled annually
More than 96% graduation rate
Highly competitive admissions
Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) Program
Duration: 4 Years
Curriculum Includes:
Ocular Disease & Pharmacology
Optometric Procedures & Clinical Techniques
Pediatric Optometry
Contact Lenses & Vision Therapy
Practice Management
Clinical Internships
Residency Programs (Postgraduate)
Ocular Disease
Pediatrics & Vision Therapy
Primary Eye Care
Cornea & Contact Lenses
Refractive & Ocular Surgery
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Note: Residencies are optional but enhance career opportunities in specialized fields.
Application Deadlines:
Primary Deadline: March 1
Early Decision Deadline: September 1
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – Preferably in Biology, Chemistry, or Pre-Optometry
Prerequisite Courses: Anatomy, Physiology, Physics, Organic Chemistry, Psychology
GPA Requirement: Minimum 3.0 GPA (Competitive applicants have 3.5+)
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Scores – Required
Letters of Recommendation (From Professors or Optometrists)
Personal Statement & Interview
Highly Competitive: Acceptance rate is around 35% – 40%
Category |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition (O.D. Program) |
$42,000 – $45,000 |
|
Books & Supplies |
~$2,500 |
|
Housing & Living Expenses |
~$15,000 – $18,000 |
|
Health Insurance |
~$2,000 |
|
Total Estimated Cost (Per Year) |
$60,000 – $70,000 |
Financial Aid & Scholarships Available
SCO offers merit-based and need-based scholarships, including:
Dean’s Scholarships – Based on academic performance
Diversity Scholarships – For underrepresented minority students
Veterans & Military Scholarships – For eligible service members
Private & External Optometry Scholarships – Sponsored by organizations like AOA & AAO
Students can apply for federal student loans, work-study programs, and private loans
SCO provides hands-on clinical experience through:
The Eye Center at SCO – One of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S., serving 60,000+ patients annually
Community Outreach & Mobile Clinics – Eye care services for underserved populations
Rotations in Hospitals & Private Practices – Partnerships with VA hospitals, ophthalmology clinics, and specialty optometry centers
Job Placement Rate: Over 90% of graduates secure jobs within 6 months
Average Salary: $100,000 – $150,000 per year (varies by state & specialization)
Private Practice Optometrist
Medical & Ocular Disease Specialist
Pediatric or Geriatric Optometrist
Researcher or Educator in Optometry Schools
Corporate Optometry (Walmart, LensCrafters, etc.)
Optometry in Government & Military Settings
Housing: Off-campus housing options available near campus
Dining: Nearby restaurants & student meal plans available
Recreation: Gym, student organizations, sports teams
Events: Annual optometry conferences, leadership programs, networking events
Degree: Doctor of Optometry (O.D.)
Duration: 4 Years
Mode: On-Campus (Memphis, Tennessee)
Anatomy & Physiology of the Eye
General & Ocular Pharmacology
Biochemistry & Optometric Principles
Introduction to Clinical Optometry
Optometric Procedures & Techniques
Ocular Disease & Systemic Health
Contact Lenses & Optical Dispensing
Visual Perception & Neuroscience
Pediatric Optometry & Binocular Vision
Clinical Internships at The Eye Center at SCO
Geriatric & Low Vision Rehabilitation
Ocular Surgery & Laser Procedures
Specialty Rotations in Hospitals, VA Clinics, and Private Practices
Rotations in Medical Optometry, Pediatrics, Ocular Disease, and Contact Lenses
Capstone Project & Final Assessments
Graduates become licensed optometrists, eligible for state licensure exams and professional practice.
Duration: 1 Year (Post-O.D. Degree)
Mode: Clinical Training & Specialty Rotations
Primary Eye Care
Ocular Disease
Pediatrics & Vision Therapy
Cornea & Contact Lenses
Refractive & Ocular Surgery
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Residencies allow optometrists to gain advanced training and increase career opportunities.
Top-Ranked Optometry School – Recognized as one of the leading optometry colleges in the U.S.
Hands-On Clinical Experience – Access to The Eye Center at SCO, one of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S.
High Job Placement Rate – 90%+ of graduates secure jobs within six months.
Safe & Supportive Campus – Located in Memphis, Tennessee, with student services for international applicants.
STEM-Designated Program – Allows international students to apply for OPT & STEM Extension (up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S.).
Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) Program Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – Must be from an accredited university.
Preferred majors: Biology, Chemistry, Pre-Optometry, Physics, or Health Sciences.
Prerequisite Courses (Must be completed before admission):
Biology & Microbiology
General & Organic Chemistry
Physics
Anatomy & Physiology
Psychology & English Composition
Minimum GPA: 3.0 or higher (Competitive applicants have 3.5+).
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Scores – Required for all applicants.
Competitive score: 320+
English Language Proficiency (For Non-Native Speakers):
TOEFL (iBT): 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 100+
Letters of Recommendation – At least one from an optometrist and one from a professor.
Personal Statement & Interview – Applicants must demonstrate commitment to optometry.
Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) Program Eligibility
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – Preferably in Biology, Chemistry, Pre-Optometry, or Health Sciences
Minimum GPA: 3.0 or higher (Competitive applicants have 3.5+)
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Scores – Required for all applicants
Competitive OAT Score: 320+
Prerequisite Courses:
General Biology & Microbiology
General & Organic Chemistry
Physics
Anatomy & Physiology
Psychology & English Composition
Additional Requirements for International Students
English Proficiency Test Scores (If applicable):
TOEFL (iBT): 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 100+
Financial Proof – Bank statement showing ability to pay tuition & living expenses
Copy of Passport
F-1 Student Visa Application (After Admission)
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Apply through OptomCAS (Optometry Centralized Application Service) at.
Pay the application fee (varies by country, usually ~$200)
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Official Transcripts – From all colleges/universities attended
OAT Scores – Sent directly to SCO via OptomCAS
Letters of Recommendation – At least one from an optometrist and one from a professor
Personal Statement (Essay) – Explaining why you want to study optometry
Step 3: Attend an Interview (If Shortlisted)
Selected applicants will be invited for a virtual or in-person interview.
The interview assesses communication skills, motivation, and knowledge of the optometry field.
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
Decision Notification: Within 4–6 weeks after the interview.
If accepted, students will receive an offer letter and I-20 form (for international students).
Step 5: Confirm Enrollment & Pay Deposit
Pay the enrollment deposit (~$750) to secure your seat.
Complete any pre-matriculation health & background checks.
Step 6: Apply for Student Visa (International Students Only)
Use the I-20 Form to apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy.
Step 7: Prepare for Arrival & Orientation
Register for housing, courses, and student orientation.
Arrive in the U.S. before the semester begins.
Semester |
Application Deadline |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Main) |
March 1 (Final Deadline) |
August |
|
Early Decision Intake |
September 1 (For Competitive Applicants) |
August (Following Year) |
SCO only has one intake per year (Fall). Applying early improves your chances of admission and scholarships.
To apply for the O.D. program, students must meet the following requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – From an accredited university.
Preferred majors: Biology, Chemistry, Pre-Optometry, Health Sciences
Minimum GPA: 3.0 or higher (Competitive applicants have 3.5+)
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Scores – Required for all applicants
Competitive OAT Score: 320+
Prerequisite Courses:
General Biology & Microbiology
General & Organic Chemistry
Physics
Anatomy & Physiology
Psychology & English Composition
Note: Prerequisite courses must be completed before enrolling.
International students must meet the standard admission requirements plus:
English Proficiency Test Scores (If applicable):
TOEFL (iBT): 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 100+
Financial Proof – Bank statement showing ability to cover tuition & living expenses
Copy of Passport
F-1 Student Visa Application (After Admission)
International students must complete an accredited bachelor's degree equivalent to a U.S. degree before applying.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dean’s Academic Scholarship |
GPA 3.5+, High OAT Scores |
Up to $20,000 |
Yes |
|
President’s Scholarship |
High academic achievement & leadership |
Up to $15,000 |
Yes |
|
Faculty Scholarship |
Outstanding academic performance |
Up to $10,000 |
Yes |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
SCO Institutional Grant |
Demonstrated financial need (FAFSA required for U.S. students) |
N/A |
Yes |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Underrepresented minority students in optometry |
Up to $10,000 |
Yes |
|
First-Generation Optometry Scholarship |
First in family to attend optometry school |
Up to $5,000 |
Yes |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Organization |
|---|---|---|---|
|
American Optometric Association (AOA) Scholarship |
Membership in AOA & academic excellence |
$2,500 – $10,000 |
AOA Foundation |
|
American Academy of Optometry (AAO) Award |
High academic achievement & research interest |
$2,000 – $5,000 |
AAO |
|
Lions Club International Vision Scholarship |
Students with a passion for eye care & community service |
$1,000 – $5,000 |
Lions Club International |
|
Walmart & Sam’s Club Health & Wellness Scholarship |
Optometry students pursuing leadership roles |
$5,000 |
Walmart Foundation |
Note: External scholarships require separate applications.
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
The Eye Center at SCO |
One of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S., serving 60,000+ patients annually. |
|
Lecture Halls & Labs |
State-of-the-art classrooms with advanced optometry equipment. |
|
Library & Study Areas |
Access to medical journals, research databases, and quiet study spaces. |
|
Student Center & Lounge |
Social area with seating, vending machines, and relaxation zones. |
|
Fitness & Recreation Center |
Gym, group exercise rooms, and recreational activities for students. |
|
Computer Labs & Tech Support |
Available for research, online coursework, and assignments. |
|
24/7 Campus Security |
Secure entry systems, emergency response services, and safety patrols. |
Note: SCO is located in downtown Memphis, TN, close to restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.
SCO does not provide on-campus housing, but students can choose from affordable off-campus housing options near campus. Below are the estimated costs of accommodation.
Housing Type |
Features |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
Private bedroom, shared kitchen & bathroom |
$600 – $900 |
$7,200 – $10,800 |
|
Single Apartment (Studio or 1-Bedroom) |
Fully private unit, kitchen & bathroom |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
$12,000 – $18,000 |
|
Luxury Apartment (Downtown Memphis) |
Modern amenities, gym, pool, parking |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
$18,000 – $24,000 |
Utilities & Internet Costs: $100 – $200 per month (electricity, water, Wi-Fi).
Dining Option |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Groceries (Cooking at Home) |
$300 – $500 |
$3,600 – $6,000 |
|
Eating Out (Restaurants & Cafés) |
$500 – $800 |
$6,000 – $9,600 |
|
Meal Plan (Optional, Partner Cafeterias) |
$400 – $600 |
$4,800 – $7,200 |
Most students prefer to cook at home or eat at nearby restaurants.
1. Campus Community & Atmosphere
SCO is located in Memphis, Tennessee, offering students a safe, welcoming, and diverse environment. The school maintains a small student population, allowing for personalized interactions with faculty and peers. The close-knit atmosphere ensures students receive individual attention and mentorship.
2. Student Organizations & Clubs
SCO has a variety of student organizations to support professional development, leadership, and social networking. Some of the most active groups include:
American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) – Represents student interests in the field of optometry.
Student Volunteers in Optometric Service to Humanity (SVOSH) – Provides opportunities for students to participate in mission trips and community service projects.
Private Practice Club (PPC) – Helps students learn about business management and owning an optometry practice.
Sports Vision Club – Focuses on optometry’s role in enhancing athletic performance.
National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) – Promotes diversity in optometry and supports underrepresented students.
Fellowship of Christian Optometrists (FCO) – Encourages faith-based community service.
Student Government Association (SGA) – Acts as the voice of students, organizing events and campus activities.
Students are encouraged to join clubs that match their interests, and they can also start new organizations.
3. Clinical & Volunteer Opportunities
SCO students gain hands-on experience early in their education through The Eye Center at SCO, one of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S. Additionally, students participate in:
Community Eye Screenings – Providing free eye exams to underserved communities.
Health Fairs & Outreach Programs – Partnering with organizations to spread awareness of eye health.
Optometry Mission Trips – Traveling to countries with limited eye care access to provide free services.
These experiences help students build clinical confidence while making a meaningful impact.
4. Social Events & Campus Activities
SCO students balance their academic workload with fun events and social activities. Some of the most popular events include:
Welcome Week & Orientation – A fun-filled introduction to campus life for new students.
Optometry Olympics – Annual competition where students showcase their clinical and sports skills.
Cultural & Diversity Events – International food nights, heritage celebrations, and guest speakers.
Live Music & Nightlife – Memphis is famous for its music scene, with plenty of concerts and festivals nearby.
Networking Events & Conferences – Students can attend national optometry conferences, such as those held by AOA and AAO.
5. Housing & Living in Memphis
SCO does not offer on-campus housing, but students live in affordable off-campus apartments near the campus. Many students choose to live in shared apartments to reduce costs.
Memphis is an affordable city compared to other major U.S. locations. It offers a low cost of living, making it easier for students to manage expenses while enjoying a great lifestyle.
6. Health & Wellness Services
SCO provides resources to support students’ physical and mental health:
On-Campus Health Services – Medical consultations and wellness check-ups.
Mental Health & Counseling – Free and confidential counseling services for students.
Fitness & Recreation Center – Gym, yoga classes, and recreational activities for students to stay active.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is encouraged to help students manage stress and academic challenges.
7. Career Services & Job Placement
SCO students receive career guidance from the Career Services Office, which helps with:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Crafting professional application materials.
Mock Interviews & Career Coaching – Preparing for optometry job interviews.
Job Search & Employer Connections – Access to nationwide job listings and networking opportunities.
Internships & Residency Placements – Guidance for students interested in post-graduate residencies.
With a 90%+ job placement rate, SCO ensures that graduates secure optometry jobs or residencies shortly after completing their degrees.
8. International Student Support
SCO provides special support for international students, including:
Visa & Immigration Assistance – Helping students with their F-1 visa process and CPT/OPT work authorization.
Cultural Integration & Peer Mentorship – Connecting new international students with mentors.
International Student Club – A support network for students adjusting to life in the U.S.
International students also have access to workshops on career opportunities and transitioning to work in the U.S.
9. Transportation & Getting Around
SCO is located in downtown Memphis, making it easy to get around:
Walking & Biking – The campus is within walking distance of many student apartments.
Public Transportation (MATA Buses) – Affordable public transit options.
Rideshare & Carpooling (Uber/Lyft) – Common among students.
Students also enjoy nearby entertainment spots, restaurants, and parks, offering a great balance between academics and leisure.
Small, close-knit campus with a strong sense of community.
Active student organizations and professional networking opportunities.
Hands-on clinical training with real-world experience.
Affordable living in Memphis compared to other major cities.
Career support services to help students secure jobs and residencies.
SCO provides a well-rounded college experience, ensuring that students succeed both academically and socially.
1. Career Services & Job Placement Support
SCO's Career Development Office helps students with:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Crafting professional application materials.
Mock Interviews & Career Coaching – Preparing for optometry job interviews.
Job Listings & Employer Networking – Connecting students with nationwide job opportunities.
Internships & Residency Placements – Assistance with postgraduate training.
Optometry Career Fairs & Recruitment Events – Opportunities to meet potential employers.
SCO graduates typically receive multiple job offers before graduation due to strong industry demand.
2. Internship & Clinical Training Opportunities
SCO students gain real-world experience through:
The Eye Center at SCO – One of the largest teaching clinics in the U.S., serving 60,000+ patients annually.
Externships at Private Practices, Hospitals, and VA Clinics – Nationwide rotation opportunities.
Community Outreach & Vision Care Missions – Hands-on patient care experience.
These clinical experiences help students build confidence and secure jobs immediately after graduation.
3. Job Placement Rate & Salary Expectations
Field of Practice |
Placement Rate (Within 6 Months) |
Average Salary (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Private Practice Optometry |
95% |
$110,000 – $150,000 |
|
Corporate Optometry (Walmart, LensCrafters, etc.) |
90% |
$100,000 – $130,000 |
|
Hospital & Ocular Disease Clinics |
85% |
$110,000 – $140,000 |
|
Vision Therapy & Pediatrics |
80% |
$90,000 – $120,000 |
|
Academia & Research |
70% |
$80,000 – $110,000 |
Salaries vary based on location, specialization, and experience.
4. Top Employers & Hiring Organizations
SCO graduates are recruited by leading organizations, including:
Healthcare & Private Practice:
Eye Specialists of Tennessee
Memphis Vision Center
Johnson & Johnson Vision
Various Independent Optometry Practices
Corporate Optometry:
Walmart Vision Center
LensCrafters
Visionworks
Costco Optical
Hospital & Specialty Clinics:
Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals
Mayo Clinic Eye Institute
University of Tennessee Medical Center
Academia & Research:
American Optometric Association (AOA)
American Academy of Optometry (AAO)
Many graduates also open their own private optometry practices within a few years.
5. Residency & Fellowship Opportunities
Some graduates choose to specialize further through 1-year residency programs, enhancing their skills in:
Ocular Disease
Cornea & Contact Lenses
Pediatrics & Vision Therapy
Refractive & Ocular Surgery
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Residency-trained optometrists earn higher salaries and are more competitive in specialized fields.
6. Work Authorization for International Students
International students at SCO can apply for:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Allows work during studies for clinical experience.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – Allows 12 months of work after graduation.
STEM OPT Extension (24 Months) – Since optometry is a STEM field, international students can extend OPT for up to 3 years.
H-1B Visa Sponsorship – Some graduates find employers willing to sponsor work visas.
SCO assists international students with visa-related queries and career placement.
7. How to Get Career Assistance at SCO?
Visit the Career Services Office – Located on campus to assist students with job search, resume writing, and interview prep.
Attend Job Fairs & Networking Events – Meet potential employers and residency directors.
Use Online Job Portals – SCO provides access to exclusive optometry job listings.
Acceptance Rate: 35% – 40%
Southern College of Optometry (SCO) is a highly competitive institution with an acceptance rate of approximately 35% – 40%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only 35 to 40 are accepted.
Highly Selective Admissions: Applicants must have a strong academic background, competitive test scores, and relevant experience in optometry or healthcare.
Higher GPAs and OAT Scores Increase Chances: Competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.5+ and OAT scores of 320+.
Early Applications Have a Better Chance: Applying before the early decision deadline (September 1) improves the chances of admission.
Bachelor’s Degree (Required) – Preferably in Biology, Chemistry, Pre-Optometry, or Health Sciences
Minimum GPA: 3.0 (Competitive GPA: 3.5+)
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Scores – Required
Competitive Score: 320+
Prerequisite Courses (Must be completed before admission)
General Biology & Microbiology
General & Organic Chemistry
Physics
Anatomy & Physiology
Psychology & English Composition
Students with higher GPAs, strong recommendation letters, and clinical exposure stand out in the selection process.
Address:
Southern College of Optometry (SCO)
1245 Madison Avenue
Memphis, Tennessee 38104, USA
Location Overview:
SCO is located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant city known for its rich culture, music, and healthcare industry.
The campus is situated in the Memphis Medical District, close to major hospitals, research centers, and healthcare facilities.
Memphis is an affordable city compared to other U.S. metropolitan areas, making it a great place for students to live and study.
