| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
1. Overview:
Established: 1971
Location: Midtown Manhattan, New York City
Affiliation: State University of New York (SUNY)
Type: Public Optometry School
Campus: Urban
Website: N/A
2. Academic Programs:
The college offers various degree programs focused on optometry and vision sciences, including:
Doctor of Optometry (OD) – A four-year professional program leading to the OD degree.
Master of Science (MS) in Vision Science – A research-focused program in vision science.
PhD in Vision Science – A program for advanced research and academic careers in vision science.
Combined OD/MS and OD/PhD Programs – For students interested in both clinical practice and research.
Residency Programs – Specialized training in areas such as ocular disease, pediatrics, vision therapy, and contact lenses.
3. Clinical Training:
The University Eye Center (UEC), located on campus, serves as a teaching clinic where students get hands-on experience with patients under faculty supervision.
Offers primary eye care, pediatric eye care, contact lens services, ocular disease management, and vision therapy.
4. Research & Innovation:
The Graduate Center for Vision Research (GCVR) focuses on cutting-edge research in optometry, visual neuroscience, and eye disease.
Faculty and students participate in federally funded research projects.
5. Admission Requirements:
For the Doctor of Optometry (OD) Program, the admission requirements typically include:
Bachelor’s Degree (or at least 90 undergraduate credits).
Prerequisite Courses in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology.
OAT (Optometry Admission Test) Scores.
GPA (Competitive applicants usually have a 3.3+ GPA).
Letters of Recommendation.
Clinical/Shadowing Experience in Optometry.
6. Campus Life & Facilities:
Located in the heart of New York City, offering students access to top medical facilities and diverse patient populations.
Student organizations, networking events, and research opportunities.
Affiliated with major hospitals and research centers for externships and clinical rotations.
7. Career Opportunities:
Graduates from SUNY College of Optometry go on to careers in:
Private optometry practice.
Hospitals and clinics.
Vision research and academia.
Corporate and industry roles (contact lens companies, vision technology firms, etc.).
Government and public health services.
8. Tuition & Financial Aid:
Tuition varies for in-state (New York residents) and out-of-state students.
The college offers scholarships, grants, and loan programs to support students.
Prestigious and Highly Ranked – One of the top optometry schools in the U.S.
Cutting-Edge Research Opportunities – Strong focus on vision science research.
Hands-on Clinical Training – Large patient base in a busy urban setting.
Located in NYC – Access to a diverse patient population and top healthcare institutions.
Affordable Public Education – Lower tuition compared to private optometry schools.
Duration: 4 years
Degree: Doctor of Optometry (OD)
Comprehensive clinical training starting in the first year.
Hands-on experience at the University Eye Center (UEC) and externship sites.
Strong foundation in ocular disease, contact lenses, pediatrics, binocular vision, and low vision rehabilitation.
Opportunities to participate in research and advanced elective courses.
Year 1 & 2: Basic science courses (anatomy, physiology, optics, pharmacology) and introductory clinical experience.
Year 3: Advanced clinical courses, patient care, and specialization options.
Year 4: Full-time clinical externships in various healthcare settings.
Additional Option:
OD/MS Joint Degree: Earn both an OD and a Master’s in Vision Science.
OD/PhD Joint Degree: Combines clinical training with advanced research in vision science.
Duration: 2-3 years (can be completed alongside the OD program)
Degree: Master of Science (MS) in Vision Science
Focus on vision research, including optics, ocular disease, and neuroscience.
Requires coursework, laboratory research, and a thesis.
Ideal for students interested in academic, research, or industry careers.
Available as a standalone MS program or as a dual OD/MS program.
Duration: (typically 4-6 years)
Degree: PhD in Vision Science
Advanced research training in visual neuroscience, optics, eye diseases, and visual perception.
Designed for students pursuing academic or research careers.
Includes coursework, independent research, and a dissertation.
PhD students work with faculty in the Graduate Center for Vision Research (GCVR).
Dual Degree Option:
OD/PhD Program: For students interested in both clinical optometry and vision science research.
Course Program |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
4 years |
$31,560 (NY Residents) / $49,160 (Out-of-State) |
|
MS in Vision Science |
2-3 years |
$11,310 (NY Residents) / $22,650 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Vision Science |
4-6 years |
Fully Funded (Stipend Provided) |
|
Residency Programs |
1 year |
(Paid Residency Stipend) |
|
Continuing Education (CE) |
(Short Courses) |
Fee per course |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science (MS) in Vision Science |
2-3 years |
$11,310 (NY Residents) / $22,650 (Out-of-State) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Vision Science |
4-6 years |
Fully Funded (Stipend Provided) |
|
Combined OD/PhD Program (Doctor of Optometry + PhD in Vision Science) |
7-8 years |
OD Tuition Applies for First 4 Years, PhD Fully Funded |
International students can apply for the following programs:
Program Name |
Duration |
Eligibility |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
4 years |
Bachelor’s degree + Prerequisites + OAT Exam |
$49,160 (Out-of-State) |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Vision Science |
2-3 years |
Bachelor’s degree in Science/Optometry + Research Interest |
$22,650 (Out-of-State) |
|
PhD in Vision Science |
4-6 years |
Master’s/Bachelor’s degree + Research Proposal |
Fully Funded (Stipend Provided) |
|
OD/MS Dual Program |
5 years |
Meets OD & MS eligibility requirements |
OD Tuition + MS Tuition |
|
OD/PhD Dual Program |
7-8 years |
Meets OD & PhD eligibility requirements |
OD Tuition for 4 Years, PhD Fully Funded |
|
Residency Programs |
1 year |
OD degree + U.S. Licensing Exams |
(Paid Residency Stipend) |
Academic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree (or at least 90 undergraduate credits) from an accredited university.
Strong background in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, and Mathematics.
Standardized Test:
OAT (Optometry Admission Test) is required.
GRE is not required for the OD program.
English Proficiency (if applicable):
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 iBT (higher scores preferred).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Additional Requirements:
Optometry Shadowing Experience (Recommended: 50+ hours).
Letters of Recommendation (From professors or optometrists).
Personal Statement & Interview (Demonstrating interest in optometry).
Academic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optometry, Vision Science, Neuroscience, or related fields.
Strong academic record (GPA 3.0+ preferred).
Research Proposal & Faculty Advisor:
PhD applicants must submit a research proposal and be matched with a faculty mentor.
Standardized Test:
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) may be required for some applicants.
English Proficiency:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 85-90 iBT.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
The Doctor of Optometry (OD) is a four-year professional program that prepares students for a career in optometry.
Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree (or 90 undergraduate credits)
A completed undergraduate degree is preferred, but applicants with at least 90 credits may apply.
Recommended majors: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Neuroscience, Psychology, or Pre-Optometry.
Prerequisite Courses (Must be completed before enrollment)
Course |
Credits Required |
|---|---|
|
General Biology (with lab) |
8 credits |
|
General Chemistry (with lab) |
8 credits |
|
Organic Chemistry (with lab) |
4 credits |
|
General Physics (with lab) |
8 credits |
|
Microbiology |
3 credits |
|
Calculus |
3 credits |
|
Statistics |
3 credits |
|
General Psychology |
3 credits |
|
English Composition |
6 credits |
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Scores
The OAT (Optometry Admission Test) is required for admission.
Competitive scores: 320+ (Academic Average and Science).
GPA Requirement
Competitive applicants typically have a minimum GPA of 3.3+.
Letters of Recommendation
Three (3) letters required:
One from an Optometrist.
One from a Professor (Science preferred).
One additional letter (from another professor, employer, or mentor).
Clinical Shadowing Experience
At least 50 hours of shadowing an optometrist (strongly recommended).
Personal Statement & Interview
Submit a well-written personal statement explaining why you want to become an optometrist.
Selected candidates will be invited for an in-person or virtual interview.
Step |
Action |
Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Complete prerequisite courses & obtain a bachelor’s degree (or 90 credits) |
Before applying |
|
2 |
Take the OAT exam |
At least 6 months before application |
|
3 |
Gather letters of recommendation |
Before application deadline |
|
4 |
Gain clinical shadowing experience |
Recommended 50+ hours |
|
5 |
Submit application via OptomCAS (Optometry Centralized Application Service) |
Opens July; Priority deadline December 1; Final deadline February 1 |
|
6 |
Attend interview (if invited) |
Rolling basis (September–March) |
|
7 |
Receive admission decision |
Rolling admissions |
|
8 |
Submit tuition deposit & prepare for enrollment |
By May |
Application Link: N/A
The MS in Vision Science is a research-based program focusing on optometry, visual neuroscience, and eye health.
Admission Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree (in a Science-related field)
Preferred majors: Optometry, Biology, Neuroscience, Psychology, Biomedical Sciences.
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ recommended.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – Optional
GRE scores are not required but may be considered.
English Proficiency (for International Students)
TOEFL: Minimum 85 iBT
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Letters of Recommendation
Two (2) letters from professors or research advisors.
Statement of Purpose
A 1-2 page essay explaining research interests, career goals, and why SUNY Optometry.
Interview (if selected)
Some applicants may be invited for a virtual or in-person interview.
Step |
Action |
Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Complete a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field |
Before applying |
|
2 |
Submit GRE scores (optional) |
Before application deadline |
|
3 |
Prepare a statement of purpose |
Before application deadline |
|
4 |
Submit application via SUNY Optometry online portal |
March 1 (Fall Admission Only) |
|
5 |
Attend interview (if invited) |
March–April |
|
6 |
Receive admission decision |
Rolling basis |
|
7 |
Submit tuition deposit & prepare for enrollment |
By May |
Application Link: SUNY Optometry MS Program
Program |
Intake Period |
Application Deadline |
Admission Type |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
Fall (August) |
Priority: Dec 1 / Final: Feb 1 |
Rolling Admission |
|
Master of Science (MS) in Vision Science |
Fall (August) |
March 1 |
Competitive Admission |
|
PhD in Vision Science |
Fall (August) |
December 1 |
Competitive Admission |
|
Residency Programs |
Summer/Fall |
January – March (Varies by specialty) |
Competitive Admission |
OD Program: Uses rolling admissions, so early applications (by December 1) have a better chance of acceptance.
MS & PhD Programs: Only accept students for the Fall semester each year.
Residency Programs: Intake periods vary based on specialty and hospital affiliation.
Who Can Apply?
U.S. and international students with a Bachelor’s degree (or at least 90 undergraduate credits).
Criteria |
Requirements |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or at least 90 undergraduate credits from an accredited institution. |
|
Prerequisite Courses |
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology, Calculus, Statistics, Psychology, English Composition (see detailed list below). |
|
GPA Requirement |
Minimum 3.0 GPA (Competitive: 3.3+ GPA). |
|
OAT (Optometry Admission Test) |
Required. Competitive Score: 320+ (Academic Average and Science). |
|
Clinical Shadowing |
50+ hours of optometry shadowing recommended. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
3 Letters Required: One from an Optometrist, one from a Science Professor, and one additional. |
|
Personal Statement |
Required – Explain motivation for optometry and career goals. |
|
Interview |
Mandatory (invitation-based). |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Who Can Apply? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
President’s Scholars Award |
Outstanding academic achievement (high GPA, strong OAT scores) |
Up to $40,000 (over 4 years) |
OD Students (First-Year) |
|
Dean’s Merit Scholarship |
High GPA, strong OAT, leadership activities |
Up to $10,000 per year |
OD Students (All Years) |
|
SUNY Institutional Scholarships |
Financial need, academic performance |
($2,000 - $5,000) |
OD, MS, and PhD Students |
|
SUNY Graduate Research Fellowships |
Strong research background, faculty recommendation |
$10,000 - $15,000 per year |
PhD & MS Students |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Underrepresented minority students in optometry |
$5,000 per year |
OD & Graduate Students |
|
International Student Scholarship |
High-achieving international students |
$2,000 - $5,000 per year |
International OD, MS, PhD Students |
|
Clinical Excellence Scholarship |
Top clinical performance during OD program |
$3,000 - $7,000 |
3rd & 4th Year OD Students |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Who Can Apply? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
American Optometric Foundation (AOF) Scholarships |
Leadership, academic merit, community service |
$2,500 - $10,000 |
OD Students |
|
Vision Service Plan (VSP) Scholarship |
High academic performance, commitment to patient care |
$4,000 |
OD Students |
|
American Academy of Optometry Student Fellowships |
Research & clinical excellence |
$5,000 - $10,000 |
OD & PhD Students |
|
National Optometric Association (NOA) Scholarship |
Minority students in optometry |
$1,500 - $5,000 |
OD Students |
|
Lighthouse Guild Scholarship |
Students with visual impairments studying optometry |
$10,000 |
OD & Vision Science Students |
|
Essilor Future Optometrists Scholarship |
Interest in contact lenses & optical sciences |
$5,000 |
OD Students |
Facility |
Description |
Location |
|---|---|---|
|
University Eye Center (UEC) |
One of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S., providing hands-on clinical training. |
On Campus |
|
Graduate Center for Vision Research (GCVR) |
Research labs focused on vision science, neuroscience, and ocular disease. |
On Campus |
|
Optometry Learning Resource Center (Library) |
Access to online journals, research databases, and optometry textbooks. |
On Campus |
|
Lecture Halls & Classrooms |
Smart classrooms with modern technology for lectures and interactive learning. |
On Campus |
|
Simulation Labs |
Hands-on training in clinical optometry techniques, diagnostics, and patient care. |
On Campus |
|
Student Lounge & Study Spaces |
Quiet study areas, lounge, and collaboration rooms for students. |
On Campus |
|
Fitness & Wellness Center |
Gym, mental health counseling, and wellness programs. |
Nearby YMCA & private gyms |
|
Cafeteria & Dining Options |
On-site cafeteria with affordable meal options. |
On Campus |
SUNY College of Optometry does not provide on-campus housing, but students can find affordable options through off-campus student housing and private rentals in NYC.
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Cost Per Month (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
University-Affiliated Housing (via Educational Housing Services - EHS) |
Manhattan & Brooklyn |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
$18,000 - $30,000 |
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
Manhattan (Near Campus) |
$1,200 - $2,000 |
$14,400 - $24,000 |
|
Private Studio Apartment |
Manhattan |
$2,000 - $3,500 |
$24,000 - $42,000 |
|
Brooklyn/Queens Apartment (Cheaper Option) |
Brooklyn/Queens |
$900 - $1,800 |
$10,800 - $21,600 |
|
Homestay (with meals included) |
NYC Suburbs |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
$12,000 - $18,000 |
1. Academics & Clinical Experience
Students receive hands-on clinical training from their first year at the University Eye Center (UEC), one of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S.
Advanced labs, simulation technology, and externships help students gain real-world experience.
Access to top research opportunities in vision science, neuroscience, and ocular disease.
2. Student Organizations & Clubs
SUNY College of Optometry has a variety of student organizations that help students engage with their peers, expand their professional networks, and contribute to the community. Some popular groups include:
Student Government (SGA) – Represents students and organizes social & academic events.
American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) – Connects students with national optometry professionals.
Private Practice Club (PPC) – Helps students explore career opportunities in private optometry practice.
National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) – Focuses on diversity and inclusion in optometry.
Sports Vision Club – For students interested in vision training for athletes.
Beta Sigma Kappa (BSK) Honor Society – Recognizes academic excellence in optometry students.
Volunteering & Outreach Programs – Students participate in vision screenings, eye health awareness campaigns, and community service.
3. Social Life & Events
Annual Eye Ball (Gala Event) – A formal event where students, faculty, and alumni celebrate achievements.
Opto-Cup – A friendly sports competition between students and faculty.
Cultural & Holiday Celebrations – Includes Thanksgiving dinners, Lunar New Year festivals, and more.
Networking Events & Conferences – Opportunities to meet industry professionals and experts.
4. Living in New York City (NYC)
Being located in Midtown Manhattan, students experience life in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
Food & Dining – Access to diverse cuisines from across the world, from food trucks to Michelin-star restaurants.
Entertainment & Nightlife – Broadway shows, concerts, museums, and comedy clubs.
Parks & Outdoor Activities – Students relax at Central Park, Bryant Park, and the Hudson River waterfront.
Shopping & Markets – Famous locations like Times Square, Fifth Avenue, and local street markets.
Transportation – The NYC subway system makes commuting easy and affordable.
5. Wellness & Support Services
Mental Health & Counseling Services – Free confidential counseling for students.
Fitness & Recreation – Students have access to local gyms, yoga studios, and sports clubs.
Career Services & Advising – Helps students with job placement, internships, and residency applications.
Peer Mentorship Programs – Upper-year students help guide first-year students.
6. Work & Career Opportunities
Students can work part-time in optometry clinics, research labs, or as tutors.
Many students secure externships and residency placements at top hospitals and private practices.
The college hosts career fairs, guest lectures, and networking sessions to connect students with optometry professionals.
Supportive Student Community – Small class sizes and close faculty interactions.
Located in NYC – Access to top hospitals, research centers, and networking opportunities.
Exciting Campus Life – Social events, clubs, and leadership opportunities.
Strong Career Prospects – Graduates work in private practice, hospitals, and the vision industry.
1. Employment Rate & Career Outcomes
Over 90% of OD graduates secure jobs or residency placements within six months of graduation.
Diverse career paths include private practice, hospitals, corporate optometry, academia, and research.
Strong alumni network & industry connections help students secure jobs across the U.S.
2. Career Paths for Graduates
(A) Doctor of Optometry (OD) Graduates
Private Practice – Many graduates open or join optometry clinics.
Hospitals & Eye Care Centers – Work in ophthalmology clinics, LASIK centers, and specialty eye hospitals.
Corporate Optometry – Positions at LensCrafters, Walmart Vision, Costco Optical, and Warby Parker.
Academia & Research – Teaching roles at optometry schools and research institutions.
Government & Public Health – Roles with the VA (Veterans Affairs), military, and community health clinics.
(B) MS & PhD Graduates in Vision Science
Biomedical Research – Positions in universities, biotech firms, and pharmaceutical companies.
Academia & Teaching – Many PhD graduates become professors and researchers.
Clinical Research & Industry Jobs – Work with companies developing eye care technology and treatments.
(C) Residency Program Graduates
Specialized Optometry Careers – Work in ocular disease, pediatric optometry, contact lenses, neuro-optometry, and low vision rehabilitation.
Hospital-Based Optometry – Residencies lead to positions in major healthcare systems.
3. Residency & Externship Programs
SUNY College of Optometry offers highly competitive residency programs in various specialties.
50+ Residency Positions available annually.
Residency locations include SUNY University Eye Center, VA hospitals, private practices, and specialty clinics.
Popular specialties: Ocular Disease, Cornea & Contact Lenses, Pediatric Optometry, Neuro-Optometry, Vision Therapy.
Externships allow OD students to gain real-world experience at:
Hospitals & Specialty Clinics – NYC-based and national externships.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals – Providing eye care to U.S. veterans.
Private Optometry Practices – Hands-on experience in patient care and business management.
4. Salary & Earning Potential
Job Role |
Average Salary (USD) |
Salary Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
General Optometrist (Private Practice) |
$120,000 |
$90,000 – $160,000 |
|
Corporate Optometrist (Retail Chains) |
$110,000 |
$100,000 – $140,000 |
|
Hospital-Based Optometrist |
$130,000 |
$100,000 – $170,000 |
|
Academic / Research Optometrist |
$90,000 |
$70,000 – $120,000 |
|
Vision Science Researcher (PhD) |
$85,000 |
$70,000 – $110,000 |
|
Ophthalmic Industry / Biotech Jobs |
$95,000 |
$80,000 – $130,000 |
|
Residency Trained Specialist (Ocular Disease, Pediatrics, etc.) |
$130,000 |
$110,000 – $180,000 |
Private practice owners can earn $200,000+ per year.
Optometrists in rural or underserved areas often receive higher salaries and loan repayment incentives.
5. Career Services & Job Support
(A) Career Counseling & Job Placement Assistance
SUNY Career Development Center helps students with resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
The college hosts career fairs, networking events, and employer presentations.
(B) Alumni & Networking Opportunities
Strong alumni network helps graduates find jobs, mentorship, and business opportunities.
Student organizations like the Private Practice Club (PPC) provide insights into running an optometry business.
(C) Loan Repayment & Scholarship Programs
Graduates working in underserved areas may qualify for loan forgiveness programs like:
National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment – Up to $50,000 loan forgiveness.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for government-employed optometrists.
6. Top Employers Hiring SUNY Optometry Graduates
Hospitals & Eye Centers
New York Eye and Ear Infirmary
Bascom Palmer Eye Institute
Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals
Private Optometry & Ophthalmology Practices
MyEyeDr.
Visionworks
Local and national private clinics
Corporate Optometry
LensCrafters, Walmart Vision, Costco Optical, Warby Parker
Research & Industry
Johnson & Johnson Vision, Alcon, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb
Academia & Teaching
SUNY College of Optometry
Other optometry schools and research institutions
7. Why Choose SUNY College of Optometry for Career Growth?
High Placement Rate – Over 90% of graduates secure jobs or residencies quickly.
Strong Clinical & Research Training – Access to top hospitals, externships, and faculty mentors.
Diverse Career Opportunities – Private practice, corporate optometry, hospitals, academia, and research.
Located in NYC – Exposure to world-class healthcare facilities and networking opportunities.
Competitive Salaries – High earning potential, especially for specialized optometrists.
The State University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry is one of the most competitive optometry schools in the U.S. with a selective admissions process.
Criteria |
Average Accepted Students |
|---|---|
|
Acceptance Rate |
15-20% |
|
Number of Applicants |
700-800 per year |
|
Number of Students Accepted |
100-110 per year |
|
Average GPA |
3.5 - 3.7 |
|
Average OAT Score |
320+ (Academic Average) |
Higher acceptance chances for students with a strong academic background, leadership experience, and optometry-related clinical exposure.
Address:
SUNY College of Optometry
33 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036, USA
Located in Midtown Manhattan, one of the busiest and most vibrant areas of New York City.
Opposite Bryant Park and near Times Square, providing students with access to cultural, entertainment, and professional opportunities.
Close to major hospitals, research centers, and corporate offices, offering excellent clinical and networking opportunities.
Well-connected to subway, bus, and train stations, making commuting easy.
