Admissions Brochure (2025)

The demand for optometrists is growing. SUNY Optometry students and residents have access to a deep network of alumni, industry partners, financial advisors, and others through the Career Development Center to help them thrive after graduation. In addition to mentoring programs, the center creates opportunities for busy students and professionals to connect and: CAMPUS OPTIONS Whichever campus you choose, at SUNY College of Optometry, you’ll work alongside nationally and internationally recognized faculty while experiencing: • A highly diverse patient base • Early clinical exposure and experiences • Skill development in all specialty fields of vision care • Receive expert insight on professional development and career opportunities • Participate in engaging in-person and virtual workshops with leading experts • Build meaningful mentorships networking with alumni and industry professionals • Connect with potential employers from day one • Opportunities to engage in basic, translational, and clinical research • Robust alumni and industry networks for career development NEW YORK CITY Seated in the heart of New York City, SUNY College of Optometry offers a rigorous curriculum, state-of-the-art technology, and a diverse patient base that prepares you to develop a top career in the field. Additional opportunities include microcredentials in key sub-specialities, research, and dual-degree options like the OD/MS or OD/PhD. Students experience an engaged and supportive community that uses both lecture-style and small group-based learning to enhance their success. SYRACUSE, NY Located in the vibrant city of Syracuse, SUNY College of Optometry launched its top OD program on the campus of SUNY Upstate Medical University, bringing a unique opportunity for OD students to learn in a highly interdisciplinary setting modeling the future of healthcare delivery. Students will have access to brand-new, state-of-the-art technology, multiple training sites, select microcredential programs, and a rigorous curriculum, while enjoying a small cohort-style learning environment using synchronous in-classroom learning connecting both campuses.

The curriculum within the OD program at SUNY Optometry integrates the basic biological and vision sciences that form the foundation of clinical practice, combined with clinical experience as early as year one. Under the supervision of our clinical faculty at the University Eye Center (UEC) in NYC, Upstate University Center for Vision Care in Syracuse, and Syracuse Community Health (SCH), students gain experience with a diverse patient base. Clinical experiences in each year of the OD program include: • Year 3: Experience direct patient care in clinical settings • Year 4: Apply your education at external clinical rotations ‡ • Residency: Students may elect to apply to a residency program to further enhance their experience in primary care or specialty areas. WELCOME TO SUNY COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY ‡ In the fourth year, students from both campuses rotate through four clinical externships at approved sites nationwide, including at least one at the University Eye Center. • Year 1: Participate in clinical observations • Year 2: Scribe and complete medical records

GAIN CLINICAL EXPERIENCE

3,700+ Alumni and Mentors Worldwide

SUNY College of Optometry is a globally recognized leader in optometric education, leading-edge vision research, and exceptional patient care, proudly serving communities across New York State and beyond. With a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach, future eye care professionals become healthcare innovators, researchers, and providers who lead the field across the spectrum of practice modalities. Our programs are delivered at two dynamic campus locations: in the heart of New York City on 42nd Street, just steps from iconic landmarks, and at the SUNY Upstate Medical University Campus in Syracuse, * the vibrant hub of Central New York.

FOCUS ON PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

~2,000 Patient Interactions Over 4 Years

160+ Active Job Postings on Career Portal

4:1 Student-to-Doctor Ratio During Clinical Experience

* Pending approval by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)