Admissions Brochure (2025)

92% Average NBEO Ultimate Pass Rate

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:

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:

65+ 4th-Year Clinical Training Sites

• 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

SUNY Optometry’s four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) program prepares tomorrow’s leaders in optometry and vision science. Gain the clinical expertise and hands-on experience needed to lead in the field of optometry by creating a custom path through elective courses, advanced clinical assignments, and the opportunity to explore specialized fields. Electives and Microcredential Opportunities Students can choose from a selection of electives covering various specialty areas, as well as practice management. In the spring of their second year, students may apply to pursue a microcredential in one of several areas: Cornea and Contact Lens, Vision Rehabilitation, Pediatrics, † Low Vision / Ocular Disease, † and Glaucoma. † Other areas may be added in the future. MBA Certificate ( Online ) Qualified students working toward their OD degree may apply for the Advanced Graduate Certificate in Optometry Business Management through a partnership with Empire State College. If selected, this program can lead to an MBA in Healthcare Leadership. Summer Research Fellowship ( NYC Campus ) SUNY Optometry’s summer research fellowships, offered through the Graduate Center for Vision Research, give optometry students hands-on experience in basic, translational, and clinical vision research. This experience is open to students who have completed their first or second year in an accredited optometry program. Additional research opportunities include the OD/MS and OD/PhD dual-degree programs in vision science. † Currently offered on both campuses

• Year 1: Participate in clinical observations • Year 2: Scribe and complete medical records

• 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.

The SUNY Optometry Admissions Committee takes a holistic approach to enrollment decisions. While undergraduate GPA and OAT scores are important, the Admissions Committee also weighs the following when deciding on potential students:

GAIN CLINICAL EXPERIENCE

3,700+ Alumni and Mentors Worldwide

• Quality of undergraduate institution • Type of undergraduate degree pursued • Progression of grades • Extracurricular activities

• Leadership and community involvement • Letters of recommendation • Personal interview, maturity,

APPLY FOR A DISTINCTIVE FUTURE

BECOME A DOCTOR 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.

FOCUS ON PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

and professionalism • Commitment to the optometry profession

~2,000 Patient Interactions Over 4 Years

160+ Active Job Postings on Career Portal

Learn more about our prerequisite and admission requirements. sunyopt.edu/prerequisites

READY TO GET STARTED? Submit your application today! sunyopt.edu/apply

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