Pre-Optometry: Biology Track

Your future in optometry is in sight

Optometrists play a critical role in healthcare, providing vision care for patients of all ages. An optometrist does everything from sight testing, prescribing and fitting corrective glasses or contact lenses, and diagnosing, treating, and helping patients manage diseases, injuries and disorders of the eyes.

If you’re interested in an optometry career, and plan to attend optometry school, you should consider the pre-optometry track at UNI.

It is important to keep in mind that the pre-optometry track is not an academic major; rather, it’s a suggested program of study that prepares students to apply to professional school upon completing their undergraduate degree. Pre-optometry students may choose a major in any area, though at UNI, and nationally, the most common major for pre-optometry students is biology.

The BA Biology: Biomedical major was designed to keep pre-optometry students on track to meet the most common requirements for optometry programs.  With most pre-optometry courses counting toward your UNI degree, this is an efficient pathway to prepare for your future optometry program.

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Admission
Rates

From 2018 to 2020, 100 percent of UNI students applying to Optometry programs were admitted.

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NAAHP
Member

UNI Biology is a member of the NAAHP (National Association of Advisors for Health Professions), allowing access to resources that benefit students studying in a healthcare field.

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Industry
Partnerships

Support of Cedar Valley Eye Care professionals in assisting students with job shadowing and employment opportunities in the field.

CONTACT US

Learn more about Pre-Optometry & Biology

Fill out your information here to receive communication about this program.

Contact us directly at:

Department of Biology
University of Northern Iowa
144 McCollum Science Hall
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0421

Phone: (319) 273-2456
Email: biology@uni.edu






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Why pre-optometry at UNI?

"Choosing to transfer to UNI my sophomore year was the best decision I made. Thanks to my professors and fellow classmates, I felt at home the moment I stepped on campus.

I’m so thankful for the lifelong relationships I’ve built and all of the wonderful memories I created throughout my time at UNI. 

Following graduation, I will be attending Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I’m excited to experience a new part of the country and leave the snow behind in Iowa!"

Emma Huerter graduated in the spring of 2021 with a major in biology with a pre-optometry track

 

Explore Pre-Professional Programs in UNI Biology

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We’ll guide you through

Students pursuing a pre-optometry emphasis at UNI are supported through collaborative advising with popular Optometry schools. Beginning their first year, students will be enrolled in courses appropriate for admission to Optometry school and receive regular guidance on coursework, GPA and timely information pertaining to Optometry programs.