Become an Optometrist
As the world's healthcare professionals for the eye, optometrists play a crucial role in helping people see the world. That's why MCPHS stresses immersive learning and real-world experience in its School of Optometry. With both an on-campus vision center where students treat real patients and more than 60 clinical sites across the United States, MCPHS prepares future optometrists to provide the highest-quality care in a rewarding and vital profession.
Why study optometry at MCPHS?
- Real Experience, Right on Campus: Students gain hands-on experience working with real patients at our on-site clinic and retail Eye and Vision Center on the Worcester campus. You'll work alongside faculty practitioners to provide comprehensive eye and vision care to patients from the Worcester area in a clinical facility with twenty exam rooms.
- Multiple Degree Options: In addition to a four-year doctoral pathway, MCPHS offers undergraduate options for students to complete their optometry education in a combined, straight-through, seven-year program. Additionally, some students can earn a dual degree with a Master of Public Health alongside their O.D.
- Value and Earning Power: MCPHS was ranked the #1 university in the U.S. for earning power and the #3 university for return on investment.* Plus, the median annual wage for optometrists was $111,790 in May 2018, with the highest 10% earned more than $188,160.**
- Increasing Demand: The demand for optometrists is expected to grow at a much faster rate than many other occupations, with a potential 10% increase in jobs needed by 2028.**
- Job Satisfaction: Optometrists rank #20 in the U.S. News’ list of the 100 Best Health Care Jobs of 2019.
Download a program fact sheet and learn more about the Doctor of Optometry program at MCPHS.
* Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education; Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce
** U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics