Information on Optometrist
To become an optometrist will take a while to achieve this goal but it is so worth it. An optometrist diagnoses vision problems, diseases of the eye and other related diseases. This profession also is responsible for prescribing corrective glasses and contact lenses. It takes seven years to hold a Doctor of Optometry degree. But if this is your calling then you need to know what it takes in how to become one.
While you are in high school it would be wise to take numerous science and biology courses this will be helpful for the future. Choose a college where they offer three years of pre-optometrist courses. You can get your guidance councilor to help you while you are in your junior year, they can help guide you to the best colleges that offer these courses.
It would help if you visit optometrist web sites, there you can find information on admission requirements for some of the optometry schools. When you find yourself in the second year at college take the Optometry Admission Test, this will measure your academic and scientific knowledge up to that point in your life and give you a better understanding of what your strengths and weaknesses are.
At this point you are ready to apply for admission optometry schools. These are accredited by the Council on Optometric Education of the American Optometric Association. The competitions for these are great so make sure you apply in ample time. When you think you are ready you can complete your optometry school's four year course of study. You will have to pass a written as well as a clinical state board exam. After this is completed, your almost there.
After you receive your Optometrist Degree you will have to apply for your state license which is done by contacting the Board of Optometry. Inquire what its licensing procedure is; however, this should be done prior to applying for the license. If you want to specialize in Optometry you will need a one year postgraduate program.
Reaching a degree as an Optometrist is not easy but it is very doable. Keep in mind that if you want to go in the surgery of the eye it will take a little longer to become an Ophthalmologist with this you are a surgeon. Another fact to remember is that your license will have to be renewed every one to three years depending on what state you're living in. You will also have to continue your education to stay on top of the fast changes that are in this field. After you have accomplished this you are ready to hang out your shingle!
