Doctor of

Optometry

At either of Midwestern University's two individual Optometry programs you will study the most advanced principles in the field, work alongside our experienced and caring faculty, and apply what you’ve learned at our Eye Institutes.

Degree O.D. (Doctor of Optometry)

Program StartAugust

Arizona state outline image

AZ - Glendale

Modality
  • In-Person

College Arizona College of Optometry (AZCOPT)

Duration4 years

Class Size Approximation60

State of IL graphic

IL - Downers Grove

Modality
  • In-Person

College Chicago College of Optometry (CCO)

Duration4 years

Class Size Approximation60

The Midwestern Advantage

Midwestern University's investment in education, faculty, research, facilities, and clinical training translates into our students being "Day One Ready.”

Our Optometry program offers a four-year professional curriculum that prepares optometrists through face-to-face instruction, early clinical experiences, and clinical externships.

Key areas include:

  • Basic, behavioral, and clinical sciences
  • Preclinical simulation labs
  • Licensing board simulation rooms
  • Optometry business management courses
  • Local and national external rotation sites
  • Contemporary optometry practice curriculum and clinical settings
  • Interprofessional education and clinical experience

View program details in our Academic Catalog*

*Subject to change

Optometrists practice in a wide variety of settings:

  • Private optometry, partnership or group practice
  • Ophthalmology practice
  • Federal government
  • Armed services (military)
  • Hospitals
  • Academia
  • Research
  • Health maintenance organizations
  • Ophthalmic industry

Find detailed career information at:

American Optometric Associations Career Pathways Page

At Midwestern University, we prioritize student research to advance knowledge and offer enhanced learning opportunities, fostering close collaboration with faculty researchers and peers on innovative projects. 

Research at Midwestern

Academic Course Catalog

Explore comprehensive details about our academic programs (subject to change).

The Midwestern Return on Investment

Career Opportunities & Salaries

Data is presented for all optometrists by employment situation, practice type, years in practice, age, gender, American Optometric Association (AOA) membership status and U.S. Census Region.
Career Path
Estimated Salary
Private Practice Owners
$198,023*
Corporate Affiliated Practice Non-owners
$124,724*
Government
$168,834*
Private Practice Non-owner
$140,259*

* Source: 2022 AOA Survey of Optometric Practice

Campus Options

Arizona campus
Illustration of Arizona with a star at Glendale
Arizona

Glendale

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Phoenix. Students can study and live on our sprawling 143-acre campus and practice at our University-owned clinics located just across the street.

Downers Grove campus aerial view
IL state icon
Illinois

Downers Grove

Located just 25 miles west of Chicago. Students can study and live in the comfort and safety of a 105-acre campus in the suburbs and can practice at our University-owned clinics located just 10 minutes away.

Contact Information

Our admissions staff is here to assist you in making informed decisions about your academic journey. When contacting us, be sure to provide your preferred program and campus so we can address your questions or concerns.