The Dual Acceptance Program is an early acceptance program for selected students who successfully complete the specified pre-optometry coursework.  The Dual Acceptance Programs are currently in effect with Arizona State University and Arizona Christian University. 

Benefits of the DAP:

• Provides for an excellent foundation in pre-optometry education.
• Sets out a clear road map for which courses to take and when.
• Exempts the student from the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) and associated fees.
• Exempts the student from the OptomCAS application process and associated fees.
• Guarantees entry to MWU AZCOPT well in advance with successful completion of all program requirements.

To receive consideration for the Dual Acceptance Program, high school senior students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Earn admission to one of the affiliated universities.
2. Apply online to the AZCOPT Dual Acceptance Program as a high school senior.
3. Obtain a minimum score of 28 on the ACT or 1250 on the SAT.
4. Demonstrate a people or service orientation through community service or extracurricular activities.
5. Demonstrate motivation for and commitment to the optometry profession as demonstrated by previous work, volunteer, or other life experiences.
6. Possess the oral and written communication skills necessary to interact with patients and colleagues.

After the Midwestern University Office of Admissions receives all completed application materials, applicant files are reviewed to determine whether applicants merit invitations for an interview.  Invited applicants must participate in an on campus interview for further consideration in the admissions process.

During the interview day, candidates will be evaluated for verbal communication skills, understanding of the optometry profession, commitment to patient care, and other elements as determined by the college.  Applicants may be required to participate in writing sample exercises during the visit.  Candidates will learn more about the optometry program, financial aid, student services, and tour the Midwestern University campus.

Following the interview, their completed applications are forwarded to the AZCOPT Admissions Committee for review.  The committee may recommend to accept or to deny applicants for admission.  These recommendations are then forwarded to the Dean for final approval.  The Dean, via the Office of Admissions, notifies applicants of their status within two weeks of their visits.  Accepted applicants will be ensured a seat at AZCOPT upon successful completion of the program requirements:

1. All prerequisite pre-optometry courses must be completed at an affiliated university.  Official AP and dual-enrollment credits completed during high school, and that are listed on the affiliated university's transcript as equivalent courses, are acceptable for meeting the prerequisites.
2. Completion of a baccalaureate degree at an affiliated university within 4 years.
   a. Authorization to extend an undergraduate degree beyond 4 years is at the discretion of the Dean, Arizona College of Optometry.  Requests must be submitted to the Arizona College of Optometry office of the Dean; decisions will be made on a case by case basis.
3. A minimum overall GPA of 3.40 on a 4.00 scale must be attained.
4. A minimum science GPA of 3.40 on a 4.00 scale must be attained.
5. Students must earn a grade of "C" or higher in all required courses.  A grade of "C-" or lower is not acceptable.
6. Students are not permitted to withdraw from more than 2 courses during their 4 year undergraduate program.
   a. Authorization to withdraw from more than 2 courses is at the discretion of the Dean, Arizona College of Optometry.  Requests must be submitted to the Arizona College of Optometry office of the Dean; decisions will be made on a case by case basis.
7. Students are not permitted to repeat courses for a higher grade for which they have already received credit.
8. Accepted students are required to sign a letter of understanding upon acceptance.  Accepted students will submit a deposit fee within 1 year prior to matriculation.  All fees are applied toward the student's first quarter tuition.

Students who are not accepted to or fail to complete the Dual Acceptance Program may apply to AZCOPT using the standard procedures.

Click here to access the application.