Here is a brief list of the steps to becoming a Doctor of Optometry at the University of Waterloo. Further details are provided in the Admission Requirements, Financial, and Applying sections of the Prospective Optometry Students site.
- Beginning in high school:
- Concentrate on sciences and mathematics
- Begin research into the various university Bachelor of Science programs
- Here is a good task to consult with a guidance counsellor
- Find out which high school courses are required for entry into the science university programs
- Apply to the university science programs
- Maintain your high school average
- Graduate high school
- Enter a university science program:
- Enrol in the Optometry prerequisite courses
- Don't forget to find out which university courses you need to take first in order to then take the Optometry prerequisite courses
- It will take 3 or more years to complete your science studies
- Maintain your university average
- Start thinking about who you can use for referral letters
- Possibly volunteer at an optometric practice
- If applicable, apply for citizenship (at least 12 months prior to applying to Optometry)
- If applicable, arrange for English language exams
- Study for the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), an independent test that all optometry candidates take in North America
- Take the OAT
- Begin applying to the Optometry program
- Apply online; an Application for Admission to the School of Optometry will be emailed to you
- Arrange for referral letters
- Arrange for OAT scores to be sent to Optometry
- Arrange for university transcripts to be sent to Optometry
- Attend an interview
- In the Doctor of Optometry program:
- This is a four year program
- Arrange for a place to stay in Waterloo
- Purchase equipment & books
- Study
- Maintain Optometry course averages
- Practice in the clinics
- Graduate
- After graduation:
- Write and pass the professional board and jurisprudence exams for the geographic regions in which you wish to practice
- Find a place to practice, be a resident, or enter grad studies
- Enjoy your career
