Pre-Optometry at North Park

The pre-optometry track provides the coursework and advising needed to build a strong foundation for optometry school applications. This track pairs with a major—typically biology or chemistry—giving you essential knowledge in life sciences and human biology. 

Pre-professional tracks help you build a strong foundation for graduate school or professional programs. These tracks aren’t standalone majors, but a curated set of courses designed to complement your chosen field of study. Pre-optometry students receive guidance Advisor for Advanced Education in the Health Professions Ekaterini Koutsouris. Your advisors will help you explore your interests in pre-optometry, stay on track academically, and prepare for optometry school applications and interviews.

Featured course

BIOL 1250–Introduction to Human Anatomy
Includes structure and organization of human organ systems emphasizing skeletal, muscular, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and urogenital systems. Lab included with cadaver demonstrations. It is recommended that the student complete one year of high school laboratory science. This course is designed for students majoring in the sciences, healthcare, or nursing.

Recommended courses

To prepare for optometry school and a career in healthcare, we recommend taking the following courses alongside your major and Core Curriculum requirements. These courses fulfill prerequisites for most optometry programs but be sure to check specific program requirements. Some courses may also count toward your major or Core Curriculum. For full course descriptions, visit the academic catalog.

Optometry school admission prerequisites

• Introduction to Human Anatomy

• Introduction to Cell Biology

• Microbiology

• Introductory Chemistry I

• Introductory Chemistry II

• Organic Chemistry I

• Introductory Physics I

• Introductory Physics II

• Calculus I

• Introductory Statistics

• Introduction to Psychology

• Social & Behavioral Science 

Additional recommendations

You should complete your optometry school applications during the summer before your fourth year to ensure a timely submission.