Here is a guide of recommended courses to take in preparation for an optometry program.
These are just common requirements/recommendations. Course requirements vary by program.
It is your responsibility to check with each program that you plan to apply to in
order to ensure you meet all course requirements. Also note this list does not incorporate
prerequisite requirements. Make sure to check that you meet prerequisite requirements
and consider this when course planning.
Recommended Courses
Biology with Lab — 1 year
BL 1100 - General Biology I: Introduction to Organismal Biology, Ecology, and Evolution
A discussion of the principles of ecology and organismal biology, using the theme of physiological ecology and adaptations. This course will emphasize biodiversity, scientific method, experimental design, and written and oral presentation of results.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
BL 1110 - General Biology I Laboratory: Introduction to Organismal Biology, Ecology, and Evolution
Covers principles of ecology and organismal biology, using the theme of physiological ecology and adaptations. This course will emphasize biodiversity, scientific method, experimental design, and written and oral presentation of results.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): BL 1100
BL 1200 - General Biology II: Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology
Discussion of the major principles by which life is organized. Topics include scientific methods, biological chemistry, cell structure and organization, multicellular organization, diversity of organisms, energetics and photosynthesis, cellular reproduction genetics, gene structure and expression, and recombinant DNA.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
BL 1210 - General Biology II Laboratory: Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology
Topics include scientific methods, biological chemistry, cell structure and organization, multicellular organization, diversity of organisms, energetics and photosynthesis, cellular reproduction genetics, gene structure and expression, and recombinant DNA.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): BL 1200
Chemistry with Lab — 1 year
CH 1150 - University Chemistry I
Introduces the foundations of chemistry, including electronic structure of atoms and molecules, intermolecular forces, states of matter, chemical reactions, organic chemistry, chemical equilibria, kinetics, and acid-base chemistry. Includes laboratory component that emphasizes lecture components.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1151
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031(C) or MA 1032(C) or MA 1120(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1135(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 56 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
CH 1151 - University Chemistry Lab I
Laboratory to accompany CH1150.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1150
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031(C) or MA 1032(C) or MA 1120(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1135(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 56 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
CH 1160 - University Chemistry II
A continuation of CH 1150. Introduces more complex concepts in chemistry, including kinetics, chemical equilibria, acid-base equilibria, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and chemical analysis. Additional topics may include chemistry of the metals and non-metals, biochemical systems, and nuclear chemistry. Includes laboratory component that emphasizes lecture concepts.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1161
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)
CH 1161 - University Chemistry Laboratory II
Laboratory to accompany CH1160.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Co-Requisite(s): CH 1160
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1112 or (CH 1150 and CH 1151)
Organic Chemistry with Lab — 1 semester
CH 2410 - Organic Chemistry I
A study of the chemistry of carbon compounds. Review of hybrid orbitals, covalent bonding, and resonance. Introduction to nomenclature, stereochemistry, mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy, functional group chemistry based on reaction mechanisms, and multi-step synthesis.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
CH 2411 - Organic Chemistry Lab I
Laboratory to accompany CH2410.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): (CH 2410(C) or CH 2430(C)) and CH 1122 or (CH 1160 and CH 1161)
Physics with Lab — 1 year
PH 1110 - College Physics I
An overview of basic principles of kinematics, dynamics, elasticity, fluids, heat, thermodynamics, mechanical waves, and interference and diffraction of mechanical waves.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering;
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Co-Requisite(s): PH 1111
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1031 or MA 1032 or MA 1120 or MA 1135(C) or MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1121(C) or ALEKS Math Placement >= 76 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 26 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 610
PH 1111 - College Physics I Laboratory
Experiments covering kinematics, forces, conservation of momentum and energy, waves, and thermodynamics are explored through guided construction. The course provides inquiry-based laboratory experiences for concepts explored in PH1110.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering;
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Co-Requisite(s): PH 1110
PH 1200 - Physics by Inquiry II
Experiments covering Coulomb's law, electric and magnetic fields, circuits, induction, and geometric optics are explored through guided construction. The course emphasizes understanding physical concepts through inquiry and the scientific method.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1100 or PH 1111 or PH 1141 or PH 1161
PH 1210 - College Physics II
An overview of basic principles of static and dynamic electricity and magnetism, electromagnetic waves, reflection and refraction of light, interference and diffraction of light, special theory of relativity, wave theory of matter, particle theory of electromagnetic waves, theory of the atom, the nucleus, and elementary particles.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering;
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Applied Physics, Physics, Surveying Engineering, Computer Network & System Admn, Electrical Eng Tech, General Technology, Mechanical Engineering Tech, Information Technology, Construction Management
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1200(C) and (PH 1110 or PH 1100)
You can choose the set of courses with lab above or this set of courses with lab.
PH 1100 - Physics by Inquiry I
Experiments covering kinematics, force, conservation of momentum, conservation of energy, and waves are explored through guided construction. The course emphasizes understanding physical concepts through inquiry and the scientific method
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1160(C) or MA 1161(C) or MA 1121(C)
PH 2100 - University Physics I-Mechanics
A calculus-based introduction to classical mechanics. Topics include kinematics, Newton's laws, impulse and momentum, work and energy, and the universal law of gravitation. C or better/AP credit in Calc 1 or co-requisite registration in PH2110 required.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1100(C) and (MA 1160 or MA 1161 or MA 1121 or MA 1135) or (CEEB Calculus AB >= 3 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 3 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 3 and MA 2160(C) or MA 3160(C))
PH 1200 - Physics by Inquiry II
Experiments covering Coulomb's law, electric and magnetic fields, circuits, induction, and geometric optics are explored through guided construction. The course emphasizes understanding physical concepts through inquiry and the scientific method.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): PH 1100 or PH 1111 or PH 1141 or PH 1161
PH 2200 - University Physics II-Electricity and Magnetism
A calculus-based introduction to electromagnetism. Topics include Coulomb's law, electric fields, Gauss's law, electric potential, capacitance, circuits, magnetic forces and fields, Ampere's law, induction, Maxwell's equations, and electromagnetic waves.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): (PH 1200(C) or PH 2261(C)) and (PH 2100 or PH 1160) and MA 2160
Mathematics — 1 semester
MA 1135 - Calculus for Life Sciences
Topics include limits, continuity of functions, transcendental functions, derivatives, integrals, and applications of the derivative in the fields of economics, biological sciences, and social sciences. Credit applicable only to those curricula specifying this course.
- Credits:
4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-4-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1032 or MA 1031 or MA 1120 or ALEKS Math Placement >= 76 or CEEB Calculus AB >= 2 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 26 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 610
Biochemistry — 1 semester
BL 3025 - Biochemistry for Health Professions
A comprehensive investigation of biomolecules including proteins, nucleic acids, and enzymes to understand their roles in structural, metabolic, developmental pathways. This course emphasizes biochemistry as it relates to human development, physiology, and disease.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Biochem & Molec Biology-Bio Sc
- Pre-Requisite(s): (BL 1200 or BL 1400 or BE 2400) and (CH 2410 or CH 2430)
Psychology — 1 semester
PSY 2000 - Introduction to Psychology
Introduction to the scientific study of psychological structures and processes involved in individual and group behavior. Explores theoretical accounts of the foundations of human behavior and examines empirical support. Topics may include personality, disorders, therapy, development and social psychology, perception, learning, cognition, emotion, and states of consciousness.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
Microbiology — 1 semester
BL 3210 - General Microbiology
Introduction to the general principles and techniques involved in the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Topics include cell structure and function, growth, metabolism, biodiversity, and interaction. Not open to students with credit in BL3310.
- Credits:
4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-3)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Statistics — 1 semester
MA 2720 - Statistical Methods
Introduction to the design and analysis of statistical studies. Topics include methods of data collection, descriptive and graphical methods, probability, statistical inference on means, regression and correlation, and ANOVA.
- Credits:
4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-4-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Mathematics
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1020 or MA 1030 or MA 1120 or MA 1032 or MA 1031 or ALEKS Math Placement >= 61 or CEEB Calculus BC >= 2 or CEEB Calculus AB Subscore >= 2 or ACT Mathematics >= 22 or SAT MATH SECTION SCORE-M16 >= 540
Introduction to the design and analysis of statistical studies in the health and life sciences. Topics include study design, descriptive and graphical methods, probability, inference on means, categorical data analysis, and linear regression.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): MA 1135 or MA 1160 or MA 1161 or MA 1121 or MA 2160(C) or MA 3160(C)
Additional Recommended Courses
Anatomy and Physiology with lab — 1 semester
BL 2010 - Anatomy & Physiology l
Comprehensive introductory course in vertebrate anatomy and physiology with emphasis on the human body. Interrelates structure with function in regard to maintaining homeostasis and normal functioning of the body. Covers the integument, skeletal system, muscles, the nervous system, and special senses.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
BL 2011 - Anatomy & Physiology I Lab
The laboratory to accompany BL2010. Examines embryology, muscle and skeletal anatomy, and neuroanatomy. Explores the physiology of the nervous system, including vision and reflexes and muscle physiology. A student-designed lab project is used to teach experimental design.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010(C)
BL 2020 - Anatomy & Physiology II
Continuation of BL2010. Covers the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and reproductive systems.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2010
BL 2021 - Anatomy & Physiology II Lab
The laboratory to accompany BL2020. Examines the structure and function of the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and renal systems. A student-designed lab project is used to teach experimental design.
- Credits:
1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-0-2)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2011 and BL 2020(C)
English — 1 year
Provides direct instruction in composition. Students examine and interpret communication practices and apply what they learn to their own written, aural, and visual compositions. Class projects ask students to communicate in a variety of modes and to attend to audience, purpose, and context.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions:
Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
HU 3015 - Advanced Composition
Advanced instruction in composing substantive arguments based on primary and secondary research. Multidisciplinary inquiry-based projects ask students to write for both academic and lay audiences in print and digital forms. Specific research methods, writing technologies, and topics vary by section.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): UN 1015 and (UN 1025 or Modern Language - 3000 level or higher)
Organic Chemistry — 1 additional semester
CH 2420 - Organic Chemistry II
Covers more functional group chemistry based on reaction mechanisms; more involved multi-step synthesis; introduction to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy; introduction to carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids; and topics of specialized interest.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring, Summer
- Pre-Requisite(s): CH 2410
Genetics — 1 semester
A study of classical and molecular genetics. Topics include one- and two-locus genetics, recombination, gene structure, regulation and function, quantitative and population genetics, and genetic engineering. Covers both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 1020 or BL 1040 or BE 2400 or (BL 1200 and BL 1210) or (BL 1400 and BL 1410)
Developmental Biology — 1 semester
BL 4410 - Developmental Biology
The course will cover developmental biology topics from gametogenesis over fertilization, embryonic development to postembryonic development, including aging. Developmental genetics and the evolution of development (evo-devo) are an important component of this course.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Spring
- Restrictions:
May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman
- Pre-Requisite(s): BL 2200 and (BL 3012(C) or BL 4370(C))
Public Speaking — 1 semester
HU 2830 - Public Speaking & Multimedia
Introduces the fundamentals of public speaking and multimedia applications. Emphasis on speaking/listening competencies in face-to-face and digital environments using online and digital tools.
- Credits:
3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered:
Fall, Spring, Summer