Earn a Pre-Optometry Concentration
Take steps to build a foundation for future success in optometry school
The Pre-optometry Concentration program at Newman University is designed to give you the skills and knowledge necessary to enter medical school. A number of our students receive acceptance to medical school one year before graduation through the Early Decision Program (EDP) at the University of Kansas. We also have the third-most students accepted into KU Scholars in Rural Health Program, which admits undergraduates into medical school after sophomore year.
With one-on-one attention from the faculty, and the opportunity to shadow anywhere from 100-200 hours, you will gain a better understanding of the chosen medical field. Many of our students have majored in Biology or Chemistry/BioChemistry as a foundation degree.
Concentrations
Check back soon for curriculum information for the 2022-23 school year.
About Our Faculty
Pre-Professional Optometry Department
Our faculty and staff have the knowledge and experience to help you prepare for a career in optometry. If you need clarification on a class assignment or advice on how to approach your future, you can feel confident that our faculty is available and ready to help.
Job Outlook
While pursuing a degree in pre-optometry, you can expect a promising future. The optometry field is projected to grow 24% between 2014 and 2024. Our students are prepared to meet the expected demand for optometrists.
Careers
A degree in pre-optometry from Newman University will give you the opportunity to pursue further education and eventually work in a variety of fields and specialties. Here are some examples of potential careers and median salaries:
- Ophthalmologist ($270,000 a year)
- Ophthalmology Nurse ($66,000 a year)
- Optician ($33,000 a year)
- Optometrist ($97,000 a year)
Internships
Our pre-optometry students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience by interning and shadowing in the Wichita community. This allows for our students to gain experience in eye care offices, hospitals, or in clinical research programs. We also take the time to conduct mock interviews for all of our students going into a medical field. This, along with shadowing and internships, helps you to be well prepared for one of the most important interviews of your career.
Get Involved on Campus
One of the best ways to find success during your college career is to get involved in campus clubs and organizations. Within our pre-optometry program, our students can join the Newman University Medical Professions Club ( NUMPC ), an organization of 200+ members that gives students of all pre-professional medical disciplines the opportunities for mentoring and community involvement (including mission trips). This organization allows for personal growth, networking, and future career success.
Student Testimonials
Newman Alumni
We think our university is great, but don’t just take our word for it. Hear what some of our previous students have to say about their experience.
"I love Newman. Newman’s an easy place to fall in love with and it’s easy to work hard for what you love."
Brandi Boese, Class of 2016
"It’s worth the money. I’ll tell you that’s it’s worth the money, the sacrifice to get an education because in the long run it represents who you are. When you get that degree it adds value to you as a person."