SUNY College of Optometry is a graduate-focused institution offering a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. This is a professional school where admission is competitive and the curriculum is intensive. The three-year program covers optometric science, clinical practice, and research. You're not just learning clinical skills; you're learning the science behind vision care. Class sizes are small because the school is selective. Admission requires excellent prerequisites, good scores, and demonstrated interest in optometry. If you're accepted, you're joining a cohort of serious, capable students.
The school maintains a clinic where you're practicing clinical optometry under faculty supervision. That real clinical experience is integral to the curriculum, not supplementary. You'll graduate with actual clinical hours logged and real competence. The faculty are practicing optometrists and researchers, so the education is grounded in current practice. The location in New York City gives you access to diverse clinical populations and a major urban research environment.
SUNY Optometry is strictly for students committed to pursuing optometry as a profession. It's not a place to explore; it's a place to train. Admission is competitive, and you'll need strong science prerequisites and high scores. But if optometry is your goal, the OD program here is rigorous, clinically focused, and well-regarded. Graduates are prepared for licensing and practice.