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This question is about optometrist.
What is the career path for an optometrist?
The career path for an optometrist involves jobs as an optometrist in a hospital, an optometrist that runs their own practice, or an optometrist that works in a specialty eye care facility. There is not much variation for those on this career path, as nearly every job that can be obtained is titled an optometrist in some way.
Most optometrists obtain a bachelor's degree with an emphasis in pre-med or biological sciences. Certain schools might only require three years of post-secondary education with coursework in the following areas:
English
Biology
Chemistry
Math
Physics
Aspiring optometrists also must pass the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). This is a computerized exam that covers:
Science
Reading comprehension
Physics
Quantitative reasoning
After passing the OAT exam aspiring optometrists then must get accepted to a four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) program. Coursework in these programs includes;
Anatomy
Physiology
Optics
Visual science
The diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and eye disorders
Once candidates have obtained an OD, they then must pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry exam. Certain states also require the passing of additional clinical exams or an exam on medical law. After completing these steps candidates are legally permitted to practice as optometrists.
Many optometrists own their own practice, where they hire qualified medical personnel to help them run their businesses. Some also choose to work in hospitals or specialty eye care centers. For these professionals gaining a senior administration-related role at an eye care medical facility is the pinnacle of the optometrist career path.
For those owning and running their own practices, the expansion of their practice is the greatest achievement they can make.
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