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Optometrist Careers

Due to increased computer use leading to eye strain and an aging population, optometrist occupations are projected to grow faster than average through 2014.  Technology has created more efficient tools and systems allowing optometrists to handle a larger customer base.  This increased efficiency has slightly lowered the projected career growth, in part because of vision correction surgery.  Optometrists administer pre- and post-operation care, but no longer care for patients on a regular basis.  Overall, optometrist careers will be favorable in the coming years.

Optometrists provide patient care by performing examinations to test a patient’s visual acuteness, their ability to focus and coordinate their eyes, and depth and color perception.  They diagnose diseases or locate conditions before serious ailments occur.  Optometrists may prescribe corrective contact lenses or glasses, provide vision therapy, or administer drugs to treat optic disorders.  Optometrists may choose to specialize in certain areas such as children, the elderly, partial sightedness, or contact lenses. 

Optometrists have a great deal of interaction with the public so they must have good communication skills.  They work an average of 40 hours per week, but evening and weekend hours may be necessary in order to accommodate patients.  Optometrists generally have their own offices, working in clean and comfortable environments. 

All states require optometrists to obtain licensing before they are able to practice.  Specialists must graduate with a Doctorate of Optometry from an accredited school and pass the written National Board Exam as well as National, Regional, or State clinical exams in order to begin their career.  Licenses are renewed every one to three years, making continuing education a necessity.  Those who wish to teach or conduct research must receive a Master’s or a Ph.D. as an addition to the required examinations.  For more information on a career as an optometrist, please visit the following sites:

• American Academy of Optometry
• Optometrist Network
• National Board of Examiners in Optometry
• Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
• National Federation of Opticianry Schools

For a list of available Optometrist positions as well as a database of Optometrists searching for a career, please visit iHireOptometry.