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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
Duration
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Optometry
Area of study
Health
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Gannon University's 3+4 BS in Health Science and Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) program prepares students for optometry school through hands-on experiences, research opportunities, and specialized coursework. The program emphasizes faculty-led research, shadowing, and workshops to enhance students' competitiveness in the optometry school application process. Graduates are equipped for various career paths in optometry, including low vision, pediatric optometry, and vision science.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:

Gannon University offers a 3+4 BS in Health Science and Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) program. Optometrists provide primary vision care, performing eye exams and vision tests, prescribing corrective lenses, detecting eye abnormalities, and prescribing medications for eye diseases. The program aims to prepare students to become competitive applicants to optometry schools.


Teaching:

The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. Students participate in:

  • Faculty-led research:
  • Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU): Sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF)
  • Shadowing opportunities: Coordinated by the Career Exploration and Development Office
  • Workshops: Reviewing the application process, personal statements, interviewing, etc.
  • Unique courses: Including Community Health Coaches (course and internship), Medical Practice and Training, and an MCAT prep course
  • Gannon University Pre-Health Club
  • Health Professions Theme Community
  • Residency enrichment program: Located in North Hall
  • Hands-on laboratory experiences: For most biology and chemistry courses, conducted in small interactive group settings of 20-30 students.
  • Specific courses include:
  • BIOL 368 and BIOL 369: Animal Physiology and Lab:
  • This course deals with the normal functioning of the body (primarily human body) and its component parts. It focuses on physiological mechanisms involved in neuronal and chemical signaling, movement, metabolism, respiration, circulation, excretion, etc.
  • BIOL 365 and BIOL 366: Human Gross Anatomy and Lab: This course is lecture-based and uses a regional approach to study the human body.
  • It is taken simultaneously with Human Gross Anatomy Lab. Dissection of human cadavers by students is a key component of the lab.
  • CHEM 366: Structural Biochemistry: This course focuses on a systematic study of biologically important compounds, including amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids, enzymes, carbohydrates, and lipids.
  • It emphasizes structure, properties, syntheses, reactions, and functions of these compounds.

Careers:

There are numerous career paths stemming from optometry, including:

  • Low vision
  • Pediatric optometry
  • Sports vision
  • Vision science
  • Vision therapy

Other:

Gannon University has a long history of helping qualified and motivated students gain acceptance into optometry school. The program includes a balanced and rigorous course load that covers the fundamental science and math courses required for optometry school. Students are provided with expert advising and numerous resources.

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Gannon University


Overview:

Gannon University is a Catholic university with campuses in Erie, Pennsylvania, Ruskin, Florida, and online. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. Gannon is a welcoming and diverse community that values honor, courage, and achievement.


Services Offered:


Student Life and Campus Experience:

Gannon offers a vibrant campus life with a wide range of student clubs and organizations, including over 159 options. Students can participate in athletics, global travel opportunities, and community service initiatives. The university also hosts events like the IgKnight Activities Fair and Homecoming weekend.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Strong academic programs:

    Gannon offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

    Small class sizes and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio:

    This allows for personalized attention and close relationships with professors.

    Location:

    Gannon's Erie campus is located in the heart of downtown, providing access to businesses and organizations for internships and project experiences. The Ruskin campus offers opportunities in the rapidly expanding healthcare sector.

    Financial assistance:

    95% of Gannon students qualify for financial assistance.

    Welcoming community:

    Gannon fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for students.

Academic Programs:


Other:

Gannon University is currently in the process of merging with Ursuline College, which will create the largest Catholic university system in the region. The merger is contingent on the successful completion of due diligence.

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