Program Overview

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Program Overview

The Doctor of Optometry (OD) program at the University of Waterloo is a professional health program designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and clinical experience necessary to become competent optometrists.

Program Structure

The program is four years in duration, with the fourth year beginning in the spring immediately after the third year's winter term. The fourth year consists of three terms: spring, fall, and winter.

Tuition and Fees

The tuition fees for the program are as follows: | Year | Domestic - Ontario | Domestic - Out of Province | International | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Year 1 | $18,800 | $20,300 | $76,100 | | Year 2 | $18,800 | $20,300 | $76,100 | | Year 3 | $18,800 | $20,300 | $76,100 | | Year 4 | $26,700 | $28,900 | $112,600 |

Other Expenses

In addition to tuition fees, students are responsible for the following expenses:

• Books: $2,250 (Year 1), $1,200 (Year 2), $540 (Year 3)
• Supplies and equipment: $4,500 (Year 1), $7,100 (Year 2), $1,350 (Year 3), $570 (Year 4)
• Housing, food, travel, and other living expenses (estimated costs available on the university's website)

Application Fees

• OUAC: approximately $250
• OAT: approximately $520 USD
• CASPER: approximately $50 + $18 per additional distribution

Application Requirements

To apply to the program, students must:

• Register for the CASPER test
• Activate their Quest account
• Notify their referees
• Complete the Admission Information Form
• Meet English language requirements
• Submit transcripts
• Pay application fees

Selection Process

The selection process for the program involves a review of the applicant's academic record, test scores, and other supporting documents.

Financial Aid

The university offers various undergraduate scholarships, bursaries, and awards to Optometry students. Financing options, including provincial and federal funding programs, are also available.

Research Areas

The university's School of Optometry and Vision Science is involved in various research areas, including:

• Centres and groups
• Research seminars

Residencies

The university offers several residency programs, including:

• Dr. Gina Sorbara Cornea and Contact Lens Residency
• Ocular Disease Residency: Emphasis on Glaucoma
• Vision Rehabilitation Residency: Emphasis on Low Vision Rehabilitation
• Affiliate Residency Program - Pediatric Optometry Residency: Emphasis on Vision Therapy and Vision Rehabilitation

Optometry Clerkship Program

The university offers an Optometry Clerkship Program, which provides students with hands-on clinical experience.

Student Associations

The university has several student associations, including:

• American Optometric Student Association
• Canadian Association of Optometry Students
• University of Waterloo Optometry Student Society
• Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity

Continuing Education

The university offers continuing education opportunities for optometrists and other healthcare professionals.

Alumni and Friends

The university has an alumni and friends program, which includes class reunions, awards, and other events.