Program Overview

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Optometry & Vision Science

The University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive program in Optometry & Vision Science, designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the field and prepare them for a successful career.

About the Optometry Program

The optometry program at the University of Waterloo is a four-year Doctor of Optometry degree that provides students with a comprehensive education in optometry and vision science. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in optometry, with a focus on clinical practice, research, and community service.

• Careers in optometry
• Mission & Goals
• Optometry Courses
• After graduation
• High school students
• Advanced Standing Optometry Preparatory Program

Advanced Standing Optometry Preparatory Program

The Advanced Standing Optometry Preparatory Program (ASOPP) is a bridging program designed for individuals who have completed optometry training outside of North America and wish to obtain a license to practice in Canada. The program is designed to ensure that advanced standing students are prepared to join the 3rd year Doctor of Optometry program.

Research

The University of Waterloo is committed to research in optometry and vision science, with a focus on advancing the field and improving patient care. Research areas include:

• Centres and groups
• Research seminars

Graduate Programs

The University of Waterloo offers a range of graduate programs in optometry and vision science, including:

• Masters program
• PhD program
• Accelerated OD/MSc program
• Accelerated PhD program

Residencies

The University of Waterloo offers a range of residency programs in optometry, 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 Optometry Clerkship Program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in clinical practice, under the supervision of experienced optometrists.

Student Associations

The University of Waterloo has a range of 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 of Waterloo offers a range of continuing education programs in optometry and vision science, designed to help professionals stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

Alumni and Friends

The University of Waterloo has a strong alumni community, with a range of programs and services designed to support graduates and friends of the university. These include:

• Class reunions
• Seeing beyond 20/20
• Ways to give
• WEI and the Profession
• Seeing Beyond 20/20 news
• Alumni Awards of Honour
• Class champions
• Alumni & Donor Spotlights
• Bobier, Woodruff and Larkworthy lectures

Patients

The University of Waterloo Optometry Clinic provides a range of services to patients, including eye exams, contact lens fittings, and vision therapy. The clinic is located at 419 Phillip St., Unit C, and is open until late 2026 while the Waterloo Eye Institute is under construction. The downtown Kitchener location (Health Sciences Optometry Clinic) remains open with no change to service.