Admission Requirements
The College of Optometry selects students based on the candidate's applications content, pre-professional academic performance, Optometry Admission Test (OAT) scores, letters of evaluation and personal interviews.
Prior to matriculation, applicants must have completed a minimum of 90 semester hours (30 of which must be taken at a four year institution) of specified coursework at a regionally accredited college or university and should have a minimum 2.8 GPA on a four point scale.
The College of Optometry requires students to earn a grade of 2.0 or better in each of the following courses.
| Course | Semester Hours | Quarter Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics: Calculus | 3 | 4 |
| Physics with laboratory | 8 | 12 |
| Biology with laboratory | 8 | 12 |
| General chemistry with laboratory | 8 | 12 |
| Organic chemistry with laboratory | 4 | 6 |
| Microbiology | 3 | 4 |
| Biochemistry | 3 | 4 |
| Anatomy and Physiology* | 3 | 4 |
| Psychology | 3 | 4 |
| English (composition, literature, etc.) | 6 | 9 |
| Statistics | 3 | 4 |
* If the combined course is not taken, separate courses in anatomy and physiology must be taken.
(Upon review of a student's individual record, the Committee on Admissions may require additional coursework and testing as condition of acceptance.)
Preference will be given to students with a baccalaureate degree and/or a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. However, the Dean is empowered to evaluate the total qualifications of every student and to consider any unusual circumstances.
There is no requirement that a student major in a specific area. However, a background in the biological sciences in recommended.
All applicants are required to submit official transcripts to the OptomCAS centralized application service. The Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) scores must be released to Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry.
Inquiries should be directed to:
Nova Southeastern University
Attention: Optometry Admissions
3200 South University Drive
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33328
(954) 262-1113
800-356-0026, ext. 21113