Expert: Janet Carter - 12/1/2009

Question
Hi my name is zach i will be graduating high school in 2010 and was real intrested in your field. I was wondering where a good school is and what kind of traning you have to have after school. also do you dialate eyes and test for glaucoma. Any advice and information please let me know thank you.

Answer
Optometry usually requires four years of college (undergraduate) followed by an optometry degree.  Yes, I dilate eyes and test for glaucoma; I also manage many eye conditions and treat infections and inflammations of the eye, as well as provide pre- and post-operative care to cataract and LASIK patients.  

You should get a good background in Math and Science, but any college major is ok.  For more information on requirements, I suggest you go to the website of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry..www.opted.org  They will have information on requirements and applications.  Good luck!