The Biology/Pre-Optometry major is designed for students interested in a career in optometry. The curriculum   provides a strong foundation and good preparation for the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT). Students may choose to apply for an accelerated 3 + 4 program, completing their final year of undergraduate work at Salus University Pennsylvania College of Optometry while simultaneously completing the first year of their Optometry program or to complete their four-year undergraduate degree at Saint Joseph’s College.

Optometry Affiliation Agreement: Saint Joseph’s College has an affiliation agreement with Salus University Pennsylvania College of Optometry (Salus/PCO) for an accelerated 3 + 4 Doctor of Optometry degree program. Under this agreement select undergraduate students, who complete specific course requirements at Saint Joseph’s College, may continue their education in optometry at Salus/PCO and earn a Doctor of Optometry degree in seven years. Students are awarded a bachelor’s degree from Saint Joseph’s College upon successful completion of their first year at Salus/PCO.  Students may apply for the 3 + 4 program after the completion of their first undergraduate year, but before the commencement of their second undergraduate year at Saint Joseph’s. A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is required at the time of application and thereafter, a GPA of 3.3 or higher must be maintained. In addition, students must also submit their SAT scores for consideration.  Any student interested in the accelerated program should speak with their faculty advisor for specifics about the application process.

4 Year Degree Program: Students completing their degree program at Saint Joseph’s College should work closely with their faculty advisor as admission requirements for other non-affiliated optometry programs might have additional requirements.  

 Note: The average cumulative GPA of applicants to Doctor of Optometry degree programs is 3.3.
 

Program Outcomes:

1. Students will be able to explain biological phenomena and concepts in oral, written and visual formats that reflect standards and professionalism
2. Students will be able to independently propose scientific question, design and execute experimental procedures, and collect and organize data sets
3. Students will be able to search and evaluate the scientific literature
4. Students will be able to critically analyze and solve quantitative and conceptual questions
5. Students will be able to apply scientific method to answer hypothesis-driven questions.
6. Students will be able to methodically interpret scientific data sets and propose conclusions clearly and effectively