What you'll learn studying optometry at UW-Platteville
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Department of Biology optometry coursework will lay the foundation for a successful career in this in-demand medical field. As you complete pre-optometry courses you will build a strong understanding of the human body and how it relates to health, including the structure and function of the eye and an eye dissection. UW-Platteville’s pre-optometry classes complement that later, more in-depth training you’d pursue at a school of optometry.
Outside of the classroom, pre-optometry majors can build on their experience through student clubs and organizations, or undergraduate research. Plus, we offer a wide variety of campus support programs like STEM Living Learning Communities, mentoring, and others that allow you to create a student experience unique to you and your goals.
Careers in optometry
Pre-optometry programs prepare students to continue their education in the field of optometry. If you choose to work as an optometrist after completing your undergraduate degree and professional degree, you will likely work in a clinical practice setting. Optometrists help patients by conducting eye examinations, diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and other conditions affecting the human visual system. A pre-optometry degree is the first step toward working as an optometrist, but your education will also prepare you for other careers in the healthcare field.
Some of the jobs you might choose to pursue include:
- Healthcare administrator
- Healthcare attorney
- Healthcare marketing manager
- Healthcare recruiter
- Medical insurance consultant
- Medical science liaison
- Medical writer
- Ophthalmic laboratory technician
- Ophthalmologist
- Optician
- Optometrist
- Optometry practice management consultant
- Telehealth consultant
Some of these professions require additional degrees and training, beyond optometry school. Whether you choose to work in a clinical setting or opt for a non-clinical role, you can leverage your knowledge of the human eye and visual system to make a difference for either individual patients or for the broader community.
Discover by doing
At UW-Platteville, pre-optometry students learn both inside the classroom and through a variety of experiential opportunities. Take advantage of research, internships, university events, and more, all designed to help prepare you for the successful future you envision.
