A few questions

[poox]

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1.) What is the competition level for Opt. admissions?
2.) How hard is the OAT? Do schools generally weigh it more than GPA?
3.) Can I apply to Opt schools without a B.sc degree, or is this required? I know that, for example, you can apply to Pharm schools after only two years of undergrad work, and I was wondering if the same can be done for Opt schools
4.) Opt is 4 years of professional training. Is there any other training beyond this(residency?), or can you start working right away?
5.) What is the average salary for an Optometrist?
6.) Job security: Heavily in demand or is it hard to find a job?

Thanks!

 

[JennieJoy]

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos073.htm

 

[lovelydisaster]

Maybe try using the search function? Also, opted.org is a helpful source too.

I can answer a few:
1) Pretty competitive, it gets more and more so each year.
2) It is not hard if you prepare for it. For most schools, they weigh OAT and GPA equally, but each school may be a little different.
3) Majority of schools require a degree. (opted.org)
4) You can do residency or you can start work right away.
5) bls.gov
6) bls.gov

 

[tresrisque]

Here's my opinion

1) Like with many other health schools, optometry school is very competitive & does get more competitive every year. In my opinion though, it doesn't seem as competitive as say medical school or dental school.
2) I agree with lovelydisaster. If you have good materials and study adequately, it isn't too hard.
3) Some schools require a bachelors, and some don't. However, with the increasing competitiveness of getting into school, having or completing a bachelor's degree before matriculation will give you a HUGE advantage of those who aren't close to finishing their degree. If other aspects of your application are phenomenal (i.e. very high OAT and GPA, lots of shadowing/optometric experiences, and an awesome interview), you may have a shot.