The journey to becoming an optometrist is a transformative path marked by education, dedication, and a commitment to enhancing the gift of sight. Aspiring optometrists face a crucial decision when choosing the institution where they will cultivate their skills and knowledge.
For aspiring optometrists seeking excellent education in the heartland of the United States, Kansas stands out as a hub for top-tier optometry education.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the realm of optometry education in Kansas, uncovering the top 12 best optometry schools in Kansas that have distinguished themselves in the field.
From cutting-edge facilities to renowned faculty and innovative programs, each institution on this list offers a unique blend of opportunities for students eager to make a difference in the world of eye care.
Whether you’re a prospective student or someone passionate about the advancements in eye care education, this exploration of the best optometry schools in Kansas is your gateway to a future filled with clarity and vision.
Without further ado, join us as we journey through the best optometry schools in Kansas, where a clear vision for your future as an optometrist begins to take shape.
Related: Top 10 Best Optometry Schools in California
Table of Contents
Best Optometry Schools in Kansas
1. University of Kansas
Address: 1450 Jayhawk Blvd., Lawrence, KS 66045, United States
The University of Kansas School of Optometry, located in Lawrence, is a prestigious school known for its dedication to the advancement of eye care teaching and research.
The school stands out for its state-of-the-art clinical facilities and a faculty of seasoned experts dedicated to training the next generation of optometrists. It offers a comprehensive Doctor of Optometry (OD) program.
Students benefit from a comprehensive program that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience, preparing them for success in the ever-changing world of optometry.
The school’s emphasis on research and community involvement strengthens its status as a leader in eye care education. The University of Kansas School of Optometry is a lighthouse for individuals wishing to thrive in the field of optometry, with a tradition of distinction and a focus on innovation.
2. Kansas State University
Address: Manhattan, KS 66506, United States
Nestled in Manhattan, Kansas, the Kansas State University College of Optometry is a cornerstone of eye care education in the region. Boasting a comprehensive optometry program, this college is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment for aspiring optometrists.
With a strong emphasis on clinical training and hands-on experience, K-State Optometry prepares aspiring optometrists to become compassionate and competent practitioners.
The college’s Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of vision care, from basic science fundamentals to advanced clinical techniques.
The college has a commitment to research and community outreach, enhancing the educational experience, and providing students with opportunities to contribute to advancements in the field.
Surrounded by a vibrant academic community and supported by dedicated faculty, the Kansas State University College of Optometry stands as a testament to excellence in optometric education, attracting individuals eager to make a lasting impact on visual health.
3. Wichita State University
Address: 1845 Fairmount St, Wichita, KS 67260, United States
Located in the vibrant city of Wichita, Kansas, Wichita State University College of Optometry provides a unique learning environment that combines the rigor of academic instruction with practical experience.
The school offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program that emphasizes patient-centered care, fostering the development of compassionate and skilled optometrists.
The program’s commitment to community engagement and research opportunities adds a dynamic dimension to the educational experience, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings.
WSU Optometry offers a variety of clinical rotations, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in a variety of settings, from private practices to community health clinics. Graduates from WSU Optometry are well-prepared to serve their communities and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
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4. Washburn University
Address: 1700 SW College Ave, Topeka, KS 66621, United States
Situated in Topeka, Kansas, Washburn University’s Optometry Program within the Department of Allied Health is a cornerstone for those pursuing a career in optometry. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the ever-evolving field of eye care.
With a curriculum that emphasizes on clinical experiences and a strong theoretical foundation, Washburn University fosters an environment that prepares students for the challenges of contemporary optometric practice. The program’s faculty, comprised of seasoned professionals, is dedicated to providing mentorship and guidance.
Washburn University’s commitment to community service and research initiatives further enhances the educational journey, creating well-rounded optometrists ready to make a meaningful impact on visual health.
5. Emporia State University
Address: 1 Kellogg Cir, Emporia, KS 66801, United States
Emporia State University, located in Emporia, Kansas, offers an Optometry Preparation Program through its Department of Biological Sciences. This program serves as a vital stepping stone for students aspiring to enter optometry schools.
With a focus on providing a strong foundation in biological sciences and relevant coursework, Emporia State University offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program that prepares students for the academic rigor of optometry education.
The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and a comprehensive understanding of the biological principles crucial for success in the field.
Emporia State University’s Optometry Preparation Program is a key player in shaping the next generation of optometry professionals, contributing to the broader landscape of eye care education in Kansas and beyond.
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6. Baker University
Address: 618 Eighth St, Baldwin City, KS 66006, United States
Baker University, nestled in Baldwin City, Kansas, offers a distinguished Pre-Optometry Program, providing aspiring optometrists with a solid foundation for their future studies.
This program is tailored to meet the prerequisites necessary for admission to optometry schools, emphasizing coursework in the sciences and mathematics essential for success in the field.
Students enrolled in Baker University’s Pre-Optometry Program benefit from a supportive academic environment, dedicated faculty, and resources designed to enhance their preparedness for optometry school applications.
With a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on individual student success, Baker University remains one of the best optometry schools in Kansas, cultivating the next generation of optometry professionals.
7. Bethel College
Address: 300 E 27th St, North Newton, KS 67117, United States
Located in the picturesque town of North Newton, Kansas, Bethel College School of Optometry is a small, private institution that provides a personalized and holistic approach to optometry education.
The school’s Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program emphasizes a strong foundation in optometric science, coupled with hands-on clinical experience and patient-centered care.
This program serves as a comprehensive preparatory pathway, guiding students through the necessary coursework and experiences essential for a successful career in the field.
Bethel College’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its faculty’s dedication to providing personalized guidance and mentorship to aspiring optometrists. The program combines a strong foundation in the sciences with opportunities for practical application, ensuring that students develop the skills and knowledge required for success in the optometry profession.
With a focus on fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment, Bethel College is one of the renowned optometry schools in Kansas specializing in shaping the future of eye care professionals in Kansas and beyond.
8. Friends University
Address: 2100 W Univ Ave, Wichita, KS 67213, United States
Located in Wichita, Kansas, Friends University is one of the best optometry schools in Kansas and home to a dynamic Pre-Professional Health Sciences Program with a specialized Optometry Emphasis.
Designed for students with aspirations in optometry, this program provides a comprehensive foundation in the sciences and relevant coursework to prepare individuals for successful optometry school admission.
Students at Friends University benefit from a supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and resources aimed at enhancing their understanding of the principles crucial to the field of optometry.
The Optometry Emphasis within the Pre-Professional Health Sciences Program combines academic rigor with hands-on experiences, ensuring students are well-equipped for the challenges of further education and, ultimately, a rewarding career in eye care.
Friends University’s commitment to excellence in health sciences education shines through its emphasis on individualized mentorship and the cultivation of future leaders in the optometry profession.
9. Kansas Wesleyan University
Address: 100 E Claflin Ave, Salina, KS 67401, United States
Kansas Wesleyan University is one of the best optometry schools in Kansas that offers a specialized Health Science Studies program with a dedicated Pre-Optometry program.
Tailored for students aspiring to enter optometry schools, this program provides a comprehensive foundation in the sciences, preparing individuals for the academic rigor of the optometry profession.
Kansas Wesleyan University’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its faculty’s dedication to providing personalized guidance and mentorship to aspiring optometrists. The Pre-Optometry Track emphasizes not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experiences to ensure students develop the necessary skills for success.
With a focus on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment, Kansas Wesleyan University’s Health Science Studies: Pre-Optometry Track plays a crucial role in shaping the future of eye care professionals in Kansas and beyond.
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10. McPherson College
Address: 1600 E Euclid St, McPherson, KS 67460, United States
Nestled in the vibrant town of McPherson, Kansas, McPherson College School of Optometry is one of the best optometry schools in Kansas that is committed to shaping compassionate and competent optometrists.
With a strong focus on providing a personalized and holistic approach to optometric education, McPherson Optometry cultivates graduates who are prepared to serve the diverse needs of their patients.
The school offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program that emphasizes a strong foundation in optometric science, coupled with hands-on clinical experience and patient-centered care.
Students at McPherson College benefit from a supportive academic environment, experienced faculty, and opportunities for hands-on learning experiences that enhance their understanding of optometry principles.
11. Tabor College
Address: 400 S Jefferson St, Hillsboro, KS 67063, United States
Nestled in the enchanting town of Hillsboro, Kansas, Tabor College School of Optometry stands as a distinguished institution committed to the cultivation of compassionate and competent optometrists.
Rooted in the values of holistic vision care, Tabor Optometry molds graduates who are not only well-versed in optometric science but also dedicated to addressing the diverse needs of their patients.
The school’s Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program is a testament to Tabor Optometry’s commitment to excellence. By combining a robust foundation in optometric science with immersive hands-on clinical experiences and a focus on patient-centered care, the program prepares students for the dynamic landscape of modern optometry.
Tabor Optometry distinguishes itself through a unique learning environment that encourages close relationships between students and faculty, fostering a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.
Graduates emerge from Tabor Optometry equipped with the skills and compassion needed to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.
12. Ottawa University
Address: 1001 S Cedar St, Ottawa, KS 66067, United States
Nestled in the vibrant city of Ottawa, Kansas, Ottawa University School of Optometry stands is one of the best optometry schools in Kansas dedicated to delivering a comprehensive optometric education rooted in Christian values.
With a steadfast commitment to fostering personal growth and ethical decision-making, Ottawa Optometry molds compassionate and proficient optometrists who are wholeheartedly devoted to serving their communities.
The school’s Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program is a harmonious blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences, designed to prepare students to deliver comprehensive eye care services to patients of all ages.
Ottawa Optometry’s graduates emerge well-equipped to make a positive impact on the lives of others, embodying the core values of service, compassion, and integrity that define the institution.
How long is optometry school?
The typical length of optometry school in Kansas is four years, which corresponds to a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program. This includes two academic years of coursework, clinical training, and patient care experiences, followed by two years of full-time clinical rotations in various optometric settings.
What is the cheapest optometry school in the US?
The University of Houston, the University of Missouri-St. Louis and SUNY College of Optometry stand out as some of the most budget-friendly optometry schools in the United States.
Their tuition fees are among the lowest, falling below the average tuition costs reported by the National Center for Education Statistics as of December 2023.
Related: 12 Best Optometry Schools in Canada
Conclusion
Kansas offers a diverse range of optometry schools, each with its unique strengths and offerings. Whether you’re seeking a personalized learning environment, a strong focus on clinical training, or a program grounded in Christian values, the optometry schools in Kansas listed here are the perfect fit for you.
With their rigorous academic programs, dedicated faculty, and commitment to fostering compassionate and competent optometrists, these institutions are preparing the next generation of eye care professionals to make a positive impact on the lives of others.