Optometrists

An optometrist must complete at least three years of postsecondary education, including courses in biology, chemistry, physics, English, and mathematics. In addition, students of optometry must complete four years at a college of optometry, combining course work—including physiology, biochemistry, optics, and visual sciences—with supervised clinical experience, leading to a doctor of optometry (O.D.) degree. An additional residency in a specific area of practice, such as low vision rehabilitation, is optional.

Optometrists must have skills in applying scientific rules and methods to solve problems; skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions or approaches to problems; and judgment and decision-making skills to consider the relative costs and benefits of potential actions in order to choose the most appropriate one. Personality traits that are important in an optometrist include the confidence to ensure that their patients are at ease, and a speaking manner that enables patients to understand eye care instructions and the answers that the doctor gives to the patient's questions.

Prospective optometrists must be able to get along well with people, since growth of their practice often depends on customer referrals. Optometrists must also have mechanical aptitude and good vision and coordination. These characteristics are essential to the training required to become licensed.