Doctor of Optometry
The College of Optometry offers an innovative Doctor of Optometry program that emphasizes optometric rehabilitation including neuro-optometry. This emerging specialty helps patients who have visual and perceptual problems as a result of brain injury, stroke, physical disability or neurological illness. Our emphasis on optometric rehabilitation also includes vision therapy, low vision rehabilitation, and care for vulnerable populations such as those with developmental disabilities.
College of Optometry Apply Now
Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) welcomes international students and their families to our diverse university community.
International Student Services (ISS) is responsible for providing support and assistance in immigration advising, maintaining immigration status, maintaining information and documents on foreign students and their dependents in the Student and exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), staying current with rules and regulations and interpreting and applying the rules and regulations set forth by the Department of Homeland Security.
Western University of Health Sciences has approval from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to certify students eligible to receive VA educational benefits. The School Certifying Officials that are located on the Pomona, California campus assist all students who receive VA educational benefits. We cannot assist you with determining your eligibility for benefits.
Accreditation WesternU’s College of Optometry
Learn About The Profession From ASCO
The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) offers resources to future optometrists. Please take a moment to read their True Stories flipbook to learn more about the difference you can make in people’s lives. You may also access more information directly at:
Upcoming Events
August 2026 Experience WesternU
Saturday, August 22 at 8:30 AM Pacific Standard TimeThinking about a career in healthcare but not sure which path is right for you? Experience WesternU is designed for prospective students and early-stage pre-health explorers who want to learn more about healthcare professions, educational pathways, and opportunities available at WesternU. Get to know WesternU, our programs, and our community. During check-in, get your day started at our Health Professions/Resource Fairwhere you will be able to explore the diverse world of health professions and access resources available to you on your journey!The Health Professions/Resource Fair [8:30am-9:30am] will be right at the center of our university with several booths for you to visit including: Health Professions Colleges/Programs – Osteopathic Medicine, Podiatric Medicine, Physician Assistant Studies, Graduate Nursing, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Optometry, Dental Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Health Administration, Medical Sciences Masters Programs WesternU University Departments/Resources – Office of Admissions, Office of International Students and Scholars, Center of Disability and Health Policy, The Daumier (Campus Housing) External Support for Prospective Student – Clinical experience/Direct Patient Care, Military Partners, Shadowing Opportunities, Standardized Test Preparation, Volunteering/Community Service Opportunities Next, Choose Your (3) Breakout Sessions [9:30am-12:15pm]: Current Student Panel – Hear how students chose their profession and what their journey has been like. Financial Aid & Funding Your Education – Learn about tuition, scholarships, financial planning, and paying for professional school. Exploring Healthcare Careers – Compare professions, discover career pathways, and learn about salary expectations, job outlooks, and educational requirements. Program-Specific Interactive Sessions – Participate in hands-on experiences and learn directly from faculty and students within individual healthcare programs. Why Attend? Explore a variety of healthcare careers in one place. Learn the differences between professions such as medicine, nursing, physician assistant studies, pharmacy, dentistry, physical therapy, veterinary medicine, optometry, healthcare Administration, Medical Sciences and more. Hear firsthand from current students and healthcare educators. Gain clarity and confidence as you begin your pre-health journey. Discover which healthcare path may be the best fit for your interests and goals. Whether you’re just beginning to explore healthcare careers or looking to narrow your options, Experience WesternU will help you take the next step toward your future.