Optometry, Bachelor of Science Pre-Professional

Contact Information
Contact Name: 
Dr. Bryan Rowsell
Contact Title: 
Chairperson

Program Information

Contact Phone: 
403.342.3400 OR 1.888.732.4630
Contact Email: 
inquire@rdc.ab.ca
University Transfer Program

Two Year Pre-Professional Program:

Please note that course work for pre-professional programs varies as per university. It is the student's responsibility to ensure they are taking correct pre-professional coursework when applying the a University other than specified in the Calendar.

For the most current university program and transfer information, see Planning Guides in Academic Advising.

International Students and Students applying outside of their home province are advised to consult the calendar of the institution to which you will be applying regarding its policy on admitting international and out-of-province students. This may vary between institutions.

The Program

The Pre-Optometry program at RDC is the first two years of the three year pre-professional program required for admission to Doctor of Optometry at University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario. Your third year of study will be completed at a university of your choice. You must make sure you meet admission and minimum course load requirements for the professional program as well as your alternate degree program.

Program Admission Features

Admission to the Pre-Optometry program at RDC does not guarantee admission to Doctor of Optometry at University of Waterloo. You should meet the admission requirements of the professional school, and also design your program so that you can complete a Bachelor of Science degree. Competitive admission to professional programs requires a high grade point average. You should check with universities to be aware of specific admission requirements.

Requirements
Admission Requirements: 

Minimum average of 60% with no mark below 50% in:

  1. Biology 30
  2. Chemistry 30
  3. ELA 30-1
  4. Mathematics 30-1
  5. Physics 30

Note: In addition to the program admission requirements applicants, whose first language is not English, must demonstrate English language proficiency.

Program Content

Suggested Pattern Year 1

  • BIOL 217/BIOL 218 (6 credits)
  • CHEM 211/CHEM 351 (6 credits)
  • ENGL 219 (3 credits)
  • MATH 202 (or MATH 203)/STAT 251 (6 credits)
  • 3 Arts or Science Options (9 credits)

Year 2

See an academic advisor for details.