WesternUCO Male • United States of America

Western University of Health Sciences College of Optometry, located in Pomona, California, offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program to prepare students for the full scope of optometric practice. Established in 2008, the College focuses on educating healthcare professionals with an emphasis on optometric rehabilitation, including neuro-optometry. The curriculum is structured to blend academic knowledge with practical clinical experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to serve a diverse patient population.


The College’s mission centers on producing compassionate and comprehensive healthcare providers who value service, education, and innovation. It promotes the rehabilitation of the visual system and encourages interprofessional collaboration, supporting a patient-centered approach to care. Faculty members are committed to excellence in teaching, mentoring, and clinical leadership, guiding students through a rigorous and supportive academic environment.


Students gain hands-on training at the WesternU Health Eye Care Institute, where they participate in direct patient care under the supervision of faculty. Clinical experiences include routine eye exams and specialized services such as low vision rehabilitation, neuro-optometric therapy, and vision therapy. These experiences help students develop the skills to manage various visual and neurological conditions.


The College values diversity and inclusivity, and its admissions process considers academic readiness alongside individual backgrounds and experiences. Students from over thirty states and several countries have enrolled in recent years, contributing to a vibrant and collaborative educational setting.


The fourth-year externship is a key component of the program. During it, students rotate through various clinical sites, including private practices, Veterans Administration clinics, Indian Health Service facilities, Armed Forces medical centers, and WesternU specialty clinics. These placements expose students to diverse practice environments and patient populations, enabling them to refine their clinical decision-making and communication skills.


Western University of Health Sciences College of Optometry remains dedicated to preparing future optometrists who demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to improving vision health. Through its focused academic and clinical training, the College continues to support the development of leaders in the field of optometric care.