Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI
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School Detail
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APPLICATION FEE
$30
Tuition In State
$41,839
Tuition Out of State
$41,839
Average GPA
3.74
AVERAGE OAT
337
School Overview
- Degrees
- N/A
- Ownership
- Public Non-Profit
- Program Length
- 4 years
- Total Enrollment
- 37
- Accreditation Status
- Accredited
- Founding Year
- 1979
- Accreditation Year
- N/A
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SDN Insights
Cost of Attendance: $345,416
Estimate repayment
Estimated loan burden for MCO using 4 years of in-state tuition, $1,500 annual fees, $3,000 monthly living expenses, national average cost-of-living allowance, $1,000 loan fees, and an 8.5% interest assumption. Local cost-of-living data is not matched yet, so this estimate uses the national average cost-of-living allowance.
Cost of Living: Cost of living data unavailable
A reviewed government-derived local cost-of-living match for Big Rapids, MI is not available yet. The debt estimate uses a national average cost-of-living allowance of $3,000 per month until a local match is available.
Environment: Large Rural
The area around MCO allows for some walking access to shops, cafes, and services, though biking options are limited. This balance may suit students who enjoy the occasional stroll but plan to rely on other transportation for longer distances.
Interview Feedback
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 31% of interviews, indicating it is moderately regarded. They found the interview very impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did okay.
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About the School
The Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University, located in Big Rapids, Michigan, was established in 1974 and is one of the few optometry schools in the United States. It offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program that emphasizes a comprehensive education in vision science and clinical practice. The college is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including the University Eye Center, which provides students with hands-on clinical experience. Additionally, the college is committed to advancing the field of optometry through research and community service, preparing graduates to meet the diverse needs of patients in various healthcare settings.
Curriculum
The curriculum at MCO is structured into a four-year program that integrates both preclinical and clinical education to prepare students for a career in optometry. The first two years focus on foundational sciences and preclinical training, where students engage in courses such as ocular anatomy, physiology, and optics, alongside hands-on laboratory work to develop essential clinical skills. The third and fourth years transition into the clinical phase, where students participate in rotations through various clinical settings, including the university's Eye Center, to gain practical experience in patient care. MCO offers unique educational tracks, such as the opportunity to specialize in areas like contact lenses, pediatrics, or ocular disease, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests. The curriculum emphasizes a patient-centered approach and incorporates problem-based learning to enhance critical thinking and diagnostic skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the diverse challenges of optometric practice.
Facilities
The Michigan College of Optometry at Ferris State University features state-of-the-art facilities designed to support comprehensive optometric education and training. The college houses advanced laboratories equipped for ocular research and clinical practice, including a dedicated contact lens lab and a vision therapy lab. Students have access to the University Eye Center, a full-service clinic that provides real-world patient care experiences under the supervision of licensed optometrists. Additionally, the college offers specialized areas for pediatric and geriatric eye care, as well as a low vision clinic. These facilities are complemented by modern classrooms and a simulation center that utilizes cutting-edge technology to enhance learning and clinical skills development.
Demographics
As of the most recent data available from Ferris State University's official website, the Michigan College of Optometry enrolls a diverse student body with a commitment to inclusivity and representation. The college maintains a balanced gender distribution, with a nearly equal number of male and female students. Geographic representation is broad, with students hailing from various regions across the United States, reflecting a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The college emphasizes diversity in its admissions process, aiming to cultivate an inclusive environment that supports students from underrepresented groups in the field of optometry. Enrollment statistics indicate a steady number of students each year, contributing to a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing the field of optometry.
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026