Northeastern State University Oklahoma College Of Optometry
Tahlequah, OK
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School Detail
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APPLICATION FEE
$45
Tuition In State
$18,272
Tuition Out of State
$36,389
Average GPA
3.7
AVERAGE OAT
316
School Overview
- Degrees
- N/A
- Ownership
- Public Non-Profit
- Program Length
- 4 years
- Total Enrollment
- 28
- Accreditation Status
- Accredited
- Founding Year
- 1846
- Accreditation Year
- N/A
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SDN Insights
Cost of Attendance: $210,325
Estimate repayment
Estimated loan burden for NSU-OK using 4 years of in-state tuition, $1,500 annual fees, $3,000 monthly living expenses, government-derived local cost-of-living adjustment, $1,000 loan fees, and an 8.5% interest assumption.
Cost of Living: Below national average cost of living
Tahlequah, OK is about 0.79x the national average for cost of living. In the debt estimate, the government-derived local cost adjustment lowers the living allowance from $3,000 to about $2,370 per month. Local rent and commuting choices can still move your actual budget meaningfully.
Environment: Large Rural
The neighborhood around NSU-OK is relatively quiet and spread out, with limited walking or biking options. Most errands and outings will require a car, making this setting better suited for students with access to personal transportation.
Interview Feedback
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 29% of interviews, indicating it is moderately regarded. They found the interview generally impressive with a low stress level and felt they did well.
Secondary Essays for NSU-OK
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About the School
Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry, located in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was founded in 1979 and is one of the 23 schools of optometry in the United States. It is part of Northeastern State University, which is recognized for its commitment to providing quality education in the health professions. The college offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is notable for its emphasis on clinical training and serving rural and Native American populations. The college is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE), ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for optometric education. Students have access to a variety of clinical experiences through partnerships with health care facilities and community outreach programs, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in optometry.
Curriculum
The NSUOCO curriculum is structured into a four-year program divided into preclinical and clinical phases, designed to equip students with comprehensive optometric education. 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, emphasizing patient care and clinical rotations in various settings, including primary care, pediatrics, contact lenses, and ocular disease. Unique educational tracks include opportunities for specialization in areas like vision therapy and low vision rehabilitation. Notable learning approaches at NSUOCO include problem-based learning and interprofessional education, fostering collaboration with other healthcare disciplines to enhance patient-centered care.
Facilities
NSUOCO offers state-of-the-art facilities that include advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and a comprehensive simulation center designed to enhance clinical training for optometry students. The college is equipped with a range of diagnostic and therapeutic technologies that support hands-on learning and research. Additionally, NSUOCO provides access to clinical training through its on-campus eye care clinics and partnerships with regional hospitals and health centers, ensuring students gain practical experience in diverse healthcare settings.
Demographics
As of the most recent data available, Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry maintains a diverse student body with a commitment to inclusivity and representation. The gender distribution is relatively balanced, with a slight majority of female students, reflecting broader trends in health professions. The college attracts students from various geographic regions, though a significant portion of the enrollment comes from within Oklahoma, supporting its mission to serve the local community. The institution also emphasizes the inclusion of underrepresented minorities in its programs, aligning with national efforts to diversify the healthcare workforce. Enrollment statistics indicate a steady number of students, with a focus on maintaining a supportive and comprehensive educational environment.
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026