Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University Admissions, Tuition & Student Feedback

School Overview

Degrees: N/A
Ownership: Private Non-Profit
Program Length: 4 years
Total Enrollment: 100
Accreditation Status: Accredited
Founding Year: 1904
Accreditation Year: N/A

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SDN Insights

Cost of Attendance: $357,790

Estimate repayment

Estimated loan burden for SCCO 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: Above national average cost of living

Fullerton, CA is about 1.14x higher than the national average for cost of living. In the debt estimate, the government-derived local cost adjustment raises the living allowance from $3,000 to about $3,420 per month, mainly reflecting rent, food, transportation, and day-to-day expenses. Compare this with your own housing plan before treating it as exact.

Environment: Urban

The neighborhood around SCCO 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 16% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview generally impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did well.

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About the School

The Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO) at Marshall B. Ketchum University, located in Fullerton, California, was founded in 1904. It is renowned for its Doctor of Optometry program, which provides comprehensive education and training in optometry, emphasizing clinical practice and patient care. SCCO is part of a larger institution that includes the School of Physician Assistant Studies and the College of Pharmacy, fostering an interprofessional approach to healthcare education. The college is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including the University Eye Center, which serves as a primary clinical training site for students, offering them hands-on experience in a variety of optometric services.

Curriculum

The curriculum at SCCO is structured into a four-year program divided into preclinical and clinical phases, designed to provide a comprehensive education in optometry. The first two years focus on foundational sciences and preclinical training, where students engage in courses such as optics, anatomy, and physiology, alongside hands-on laboratory work to develop essential clinical skills. The third and fourth years transition into the clinical phase, emphasizing patient care through rotations in various settings, including primary care, pediatrics, and ocular disease. SCCO offers unique educational tracks such as the Advanced Studies Program, allowing students to specialize in areas like vision therapy or contact lenses. Notable learning approaches include problem-based learning and interprofessional education, fostering collaboration with other healthcare disciplines to enhance patient care skills.

Facilities

The Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the educational experience of its students. The campus includes advanced laboratories equipped with the latest technology for optometric education and research, providing students with hands-on experience in a controlled environment. The university features a comprehensive simulation center that allows students to practice clinical skills in realistic scenarios, preparing them for patient interactions. Additionally, the on-campus Eye Care Center serves as a primary clinical training site, where students gain practical experience under the supervision of licensed optometrists. The college also collaborates with local hospitals and clinics, offering students diverse clinical rotations and exposure to a wide range of patient cases.

Demographics

As of the most recent data available, the Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University demonstrates a commitment to diversity with a student body comprising various ethnic backgrounds, including a significant representation of Asian, Hispanic, and Caucasian students. The gender distribution is predominantly female, reflecting a trend seen across many health professions. Geographically, the college attracts students primarily from California, but also from other states across the U.S., contributing to a diverse mix of regional perspectives. Enrollment statistics indicate a competitive selection process with a focus on academic excellence and a commitment to serving diverse communities.

Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026