School Overview
- Degrees
- N/A
- Ownership
- Public Non-Profit
- Program Length
- 4 years
- Total Enrollment
- 64
- Accreditation Status
- Accredited
- Founding Year
- 1923
- Accreditation Year
- N/A
Has any information changed?
Report an update.
SDN Insights
Cost of Attendance: $331,064
Estimate repayment
Estimated loan burden for UCBSO 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
Berkeley, CA is about 1.16x 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 $3,480 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
Situated in a moderately accessible neighborhood, UCBSO offers a mix of walking and biking options. Students may find that many daily needs are reachable without a car, though longer trips still benefit from alternative transportation.
Interview Feedback
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 14% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview generally impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did okay.
Secondary Essays for UCBSO
No essay questions found. Be the first to add one.
About the School
The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of California, Berkeley, is located in Berkeley, California, and was established in 1923. As part of a prestigious public research university, the school offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is known for its comprehensive curriculum that integrates clinical training with advanced research opportunities. The school is committed to advancing the field of optometry and vision science through its emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and benefit from the school's strong focus on public service and community engagement, preparing them for diverse careers in the health professions.
Curriculum
The curriculum at UC Berkeley's Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science is structured into a four-year program, beginning with a preclinical phase that spans the first two years and focuses on foundational sciences, including anatomy, physiology, optics, and visual science, integrated with early clinical exposure through patient interactions and clinical skills labs. The clinical phase, covering the third and fourth years, emphasizes hands-on patient care in diverse settings, including primary care, ocular disease, and specialty clinics, allowing students to refine their diagnostic and management skills. Unique educational tracks such as the Berkeley Optometry Residency Program offer advanced training in areas like pediatric optometry, contact lenses, and low vision rehabilitation. Notable learning approaches include problem-based learning and interprofessional education, fostering collaboration with other healthcare professionals to enhance comprehensive patient care.
Facilities
The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science at UC Berkeley offers state-of-the-art facilities that include advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and a comprehensive simulation center designed to enhance clinical training. The Meredith W. Morgan University Eye Center serves as a primary clinical teaching site, providing students with hands-on experience in patient care. Additionally, the school is equipped with specialized research spaces that support cutting-edge investigations in vision science, fostering an environment of innovation and discovery.
Demographics
As of the most recent data available, the University of California, Berkeley, Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science enrolls a diverse student body, with approximately 60% of students identifying as female and 40% as male. The school emphasizes geographic diversity, drawing students from various regions across the United States and internationally. The ethnic composition includes a significant representation of Asian, Hispanic/Latino, and Caucasian students, reflecting the school's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Additionally, the school actively supports underrepresented minorities in the field of optometry, contributing to a varied and dynamic academic community.
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026
