University of Houston, College Of Optometry
Houston, TX
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School Detail
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APPLICATION FEE
$50
Tuition In State
$23,674
Tuition Out of State
$43,274
Average GPA
3.67
AVERAGE OAT
340
School Overview
- Degrees
- N/A
- Ownership
- Public Non-Profit
- Program Length
- 4 years
- Total Enrollment
- 100
- Accreditation Status
- Accredited
- Founding Year
- 1955
- Accreditation Year
- N/A
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SDN Insights
Cost of Attendance: $265,018
Estimate repayment
Estimated loan burden for UHCO 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: Near national average cost of living
Houston, TX is close to the national average for cost of living. In the debt estimate, the government-derived local cost adjustment keeps the $3,000 monthly allowance at about $2,970 per month. Treat this as a city-level budgeting estimate, not the school's official cost of attendance.
Environment: Urban
Located in a more suburban setting, UHCO is in an area where biking can supplement the otherwise car-centric environment. While walking to amenities isn't always practical, students may find short bike rides useful for local errands.
Interview Feedback
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 7% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview very impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did well.
Secondary Essays for UHCO
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About the School
The University of Houston College of Optometry, located in Houston, Texas, was established in 1952 and is part of the University of Houston, a public research university. The college offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is known for its comprehensive curriculum that integrates clinical training with advanced research opportunities. It is home to the University Eye Institute, which provides extensive patient care services and serves as a clinical training site for students. The college is recognized for its contributions to vision science research and offers various residency programs for further specialization.
Curriculum
The UHCO curriculum 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, including courses in optics, anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, alongside hands-on laboratory work to develop essential skills. The third and fourth years transition into the clinical phase, where students engage in direct patient care through rotations in various clinical settings, such as primary care, contact lenses, pediatrics, and ocular disease. UHCO offers unique educational tracks, including the opportunity to participate in research projects and specialized electives that allow students to tailor their education to specific interests. Notable learning approaches include problem-based learning and interprofessional education, fostering collaboration with other healthcare disciplines to enhance patient care and professional development.
Facilities
The University of Houston College of Optometry (UHCO) offers state-of-the-art facilities that include advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and comprehensive simulation centers designed to enhance the educational experience for optometry students. The college features the University Eye Institute, which serves as a clinical training ground where students gain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed optometrists. Additionally, UHCO houses specialized research spaces that focus on various aspects of vision science, allowing students and faculty to engage in cutting-edge research. The facilities are equipped with the latest technology and resources to support both clinical practice and academic study, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in optometry.
Demographics
As of the most recent data available from the University of Houston College of Optometry, the student body is composed of a diverse group of individuals, with approximately 60% female and 40% male students. The college emphasizes diversity, with a significant representation of minority groups, including Hispanic, African American, and Asian students, reflecting the multicultural environment of the Houston area. Geographically, the majority of students hail from Texas, but there is also a notable presence of students from other states and international locations, contributing to a broad range of perspectives and experiences within the program. The college's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its efforts to recruit and support students from various backgrounds, ensuring a rich educational environment.
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026