School Overview
- Degrees
- N/A
- Ownership
- Private Non-Profit
- Program Length
- 4 years
- Total Enrollment
- 68
- Accreditation Status
- Accredited
- Founding Year
- 2009
- Accreditation Year
- N/A
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SDN Insights
Cost of Attendance: $300,111
Estimate repayment
Estimated loan burden for UIW-OPT 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
San Antonio, 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 $2,850 per month. Treat this as a city-level budgeting estimate, not the school's official cost of attendance.
Environment: Urban
Students at UIW-OPT benefit from a very walkable setting, with many services and eateries just steps away. While biking is possible, the environment is best suited to those who prefer to get around on foot.
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 well.
Secondary Essays for UIW-OPT
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About the School
The University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry, located in San Antonio, Texas, was established in 2009 and is part of the University of the Incarnate Word, a private Catholic university. The school offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is committed to providing a comprehensive education that emphasizes clinical training and community service. The Rosenberg School of Optometry is notable for its focus on serving diverse populations and addressing healthcare disparities, with opportunities for students to engage in community outreach and gain hands-on experience in various clinical settings. The school is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE), ensuring that it meets the standards required for optometric education.
Curriculum
The curriculum at UIWRSO is structured into a four-year program divided into preclinical and clinical phases, designed to equip students with comprehensive optometric knowledge and skills. The first two years focus on foundational sciences and preclinical training, including courses in optics, ocular anatomy, and visual sciences, complemented by hands-on laboratory experiences. The third and fourth years transition into the clinical phase, where students engage in direct patient care through rotations in various clinical settings, including the UIW Eye Institute and community clinics, emphasizing primary eye care, ocular disease, and specialty services. Unique educational tracks such as the Spanish Language and Cultural Immersion Program are available, enhancing cultural competence and communication skills. Notable learning approaches include problem-based learning and interprofessional education, fostering critical thinking and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Facilities
The Rosenberg School of Optometry at the University of the Incarnate Word offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to support comprehensive optometric education and training. The school features advanced clinical training environments, including the Bowden Eye Care & Health Center and the Community Eye Clinic, which provide students with hands-on experience in patient care. Additionally, the school houses modern laboratories equipped for research and instruction in areas such as optics, vision science, and ocular disease. Classrooms are designed to facilitate interactive learning, and the simulation center offers realistic practice scenarios to enhance clinical skills. These facilities collectively support the school's mission to prepare students for successful careers in optometry.
Demographics
As of the most recent data available from the University of the Incarnate Word's Rosenberg School of Optometry, the student body exhibits a diverse demographic profile with a significant representation of various ethnic groups, including Hispanic, Caucasian, Asian, and African American students, reflecting the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The gender distribution is relatively balanced, with a slight majority of female students enrolled in the program. Geographically, the school attracts students primarily from Texas, but there is also a notable presence of students from other states and international locations, contributing to a rich and varied educational environment. Enrollment statistics indicate a steady number of students each year, aligning with the school's capacity and resources to provide quality optometric education.
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026