Nova Southeastern University College Of Optometry Admissions, Tuition & Student Feedback

School Overview

Degrees: N/A
Ownership: Private Non-Profit
Program Length: 4 years
Total Enrollment: 104
Accreditation Status: Accredited
Founding Year: 1987
Accreditation Year: N/A

Has any information changed? Report an update.

SDN Insights

Cost of Attendance: $303,431

Estimate repayment

Estimated loan burden for NSU-Nova 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

Fort Lauderdale, FL 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 area around NSU-Nova allows for some walking access to shops, cafes, and services, though biking options are limited. This balance may suit students who enjoy the occasional stroll but plan to rely on other transportation for longer distances.

Interview Feedback

Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 21% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview very impressive with a low stress level and felt they did well.

Read Feedback Interview Prep Add Feedback

Secondary Essays for NSU-Nova

No essay questions found. Be the first to add one.

Add Essay Questions

About the School

Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is part of Nova Southeastern University, which was founded in 1964. The College of Optometry offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is known for its comprehensive curriculum that integrates clinical training with advanced technology and research opportunities. The college emphasizes a patient-centered approach to optometric education and provides students with diverse clinical experiences through its on-campus Eye Care Institute and various community outreach programs. Additionally, the college offers residency programs in several optometric specialties, enhancing post-graduate education and training.

Curriculum

The curriculum at NSUCO 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, integrated with hands-on laboratory work to develop essential clinical skills. The third and fourth years transition into clinical training, where students participate in rotations across various specialties such as primary care, pediatrics, and ocular disease at NSU's Eye Care Institute and affiliated clinics. NSUCO offers unique educational tracks, including opportunities for dual degrees and specializations in areas like public health and business administration. The curriculum emphasizes a patient-centered approach, utilizing problem-based learning and evidence-based practice to prepare students for diverse clinical environments.

Facilities

NSUCO offers state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the educational experience for optometry students, including modern laboratories and classrooms equipped with advanced technology to support interactive learning. The college features a comprehensive simulation center that allows students to practice clinical skills in a controlled environment, ensuring they gain hands-on experience before entering clinical rotations. Additionally, NSUCO is affiliated with The Eye Care Institute, which provides students with opportunities to engage in patient care under the supervision of experienced faculty, further enriching their clinical training. The college also supports research initiatives, offering dedicated research spaces where students and faculty can collaborate on projects that contribute to the advancement of optometric knowledge and practice.

Demographics

Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry's student body is characterized by a diverse demographic profile, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The gender distribution among students is relatively balanced, with a slight majority of female students. The college attracts a geographically diverse cohort, with students hailing from various regions across the United States and internationally, reflecting a wide range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The institution emphasizes diversity in its enrollment, aiming to create a multicultural academic community that enriches the educational experience for all students.

Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026