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Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University

Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University

Fullerton, CA

Optometry Schools Private For-Profit

School Overview

Tuition (In State): $39,650

Tuition (Out of State): $39,650

Accreditation Status: N/A

Acceptance Rate: 33%

Total Enrollment: 100

Degrees: N/A

Founding Year: 1904

Accreditation Year: N/A

Website: https://www.ketchum.edu/index.php/academics/od

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Application Information

Applications Received: 438

Admitted: 146

Average OAT: 350

Average GPA: 3.59

Male: 28%

Female: 72%

Interview Feedback Summary

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.

School Review Summary

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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: Aug 15, 2025

SDN Insights

Our analysis of SCCO:

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Cost of Attendance: $335,916

A student taking student loans for all 4 years at SCCO, including tuition, fees, locally adjusted cost of living expenses, incidentals, and interest, can expect to have total student loans of $335,916. Estimate repayment with the SDN School Loan Repayment Calculator.

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Cost of Living: Equal to National Average

The cost of living at SCCO is approximately equal to the average cost of living at similar schools nationwide. While planning your finances, you can expect typical expenses comparable to most institutions.

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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.

Why no Tier Rankings?

Although we could tier rank, over the past 25 years we've found no compelling benefit for ranking schools. Students are most successful when they prioritize personal and academic fit over school rank.