Optometrists
Optometrists use a number of instruments to check patients’ vision and determine their need for corrective lenses.
| Quick Facts: | |
|---|---|
| 2010 Median Pay | $94,990 per year $45.67 per hour |
| Entry-Level Education | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
| On-the-job Training | None |
| Number of Jobs, 2010 | 34,200 |
| Job Outlook, 2010-20 | 33% (Much faster than average) |
| Employment Change, 2010-20 | 11,300 |
What Optometrists Do
Optometrists perform eye exams to check for vision problems and diseases. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.
Work Environment
Most optometrists work in stand-alone offices of optometry. A small number of optometrists work in doctors’ offices, retail stores, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. Most work full time, and some work evenings and weekends to suit patients’ needs.
How to Become an Optometrist
Optometrists must complete a Doctor of Optometry program and get a state license. Doctor of Optometry programs take 4 years to complete after earning an undergraduate degree.
Pay
The median annual wage of optometrists was $94,990 in May 2010.
Job Outlook
Employment of optometrists is expected to grow by 33 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- Summary
- Career:
- Optometrists
- Ave Starting Salary:
- approx. $51,690yr
- Ave Median Salary:
- approx. $94,990yr
- Job Outlook:
- Excellent
- Education Required:
- Optometry (Doctorate)
