The Illinois College of Optometry (ICO) at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is consistently ranked among the top optometry schools in the United States. ICO was ranked #1 in the nation for optometry by U.S. News & World Report in 2022, making it the only optometry school to hold this distinction for three consecutive years.
Key Facts and Rankings
- #1 in the United States for optometry (U.S. News & World Report, 2022)
- Top 10 for research expenditures among optometry schools (National Institutes of Health, 2022)
- Top 25 for NIH funding among all health professions schools (National Institutes of Health, 2022)
- 100% of graduates pass the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Part I and Part II exams
- 99% of graduates employed within 6 months of graduation
Educational Programs
ICO offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE). The program provides a comprehensive education in optometry, including coursework in:
- Ocular anatomy and physiology
- Ocular pathology
- Ocular pharmacology
- Clinical optometry
- Vision science
- Optics
- Contact lenses
Research and Innovation
ICO is a leading center for optometry research, with over $14 million in annual research expenditures. Faculty members are involved in a wide range of research projects, including:
- Myopia control
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
- Contact lens technology
Clinical Services
ICO provides comprehensive eye care services to patients of all ages through its university-based clinics. Services include:
- Comprehensive eye exams
- Contact lens fittings
- Low vision rehabilitation
- Ocular disease management
- Surgical co-management
Student Life
ICO offers a vibrant and supportive student community. Students have access to a variety of student organizations, including the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), the Minority Optometry Student Association (MOSA), and the Optometry Student Government Association (OSGA).
Career Opportunities
ICO graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in the field of optometry. They may work in private practice, hospitals, clinics, or research institutions. Optometrists can also pursue careers in education, administration, or public health.
How to Apply
Applications to ICO are submitted through the Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS). Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a strong foundation in science and mathematics.
Contact Information
Illinois College of Optometry
801 S. Paulina St.
Chicago, IL 60612
312-996-4200
www.uic.edu/optometry
Q: What is the acceptance rate at ICO?
A: The acceptance rate for ICO is about 25%.
Q: What is the average GPA of ICO students?
A: The average GPA of ICO students is 3.7.
Q: What is the cost of tuition at ICO?
A: The cost of tuition for ICO is about $50,000 per year for Illinois residents and $70,000 per year for non-Illinois residents.
Q: What is the salary for optometrists?
A: The median salary for optometrists is about $120,000 per year.
The Illinois College of Optometry is a top-ranked optometry school that offers a world-class education and clinical training. ICO graduates are well-prepared for a successful career in optometry.