2020-21 Invest in Your Future

SOUTHERN COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRY

Your future in focus

INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE

170,006

$

AVERAGE NET INCOMES UP TO $170,006 FOR OPTOMETRISTS WHO OWN ALL OR A PORTION OF THEIR PRACTICE

Optometry as a Career

SCO 101

During your educational journey, many windows

Optometrists are the primary care providers

of opportunity will open for you. Whether it is

for eye and vision care who diagnose, treat,

in the courses you take, organizations to which

and manage diseases and disorders of the eye,

you belong, or simply the people you meet, the

the visual system and associated structures.

key to finding the best career match for you is

Optometrists work in a variety of settings ranging

to keep an open mind, explore your options

from a solo or group private practice to larger

and ask questions.

venues such as hospitals, HMOs, and referral centers. Optometrists also provide patient services

With so many

in the areas of specialty contact lenses, low

professions to

rehabilitation, and post-surgical care.

vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, sports vision

choose from, always

Flexibility allows optometrists to enjoy a life

keep this fact in mind —

Optometry’s positive career factors, including

education is an

high regard as a career choice. Data from the

investment in

of Optometric Practice shows the average

your future.

balance of personal and family priorities. financial security, result in the profession’s American Optometric Association’s 2019 Survey net incomes ranging from $144,228 for the primary practice of optometry to $170,006 for

5

COMMITTED TO SERVICE

7

STUDENT LIFE

9

MEMPHIS

11

ADMISSIONS

13

FINANCE AND MANAGE DEBT

15

SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS

17

optometrists who own all or a portion of their

If you are interested in a profession that

practice. At Southern College of Optometry, your

helps people live better lives, provides a

educational training will prepare you for this

stimulating work environment, and allows

outstanding career. Remember, your education is

you and your family an attractive income and

an investment in your future. If you make sound

comfortable lifestyle, optometry is a career

decisions now, you will reap the benefits later.

you should investigate.

3

FAQS

19 TIMETABLES AND FACTS

27

ESTABLISHED IN

1932

7000+ ALUMNI PRACTICING IN ALL 50 STATES AND WORLDWIDE

538

STUDENTS WERE ATTENDED SCO IN 2019-2020

9:1 STUDENT-TOFACULTY RATIO

SCO 101 Founded in 1932, Southern College of Optometry

The college’s academic facilities utilize cutting

is an independent non-for-profit coeducational

edge technology and interactive instructional

institution of higher learning. As the largest

methods, including Tegrity, a comprehensive

optometry school in the south, SCO has

classroom recording system that video records

graduated over 8,000 optometrists, including

class sessions for later playback. Students

12 presidents of the American Optometric

also use Moodle, an internet-based course

Association.

management system. In 2013, SCO built a state-

SCO offers a four-year curriculum with courses in the biomedical, optometric and clinical sciences leading to the Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) Degree. Students learn in state-of-the-art facilities that include biomedical labs, expanded and renovated optometry labs, laser instruction, and biomedical and clinical research areas.

of-the-art academic and educational facility to provide greater classroom space and technology access over 23,016 new square feet of space.

SCO also offers a 14,264 square foot Activity Center that features basketball, volleyball and racquetball courts, fitness equipment, aerobics, along with a recreation area.

Our mission is to lead the profession of optometry by educating the best possible healthcare providers, promoting lifelong learning,

With a low 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, SCO’s faculty are easily accessible for one-on-one

and fostering

classroom and/or clinical instruction. Faculty members engage in a wide range of research

a personal

projects, including a collaborative summer

commitment

research program with students. By contributing to basic and visual science literature, faculty

to service.

research enriches each student’s classroom experience.

5

SCO AWARDED VOLUNTEER MEMPHIS 2019 CORPORATE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR MEDIUM EMPLOYER CATEGORY

Committed To Service

Optometry is a people profession dedicated to enriching the vision health

One of the hallmarks of the SCO mission is

SCO is renowned for providing the highest

fostering a personal commitment to service.

quality and comprehensive optometric patient

Optometry is a people profession dedicated

care services and clinical education. Our

to enriching the vision health and lives of

clinical facility, The Eye Center, is the largest

patients. That same sense of helping others is

state-of-the-art vision and eye care facility in

encouraged in SCO’s students through service-

the nation.

learning.

The Eye Center features examination rooms

SCO’s students serve others in a variety of

equipped with the latest in electronic health

positive ways. Some are active in the local

record management systems, 14 individual

community by tutoring and mentoring at risk

spaces for advanced technology-based testing, a

students. Others volunteer their time with

retinal laser center, a digital angiography center,

service projects such as the annual Martin

an advanced procedures and observatory suite,

Luther King Day event where volunteers paint

conference rooms for group learning, a patient

or renovate a local school.

simulation laboratory, an optical service area,

SVOSH members have seen over 200,000 patients in 16 different countries. SVOSH members work year-round to prepare for their 10-day mission to impoverished international

and lives of

areas to provide free eye care and glasses to

patients.

Students also travel to Remote Area Medical

underprivileged citizens.

and practice suites which enable interns to experience an exceptional practice atmosphere with the attending staff doctors. The facility is designed to be patient friendly, student friendly, and doctor friendly.

The Eye Center has 48,000 square feet of

clinics in underserved areas to provide vision screenings. Volunteering at the Special Olympics is also another way our students give back to others.

usable space and provides the opportunity to introduce clinical exposure to the students early in the curriculum. Interns also join faculty members in seeing patients at The FocalPoint at Crosstown Concourse and University Eyecare on the campus of the University of Memphis.

Whether volunteering time or service through

The MobilEYES Community Vision unit takes

an awareness event or a student organization,

care directly to patients as it travels throughout

opportunities are plentiful for the SCO

the community.

community to make a difference in the lives of others by giving back to those who need our service.

7

Our student diversity makes the SCO experience a true learning endeavor.

Student Life Approximately 90% of SCO students are active members in at

SCO has a diverse student body, evidenced in the various

least one student organization. For almost any organization

academic backgrounds, geographical representations,

which exists on undergraduate campuses, a comparable

ethnicities, and life experiences our students have. For

organization is active at SCO.

example, our current students come from 44 states, Canada,

The Student Government Association recommends policies and coordinates many of the academic, service and social

China and Ethiopia. Our diversity makes the SCO experience a true learning endeavor.

events on campus. The SGA oversees an extensive intramural

The geographic representation of the SCO student body for

program open to all students, spouses, faculty and staff.

the 2019-2020 academic year is as follows:

Intramural sports include basketball, softball, golf, flag

Alabama................... 8

Maine........................0

Oregon........................ 1

football, racquetball, and volleyball, with many events housed

Alaska.......................0

Maryland................. 9

Pennsylvania........ 9

Arizona..................... 4

Massachusetts...... 1

Rhode Island......... 2

Arkansas.............. 40

Michigan................15

South Carolina...... 9

California................ 4

Minnesota............... 8

South Dakota......... 2

Colorado................... 2

Mississippi...........27

Tennessee.............78

Connecticut...........0

Missouri................. 14

Texas........................ 18

Delaware..................0

Montana...................0

Utah ..........................13

Florida.....................27

Nebraska.................15

Vermont.................... 1

in the SCO Activity Center.

The following is a list of the student organizations on campus:

• AMERICAN OPTOMETRIC

• OMEGA DELTA,

• BETA SIGMA KAPPA • COLLEGE OF

• OPTOMETRY PRIVATE

STUDENT ASSOCIATION

OPTOMETRISTS IN VISION DEVELOPMENT

• CONTACT LENS SOCIETY • FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN OPTOMETRISTS

• GAMMA OMICRON • GOLD KEY SOCIETY • LIONS CLUB • LOW VISION CLUB • NATIONAL OPTOMETRIC STUDENT ASSOCIATION

• NEURO-OPTOMETRIC REHABILITATION ASSOCIATION

• OCULAR DISEASE CLUB

IOTA CHAPTER

PRACTICE CLUB

• REMOTE AREA MEDICAL • SPECTRUM • SPORTS VISION SOCIETY • STATE CLUBS • STUDENT AMBASSADOR

Georgia....................29

Nevada....................... 1

Virginia.................. 10

Hawaii.......................0

New Hampshire....1

Washington............ 6

• STUDENT CHAPTER OF THE

Idaho.......................... 3

New Jersey............. 2

West Virginia........ 9

Illinois......................16

New Mexico........... 2

Wisconsin............... 9

• STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Indiana..................... 4

New York.................. 3

Wyoming.................. 1

• STUDENT PUBLIC HEALTH

Iowa.......................... 18

North Carolina.....21

Kansas.....................21

North Dakota.......... 1

Canada...................... 5

Kentucky................13

Ohio.......................... 18

China.......................... 1

Louisiana...............33

Oklahoma................ 3

Ethiopia..................... 1

PROGRAM

ACADEMY OF AMERICAN OPTOMETRY ASSOCIATION

VISION CARE ASSOCIATION

• STUDENT VOLUNTEERS IN OPTOMETRIC SERVICE TO HUMANITY – SVOSH

9

SCO SERVES AS THE OFFICIAL EYE DOCTORS OF THE MEMPHIS TIGERS, THE MEMPHIS REDBIRDS, AND THE 901FC SOCCER FRANCHISE

Memphis One of the reasons why the student experience is enjoyable is that SCO is located in Memphis. A big city with a small town feel, Memphis has one of the lowest costs of living in the nation. This allows our students to enjoy many of the things Memphis has to offer, yet at an affordable price.

Sitting on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis is known for its rich musical heritage. With Graceland, the home of Elvis; Beale Street, birthplace of the blues; numerous musical clubs ranging from rock ‘n roll to jazz; and an array of festivals throughout the year, SCO students have many

is a manageable drive home or a flight away for most students.

The Memphis sports scene is very active. The city is home to the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies, who play their home games just minutes from SCO in the FedEx Forum, located in the heart of

opportunities to enjoy the sounds of Memphis.

the Beale Street District.

Memphis is renowned for its culture. The Memphis in

SCO students enjoy going to the Memphis Redbirds (AAA

May International Festival annually hosts and celebrates another country’s culture, music, and cuisine. This festival also sponsors the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, and the Beale Street Music Festival. Memphis offers the historically acclaimed National Civil Rights Museum and various other museums and galleries. The city is also home

Baseball) games at Auto Zone Park, voted one of the best baseball venues in America. The 901FC Soccer Team is a student favorite whose uniforms display the college logo.

Memphis also annually hosts professional tour tennis and golf tournaments. If you prefer college sports, the city not only has the University of Memphis, but is also in the heart of the

to a great selection of locally-owned restaurants with a broad

Southeastern Conference.

range of cuisines, most of which are well within a student’s

Memphis is home to one of the largest retail stores in

budget. Conveniently, many of these attractions are located in or near the city’s rejuvenated Downtown area just minutes from SCO. Students with families find Memphis a great place to live.

Because Memphis offers a low cost of living and very reasonable housing market, about 10% of SCO students own a home. The city is also home to the wonderful Children’s Museum and the Memphis Zoo and Aquarium, which both offer family discounts. Plus, being centrally located, Memphis

the world, Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. The massive destination experience offers something for everyone, from the serious outdoor enthusiast to families looking to have fun.

The weather in Memphis is moderate with average high temperature is in the 90s during the summer and relatively mild winters. This allows our students to enjoy the numerous parks, lakes, golf courses and other outside endeavors year-round.

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3.61 | 336

GPA | OAT SCORES FOR THE ENTERING CLASS OF 2019, THE MOST COMPETITIVE IN SCO HISTORY

Admissions SCO participates in the centralized application service

30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours completed at a

known as OptomCAS. The service collects official transcripts

four-year college or university. Strong preference is given

and letters of recommendation and forwards them with

to applicants with baccalaureate or higher degrees. The

the application to each school to which the applicant

pre-requisite courses are as follows:

applies. SCO accepts applications July 1 through March 1; however, applying in the early stages of the cycle is strongly encouraged. SCO utilizes a rolling admissions process and offers of acceptance begin in August each year.

SCO requires a minimum of one letter of recommendation from a pre-health advisor or natural science professor and one letter of recommendation from an optometrist with whom

Like any endeavor worth pursuing in life, it takes careful preparation to become an optometrist. the applicant has worked or shadowed but is not related.

OptomCAS accepts up to four letters of recommendation, so be sure these two are among those sent to OptomCAS. Before an interview invitation can be extended, SCO must receive all application and supplemental documents, as well as the official Optometry Admission Test (OAT) scores.

Interview invitations are only extended to the most promising applicants based upon academic performance, OAT scores, and experience in optometry.

• General Biology w/labs (1 year)

• General Physics w/labs (1 year)

• Microbiology w/lab (1 course)

• Calculus (1 course )

• General Chemistry w/labs (1 year) • Organic Chemistry w/lab (1 course ) • Biochemistry (1 course )

• Statistics (1 course ) • General Psychology (1 course ) • Social Science (1 year) • English (1 year)

For the 2020-2021 academic year, non-regional tuition is $38,292. A limited number of regional seats are available for competitive applicants from states that support contracts with SCO. The contracts provide those students with significant reduction in tuition. For more information about regional seats, please contact the Student Services Office or visit the SCO website.

SCO attracts students nationally and internationally. The college recruits and visits close to 100 campuses annually.

Updated listings of those visits are found in the Events for Prospective Students section of the SCO website. Prior to application, prospective students are encouraged to schedule a campus visit to meet with an admissions officer and receive a tour of SCO. For more detailed information or to schedule a campus tour, contact the Student Services Office at

A minimum of 90 semester or 135 quarter hours of under-

admissions@sco.edu or 800-238-0180. More information can

graduate work is required for admission, with at least

also be found on our website at sco.edu.

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23

# OF YEARS OUR GRADUATES HAVE MAINTAINED A 0% DEFAULT RATE

Finance and Manage Debt One of SCO’s primary objectives is to provide students with

debt management program where financial aid officers

the means to complete our program with the least possible

work closely with each student in developing a budget and

debt at graduation. The first step in managing debt is

planning out financial needs, leading our students to be better

controlling what you spend.

borrowers. This program, coupled with minimal tuition

Our Financial Aid Office works individually with students to develop realistic financing strategies. Counselors meet with

increases and added scholarships and awards, has led to SCO graduates having a 0% default rate for the past 23 years.

students at least annually through our Debt Management

Below is a loan repayment chart using the example of a SCO

Program to make sure students have sufficient funds at

graduate who accumulates $130,000 in student loans. The

the best rates, and that they are borrowing wisely. Our Debt

chart uses annual net income projections in line with national

Management Program educates students on how debt can

averages and is assuming a repayment period of 10 years with

also be minimized through budgeting, personal savings,

no deductions taken.

maintaining zero credit card balances, and part-time work.

Years after graduation

Annual net income

After tax net monthly income

Monthly loan repayment

After tax net monthly income after payment

students to work on campus up to 20 hours per week.

1

$90,000

$6,064

$1,335

$4,729

To apply for Federal loans and/or Federal Work-study,

2

$97,500

$6,529

$1,335

$5,194

each student must submit the Free Application for Federal

3

$105,000

$6,980

$1,335

$5,645

Student Aid to the Federal government. A student’s ability to

4

$112,000

$7,429

$1,335

$6,094

5

$120,000

$7,879

$1,335

$6,544

6-10

$140,000

$9,080

$1,335

$7,745

SCO participates in the Federal Work-study Program allowing

contribute to educational costs will be calculated according to Federal criteria and will determine eligibility.

A growing number of scholarships and awards are annually disbursed to enrolled students through our endowed scholarship program and our Student Awards Program.

Almost 30% of SCO students receive academic scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 per year.

This chart uses a federal loan rate of 6.21%. Since most graduates have some tax deductions (i.e. marriage, children, mortgage, etc.), these estimates are conservative. Many SCO graduates choose to slightly increase the amount of their monthly repayments. This method, even with only a small

Graduating with the least possible debt allows our alumni

increase each month, will shorten a 10-year repayment

greater flexibility in repaying loans and thus greater personal

schedule by several years.

financial freedom. SCO’s Office of Financial Aid offers a

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215

Rewarding academic and clinical excellence through scholarships is a top priorty for SCO. TOTAL NUMBER OF 4-YEAR SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED IN 2019

Scholarships and Awards SCO is committed to helping students to lower their

• $20,000 (5)

• $7,000 (10)

indebtedness level. This is evidenced by the significant

• $15,000 (10)

• $5,000 (10)

number of endowed scholarships the college provides.

• $10,000 (15)

• $1,000-4,000 (10)

Eligibility requirements vary, but most require exemplary achievements in academics, OAT performance, leadership and/or service.

In addition to the endowed scholarships awarded to entering students, SCO offers other endowed scholarships and awards to currently enrolled students through the Annual Student

Approximately $550,000 was scheduled to be awarded to the

Awards Program.

entering class of 2020 through the endowed scholarship fund.

A complete listing of scholarships with the requirements for each is published in the college catalog; however, SCO annually awards four-year scholarships to more than onethird of each entering class. Annual scholarships anticipated

SCO is actively seeking to expand the number of scholarship opportunities award to students. Rewarding academic and clinical achievement through scholarships is a top priority for the college and its alumni.

for the entering class of 2020 include:

Rewarding academic and clinical excellence through scholarships is a top priority for the college.

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FAQs

How do I apply for admission and how difficult is it to get into SCO?

scholarships as well — the earlier you apply, the more money is available! It is also a good idea to be familiar with the day-to-day of an optometrist. That can mean

Lauren Watson | Baltimore, MD | SCO Class of 2021

shadowing them, working in an office, learning about

Applications for all optometry schools are submitted

your state’s laws affecting optometry. Many students

through a centralized application service called Optom-

came in not having worked in an optometrists office, but

CAS. This will be where you enter all of your personal

we all had a good knowledge of the profession we were

information, transcripts, letters of recommendation,

choosing. Lastly, I would recommend being professional

personal statement, shadowing and work experience,

during the entire application process.

etc. SCO requires two letters of recommendation, one

If chosen for an interview, those will occur from August-

from a pre-professional advisor or science professor

March. Enjoy the day and really ask all the questions

and the other from a practicing optometrist who is

you would like!

not related to you. We also require some pre-requisite classes that can be found on our website. In addition to

What are the similarities and differences between optometry and medical school

the OptomCAS application, SCO requires a supplemental application, which can be found on our website. Lastly, we will need a copy of your OAT scores. Applications are

accepted July 1-March 1 every year.

Marie Huegel | Blythewood, SC | SCO Class of 2021

Medical school and optometry school are very similar

Southern College of Optometry is competitive in that

in many ways beyond them both being in the medical

many students are interested in participating in our

field. They both require a great deal of dedication

program. We have a very positive reputation in the

because they consist of four years of didactic and

optometric community. Last year, we had about 821

clinical training. Medical school gives physicians the

applicants and our class was 136 in size. The mean GPA

ability to enter into any particular field of the human

was a 3.56, and the mean OAT was a 331. Don’t fret if you

body: dermatology, ophthalmology, surgery, neurology,

don’t meet those numbers--that is just an average and

orthopedics, etc., which is why their education is very

SCO looks at much more than numbers to determine

detailed in each system of the body. On the other hand,

the class.

optometry is concentrated in the eyes from the

To become a competitive applicant, I would suggest

very beginning.

applying early. This will put you in a good spot to receive

19

CONTINUED

>>>

How expensive is optometry school? How will I finance my education?

During the third year of each school, students start seeing their own patients under a staff doctor. The fourth year of school consists of externships, where the students rotate among different sites of their choosing

Christopher Pope | Orem, UT | SCO Class of 2022

and continue their skills and knowledge by seeing more

One of the top reasons I picked SCO was because of its

patients in a particular setting such as a private practice,

competitive tuition price tag! Although the tuition is at

VA, hospital, and more. The tuition and costs of books

a great price, I want to shed light on some more things

are very similar among optometry and medical school.

to consider. Here are some potential items to include

After the four-year degree, many doctors continue their education by completing a residency. A residency is further advancement in education in a concentrated area such as pediatrics or primary care. With medical school, it is required that everyone completes a residency, which can be anywhere between three and seven years. Whereas with optometry, a residency is not

in your future budget: cost of equipment, club fees, optometry conventions, national board study materials, notetaker notes, rent, transportation, food/beverage, subscriptions, cell phone, insurance, professional clothing‌the list goes on. The good news is that the Memphis, TN area has one of the lowest costs of living among optometry school locations.

required to become a practicing license optometrist. A

That is a lot to think about, huh? Here is a resource

residency in optometry is between one and two years.

that SCO provides to get an idea of how much all four

The process of applying to optometry and medical school are very similar. An admission test is required to ensure a basic knowledge of certain areas are mastered before attending school: biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and reading comprehension. The MCAT is required for medical school and contains a behavior

years will cost: https://www.sco.edu/debt-calculatorfor-prospective-students. I would suggest starting to plan and prepare now! Whether you are in high school, college, or starting optometry school this fall you can start now by living on a budget, working, and saving money.

sciences section. The OAT is required for optometry

Another reason I chose SCO was because of their

school and consists of a mathematics and physics

generous scholarship program. Almost half of students

section. They both have multiple applications and an

receive annual scholarships ranging from $1,000 -

interview round.

$20,000! Applying early to SCO will help increase your

If you have a passion for vision and ocular health, optometry is the field for you.

opportunity of receiving a scholarship!

Our Financial Aid department staff members are

degree of some kind. Initially, I was concerned about

seasoned in helping you set up your FAFSA, create a

keeping up with the rigorous course load, but I believe

budget, apply for Federal Work-Study positions, visit

the pre-requisites adequately prepared me for optometry

options offered by the military, and navigate the waters

school. I recommend seeking the guidance of a health

of student loans. There are various loans with differing

professions advisor at your undergraduate university.

interest rates. They help translate that information for

They helped me as I completed the pre-requisites to

you, so you understand what happens now and in the

ensure that I would still be considered a competitive

future. SCO cares about students by providing the most

applicant, despite not having a science degree.

affordable and thorough optometric education!

I strongly encourage taking an anatomy and physiology course before starting optometry school. Regardless of major, previous exposure to this subject is very helpful,

Do I need a degree in science?

because the first semester of SCO is anatomy heavy.

Anatomy courses aren’t a required pre-requisite for SCO,

Griffin Allen | Troy, AL | Class of 2022

but I am thankful that I had taken them at undergrad,

No - you actually do not need a degree in science to

because I feel I was better prepared for such a broad

attend optometry school! However, you do have to take

subject once I began the classes at SCO.

the required pre-requisite science courses to attend SCO, which is important in both making you a competitive

Is optometry a career with a strong future? How will I find employment after graduation?

applicant as well as preparing you for the graduate level courses you will take at optometry school. Having a degree in science means that a majority of these

required pre-requisites will already be covered in your

Kaitlyn Streachek | Eau Claire, WI | SCO Class of 2023

Optometry is certainly a career with a strong future.

undergraduate degree.

Growth in the optometry field has significantly risen in

I have a degree in European History and a minor in

the last few years and shows no sign of slowing down.

French! I took all the required pre-requisites for SCO

There are a significant number of states that are now

after I finished my undergrad degree and finished them

expanding the scope of the profession and specialties

during the application process. Applying to optometry

are growing. Optometry provides patients care they

school without having a degree in the sciences was

are unable to get anywhere else. As a specialized

intimidating, as most applicants do have a science

profession outside the typical MD scope, we are often

21

the first doctor a patient may see in a significant period

patients, every student will be exposed to all aspects

of time. With everything from primary care to vision

of practicing optometry. While every optometry school

therapy, pediatrics, and geriatrics there is no shortage of

offers clinical experience, The Eye Center is especially

opportunities in an optometry career.

unique because of its location. Memphis is a historical

Networking opportunities on the national scope and on our SCO campus provide many of our students and graduates amazing opportunities for employment after graduation. The Hayes Center for Practice Excellence on SCO’s campus brings many practicing optometrists, courses and resources to SCO students to provides them with the opportunity to prepare for interviews, contract signing and practicing soon after graduation. The Hayes Center even has a database full of open positions in many practice modalities across the country looking for a new doctor. SCO wants to ensure all of its graduates are provided the best possible education and resources to ensure they are successful!

city with many wonderful sights and sounds, but the city is also home to a significant population in poverty.

As such, The Eye Center caters to low-income families with many systemic and ocular diseases. While unfortunate for the patient, this provides many excellent learning opportunities for the student doctors at SCO. Along with general eye care there are many specialty concentrations within the eye center. From low vision to pediatric – our fastest growing concentration – each student will get the opportunity to rotate through all of these areas. Student doctors are with patients from the beginning of the exam to the end when the patient walks out of the door. All imaging and testing are done in-house and students come up with a diagnosis and plan together with the staff doctor for each patient

How will The Eye Center enhance my education at SCO?

Kalen Thompson | Sanford, FL | SCO Class of 2023

Southern College of Optometry offers the highest degree

they see. SCO prides itself on the clinical experience that student doctors receive and students are well prepared with the tools they need to practice full-scope optometry.

of Optometric education, however, there is no question

How difficult is optometry school?

Will I have time for my family/ personal life?

that crown jewel of the institution is The Eye Center.

Spanning over 50,000 square feet, The Eye Center is one of the largest eye clinics in the world. Each day The

Courtney Beaumont | Tampa, FL | SCO Class of 2021

Eye Center sees around 350 patients, which translates to around 60,000 patients per year. With this volume of

Optometry school courses are definitely challenging, but none are impossibly difficult, individually. The difficulty

that most refer to when talking about optometry school

also pretty much impossible to do when faced with the

stems from the sheer volume of information that

massive course load of optometry school. I also realized

you are responsible for, which greatly outweighs any

that my “studying” in undergrad also consisted of

undergraduate curriculum. However, in some ways,

reading a BuzzFeed article, getting a third Frappuccino,

optometry school is easier than undergrad because

scrolling through FaceBook, and chit chatting with

every class you take will have a direct impact on your

friends. As an optometry school student, I can now

future patients and your career. As you’ve probably

make two hours of studying as fruitful and productive

guessed, if you try to tackle optometry school in the

as the 8 hours I would spend studying in undergrad. By

same way many tackle undergrad (all-nighters fueled by

putting away my iPhone, and setting a goal for what I

pizza the night before the exam) you’re likely headed for

want to accomplish in those next couple hours I can

a mid-semester mental breakdown! For me, success in

master skills and concepts in a shorter amount of time.

optometry school has come from consistency. Studying

Efficiency in my studying has allowed me to make

a little bit every day, active studying (more than just

time for the other things in my life that are important

reading my notes), and group studying has helped me

me. Like taking my sweet pup to the dog park, or finally

turn what we learn in class into knowledge that sticks

getting to the top of a rock climbing route!

with me, rather than knowledge that leaves my brain

Self-discipline is a virtue vital to just about any venture

the moment I submit my exam.

that you will undertake, and optometry school is no

As I alluded to, success in optometry school requires

exception. I’ve found that in order to have time for my

consistency and consistency equals time. Well, how do

family and myself, and still be successful in school I’ve

you juggle family, friends, and hobbies if your time is

had to have discipline to wake up an hour or so early

dominated by optometry school? As a wife, dog mom,

to prepare for class, and to be intentional about my

rock climbing enthusiast, and animal shelter volunteer

time and commitments. I’ve done my best to discipline

it was difficult for me to strike a balance between school

myself so that when it’s time for studying and school

and personal life. I found that efficiency and discipline

work, I’m giving it everything I’ve got, and because

to be the key ingredients in being able to still be me in

I do that I can have time for fun. It’s a balancing act!

optometry school.

Optometry school prepares you for a full time job; both professionally and personally if you do it right!

In undergrad, I would spend an entire day studying for one exam, but when I got to optometry school, I realized that not only is that a miserable way to spend a day, it’s

23

Is it difficult to work while going to optometry school?

Michelle Yan | Hillsdale, NJ | SCO Class of 2023

schedules are structured. However, 3rd and 4th year students do pursue these positions as well on a more limited schedule. Besides Federal Work Study, there are also paid opportunities for students to be a teaching

One of the most challenging aspects of graduate level

assistant, tutor, notetaker coordinator, or notetaker.

education is financing the various expenses through

These positions are great because you can support your

loans, scholarships, and other means. As a result,

peers while reinforcing and practicing what you are

students may choose to earn some income during the

learning in school. Finally, some SCO students choose to

year to help offset costs. Not all students have the time and ability to work during the school year, but for those who can, it is a great opportunity to take a break from studying, interact with SCO staff, and get paid.

work part-time on weekends for a local optometry office or business. In all cases, whether you work or not, it is important to remember that you are here as a student first. Maintaining a healthy balance of study, work, and self-care is key when deciding how much to work.

I have found that allotting a few hours a week for work provides a nice variation to the routine and

What activities are available to students at SCO?

helps me to study more efficiently. In my experience, if you set reasonable hours and know your personal limits, it is certainly manageable to work while

Jackie Malish | Dallas, TX | SCO Class of 2023

attending optometry school. Federal Work Study is the most common way for students to pursue part-time employment, and you can apply for the program through the FAFSA application. Throughout the year, SCO offers work-study positions in many departments around the school such as the Library, The Eye Center, and Institutional Advancement. The benefit of work-study is that it is specifically designed with student life in mind: students can schedule hours around their academic schedule and do not have to leave campus to work.

Most SCO students are involved in several organizations outside of class and clinic. Joining a club is a great way to expand on the knowledge you learn in lectures, network with professionals in the field, and volunteer for service opportunities to use your newly developed optometric skills. Since everyone shares the same academic schedule, clubs are able to schedule meetings around exams and other campus events so that students don’t have too many conflicts.

Furthermore, tasks are usually not strenuous – on a

The first week of school, there is an Activity Fair

slow day, you can even study on the job. Work-study

open to all students to meet campus organization

students usually work 2-10 hours per week and tend

representatives and sign up for their meeting email list!

to be 1st and 2nd years because of the way clinic

This is a great way for first-year students to get involved

and see everything SCO has to offer. You can also find

the most popular student organizations are those that

a list of active campus organizations and a little blurb

center around community outreach and eye care service

about each on SCO’s website.

trips such as Student Volunteer Optometric Service to Humanity (SVOSH), Lion’s Club, Fellowship of Christian

Several clubs exist to promote networking and advocacy

Optometrists (FCO), and Remote Area Medical. After

for the optometric profession. These include: American

fundraising throughout the year, each summer SVOSH

Optometric Student Association (AOSA), Optometric

and FCO send over 80 students to countries across

Private Practice, National Optometric Student

Central and South America to provide free vision care to

Association (NOSA), Gamma Omicron, and state and

underserved populations.

regional clubs. These clubs often hold large meetings or sponsor campus events and offer many opportunities

SCO doesn’t forget that you need to have fun, too!

for leadership.

Intramurals are very popular with students, with sports like football, basketball, and volleyball running

Other clubs offer more insight into focused-areas within

year-round. Competition is friendly but fierce. SCO also

the optometric profession including the Contact Lens

has a social fraternity called Omega Delta that plans fun

Society, Sports Vision, College of Optometrists in Vision

parties around Memphis.

Development (COVD), Student Public Health Vision Care Association, Ocular Disease, and Low Vision. These

Finally, SCO and the city of Memphis offer very diverse

clubs hold regular dinner meetings that typically host

populations and communities. I encourage you to

a speaker with experience in that area to build on

connect with community groups on campus such

classroom learning!

as Spectrum or morning bible-study groups and find activities around Memphis that align with your hobbies

SCO would not be the same without its student leaders

and interests. I’ve enjoyed attending free art festivals,

involved in Student Government Association and

outdoor activities at the Memphis River Parks, pay-

Student Ambassadors that serve as representatives

what-you can rock climbing at Memphis Rox, and trying

of the student body to administration, guests, and

as many restaurants around town as my budget allows.

prospective students. Getting involved in either of these

Overall, SCO’s expansive organization options and

groups is a great way to directly impact the current and

location in Memphis serve as an outlet to help students

future operations of SCO.

find the balance and involvement needed to become

Joining a service-based organization allows you to give

well-rounded doctors and leaders

back to local and global communities. Beta Sigma Kappa .

and Gold Key, both of which are honor societies, sponsor different service projects throughout the year. Some of

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sco.edu

@SCOnews

@southerncollegeofoptometry

southerncollegeofoptometry

SCOedu

Timetables and Facts ADMISSIONS

FINANCIAL AID

Entering Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Each Fall (Late August)

Financial Aid Application Cycle. . . . . . January-April (all 4 years)*

Application Cycle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 1-March 1

Registration/Financial Aid Disbursements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Each semester

Admissions Decisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rolling Percent Receiving Financial Aid. . . . . . 85% First Admissions Decisions . . . . . . . . . . Mid-August Debt Management Counseling. . . . . . . . Annually OAT Administration Deadline. . . . . . . . March 1 of entering year

* Financial aid application packets (SCO application and FAFSA) are sent

in early January to students accepted into the program by that date.

Tentative Class Size. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Students accepted after January are sent the financial aid application packets along with their acceptance letters. Enrolled students must re-

States Represented . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

apply annually for financial aid.

Foreign Countries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canada, China and Ethiopia Non-Regional Tuition 2020-2021. . . . . . $38,292 Regional Tuition 2020-2021* Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $19,092 Kansas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $31,792

ANNUAL SECURITY REPORT

Applicants to Southern College of Optometry may access the Annual Security Report posted on the college website, sco.edu/campus-safety. The report contains safety efforts and statistics for the campus. Applicants may also request a printed copy by contacting the Safety and Security Department at 901-722-3312 or emailing donhenson@sco.edu.

Tennessee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $28,552 West Virginia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $26,782 * Regional tuition is available for a limited number of students from each regional state. Acceptance does not guarantee the regional tuition.

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1245 Madison Avenue • Memphis, Tennessee 38104-2222 • 901-722-3224 • 800-238-0180 • sco.edu Information for this publication was gathered from the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, the American Optometric Association (AOA), the Journal of the AOA, the Academy of Ophthalmology and the Opticians Association of America.