Dec 22, 2024  
2016-17 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2016-17 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Optometry, Combined Program


This is a combined program (3+4) with Salus University.

About the Program


Adviser: Dr. Chester Mikulski

  • Three years at Arcadia University
  • Four years at Salus University
  • B.A. in Interdisciplinary Science and Doctor of Optometry

Arcadia University has an accelerated, combined plan with Salus University (formerly the Pennsylvania College of Optometry) that allows students to complete a Doctor of Optometry degree in seven years.

During the first three years students study at Arcadia University, taking basic courses in the physical and biological sciences. The nationally standardized Optometry Aptitude Test (OAT) is taken during the fall of the third year. The score on this test, as well as the rest of the students’ academic credentials, are submitted to a joint Arcadia-Salus committee. Salus reserves a minimum of four places yearly for Arcadia students. Upon selection, students enroll the following year at Salus.

Arcadia University awards a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Science after completion of a student’s first year at Salus. After  completion of the four years of professional study there, Salus awards a Doctor of Optometry degree.

Program Requirements


At Arcadia University: specific courses as listed below, with electives to total 96 credits.

At Salus University: four years of professional study.

Five Chemistry Courses


Undergraduate Curriculum Requirements


  • First-Year Seminar
  • Global Connections Experience and Reflection
  • Additional Integrative Learning requirement
  • Areas of Inquiry: Creative Expressions, Cultural Legacies, Self and Society (one of each)
  • Writing-designated course

Course Sequence


The curriculum is designed so that all Arcadia requirements can be completed in three years. Below is a suggested sequence of courses.

First Year

  • Fall: BI 101, CH 111, EN 101, FY 103
  • Spring: BI 102, CH 112, MA 201, UGCR (Undergraduate Curriculum requirement)

Second Year 

  • Fall: BI 206, CH 201, PH 201, UGCR
  • Spring: BI 205, CH 202, PH 202, MA 141

Third Year

  • Fall: BI 204, BI 325, UGCR, UGCR
  • Spring: BI 323, CH 303, UGCR, UGCR

Options


If students choose to remain at Arcadia University for the senior year, they can choose one of these options: