Partnership Program with the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University

Direct entry and a fast track to the optometry profession is available to USciences students through an arrangement with Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University (PCO).

Each year, 25 eligible USciences students are selected for guaranteed seats at the Elkins Park, Pennsylvania school, an innovator in developing optometrists.

Program Options

As a student in one of the following tracks, you’ll complete either three or four years at USciences before matriculating to PCO, earning both your bachelor of science (BS) and doctor of optometry (OD) degrees.

3+4 Program

In this accelerated program, you must complete three years at USciences as a biology or biomedical sciences major, followed by four years at PCO—earning both your BS and OD degrees.

4+4 Program

As a student in the 4+4 program, you must complete four years at USciences as any major to receive your BS degree. Following successful completion of four years at PCO, you will then receive your OD degree.

Eligibility Requirements

High School Applicants

Highly motivated students in their final year of high school with a desire to become an optometrist and who are accepted to USciences are eligible.

Current USciences Students

Current USciences are eligible to apply if there are seats available. Notify your pre-med advisor and apply before the end of your first undergraduate year or no later than the end of the spring semester of your second undergraduate year.

To apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum overall GPA of 3.0
• No course grade less than a C
• Other evidence of scholarly and professional potential and demonstration of the desire to become an optometrist

Program Requirements for Guaranteed Interview

3+4 Program Requirements

• Only Biology or Biomedical Sciences Majors eligible
• Complete at least 90 credits
• Maintain an overall GPA ≥ 3.0
• Receive a competitive OAT score
• Complete all application materials by December 1^st of the third undergraduate year

4+4 Program Requirements

• Any major eligible
• Receive a competitive OAT score
• Complete all application materials by December 1^st of the fourth undergraduate year

Partner Program Application Timeline

Apply at the end of first or second year

Students may re-apply if not initially selected