The Michigan College of Optometry prepares doctoral and post-doctoral students for successful careers as optometric health care providers serving patients and society with integrity and professionalism. The program serves the health care needs of the public through its research, scholarly activity, evidence-based clinical education, and patient-centered care.
With three different admission programs, applicants have multiple paths to start their optometric journey. Explore these options to evaluate which program works best for you!
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Join a community of high-achieving future optometrists where curiosity and innovation is encouraged.
This is what our students say:
"MCO has really been a home away from home for me due to everyone trying to help us to succeed and cheering us on. I love the atmosphere of the small class size; it makes everyone feel like a family here." Taylor Phelps, Class of 2027
The clinic experience is a major component of optometric education. In fact, students have the opportunity to be in the clinic their first year as observers. Then, during the spring semester of their second year, students will earn their Optometry White Coat and begin seeing patients. Students will continue to encounter a wide variety and large quantity of patients with diverse eye conditions throughout their third year at MCO and while on externship during their fourth year.
The Michigan College of Optometry is affiliated with more than 40 externship sites across the United States and Canada. Students will be able to complete additional clinical rotations with recognized leaders in a number of specialty areas in any part of the country.
The Michigan College of Optometry offers two onsite residency programs as well as seven offsite affiliated programs.
MCO offers one competitive professional tuition for ALL students -- whether you're a Michigan resident or not!
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Ferris' main campus is located in Big Rapids, a mid-sized city with a small-town feel and big-city resources. Here, you are an hour from downtown Grand Rapids – Michigan's second largest city, the shores of Lake Michigan and just minutes from outdoor adventure.
The Michigan College of Optometry has over a dozen registered student organizations, including but not limited to: Optometry Student Government, Michigan Optometric Student Association, Vision Rehabilitation Club, Fellowship of Christan Optometrists, Private Practice Association and more!
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