Pennsylvania College of Optometry
Doctor of Optometry
Scholars Program
Financial Information
The cost of a professional education varies, depending on many factors. In addition to tuition and fees, there are living expenses, books, equipment and incidental expenses to be considered.
A variety of financial assistance, such as student loans, scholarships, grants, work opportunities, and state contributions (to optometric education), is available to students. Students interested in acquiring additional information or making application for financial assistance are urged to contact the University Financial Aid Office at 215.780.1330 or toll free at 800.824.6262.
Additional information relating to student financial assistance can be found in the Student Financial Handbook
---------------------------------------
Tuition and Fees
Doctor of Optometry Scholars Program 2013 – 2014
Tuition for the Doctor of Optometry program is set on an annual basis; the University has not yet established tuitions for any programs for the 2013-2014 academic year.
Tuition charges for all of the University’s academic programs are based on an analysis of the actual or full cost of education per student. In the case of the traditional four year OD program, tuition is divided over four years. In the case of the Scholars Program, the total cost of education will be divided over three years. Total tuition costs for the Scholars Program is equivalent to the costs of the traditional program.
Additionally, first year optometry students should expect to pay approximately $2550 in university fees. Please note: there is a $2,000 computer fee included in these fees. (See Technology Requirements.)
Tuition and fees are due and payable two weeks prior to the start of each session and are subject to change.
(Tuition, fees and other charges are subject to change).
Books and Instruments
Required and recommended books may be purchased through the University bookstore on the Elkins Park campus. In addition, it is necessary for optometric students to possess a number of instruments, which are available at the bookstore.
First-year optometry students in the Scholars Program should expect to pay approximately $3,640 for their books and instruments; the equivalent of the traditional program’s first and second year fees.
Technology Requirements
The Scholars Program requires all students to have laptops /tablets/PDAs that meet certain technical standards and service requirements. The University orders specific laptops/tablets/PDAs for all students and they are distributed to students during Orientation Week. (This technology requirement is reflected in the financial aid package.
Living Expenses
In planning for living expenses, students should consider room, board, transportation, medical, dental and personal expenses. The University provides a comprehensive health care program option. Students need to consider the costs relative to required externships, during which time they may be outside of the Philadelphia area. Students must provide their own transportation and housing during these assignments.
Campus Employment
The University Employment Program and the Federal College Work Study Program allow students to earn money through part-time jobs to help meet their expenses. The current pay rate is $10.00 per hour and eligible students may work in a large variety of job situations located throughout the University.
Scholarships and Awards
Participants in the Scholars Program are eligible to apply for all optometry scholarships, grants and awards offered by the College. For a more information.
02/25/2013