International Advanced Placement OD Degree Program
The Advanced Placement Doctor of Optometry degree (APOD) program offers an additional pathway to the OD degree specifically for interested and qualified international practitioners. Eligible applicants will be given the opportunity for a customized course of study that is designed based upon the applicant’s previous educational background, clinical experience, career goals and demonstrated competency during their program.
What is the Advanced Placement OD Program?
- The Advanced Placement OD program is an alternative pathway to the OD degree for international applicants.
- It is customized by the APOD administrative team, not by the students.
- It is an accelerated pathway to the OD degree that takes most students approximately 36 months to complete.
- Students pay a per credit tuition rate that is billed each term.
- Completing the OD degree via this pathway has the potential to save students time to complete the OD degree.
How is the APOD Program Customized?
- Customization of a student’s course of study is based on their performance in didactic and clinical coursework, including competency exams at PCO, as well as their ultimate career goals.
- There are designated didactic and clinical courses for which students can earn credit by examination.
- Students are given the option of taking competency examinations for designated courses at the beginning of a term.
We encourage you to meet with the Office of Admissions to prepare for the application process. For more information, review the Admissions Criteria and FAQ sections below.