Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, seeking to prepare for future needs, recently launched a Doctor of Optometry program.

“With the aging American population presenting a growing demand for optometrists specialized in common age-related eye conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, myopia, and more, RMU has proactively responded to this pressing need,” said Cameron Martin, RMU president.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a 10% growth in optometrist employment over the next decade, according to Martin.

“There is a growing shortage of optometrists across the country. Our Doctor of Optometry program will help to reverse that trend,” Adam Hickenbotham, dean of the college of optometry, said in a press release. “We were excited to start this May with an inaugural class of 59 students.”

Located in Provo, RMU’s College of Optometry has brought students from across the United States who are seeking medical education and training in the field. Toni Brown was the first student accepted and enrolled into the OD program.

“I felt like part of the family [as soon as] they accepted me,” Brown said in a press release. “Everyone cares about your success, it’s been a great experience.”

Jared Foster, also part of the inaugural class, said he chose to attend Rocky Mountain in part because of the curriculum.

“With the population increasing, we’re going to need more specialized optometrists who understand the entire body as a whole rather than just eyes and lenses,” Foster said.

Students still have another four years before they will complete the program, during which time RMU’s Doctor of Optometry program seeks to prepare them to become competent and compassionate optometrists. Upon graduation, RMU’s program will prepare the students for advancement through residency training or placements in private practice, multidisciplinary clinics, hospitals and clinical research studies, according to Martin.

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