Optometrist in Canada: Universities, Licensing, Jobs & Salary (Complete Guide)

This comprehensive, up-to-date resource covers everything about becoming and working as an Optometrist in Canada — from education and licensing to job market, salary, financial aid, professional associations, events, and trusted job boards.

1) What is an Optometrist?

An Optometrist is a primary eye care professional who examines, diagnoses, and manages vision problems and certain eye diseases. Typical responsibilities include:

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses
  • Detection and management of eye disease risk (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts)
  • Referral to Ophthalmologists (MD eye surgeons) when surgical or advanced care is needed

Optometrist vs. Optician vs. Ophthalmologist

  • Optician: fits and dispenses eyewear based on prescriptions.
  • Ophthalmologist: medical doctor specializing in surgical and advanced disease treatment.

2) Education & Universities (OD Programs in Canada)

Canada has two institutions offering the accredited Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree:

University of Waterloo — School of Optometry & Vision Science (Ontario)

Université de Montréal — École d’optométrie (Quebec, French-language)

3) Admissions Requirements

  • At least three years of undergraduate science coursework (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
  • Language proficiency: English (Waterloo) or French (UdeM)
  • Strong GPA, résumé/CV, references, and, in some cases, an interview

Tip: Link your transcripts, prerequisite checklist, and test scores early in your application timeline.

4) Financial Aid & Scholarships

  • OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)
  • Canada Student Loans and Grants — canada.ca
  • Canadian Optometric Education Trust Fund (COETF) — coetf.ca
  • Internal scholarships (University of Waterloo & Université de Montréal)

5) Licensing & International Pathways

Licensure is regulated at the provincial level. Internationally trained optometrists should typically:

  1. Undergo FORAC credential assessment — forac-faroc.ca
  2. Consider the ASOPP bridge program at University of Waterloo
  3. Meet provincial licensing requirements and continuing education obligations

Professional Associations

  • Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) — opto.ca
  • Ontario Association of Optometrists — optom.on.ca

6) Job Market & Salary

Demand for optometrists in Canada remains strong due to population aging and a persistent supply gap in many regions. Salary varies by province, experience, and practice model (associate, employed, or owner).

  • Early career roles commonly begin around CAD $70,000–$80,000
  • Experienced roles and high-volume practices can exceed CAD $125,000, with higher potential in major cities

Note: Actual compensation may include base pay, percentage of billings, bonuses, and benefits.

7) Job Boards & Networking (Canada)

Government & Official

  • Job Bank — Government of Canada (search Optometrist; NOC 31111): jobbank.gc.ca

Popular Platforms

8) FAQs

How long is the OD program in Canada?

Four years for the OD after completing required undergraduate prerequisites.

Do I need French to study optometry in Canada?

French is required for Université de Montréal; English for University of Waterloo.

Is there government funding for optometry students?

Yes — OSAP (Ontario), Canada Student Loans and Grants, plus scholarships like COETF and university-specific awards.

What is the NOC code for optometrists?

NOC 31111.

Official Links (for students & job seekers)

Next Steps on ECP Vision

Content intended for informational purposes. Please verify admission and licensing requirements with official bodies and universities.