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Salus University 3+4 Accelerated Optometry

  • Program Description

    • 3+4 accelerated program with Salus University Pennsylvania College of Optometry (Salus/PCO) in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, leading to a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree.
    • Qualified students will be conditionally guaranteed an interview with Salus/PCO, an advantage over students at other institutions at the time of application  
    • Students in the 3+4 accelerated program can earn a B.S. in health science from Gannon University after the successful completion of their first year at Salus/PCO  
    • Participation does not restrict students’ ability to apply to other optometry schools  

    View Curriculum and Course Descriptions

    Liberal Studies Core

    The Liberal Studies Core Curriculum is one reflection of Gannon University's commitment to its Catholic identity. The Core's design offers students a defined, integrated, shared experience as the foundation for their undergraduate program.

    Gannon University Undergraduate Entry Requirements

    • Complete four years of science courses and four years of math courses at the high school level.
    • Achieve a cumulative high school GPA of 3.4 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
    • Obtain a rank in the top 25 percent of your high school class.
    • Achieve a minimum SAT score of 1220 (new SAT)/1150 (old SAT) or ACT composite score of 25.
    • Provide evidence of academic and personal potential, and a desire to become a primary healthcare provider.

    Admissions Process

    Students who meet all entry requirements listed will be accepted on a rolling admission basis. 

    Affiliate Entry Requirements

    • Complete 90 semester hours of undergraduate education at Gannon University, including the specified prerequisite courses for the Salus University PCO Doctor of Optometry program as indicated in the Salus University catalog.
    • Complete all Gannon University General Education (Liberal Core) requirements.
    • Achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher by end of the first undergraduate year, and thereafter maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher.
    • Adhere to Gannon University’s Student Code of Conduct and Academic Integrity Policy.
    • Take the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) and release scores to Salus/PCO.
    • Enter into the Salus/PCO admissions process following the second undergraduate year at Gannon University.
    • Complete a successful admissions interview with Salus/PCO.
    • Fulfill any additional requirements as outlined through the affiliation agreement between Gannon University and Salus/PCO