According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, in 2008, 34,000 Optometrists were employed in the US, a number that is projected to grow by 24% between 2008 and 2018. Will Optometry schools be able to keep up with the increasing demand?
Two colliding factors will create a national shortage of Optometrists. The growth of Optometry jobs will increase by approximately 835 new positions annually mainly due to increased demand from the aging baby boomer generation. In addition to the growing needs, approximately 870 ODs retire annually, resulting in 1,705 open Optometrists positions nationally each year.
There are currently 20 Optometry schools in the US graduating approximately 1,200 ODs every year. When compared to the projected needs for new Optometrists, that number of graduates will leave a deficit of 505 Optometrists annually, making Optometry a field with great growth potential. That is welcome news during a period of limited employment opportunity.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Optometry is an awesome profession, but do NOT believe in this shortage-of-optometrists silliness. I have been out of school for over a year and a half, and almost every one of my classmates struggled and are still struggling to find full-time employment. It is MUCH more competitive than the “numbers” show you. Plus, there are several more optometry schools being built in order to make money off students. Believe me, there will definitely NOT be a shortage of ODs in the future!
OD Guy,
Thanks for the comment…good thoughts. However, I challenge your assertion that there is no shortage of ODs. What we do agree on is that the market is very competitive in “attractive markets.” In other words, everyone competes for the positions in Chicago or Atlanta, but no one, or VERY few are willing to apply for the positions in Scranton or Bluefield. I have talked with recruiters at major organizations, and we all agree with what is also confirmed on Local Eye Site’s job listings…there is a shortage…just not in Los Angeles.
I live in small town (~15K) in Virginia. The nearest metro is 1.5hours away (D.C.). OD services are not in demand here. You can find a same day appointment in my town. Walkins are ALWAYS welcome.
I challenge you to call Scranton’s ODs and not be able to find a same day non-emergency routine eye exam.
I wish it was true that ODs are in demand…
Part of what is interesting about this dialogue (you and I are not the only two to have this debate) is the different perspectives. You base your perspective on demand, as evidenced by the ability to get a same day appointment, and friends who can’t find jobs. I base mine on what recruiters are experiencing in the market. There are hundreds of vacant Optometry positions in small towns all across the US, and trust me, the recruiters charged will filling these positions are desperate to fill them. So, please send your friends our way. If they are open minded about location, we can find them a position immediately!