7 Shocking Facts About Pacific University Oregon Optometry Program (2025 Updates)
The Pacific University College of Optometry (PUCO) remains a powerhouse in vision science and optometric education, and as of late 2025, the program is undergoing significant updates that prospective students and healthcare professionals need to know. The institution, located in Forest Grove, Oregon, is consistently recognized as one of the best optometry schools in the Far Western US region, a testament to its rigorous curriculum and extensive clinical training opportunities.
These updates, including the appointment of a new Dean and fresh admissions data for the upcoming 2025-2026 cycle, confirm Pacific University's commitment to leading the industry in contemporary optometric practice. The four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) program is designed to prepare graduates for a broad scope of practice, exceeding the requirements for licensure in any state in the nation.
Meet the New Leadership: Bisant A. Labib, OD, FAAO, Dipl AAO
A major change driving the College of Optometry’s trajectory is the recent appointment of a new Dean. Dr. Bisant A. Labib has taken the helm, bringing a wealth of experience in academic leadership and clinical practice. Her comprehensive background is a strong indicator of the program's focus on both didactic excellence and real-world patient care.
- Full Name: Bisant A. Labib, OD, FAAO, Diplomat (CEC)
- Current Role: Dean of the Pacific University College of Optometry (PUCO)
- Alma Mater (OD): Pennsylvania College of Optometry (PCO) at Salus University
- Post-Graduate Training: Completed a residency at The Eye Institute (TEI) in primary care.
- Previous Academic Roles: Prior to joining Pacific University, Dr. Labib served as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Director of the Residency Program, and Co-Chief of Primary Care, Suite at The Eye Institute.
- Professional Recognition: Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO) and Diplomat in the Cornea, Contact Lenses, and Refractive Technologies Section of the AAO (Dipl AAO/CEC).
Dr. Labib’s leadership signals a renewed emphasis on a unified faculty and a forward-thinking approach to clinical education, ensuring PUCO remains at the forefront of the optometry profession.
The 2025-2026 Admissions Landscape and Student Profile
For aspiring optometrists, understanding the admissions requirements and the profile of the current student body is crucial. The Pacific University College of Optometry maintains a competitive admissions process, but the deadlines for the 2025-2026 cycle have been clearly set, offering a definitive timeline for applicants.
Key Admissions Deadlines (2025-2026 Cycle)
- OptomCAS Application Opens: June 26, 2025
- Final Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
- OAT/GRE/MCAT/DAT Deadline: March 1, 2026
It is important to note that interviews are conducted on a rolling basis, meaning early applicants generally have an advantage. The college emphasizes a holistic review process, considering not just academic scores but also clinical experience, essays, and letters of recommendation.
The Competitive Class of 2025 Profile
The academic performance of the incoming classes reflects the high standards of the program. Analyzing the profile of the Class of 2025 (which entered in Fall 2021) provides a benchmark for future applicants:
- Average GPA: 3.55
- Average Optometry Admission Test (OAT) Score: 328
- NBEO Pass Rate: 85.06% (This high pass rate confirms the quality of the didactic and clinical preparation.)
The program also offers a unique Bachelor of Science in Visual Science option for students who meet prerequisite courses but do not yet have a bachelor's degree, allowing for a streamlined path into the professional OD program.
Unrivaled Clinical Education and Residency Opportunities
One of the strongest pillars of the Pacific University College of Optometry is its robust clinical education model. Students gain hands-on experience starting early in the curriculum, culminating in extensive externship and residency opportunities across the nation.
The Six-Clinic Oregon Network
Pacific University operates an impressive network of six primary clinical sites within the greater Portland, Oregon area, ensuring students receive diverse patient exposure without having to travel far from campus initially.
- Primary Locations: Forest Grove, Cornelius, Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Portland.
- The EyeVan: The sixth clinic is the EyeVan, a mobile clinic that provides vision care to underserved communities and offers students valuable experience in public health optometry and outreach.
This deep integration into the local community provides students with experience across various demographics, socioeconomic backgrounds, and complex pathology cases. The clinical training is designed to embrace the full scope of contemporary optometric practice, which is critical for modern optometrists.
Post-Graduate Residency Specialties
For graduates seeking advanced specialization, PUCO is a leading provider of post-graduate residency programs. These one-year, mentored clinical experiences are highly competitive and prepare residents for advanced clinical practice, often leading to specialized career paths.
Residency specialties often include:
- Primary Care Optometry
- Ocular Disease
- Pediatrics
- Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Contact Lenses
- Low Vision Rehabilitation
Furthermore, the college maintains affiliations with numerous external sites, such as the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center Eye Clinic in Spokane, Washington, providing fourth-year students with invaluable externship rotations in specialized settings.
Investing in Your Future: Tuition and Financial Aid
While the cost of professional education is a significant factor, Pacific University's reputation and career outcomes make it a worthwhile investment. The cost of attendance for the Doctor of Optometry program is competitive among top-tier institutions.
While specific 2025-2026 tuition figures for the OD program can fluctuate, a recent estimate places the annual tuition for optometry at approximately $61,528, though other sources have cited figures around $52,340. Prospective students should consult the official university financial aid page for the most precise and up-to-date cost breakdown, which may include additional fees for books, supplies, and personal expenses.
The College of Optometry is proactive in helping students finance their education. They are pleased to award approximately 20 scholarships to first-year optometry students, including the prestigious Dean's Scholarship, helping to offset the financial commitment.
Why Pacific University Stands Out in 2025
The reputation of the Pacific University College of Optometry is built on a foundation of excellence that extends beyond just rankings and admissions statistics. The program's success is rooted in its holistic approach to vision science and patient care.
The combination of a talented and caring faculty, a comprehensive curriculum that exceeds national standards, and an unsurpassed clinical education makes PUCO a premier choice. The program seamlessly integrates didactic learning with practical experience, preparing students not just for licensure, but for leadership roles in the evolving field of optometry.
The recent leadership change with Dean Labib, coupled with the consistent top-tier rankings and the expansive clinical network, ensures that Pacific University Oregon Optometry will continue to shape the next generation of highly competent and compassionate eye care professionals.
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