Professional Optometric Degree Programs
Accreditation resources and information applicable to professional optometric degree programs.
Standards
2025 Professional Optometric Degree Program Standards (adopted October 2023, updated June 2025). Beginning January 1, 2025, all professional optometric degree programs – including those seeking Preliminary Approval status – must demonstrate compliance with these Standards.
Summary of Changes (updated June 2025) between the 2017 Standards and the 2025 Standards.
Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2025 POD Standards (June 2025). The FAQs are a resource for programs, evaluation visit team members, Council members and the public, promoting clarity and consistency in the interpretation and application of the ACOE’s Accreditation Standards.
ACOE March 24, 2025 Memo related to Guidance and Resources for OD Programs.
ACOE March 7, 2025 Guidance Memo Related to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
ACOE July 25, 2025 Memo - notification of adopted changes to the 2025 Professional Optometric Degree Program Standards.
ACOE-specified format for 2025 Professional Optometric Degree Program Standard 1.10, in Word format (June 2025).
Evaluation Visit Resource
ACOE Professional Optometric Degree Program Self-Study Template 2025 Standards (June 2025). The template provides programs with instructions, guidance, and a format to use when developing a self-study. The template is structured to emphasize that the submission of evidence is the primary mechanism to demonstrate compliance with the Standards.
Other Information
The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry publishes data and additional information regarding the schools and colleges of optometry
- Profile of Applicants for Fall 2024 Entering Class
- Profile of the Optometry 2024 Entering Class
- Resources for Applicants and Advisors
Student achievement data published by the schools and colleges of optometry
Programs are required to understand and comply with the ACOE’s policies and procedures. The ACOE Policy and Procedure Manual sets forth the rules governing the ACOE’s accrediting activities and includes important guidance for the public.
The ACOE Glossary defines italicized words and acronyms used in the ACOE Policy and Procedure Manual and in the ACOE's accreditation Standards.
Professional Optometric Degree programs are required to publish outcomes associated with Standard 1.10 using the ‘ACOE-specified format'.