Optometry

First professional degree · Illinois College of Optometry · Chicago, IL

CIP 51.17

$105,772Median earnings 1 year after graduating
$133,895Median earnings 4 years after
$118,651Median earnings 5 years after
$240,830Median federal debt
117Graduates per year

How this program compares

Graduates of the first professional degree program in Optometry at Illinois College of Optometry earn a median of $105,772 one year after completing the program. Nationally, first professional degree graduates in this field earn a median of $131,525 four years after graduating (middle half: $100,524–$158,455). Median debt is $240,830, about 228% of first-year earnings – more than a full year of pay.

Frequently asked questions

How much do Optometry graduates from Illinois College of Optometry make?

The median salary is $105,772 one year after graduation and $118,651 after five years.

How much student debt do graduates have?

Graduates who borrowed federal loans owe a median of $240,830.

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, June 2026 release (Field of Study data). Earnings are for graduates who received federal financial aid.