Should you pick your degree based on future salary?
After graduation, optometry graduates typically earn high salaries compared to the national average. Top earners make $96,898, while the bottom 20% make closer to $33,619. The median grad salary is $57,076.
Optometry graduate salaries over time
The typical early career salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in optometry is $39,061, and within five years of graduation, this average salary goes up to $48,121.
This chart maps the average workforce wage by years of experience:
Wage ($USD)
Wage Range Median Wage
Years of work experience
Pro tip
Still unsure if a degree in optometry is your calling? Read our comprehensive guide on choosing a career