Financial Survey Of Recent Optometry Graduates With Emphasis On Married Optometry Couples.

Background: The purpose of this study is to determine the financial status of recent optometry
graduates with respect to their current income, length of time at current job, ability to handle
student debt load from optometry school, and satisfaction with current financial status. A
comparative analysis will be done comparing their financial status to national averages. This
study will help to better inform current optometry students and recent graduates as to what they
should expect in terms of financial outcome and debt management. Methods: This study will be conducted through the use of voluntary surveys which will be sent to approximately 200 recent graduates (within ten years) primarily from the Michigan College of Optometry, but also including some graduates of other schools. The surveys will be completely anonymous. Results: Analysis will be performed and grouped based on length of time out of school, income level, and debt load. Analysis will also compare financial standing to national averages. Married optometrist couples will be analyzed in a separate group and compared to other optometrists in terms of debt management and financial status. Conclusions: This study will inform new graduates as to proper financial expectations post-graduation. It will also address if married optometry couples are able to handle the debt incurred from two professional degrees and how their debt management compares to households with only one professional degree.