Dean's Message
Kentucky College of Optometry

Dear Future Colleagues,
 
I would like to welcome you to the community of the University of Pikeville - Kentucky College of Optometry. You have moved beyond your preparatory education to be a selected member of our group. The road to get here was very challenging. You have been through many tests, trials and decisions to earn this honor. 
 
Your acceptance into the University of Pikeville - Kentucky College of Optometry signifies a great achievement for you, your family and significant others. I would encourage you that the challenge to be a successful optometric physician is a challenge more to yourself than to the process of earning a diploma.
 
The Kentucky College of Optometry is not the birth child of science alone. Our roots go much deeper. The health care we deliver in the mountains was first transported to these majestic hills by the early circuit riders of the Presbyterian Church. They brought not only healing but hope, inspiration and a deep love for our people. These are the values which encourage you to a very different education. I know you will be successful in everything you attempt here at the University of Pikeville. The success of your education will ultimately be found in the success of your growth as a person.

Sincerely,
Andrew Buzzelli, O.D., M.S. 

University of Pikeville
Vice President for Optometric Education
Founding Dean, Kentucky College of Optometry

Why KYCO?

Why should you consider applying to the Kentucky College of Optometry?

• In 2011, the governor of Kentucky signed Senate Bill 110 (Better Access to Quality Healthcare Act) into law, making Kentucky only one of three states in the nation to allow optometrists to perform in-office laser eye procedures, inject medications into eyes and remove “lumps and bumps” around the eyes.  All of these procedures will be part of the curriculum and clinical practice at the Kentucky College of Optometry.
• The KYCO Advantage: The University of Pikeville - Kentucky College of Optometry Student Advantage program designates that all of our students enter on a level playing field, where those who are admitted with few financial resources have the same educational opportunities as those with greater resources. Therefore, at no additional charge, entering students are provided:
  • All required ophthalmic and medical equipment
  • An iPad and laptop
  • All required texts
  • Membership dues paid to the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) and the Kentucky Optometric Student Association (KOSA)
  • Paid exam fees for the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) Part 1, Applied Basic Science (first attempt only)
  • NBEO preparation program
  • White Coats and Diploma Frame
  • CrossFit Gym Membership
• A new 103,000-square-foot building will be a state-of-the-art learning and teaching space for the Kentucky College of Optometry.

As a student, you will have access to the newest and most advanced equipment as part of your learning.

• Examine a patient population with a diversity of health conditions that will increase your clinical experience.
• You will be part of providing better access to quality eye care for rural Kentucky residents.
• Participate in unique clinical experiences in our system of satellite clinics, strategically placed in rural areas in need, and in the hospital clinic, where you will work with other medical professionals collaboratively.