Quick Facts
Independent college of optometry
Location
Boston, MA (Back Bay)
Degrees
Master's, Doctorate (OD)
Popular Focus Areas
Optometry, Vision Science
Total Students	Undergrad Students
~500	N/A
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$50,000	N/A (commuter-focused)
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Extremely Selective (~23% acceptance rate)	$28,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
In Boston
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

New England College of Optometry (NECO), founded in 1894, is an independent professional institution dedicated to optometric education and vision science. Located in Boston's Back Bay, NECO serves approximately 500 students with advanced programs emphasizing clinical excellence, research, and patient care. The college's extensive network of clinical affiliates provides diverse training opportunities while its urban location immerses students in a rich professional environment.

NECO offers the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree with accelerated and advanced standing options, plus Master of Science in Vision Science.

The college integrates early clinical experience through the NECO Center for Eye Care network.

Programs include dual degrees and international pathways.

NECO maintains high bar passage rates and employment outcomes.

The Back Bay campus places students near major medical institutions.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting New England College of Optometry>

Academics

New England College of Optometry offers advanced professional education in optometry and vision science. The four-year OD program integrates preclinical and clinical training with early patient care. Accelerated options serve qualified candidates. Master of Science in Vision Science supports research. Classes emphasize evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration. Extensive clinical rotations in diverse settings build expertise. NECO's innovative curriculum prepares graduates for comprehensive eye care and specialization.

Admission

Admission to NECO is extremely selective, with acceptance rate around 23%, attracting dedicated students to optometry. Applications via OptomCAS with OAT scores, transcripts, and interviews. Holistic review considers academic excellence, experience, and commitment. Multiple entry points available.

Career Outcomes

NECO graduates achieve excellent outcomes with high bar passage rates and employment in private practice, hospitals, academia, and industry. Career services support residency placement and job search. Many students secure positions through clinical network. Graduates often specialize or lead in vision care, benefiting from NECO's practical training and Boston location. The alumni network provides ongoing opportunities.

Campus

NECO's Back Bay campus features modern classrooms, simulation labs, library, and clinical facilities in historic buildings. The campus supports intensive learning with technology-enabled spaces. Easy transit connects to clinical sites. The urban setting immerses students in Boston's health community while providing focused professional environment.

Student Life

NECO fosters a professional community for optometry students with events, organizations, and networking. Activities include conferences, service projects, and interprofessional collaboration. Wellness resources support balance amid studies. The diverse population enriches learning. Boston location offers cultural and professional enrichment while the college provides focused environment for career growth.

Graduate Schools

Visiting New England College of Optometry