FutureODinBC.ca
FutureODinBC.ca
Upcoming Events
New Grad Bootcamp
13 September 2026
Your ultimate guide to navigating the world of optometry with confidence. Learn from seasoned pros, get the inside scoop on industry trends, and connect with fellow new grads. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or get the lay of the land, this event is your perfect launchpad. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details!
Student Stream
at the BCDO Annual Conference – April 30, 2027
Designed specifically for optometry students, the Student Stream sessions will help you build connections, explore career opportunities, and gain insights that will support your journey from the classroom to clinical practice. Registration opens January 2027 – become a member today and we’ll make sure you’re notified as soon as registration opens!
Studying Optometry in Canada
Whether you’re just beginning your optometry journey or preparing for graduation, BC is full of opportunity for future Doctors of Optometry. This is your hub for resources, connections, career support, and everything you need to start building your future in optometry.
BC Doctors of Optometry represents more than 800 optometrists across the province and is committed to supporting the next generation of eye care professionals through advocacy, education, networking, and professional development. Become a student member for free today!
Become a Student Member
Join BC Doctors of Optometry as a student member and gain access to resources, updates, events, and professional connections throughout your education. And best of all, it’s FREE.
Practising in BC
Get prepared for practice with information on:
Contact the BCDO team
Have questions about student membership, practising in BC, or upcoming opportunities? Contact the BC Doctors of Optometry team via info@optometrists.bc.ca to learn more.
Stay Connected!
Connect with BCDO on your favourite social media platform!
Member Benefits for Students
Professional Development Resources
BCDO Student Events
Job Finding Support
Regular Member Communications
Practise Liability Insurance
In order meet the licensing requirement for Professional Liability Insurance, the easiest approach is to become a member of BCDO and CAO to access their group liability insurance rates.
First year new grad membership is free for both associations. You can use your application number to apply.
Interested in joining BCDO?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be a Student member of BCDO?
Membership is open to students currently enrolled in an accredited optometry program who are interested in learning more about practising in British Columbia.
Do I need to live in British Columbia to join?
No, if you are currently enrolled in an accredited school in North America, you can join!
Can I be a member of other provincial associations in Canada?
Yes! We encourage you to sign up for student memberships across every association.
Can I still be a member when I graduate?
Yes! We offer discounted membership pricing when you graduate.
When should I join?
You can join at any point during optometry school. Many students join early to start building connections and learning more about the profession in BC.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
The BC Doctors of Optometry team is happy to help with questions about membership, practising in BC, events, or career pathways. Email us on info@optometrists.bc.ca.
What happens if I studied outside of Canada?
If you graduated outside of Canada, you may need credential assessment through the Federation of Optometric Regulatory Authorities of Canada (FORAC). Additional exams or bridging programs may be needed before being eligible to sit the OEBC exam.
Does BCDO help with finding jobs?
Yes! We share career resources, job postings, networking opportunities, and information about practising in communities across BC.