Illinois College of Optometry

The Illinois College of Optometry (ICO) stands as a premier institution dedicated exclusively to optometric education. As a private college, it provides a specialized and focused environment for students aspiring to become leaders in eye care. ICO is renowned for its commitment to rigorous academic and clinical training, preparing graduates to excel in a vital healthcare profession.

ICO's rich history is rooted in a significant merger in 1955, when the Northern Illinois College of Optometry (NICO) and the Chicago College of Optometry (CCO) united. This merger brought together established legacies in optometric education, inheriting a heritage that traces back to 1872 with the founding of a predecessor institution dedicated to advancing the field of vision science and patient care.

With a focused student body of 616 individuals, ICO offers a specialized and supportive learning environment, fostering a close-knit community among future optometrists. Under the leadership of President Mark Colip, the college continues its mission to develop highly skilled and compassionate eye care professionals, ensuring its graduates are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of optometry and contribute meaningfully to public health.