Southern College of Optometry

Established in 1932 by ophthalmologist J.J. Horton, Southern College of Optometry (SCO) stands as a beacon of excellence in eye care education. This private, non-profit institution, guided by its motto "Lux et Veritas (Light and Truth)," has a proud legacy of graduating over six thousand optometrists who serve communities across multiple states and countries. SCO is dedicated exclusively to the advancement of optometry, offering a focused and immersive educational experience.

The college's history is marked by continuous growth and modernization. From the opening of its first clinical facility in 1953, SCO expanded steadily, culminating in its move to the present state-of-the-art structure in 1970. This evolution has consistently prioritized providing students with cutting-edge resources, including multimedia classrooms, advanced laboratories, a comprehensive library, and a dedicated student center, ensuring an enriching academic environment.

At the heart of SCO's professional training are its renowned clinical facilities. The Eye Institute, an integrated outpatient clinic, provides invaluable hands-on experience, while The Eye Center at SCO, established in 2002, is a sprawling 46,000-square-foot facility recognized as one of the largest eye and vision centers in the United States. Serving a significant number of patients annually, it boasts advanced examination rooms, retinal laser and digital angiography centers, an optical shop, and even on-site ophthalmology services, offering students unparalleled exposure to diverse cases and technologies. Furthermore, the Hayes Center for Practice Excellence, founded in 2005, equips future optometrists with essential practice management skills.

Southern College of Optometry continues to invest in its future and its students. A multimillion-dollar building expansion completed in 2013 added contemporary classrooms, study areas, and laboratories, further enhancing the learning landscape. Under the leadership of President Lewis N. Reich since 2016, SCO remains committed to fostering the next generation of eye care professionals who embody both scientific knowledge and compassionate care.