US Navy Optometrist Health Professions Scholarship Program
Optometrist (OD) – U.S. Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP)
Organization
United States Navy – Navy Medicine
Job Type
Scholarship Program / Commissioned Officer Opportunity
Location
Nationwide Opportunities | Optometry Students & Accepted Applicants
Overview
The United States Navy is seeking highly motivated Optometry students and future Optometrists (OD) to serve as commissioned officers through the Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP).
The HPSP provides financial support for qualified students attending accredited optometry programs while preparing them to become officers in Navy Medicine. This program offers future optometrists the opportunity to graduate with significantly reduced educational debt while gaining leadership experience and serving their country.
Upon completion of optometry school and commissioning requirements, participants will serve as Navy Optometrists providing vision care and eye health services to Sailors, Marines, and their families around the world.
Additionally, while serving on active duty, Navy optometrists may apply for residency and specialty training programs within Navy Medicine to become specialists in areas such as:
• Ocular Disease
• Primary Care Optometry
• Cornea and Contact Lenses
• Low Vision Rehabilitation
• Pediatric Optometry
• Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation
• Surgical Co-Management
• Operational and Aerospace Optometry
Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) Incentives
Selected applicants may receive:
• 100% tuition coverage for accredited optometry school programs
• $2,999 Monthly stipend while enrolled in school
• Reimbursement for books, equipment, and approved educational expenses
• Signing bonus opportunities for qualified applicants
• Commissioned Officer status in the U.S. Navy Reserve during participation
• Leadership training and professional development
• Opportunity to serve in one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems
Roles and Responsibilities
As a Navy Optometrist, responsibilities may include:
• Providing comprehensive eye examinations and vision care services
• Diagnosing and treating ocular diseases and vision conditions
• Prescribing corrective lenses and treatment plans
• Supporting operational readiness through visual performance evaluations
• Delivering care in clinics, hospitals, operational units, and deployed environments
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams
• Advising leadership on vision readiness and eye health programs
Requirements to Become a Navy Commissioned Officer
Applicants must generally meet the following qualifications:
• United States citizen
• Accepted to or enrolled in an accredited Doctor of Optometry (OD) program
• Meet Navy medical and physical fitness standards
• Eligible to obtain a security clearance
• Demonstrate strong moral character and leadership potential
• Able to commission before age 42 (waivers may be considered)
• Successfully complete Navy officer accession requirements
U.S. Navy Pay and Benefits
In addition to HPSP educational incentives, Navy Officers may receive:
• Competitive military pay
• Housing allowance (BAH)
• Food allowance (BAS)
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage
• 30 days paid vacation annually
• Retirement benefits and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) options
• Paid continuing education opportunities
• Leadership and management training
• Worldwide travel and duty opportunities
• Access to military facilities and support services
Potential Duty Stations
Navy Optometrists may serve at major military medical centers, hospitals, clinics, and operational commands worldwide, including locations such as:
• Bethesda, Maryland
• Portsmouth, Virginia
• San Diego, California
• Camp Pendleton, California
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Okinawa, Japan
• Guam
• Hawaii
• Rota, Spain
• Naples, Italy
• Bahrain
• Aboard U.S. Navy ships and with operational Marine Corps units
Duty stations are assigned based on the needs of the Navy, specialty training, and mission requirements.
Why Navy Medicine?
Navy Medicine offers optometrists the opportunity to practice with advanced technology, serve in leadership roles early in their careers, and pursue specialty residency training while serving on active duty. Optometrists gain valuable clinical experience while making a meaningful impact both domestically and internationally.
How to Apply
Qualified students and future optometrists interested in learning more about the Health Professions Scholarship Program are encouraged to apply or contact LTJG Rafeal Ramirez at Rafeal.t.ramirez.mil@us.navy.mil or 617-872-7580 for additional information regarding eligibility, benefits, and the commissioning process.
Serve with purpose. Lead with excellence. Practice optometry with Navy Medicine.