Chandigarh University
- Fees: ₹ 496000
- Exams: Chandigarh University (CUCET)
What is Optometry
Optometry is a medical specialty that involves diagnosing and treating illnesses, anomalies, and disorders of the eyes and visual systems. Candidates can gain personal growth and job fulfilment in the tough and rewarding area of optometry. Graduates of Optometry can choose to work as optometrists, specialists, orthoptists, or opticians.
Optometry programmes prepare students to determine the seriousness of eye problems. More than 200 colleges in the country provide optometry courses at various levels. After earning their undergraduate degree in Optometry, students can also go on to obtain a master's degree. The salary of graduates depends on the degree they pursue.
Highlights
| Particulars | Values |
|---|---|
Branch Name | Optometry |
Degree | B.Optom, M.Optom, B.Sc, Diploma, M.Sc, Diploma, Advanced Diploma |
Duration | UG: 4 years PG: 2 years |
Eligibility | UG: 10+2 PG: Bachelor’s Degree |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam/ Direct Admission |
Top Entrance Exams | CUCET, MET, CUET UG, NEET PG, and JET |
Career Options | Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, Optician, Vision Consultant, Research Associate |
Average Salary | Rs. 3.2 LPA for Optometrist Rs. 12.9 LPA for Ophthalmologist |
Recruiting Companies | Lenskart, AIIMS, Kailash Hospital, Indian Nursing Council, GKB, Carl Zeiss, Shroff Eye Hospital |
Specialisation or Similar Ones
Optometry is a broad field in the domain of Medical Sciences including many topics such as Visual Optice, Common Eye Disorders, Eye Examinations, and Vision Correction Techniques. Some of the specialisations that are somewhat similar or related to Optometry are:
BPMT Optometry Technician | |
M.Des Ophthalmic Engineering | B.Sc Ophthalmic Techniques |
Top Optometry Colleges in India
Courses in Optometry are offered by many public and private universities and colleges. The type and location of the college, along with the degree the student chooses, influences the cost of education. The table below lists a few of the best colleges in India that offer optometry programmes:
| Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 3.20 Lakhs | |
Rs. 3.76 Lakhs | |
Rs. 4.96 Lakhs | |
Rs. 3.60 Lakhs | |
Rs. 1.95 Lakhs | |
Rs. 4,110 | |
Rs. 81,100 | |
Rs. 49,580 | |
Rs. 64,500 | |
Rs. 2.94 Lakhs |
Note: The fee structure provided above can be for any particular Optometry course (Diploma/ Degree/PGD).
Top Private Optometry Colleges in India
Optometry courses are offered by a variety of private universities in India. Admissions to these colleges are granted based on past academic performance and entrance examination scores. The table below lists some of the top private Optometry colleges in India.
| Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
- | |
- | |
- | |
Rs. 6.37 Lakhs | |
Rs. 1.65 Lakhs | |
Rs. 3.62 Lakhs | |
Rs. 1.05 Lakhs | |
Rs. 3 Lakhs | |
Rs. 2.97 Lakhs | |
Rs. 2.42 Lakhs |
Top Government Optometry Colleges in India
Numerous government Indian universities offer courses in Optometry. The admissions process for these colleges is determined by the applicant's entrance exam results and prior academic standing. Some of the best private optometry institutions in India are included in the table below:
| Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
- | |
- | |
Rs. 1.53 Lakhs | |
Rs. 10,500 | |
- | |
- | |
- | |
- | |
- | |
- |
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Optometry
To study Optometry, which deals with eye care, students should be interested in vision and eye health. The educational requirements for joining an Optometry course can vary. It depends on factors like the level of study and the type of institution. For a bachelor's degree in Optometry, students need to have completed 10+2 education. After earning a bachelor's degree, students can pursue a master's degree in Optometry.
Eligibility Criteria for UG Courses
Candidates who pursue an undergraduate degree in optometry must have all the basic requirements fulfilled. These requirements vary in each institution. Some colleges give direct admission to the course based on the marks obtained in class 12 while other colleges admit students based on their performance in entrance examinations. The detailed eligibility requirements are listed below:
Candidates wanting to join a four-year Bachelor of Optometry course must have completed class 12 from a recognised board in India.
They must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects in class 12.
The minimum qualifying score in the qualifying examination must be at least 50 per cent to 55 per cent marks.
Top Entrance Exams for UG Courses
Aspiring candidates need to give certain entrance exams to start with their Bachelor of Optometry programme journey. It is the first step as per the procedure and students need to qualify it to go to their desired college.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | National Testing Agency | ||
Unievrsity | Chandigarh University | - | |
University | Manipal Academy of Higher Education | ||
University | Jain University | ||
University l | Centurion University |
Eligibility Criteria for PG Courses
The eligibility criteria for the postgraduate course in Optometry depends on the institute. Candidates must fulfil the eligibility criteria of the course otherwise they will not be able to get admission. Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria for the M.Optom course.
Candidates must have an undergraduate degree in Optometry such as B.Optom.
They are also required to score a valid aggregate score in the undergraduate degree to be eligible for admissions.
Students must appear for relevant entrance exams specified by the institute.
Top Entrance Exams for PG Courses
Aspiring candidates need to give a certain entrance exam to start their postgraduate programme journey. It is the initial step as per the procedure and students need to qualify it to go to their desired college.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | National Board of Examinations |
College Predictors VIEW ALL
Scope of Optometry in India and Abroad
In India, the field of optometry is growing rapidly due to increasing awareness about eye health and the rising prevalence of eye disorders. Optometrists have opportunities in hospitals, clinics, optical shops, and eye care companies. They can also pursue research or teaching roles in universities.
Abroad, particularly in developed countries, optometry is a well-established profession. There is a high demand for optometrists due to an ageing population and advancements in eye care technology. Opportunities exist in healthcare settings, research institutions, and the optical industry. Some optometrists even work in international healthcare projects or vision conservation programmes.
Course Fees Optometry
| Minimum Fees | Maximum Fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private | Government | Private | Government | |
| UG |
60.00 K
B.Sc. in Optometry at Singhania University, Jhunjhunu
|
3.08 K
B.Optom in Optometry at All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi
|
9.60 Lakhs
B.Optom in Optometry at ITM Institute of Health Sciences, Navi Mumbai
|
4.00 Lakhs
B.Optom in Optometry at Centre for Healthcare, Allied Medical and Paramedical Sciences DSEU -Okhla II campus, New Delhi
|
| PG |
55.20 K
M.Sc. in Optometry at SunRise University, Alwar
|
---
Data not available
|
14.15 Lakhs
M.Optom in Optometry at Institute of Management Study, Kolkata
|
2.94 Lakhs
M.Optom in Optometry at University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
|
| DOCTORAL |
90.00 K
Ph.D in Optometry at NIMS University, Jaipur
|
---
Data not available
|
3.47 Lakhs
Ph.D in Optometry at OPJS University, Rajgarh
|
---
Data not available
|
| DIPLOMA |
48.00 K
Diploma in Optometry at Uttaranchal PG College of Bio Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dehradun
|
10.50 K
Diploma in Optometry at Government Medical College, Kottayam
|
2.70 Lakhs
Diploma in Optometry at Susrijo Institute of Paramedical Technology and Optometry, Krishnanagar
|
76.50 K
Diploma in Optometry at King George's Medical University, Lucknow
|
Course Subjects
Optometry Syllabus for UG Courses
The syllabus for undergraduate courses in the field of Optometry depends on the degree programme and the institute. The most popular degree in the field of Optometry is a Bachelor of Optometry or B.Optom. Mentioned below is the syllabus of B.Optom of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology.
Semester 1 | |
Theory | |
Geometrical Optics (Optics I) | Physiology (General) |
Anatomy (General) | Biochemistry (General & Ocular) |
Professional Communication in English | - |
Practical | |
Physiology (General) | Geometrical Optics-1 |
Anatomy | - |
Semester 2 | |
Theory | |
Physical Optics (Optics II) | Physiology (Ocular) |
Anatomy (Ocular) | Environment & Ecology |
Computer Fundamentals & Programming | - |
Practical | |
Physical Optics II | Anatomy (Ocular) |
Computer | - |
Semester 3 | |
Theory | |
Visual Optics (Optics III) | Lighting & the Eye |
Medical pathology & Microbiology (General & Ocular) | |
Pharmacology | Ophthalmic & Optical Instrumentation & Procedure I |
Practical | |
Microbiology & Pathology | Optical & Ophthalmic Instrumentation |
Lighting & the Eye | - |
Semester 4 | |
Theory | |
Visual Optics (Optics IV) | Ophthalmic & Optical Instrumentation & Procedure II |
Clinical Refraction I | Ocular Disease I (Anterior Segment Disease) |
Ophthalmic Lens & Dispensing Optics | - |
Practical | |
Optics & Ophthalmic Instrumentation II | Clinical Refraction Practical |
Ophthalmic Lens & Dispensing Optics Practical | - |
Semester 5 | |
Theory | |
Binocular Vision & Ocular Motility | Contact Lens I |
Clinical Refraction II | Ocular Disease II (Posterior & Neuro-eye Disease) |
Low Vision Aids & Visual Rehabilitation | - |
Practical | |
Contact Lens -I | Clinical Refraction II |
Low Vision Aids & Visual Rehabilitation | - |
Semester 6 | |
Theory | |
Systemic Condition & the eye | Public Health & Community Optometry |
Biostatistics | Contact Lens II |
Professional Practice Management | Applied Optometry & Orthoptics |
Practical | |
Contact Lens-II | Applied Optometry & Orthoptics |
Optometry Syllabus for PG Courses
The optometry syllabus for postgraduate courses depends on the institute and degree programme. M.Optom (Master of Optometry) is one of the most popular postgraduate degree programmes in the field of Optometry. Mentioned below is the M.Optom syllabus of Amity University.
Semester 1 | |
Epidemiology Public Health & Community Optometry | Clinic-I |
Binocular Vision & Pediatric Optometry-I | Research Methodology And Biostatistics |
Low Vision Care & Geriatric Optometry | Project With Presentation & Evaluation |
Applied Optics Dispensing | - |
Semester 2 | |
Binocular Vision-Ii & Vision Therapy | Ocular Diseases & Diagnostics-I |
Advanced Contact Lens-I | Low Vision Care & Rehabilitation |
Clinics-Ii Specialty | Project |
Semester 3 | |
Ocular Diseases & Diagnostics-Ii | Environmental Optometry |
Advanced Contact Lens-Ii | Teaching Methodology |
Clinics-Iii Specialty | Project |
Semester 4 | |
Clinical Optometry | Advance Clinical Pediatric Binocular Vision & Vision Therapy |
Clinical Dissertation | Advance Applied Optics |
Advance Clinical Retina | Advance Cornea & Contact Lens |
Advance Clinical Glaucoma | - |
Careers in Optometry
Optometry as a career provides numerous rewarding opportunities to candidates. There are many career options in the field of Optometry, such as Optometrist, Ophthalmologist, Optician, and Vision Consultant. In the table below we have mentioned the top careers and their job description.
Optometrist: Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care. They conduct vision tests and write prescriptions for contact lenses and glasses.
Ophthalmologist: Ophthalmologists are medical professionals who specialise in the care of eyes and vision. They are also involved in scientific research on the causes and cures of eye diseases and vision disorders.
Optician: Opticians are professionals who are trained to design, fit, and dispense corrective lenses for the correction of a person’s vision. They also often handle the customer service aspect of the eye care centre.
Vision Consultant: Vision Consultants are specialists in the field of eye care who offer advice and solutions related to vision health. They recommend vision care products, proposing lifestyle modifications for improved eye health.
Upcoming trends
Optometry is a rapidly evolving field, with new trends emerging to address the changing needs of patients. Developments in the field are reshaping the landscape of eye care and offering exciting opportunities for practitioners and patients alike. Some of the recent developments and trends are mentioned below.
- Increased Number of Women in Optometry
- Shift Towards Virtual Care
- Artificial Intelligence
- Ageing Population
- Google’s DeepMind AI Platform
- Myopia Control
Average Salary
The salary after the Optometry course depends on various related factors. These are the level of education, experience of the candidate, job role applied by the candidate, and location of the company. Mentioned below are the salaries of the top career options in the field of Optometry.
| Job Profile | Average Salary |
|---|---|
Optometrist | Rs. 3.3 LPA |
Ophthalmologist | Rs. 12.9 LPA |
Optician | Rs. 2.4 LPA |
Vision Consultant | Rs. 4.5 LPA |
Source: Ambition Box
Required Skillset for Optometry
Candidates who wish to pursue a career in Optometry should have certain skills. These skills are essential for Optometry graduates to progress in their careers. Mentioned below are some important skills required by an Optometry graduate.
- Excellent Communication Skills
- Interest and Aptitude for Health
- Precision
- Empathy
- Concentration
- Organisational Skills
Course Curriculum for Optometry
The curriculum for optometry aims to teach students about visual aids, the refractive states of the human eye, and how to prescribe glasses and contact lenses. This four-year programme trains students to support professionals during a range of operations. Three years of classroom instruction and one year of internship make up the optometry curriculum.
It gives students the skills necessary to identify and manage eye infections. It also teaches students how to use contemporary machinery and effectively communicate with others. The Optometry curriculum also covers information on the creation and manufacturing of spectacles and contact lenses.
Popular Optometry Entrance Exams in India
NEET PG
Exam Date: 15 Jun, 2025 (Tentative)
CSIR UGC NET
Application Process: 09 Dec, 2024 - 30 Dec, 2024
CEED
Exam Date: 19 Jan, 2025
CUET PG
Exam Date: 11 Mar, 2025 - 28 Mar, 2025 (Tentative)
CUET UG
Exam Date: 15 May, 2025 - 24 May, 2025 (Tentative)
UGC NET
Exam Date: 03 Jan, 2025 - 16 Jan, 2025
SRMJEEE
Application Process: 12 Nov, 2024 - 16 Apr, 2025
Popular Optometry Colleges in India VIEW ALL
Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
- Fees: ₹ 463000
Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute, Chennai
- Fees: ₹ 510000
Galgotias University
- Fees: ₹ 195000
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Integral University, Lucknow
- Fees: ₹ 360000
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NIMS University, Jaipur
- Fees: ₹ 280000
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: What are some skills developed through optometry programmes?
Answer :
Candidates learn clinical skills, vision care expertise, patient care skills, and critical thinking and problem-solving.
Question: What are the career opportunities available after completing an optometry programme?
Answer :
Candidates can indulge in private practice by setting up their own clinic or working in an existing optometry practice. They could also work in hospitals or clinics providing eye care services within a healthcare setting.
Question: What are the basic requirements for pursuing optometry courses?
Answer :
Some basic requirements include completion of 12th standard with strong performance in science subjects. Strong communication and interpersonal skills along with good visual acuity and hand-eye coordination.
Question: What are the usual optometry programme options?
Answer :
Optometry programmes could range from undergraduate to doctoral levels. Some examples are a BSc in Optometry and a Doctor of Optometry (OD).
Question: What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
Answer :
Optometrists are primary eye care professionals who do examinations of the eyes whereas Ophthalmologists are physicians who focus on treating eye conditions.
