How to Become an Optometrist?
Learn how to become an optometrist and help others see the world clearly. Explore the steps, eligibility, skills, and career paths in optometry
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Optometrist
"An optometrist doesn't just see eyes; they see the vision of a better world, one clear sight at a time."
Optometrists are self-sufficient healthcare professionals trained to identify, assess, and treat eye and visual function disorders, performing tasks similar to ophthalmologists, except for surgery. Formerly known as ophthalmic opticians, they work in clinical practice, hospitals, community medical centers, universities, and research. Optometrists assist patients with vision problems by conducting eye evaluations, gathering medical history, checking for refractive errors, and performing visual field tests. They prescribe glasses or contact lenses to correct vision as needed.
Steps to Become an Optometrist:
Step-1
Opt for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) in your higher secondary education. This is the foundation for pursuing a career in optometry.
Step-2
Enroll in a Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom) program, which typically lasts four years, including clinical training. This degree covers subjects like anatomy, physiology, and optics.
Step-3
Hands-on training is crucial in optometry. Internships and clinical rotations during your bachelor’s program provide valuable practical experience.
Step-4
For advanced knowledge and better career prospects, you may opt for a Master of Optometry (M.Optom). This two-year program offers specializations in areas such as pediatric optometry, contact lenses, or low vision care.
Step-5
After completing your education, you'll need to clear the national or regional licensing exams to practice as an optometrist. Certification from recognized boards enhances your credibility.
Step-6
The field of optometry is always evolving. Stay updated with the latest advancements through workshops, seminars, and additional certifications.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.). |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Undergraduate Degree | A B.Sc in Optometry or a related diploma from a recognized establishment is required to become an Optometrist. |
| Postgraduate Degree | An M.Optom (Master of Optometry) or M.Sc in Optometry can be beneficial for those seeking advanced knowledge and higher qualifications in the field. |
| Entrance Exams | Candidates should procure a valid score in entrance exams such as JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, CET, etc. |
- Must have at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC). The cut-off varies by college.
- Should have a valid score in Entrance exams after 12th like JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, CET, etc. Some colleges offer their own entrance exams if other scores are unsatisfactory, such as NMIMS, Symbiosis International University, XUB, Andhra University, LPU, etc. States also conduct their own entrance exams.
- A B.Sc or diploma from a recognized institution is required to become an Optometrist.
- An M.Optometry/M.Sc in Optometry can be helpful for advanced learning and higher qualifications.
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Tasks to perform as an Optometrist:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Optometrists must possess a wide array of skills to succeed in their careers. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Learn about how light behaves and impacts vision. | Identifying and managing conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. |
| Knowledge of the eye's structure, function, and common disorders. | Knowledge of medications used in eye care and their effects. |
| Gain insights into how the brain processes visual information. | Expertise in selecting and fitting contact lenses for different conditions. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Problem-Solving | Technical Proficiency |
| Empathy and Patience | Manual Dexterity |
| Communication | Attention to Detail |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Optometrist.
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Job roles offered for an Optometrist:
Once you obtain the necessary qualifications to become an Optometrist, numerous career paths become available to you. You can explore various roles in this field, including:
Clinic managers oversee the daily operations of healthcare or outpatient facilities, providing administrative support, supervising staff, coordinating patient care, and ensuring smooth clinic functioning. They typically have experience in medical or hospital settings and require strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
Opticians assist patients in choosing and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses prescribed by optometrists and ophthalmologists. They guide patients on lens options, adjust frames, and provide care instructions.
Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat eye conditions, including performing surgeries like cataract removal and corneal transplants. They address vision problems and can also oversee eye care businesses.
These professionals assist in the production of eyeglasses at optics labs. Their duties include interpreting prescriptions, selecting frames and lenses, maintaining inventory, and ensuring quality control during the manufacturing and shipping processes.
Not sure where you fit in?
With countless career options, choosing the right path can be tough. Analysis and guidance sessions help clarify what to study, pursue, and achieve.
Career Opportunities for an Optometrist:
Optometrists can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Lenskart Solutions | Titan Industries | Dr.Agarwal's Eye Hospital |
| Opticianguru | Acme Services | Lawrence & Mayo Opticals |
| Prostoo Consulting | OWNDAYS INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED | YourSpex |
| The Eye Foundation |
Colleges offering courses for Optometrist:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurgaon | SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center, Chennai |
| Manipal University (MAHE) - Manipal Academy of Higher Education | Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi |
| KUHS Thrissur - Kerala University of Health Sciences | Little Flower Institute of Medical Science and Research, Angamaly |
| University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad | NSHM Kolkata - NSHM Knowledge Campus |
| Amity University Gurgaon - Amity University | Singhania University, Jhunjhunu |
End Note
Becoming an Optometrist is a fulfilling career that combines healthcare with the opportunity to improve lives. Whether you’re interested in clinical practice, research, or teaching, optometry offers a clear path to a rewarding future. If you’re ready to embark on this journey, SetMyCareer is here to guide you through Career counselling after graduation at every step of the way. Connect with our experts today to kickstart your career in optometry!
In this Career Outline
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