Course guide · Courses & Degrees
B.Optom (Bachelor of Optometry)
Optometrists are primary eye-care professionals. They examine eyes, prescribe spectacles and contact lenses, and detect conditions that need an ophthalmologist's care.
- Duration
- 4 years including internship
- Eligibility
- Class 12 with PCB or PCM
- Work
- Eye hospitals, optical chains, own practice
- Related
- Ophthalmology (doctors)
Course overview
The course covers ocular anatomy and physiology, optics, refraction, contact lenses, binocular vision and eye diseases, with clinical training.
Who this course may suit
- Science students interested in eye care and patient contact
Eligibility
- Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Mathematics
Entrance exams and admission
| Exam | Used for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State allied-health or BiPC entrance tests | Allied health admissions in some states |
Exam names, patterns, eligibility and participating institutions change. Check the official notification for the current year.
What you will study
| Year | Typical subjects |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | Anatomy, physiology, optics |
| Year 2 | Refraction, ocular diseases, optometric instruments |
| Year 3 | Contact lenses, binocular vision, low vision |
| Year 4 | Clinical internship |
Skills you will develop
- Eye examination and refraction
- Contact lens fitting
- Patient communication
Where the course is offered
Eye hospitals with training programmes, medical colleges and universities.
Want help applying this to your own situation? Career Counselling After Class 12 on the Career Captain website.
Indicative fees
Commonly about ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh a year at private institutions.
Career options after the course
Doctor
Ophthalmologists are medical specialists.
Higher-study options
- M.Optom
- Specialised contact lens or low-vision training
Advantages of this course
- Steady demand for eye care
- Private practice possible
Challenges to consider
- Retail roles can be sales-oriented
Is this course a good fit for you?
It may suit you if…
- You like precise clinical work with people
It may be harder if…
- You dislike retail environments
Similar courses to compare
Frequently asked questions
Is an optometrist an eye doctor?
Optometrists provide primary eye care; ophthalmologists are medical doctors who treat eye diseases and perform surgery.
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