Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom)
A four-year allied healthcare degree focusing on eye care, vision testing and corrective lenses.
Description
Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom) is a four-year allied healthcare degree (including a one-year internship) that trains students in eye care, vision testing, diagnosis of eye disorders and the prescription of corrective lenses and contact lenses.
Students study anatomy, physiology and diseases of the eye, optics, refraction, binocular vision, low vision care and optical dispensing. The course combines classroom learning with clinical training in eye hospitals and optometry clinics.
Graduates work as optometrists in eye hospitals, optical chains, clinics and independent practice. With rising awareness of eye care and growing demand for vision correction, optometry is a stable and growing healthcare career.
Entrance Exams
University / Institute Entrance Exams
Respective universities
Many universities conduct entrance tests covering PCB subjects and general aptitude.
NEET (for some institutes)
National Testing Agency (NTA)
Some private and deemed universities accept NEET scores for B.Optom admission.
Direct / Merit-based Admission
Private optometry colleges
Some private colleges offer admission on the basis of Class 12 marks.
Job Roles
Optometrist
Examines eyes, diagnoses vision problems and prescribes glasses and contact lenses.
Clinical Optometrist (Eye Hospital)
Works in eye hospitals, assisting ophthalmologists with diagnosis and pre/post-operative care.
Optical Dispenser / Retail Optician
Helps patients choose and fit corrective lenses in optical chains and clinics.
Vision Therapist
Provides therapy for binocular vision anomalies and low vision rehabilitation.
Salary
Fresher (0–2 yrs)
Eye hospital chains and optical retailers offer stable starting pay.
Mid-level (3–6 yrs)
Specialisation in contact lenses or low vision improves earnings.
Senior (7+ yrs / Clinic Manager)
Independent practice and clinic managers earn significantly more.
Top Colleges / Institutes
- AIIMS (allied medical programmes)
- Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai (optometry)
- LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad
- Aravind Eye Care System, Madurai
- Private optometry colleges (state-wise)