More than 75% of the vision/eye problems in humans are curable or even avoidable. Optometry is a fast-growing healthcare profession that is concerned with the eyes as well as vision & visual systems processing in humans. An optometrist measures vision prescribes lenses according to the requirements and fits lenses to improve vision. With the increasing usage of technology and visual media, the demand for optometrists is expected to increase manifold in the coming years, making it a lucrative career option.

Career Roles & Responsibilities

1. Examine eyes, using observation, instruments, and pharmaceutical agents, to determine visual acuity and perception, focus, and coordination and to diagnose diseases and other abnormalities such as glaucoma or color blindness.
2. Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan.
3. Prescribe, supply, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids.
4. Prescribe medications to treat eye diseases if state laws permit.
5. Educate and counsel patients on contact lens care, visual hygiene, lighting arrangements, and safety factors.
6. Consult with and refer patients to an ophthalmologist or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
7. Remove foreign bodies from the eye.
8. Provide patients undergoing eye surgeries, such as cataracts and laser vision correction, with pre-and post-operative care.
9. Prescribe therapeutic procedures to correct or conserve vision.

Career Education Path Summary

How to Become an Optometrist

Important Facts

• Most colleges have eligibility criteria of a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Class XII / and some of a minimum 60%.
• Must have passed class 12th or senior secondary examination with at least 50% marks including English.
• Some colleges/ universities also have an age limit (17 on 31st December of the year of admission).
• English is also a requirement for enrolling in optometry education.

 Leading Institutes

Top Optometry Institutes in India

Top Optometry Institutes in the World