Students who wish to do degree or diploma courses in Ophthalmic technology should
clear 10+2 or equivalent
examination, with a minimum of 50% marks in physics, chemistry and
biology.
To practice as a optometrist it is essential to have a Bachelor's degree in
Optometry (Bachelor of Clinical Optometry) (B.Optom). Eligibility for B.Optom
course is Higher Secondary Examination (10+2 course) or it's equivalent with
minimum 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Mathematics and English,
from a recognised board and the age limit is 17 years as on 31st December.
Candidates satisfying the eligibility requirement for the B.Optom course have
to appear for the EYECET examination. The EYECET exam is the centralised,
combined, entrance test for entry into optometry courses, which is universally
recognised all over the country.
B.Optom
course is of 4 year duration. The
first 3 years teaching is followed by one year of internship for clinical
and trade experience. The
optometry
course covers a wide variety of
subjects, including physical optics, knowledge of optical instruments,
general anatomy, physiology, abnormal and
pathological conditions of the eye and the methods to measure
refractive errors and their correction. Courses in pharmacology, optics, vision science, biochemistry,
and systemic disease are included in the curriculum. There will be practical
training in Basic Science, Dispensing Optics and Clinical subjects. The
forth and final year is internship where the students are posted at various
hospitals and specialty eye clinics and Optical establishments for clinical
training and hands-on practice.
For direct admission to third
year B.Optom course, candidates who have completed their 10+2, must have a 2 year
diploma course in Optometry,
Ophthalmic Techniques, Refraction, Orthoptics and Ophthalmic Assistance with 40% marks
from an Institute recognised by Indian Optometric Association and Bharati
Vidyapeeth Deemed University. Candidates with Secondary School Certificate (std
X) must have a 3 year diploma course in Ophthalmic Techniques and should have worked in an
Ophthalmic clinic or Optical establishment for a minimum period of one year
after completion of the course. The candidates, have to submit their work
experience certificate from the Ophthalmic clinic or Optical establishment
during the time of
admission. Age limit for direct admission to 3rd year B.Optom course is 19
years. In addition, they have to appear for the EYECET test.
Personal Skills :Patience,
manual dexterity and a confident manner
are important skills for the work of an optometrist. The
essential characteristics to become a licensed optometrist are mechanical
aptitude, good vision and coordination. Self-discipline, a
disposition to serve others, work ethics characterized by dedication and
persistence and the ability to deal tactfully with
patients are some essential qualities to become a successful optometrist.
