Optometry : Eligibility & Course Areas
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.
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