B Optometry: Course, Salary, Colleges, Admission, Eligibility, Syllabus, Jobs 2025

A Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom) is a four-year undergraduate program that prepares students to become optometrists. The course equips students with the skills to assess and determine the severity of eye conditions. Although graduates of this program are not qualified to perform surgeries, they can provide essential care related to diagnosing eye diseases and prescribing corrective measures like glasses or contact lenses.

Candidates who have completed their 10+2 education with at least 50% aggregate marks in the Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics - PCMB) are eligible for the B.Optom course. Admissions are primarily based on merit, though a few institutions may conduct entrance exams. Refer to: B Optometry Admission 2024 for more details.

Graduates with a B.Optom degree have various career opportunities within the healthcare sector. They can work as Optometrists, Vision Specialists, Orthoptists, or Opticians.

The average annual salary for B.Optom graduates is approximately INR 4,00,000. The highest salary can reach INR 8,00,000 per annum, depending on the individual's experience level.

The key features of the B Optometry course 

FeatureDetails

Course Level

Undergraduate

Full-Form

Bachelor in Optometry

Duration

4 years

Examination Type

Semester-based

Eligibility

Minimum of 50% in 10+2 Science

Admission Process

Direct admission

Course Fees

Ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 2,00,000

Average Salary

Approximately INR 4,35,000

Top Recruiting Places

Eye hospitals, clinics, opticians' outlets, and multinational vision care companies.

Job Positions

Optometrist, Trainee Optometrist, Optometry Researcher, Vision Care Associate, Vision Consultant, Private Practitioner, Optician

What is B Optometry?

B Optometry is a degree program that trains students to recognize and address vision-related issues using advanced technology. This field primarily revolves around the study of the eye, its functioning, and the various diseases that can affect it.

The program emphasizes understanding the eye and the disorders that can impact the visual system. In essence, it prepares students to diagnose eye conditions and determine appropriate treatment options.

The B Optometry curriculum covers subjects such as Optics, Anatomy and Physiology of the eye, and Eye Diseases, among others. This course is ideal for individuals interested in specializing in the medical field without pursuing a career as a doctor or nurse. Additionally, it helps students develop interpersonal skills and the ability to operate advanced diagnostic equipment.

B Optometry Admission Process

Most universities implement a direct admission system for B Optometry; however, a few institutions may require an entrance examination. This exam typically evaluates candidates' knowledge in subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics.

Many colleges offer an online application system. When the application portal opens, candidates can apply using the provided link. The application will be processed based on candidates’ qualifying exam results, along with their character certificates and letters of recommendation.

For colleges that conduct an entrance exam, the admit card will be issued once the application processing is complete. Here are the steps to apply for B Optometry admission:

Step 1: Visit the official website of the college you wish to apply to and create an account as instructed.

Step 2: Fill out the required information and pay the application fee. Submit any necessary documents as needed.

Step 3: Once your application is processed, you will receive the admit card. Be sure to monitor the exam dates (if applicable).

Step 4: Regularly check the college's website for updates and notifications related to the admission process.

B Optometry Eligibility Criteria

Medical Fitness: Candidates must be medically fit to qualify for admission to the B Optometry program.

Minimum Marks: Candidates are required to achieve a minimum aggregate score of 50% in their 10+2 science examinations.

Subject Requirements: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology should be studied as compulsory subjects during the 10+2 level.

Educational Qualification: Applicants must have completed their 10+2 education in the Science stream from a recognized board or university.

B Optometry Syllabus

The following table outlines the subjects covered throughout the B Optometry program. Please note that the specific subjects may vary slightly between colleges.

Semester 1

1. Basic Sciences and Clinical Optometry
2. Community Optometry & Public Health
3. Advanced Dispensing Optics
4. Elective: Advanced Glaucoma and Pediatric Optometry

Semester 2

1. Orthoptics & Vision Therapy
2. Clinical Optometry-II
3. Neuro Optometry
4. Business and Clinical Aspects in Optometry

Semester 3

1. Cornea & Contact Lens
2. Low Vision & Rehabilitation
3. Recent Advancements in Optometry
4. Special Clinic-I
5. Project / Dissertation

Semester 4

1. Special Clinic-II
2. Project Dissertation-II

Note:

• The syllabus may include practical sessions and internships to provide hands-on experience.
• Some institutions might offer elective subjects in later semesters that focus on specialized areas within optometry.

This curriculum aims to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required for a successful career in optometry.

B Optometry Salary

The salary for B Optometry graduates can vary based on several factors, including experience, location, type of employer, and specific job role. Here’s a general overview of the salary expectations for B Optometry graduates in India:

Salary Overview

1. Entry-Level (0-2 years of experience):

• Salary Range: ₹2,50,000 to ₹4,50,000 per annum

2. Mid-Level (2-5 years of experience):

• Salary Range: ₹4,50,000 to ₹7,00,000 per annum

3. Experienced/Senior-Level (5+ years of experience):

• Salary Range: ₹7,00,000 to ₹12,00,000 per annum

4. International Opportunities:

• In countries like the USA or Canada, the salary can range from $40,000 to $100,000+ per annum, depending on experience and specialization.

Factors Affecting Salary

• Location: Salaries may be higher in metropolitan areas due to a higher cost of living and demand for eye care services.
• Type of Employer: Working in hospitals or multinational vision care companies may offer higher salaries compared to private practice or smaller clinics.
• Specialization: Graduates who pursue further specialization (e.g., contact lenses, pediatric optometry) may command higher salaries.

Conclusion

With the increasing awareness of eye health and vision care, B Optometry graduates can expect a steady growth in job opportunities and salary prospects in the coming years.

B Optometry Future Scope

The future scope for B Optometry graduates is promising, given the growing emphasis on eye health and vision care in various sectors. Here are some potential career paths and advancements for B Optometry graduates:

1. Career Opportunities

• Optometrist: After obtaining the necessary licenses, graduates can work as practicing optometrists, providing vision care services.
• Vision Care Specialist: They can specialize in areas such as low vision rehabilitation, pediatric optometry, and geriatric optometry.
• Optometry Researcher: Engaging in research and development of new optometric practices and technologies.
• Corporate Optometrist: Working with multinational companies focusing on vision care products and technologies.
• Academician: Teaching positions in colleges and universities, contributing to training the next generation of optometrists.
• Public Health Optometrist: Working with government or non-profit organizations to promote eye health awareness and preventive care.

2. Further Studies

• Master’s Programs: Graduates can pursue a Master’s degree in Optometry (M.Optom) or other specialized fields within health sciences.
• Doctorate Programs: Opportunities to pursue a PhD in Optometry or related fields, focusing on advanced research and academic roles.
• Certifications: Specialized certifications in areas like contact lenses, orthoptics, or vision therapy to enhance job prospects.

3. Emerging Trends

• Tele-Optometry: The rise of telehealth services, particularly post-pandemic, has increased the demand for remote eye care services.
• Increased Awareness: Growing public awareness about eye health is likely to lead to higher demand for optometric services.
• Technological Advancements: As technology in eye care continues to evolve (e.g., virtual reality, AI in diagnosis), optometrists will need to adapt and incorporate these innovations into their practice.

4. Global Opportunities

• International Careers: Opportunities exist in countries with high demand for eye care professionals, providing better salary packages and working conditions.
• Collaboration with Global Organizations: Graduates can work with international health organizations focusing on vision care and public health initiatives.

Conclusion

The field of optometry is expanding, and B Optometry graduates have a wide array of career opportunities ahead of them. With further education and specialization, they can significantly enhance their career prospects and contribute to the field of eye care.

B Optometry vs BSc in Optometry

When comparing B Optometry and BSc in Optometry, it's important to note that the distinctions may vary depending on the institution and region. However, here’s a general comparison of the two programs based on typical features:

1. Degree Structure

• B Optometry (Bachelor of Optometry):
  • Typically a focused, professional degree specifically aimed at training students to become optometrists.
  • Usually has a curriculum tailored to optometry, including clinical training and practice.
• BSc in Optometry:
  • A Bachelor of Science degree that may offer a broader educational experience in the sciences related to optometry.
  • It may include a wider range of subjects, potentially allowing for specialization in related fields.

2. Duration

• Both degrees generally take around 4 years to complete, but this can vary by country and specific program requirements.

3. Curriculum

• B Optometry:
  • Focuses heavily on practical skills, clinical training, and patient care in optometry.
  • Core subjects include clinical optometry, dispensing optics, ocular disease management, and advanced diagnostic techniques.
• BSc in Optometry:
  • May include a combination of science-based subjects (like physics, chemistry, and biology) alongside optometry-specific courses.
  • Can provide a stronger foundation in research methods and theoretical aspects of optometry.

4. Career Outcomes

• B Optometry:
  • Graduates are generally eligible to practice as optometrists after obtaining the required licenses.
  • More directly aligned with clinical practice and patient care.
• BSc in Optometry:
  • Graduates may have options in research, education, and technical roles in the optometric field, but they might need additional qualifications or training to practice as optometrists.
  • Offers flexibility for further studies in various science-related fields.

5. Professional Recognition

• B Optometry:
  • Often recognized as a professional degree, leading directly to licensure as an optometrist.
• BSc in Optometry:
  • May or may not provide direct eligibility for licensure depending on local regulations and additional qualifications required.

6. Focus Areas

• B Optometry:
  • Primarily centered around clinical practices and patient interaction.
• BSc in Optometry:
  • May include more research-oriented projects and scientific inquiry, leading to a broader understanding of health sciences.

Conclusion

Choosing between B Optometry and BSc in Optometry depends on your career goals and interests. If you are focused on becoming a practicing optometrist, B Optometry is likely the better choice. If you are interested in a broader scientific education or potential research roles, then a BSc in Optometry could be a suitable option. Always consider the specific curriculum, recognition, and career support offered by the institutions you are evaluating.