A Master in Optometry (M.Optom) is a postgraduate program that provides advanced education and clinical training in eye care and vision science. It focuses on diagnosing and managing eye diseases, vision therapy, contact lens fitting, and ocular pharmacology. Core Components: Advanced Ocular Anatomy & Physiology Clinical Optometry & Refraction Techniques Diagnosis & Management of Eye Diseases Contact Lens and Low Vision Aids Binocular Vision & Vision Therapy Ocular Pharmacology and Pathology Research Methodology & Dissertation Clinical Internship / Practicum Eligibility: Bachelor’s in Optometry (B.Optom) or equivalent. Minimum 50%–60% marks (varies by institution). Some institutes may require entrance exams or interviews. Career Opportunities: Clinical Optometrist Vision Therapist Optometry Educator Eye Care Researcher Specialist in Contact Lenses or Low Vision
A Master in Optometry (M.Optom) is a 2-year postgraduate program focused on advanced eye care, visual science, and clinical skills. It equips students with comprehensive knowledge in diagnosing, managing, and treating a wide range of eye conditions and visual disorders. The course also prepares graduates for academic, research, and specialized clinical roles in optometry.
Detailed structure and function of the eye and visual system
Visual pathways and neurological connections
Advanced refraction techniques
Visual acuity testing and binocular vision assessment
Case history taking and differential diagnosis
Diagnosis and management of anterior and posterior segment disorders
Use of ophthalmic drugs, side effects, and therapeutic regimens
Fitting of soft and rigid gas permeable lenses
Special lenses (toric, scleral, orthokeratology)
Management of contact lens-related complications
Evaluation and treatment of binocular vision anomalies
Techniques for managing strabismus, amblyopia, and convergence insufficiency
Management of patients with irreversible vision loss
Use of low vision aids and rehabilitation techniques
Eye care delivery models
Preventive eye care, school screening programs, and vision health policy
Eye care tailored for children and the elderly
Developmental and age-related vision issues
Use of diagnostic technologies such as OCT, fundus photography, and visual field testing
Interpretation and application in clinical settings
Research design, sampling methods, and data analysis
Literature review, ethical considerations, and publishing research
A mandatory research project in a chosen area of optometry
Includes literature review, methodology, data collection, and presentation
Hands-on training in hospitals or eye clinics
Exposure to real-world cases under supervision
Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom) or equivalent 4-year degree from a recognized institution.
Some institutions may also accept B.Sc. in Optometry graduates (with a clinical internship included).
Typically 50%–60% aggregate marks in the undergraduate program (varies by university).
Completion of a 1-year clinical internship (usually part of B.Optom) is often required.
Some universities may allow candidates to complete remaining internship hours during the master's program.
Some institutions conduct entrance exams to assess knowledge in optics, ocular diseases, and general aptitude.
Others may conduct personal interviews for admission.
Proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL may be required if prior education was not in English.
Clinical Optometrist – Work in hospitals, specialty eye clinics, or private practice.
Contact Lens Specialist – Advanced lens fitting and management of corneal conditions.
Low Vision Therapist – Rehabilitation for patients with visual impairments.
Vision Therapist – Specializing in treating binocular vision disorders and pediatric cases.
Optometry Educator or Lecturer – Teaching in academic institutions or optometry colleges.
Researcher in Vision Science – Contributing to research on eye diseases, treatment technologies, and vision care strategies.
Public Health Optometrist – Involvement in community outreach, vision screening programs, and health policy.
Corporate or Industry Roles – Work with eyewear manufacturers, optical chains, or contact lens companies in clinical research or product development.
2 Years (4 semesters), full-time program.
India: AIIMS, Manipal Academy, Amity University, Sankara Nethralaya, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Chitkara University
Abroad: Salus University (USA), University of Waterloo (Canada), Cardiff University (UK), and others (some offer OD or MSc in Vision Science)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Degree | Master in Optometry (M.Optom) |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Eligibility | B.Optom / B.Sc. Optometry with internship |
| Core Areas | Ocular diseases, vision therapy, contact lenses, low vision, diagnostics |
| Career Options | Clinical optometry, education, research, vision therapy, industry roles |
