Optometry Career Guide: Roles, Salary 2025 & Future Scope

Parul ThapaAssistant Manager
Optometry is a growing career. This offers diverse opportunities. It is an essential field in the healthcare sector. Salary ranges between INR 3-5 LPA. Top recruiters are Titan Eye Plus, Optum, First Student, Reliance Industries etc.
Suggested Links for Optometry Jobs and Careers:
Top Optometry Jobs in India
Some Optometry jobs include:
|
Job Roles |
Description |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
|
Optometrists |
Examine eyes to detect defects in vision and other ocular diseases |
INR 3.2 LPA |
|
Optometry Research Assistants |
Prepare reports and presentations and perform routine clerical duties |
INR 3.2 LPA |
|
Clinical Optometrists |
A clinical optometrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in providing primary eye care services to patients. |
INR 4 LPA |
|
Pediatric Optometrists |
A pediatric optometrist is an optometrist who specializes in providing eye care services specifically tailored to infants, children, and adolescents. |
INR 2.8 LPA |
|
Contact Lens Specialists |
A contact lens specialist, also known as a contact lens practitioner or contact lens fitter, is a healthcare professional who specializes in fitting, prescribing, and managing contact lenses for patients with various vision needs and eye conditions. |
INR 3.3 LPA |
|
Low Vision Specialists |
A low-vision specialist is a healthcare professional who specializes in assessing and managing visual impairment caused by eye diseases, injuries, or congenital conditions. |
INR 3.8 LPA |
Useful Links for Optometry Jobs and Career:
Optometry Jobs: Top Recruiters
Optometry graduates are in high demand across various sectors, and several top recruiters consistently hire skilled professionals. With the rise in eye care awareness, these recruiters provide excellent job stability and growth opportunities.
Listed below are some of the top recruiters that offer Optometry jobs in India:
|
Optometry Top Recruiters |
|
|---|---|
|
Infotech Explorer India Limited |
Rahat Enterprises |
|
Giridhar Eye Institute |
Optical Express |
|
Vasan Eye Care Hospitals |
C.L. Gupta Eye Institute |
|
Shroff Eye Centre |
Eye7 |
Helpful Links for Optometry Jobs and Careers:
Optometry Jobs: Core Sectors
Listed below are the key sectors where they can work after pursuing an Optometry course in India:
|
Sectors |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Healthcare and Hospitals |
Optometrists can work in eye hospitals, multi-speciality hospitals, and eye care centres, providing primary eye care. |
|
Optical Retail Chains |
Large optical chains and independent optical stores hire optometrists to conduct eye exams. |
|
Academic and Research Institutions |
Optometrists can pursue careers in academia, teaching optometry courses. |
|
Corporate and Industrial Sector |
Some large corporations employ optometrists to provide vision care services to their employees. |
|
Public Health and NGOs |
Optometrists can work in public health initiatives, community health programs, and non-governmental organizations, providing eye care services. |
Relevant Links for Optometry Jobs and Career:
Best Dental Colleges for Placements (In India)
The table below shows the list of the best Optometry colleges along with their median salary offered:
|
Optometry Colleges |
Median Salary |
|---|---|
| AIIMS Delhi Placements | 24 LPA |
| Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal | 8.9 - 11.75 LPA |
| Chitkara University Placements | 11.06 LPA |
| Srinivas University Placements | 10 LPA |
| JSS Medical College Placements | 9.75 LPA |
| Manipal Tata Medical College Placements | 8.9 LPA |
| UoH Placements | 8.25 LPA |
| Shri Sathya Sai Medical College And Research Institute Placements | 8.15 LPA |
| Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute Placements | 8.15 LPA |
Related Links for Optometry Jobs and Career:
Optometry Jobs FAQs
Q. Is Optometry a good career option?
A. Yes, Optometry can be good career option for those interested in eye health and vision care. This course helps people improve their vision. It offers good stability good work-life balance, and potential for both personal fulfillment and financial reward.
Q. Does optometry have a good future?
A. Yes, optometry has a good future because of its rising demand from an aging people and increased screen time, and advancements in technology that expand the scope of practice. As people live longer and spend more time on digital devices, the demand for vision care is expected to rise, leading to more opportunities for optometrists.
Q. Can I become a doctor after optometry?
A. Yes, it is possible to pursue a medical degree after doung optometry training but it also has additional steps. Optometrists who want to become medical doctors MD or doctors of osteopathic medicine need to apply to medical school and complete the necessary requirements which include coursework in subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Hope this was helpful!!!!!
Q. Is optometry a high-stress job?
A. No, Optometry is generally considered to be a low stress job as compared to many other healthcare fields. This field does not involve work with stress as their only work is to examine eye and their condition and prescribe the medicine or correct lenses.
Q. Can I open my clinic after BSc optometry?
A. No, opening a clinic after doing only BSc course in Optometry needs some additional qualifications and licensing. BSc in Optometry gives basic knowledge of Optometry. Setting up a clinic has business planning, securing necessary permits, and adhering to local regulations.
Q. Can I do surgery after BSc optometry?
A. No, performing surgery after completing a BSc in Optometry i not permitted with only a bachelor's degree. In most of the regions, surgical procedures are reserved for ophthalmologists who are medical doctors with specialized training in surgical techniques and eye care.
Q. What is the salary of a PhD optometrist?
A. Below is list of of salary expectations at different career stages after doing PhD optometrist -
- Entry-Level: Rs. 4-6 LPA
- Mid-level: Rs. 6-10 LPA
- Senior-Level: Rs. 10 - 15 LPA
Sources - External sites and can vary.
Q. What are the emerging trends in Optometry?
A. Optometry jobs in India is evolving with some of the emerging trends shaping the future of the field. Students can check out the following trends that they can witness in their Optometry jobs -
- Tele optometry and Digital Eye Care
- Specialization and Advanced Practice
- Integration of AI and Machine Learning
- Growing Focus on Myopia Management
Hope this helps!!!
- Popular Optometry Colleges in India
- Popular Private Optometry Colleges in India
- Popular Exams
- Most Popular Courses
- Popular Optometry UG Courses
- Popular Optometry PG Courses
Popular Optometry Colleges in India
Popular Private Optometry Colleges in India
Optometry Applications open till May 28, 2026. Apply Now
Popular Exams
16 Nov ' 25 - 20 Nov ' 25 | NEET 2025 Counselling Online Stray Vacancy Round ... |
15 Nov ' 25 | NEET 2025 Counselling Online Stray Vacancy Round ... |
28 Oct ' 25 - 18 Nov ' 25 | Choice filling for NEET PG 2025 counselling round-1 |
20 Nov ' 25 | NEET PG 2025 counselling round-1 seat allotment |
Mar '26 - Apr '26 | AIIMS BSc Paramedical Registration (Basic) TENTATIVE |
30 May ' 26 | AIIMS BSc Paramedical 2026 Exam date |
15 Nov ' 25 | INI CET 2025 November result declaration |
9 Nov ' 25 | INI CET 2025 November exam date |
Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- Bachelor of Optometry (BOPTM)Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana
- B.Sc. in OptometryPt. Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences
- Bachelor of Optometry (BOPTM)SGT University, Gurgaon
- Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optm.)SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, SRM IST, Kattankulathur
- Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom.)Teerthanker Mahaveer University
- Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom.)Chandigarh University (CU)
- B.Sc. in OptometrySharda School of Allied Health Sciences
- B.Sc. in Optometry TechnologyDhanalakshmi Srinivasan University
- Bachelor of Optometry (BOPTM)CGC University, Mohali
- Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom.)NSHM Institute of Health Sciences, NSHM Knowledge Campus - Kolkata Campus
Popular Optometry UG Courses
UG Courses
- BOPTM
172 Colleges
- B.Sc.
136 Colleges
- UG Diploma
62 Colleges
- B.Voc
20 Colleges
- UG certificate
8 Colleges
Popular Optometry PG Courses
PG Courses
- M.Optom.
58 Colleges
- M.Sc.
23 Colleges
- M.Voc
9 Colleges
- PG Diploma
3 Colleges
- M.A.
2 Colleges
News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered 2 months ago
BSC IN AGRICULTURE
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 months ago
The kind of clinical exposure students get in top Optometry colleges is:
Hands-on patient examination in eye hospitals
Training in refraction, vision therapy, and contact lenses
Exposure to advanced diagnostic tools
Internships in multi-specialty hospitals and eye institutes
Y
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The way to choose the best Optometry college based on placements and facilities is:
Check hospital tie-ups and campus recruitment records
Look at lab facilities, diagnostic equipment, and clinical setup
Compare internship opportunities and alumni reviews
Evaluate faculty expertise and research exposure
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The Optometry syllabus includes a balance between classroom learning as well as applied and practical training. In the course, there are subjects like ocular physiology, contact lens technology and even optometric instruments that students study and also go through practical sessions.
Also, clinical
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Both the courses include core subjects such as anatomy, optics and even ocular diseases. But there are also some key differences like BSc Optometry is more academically oriented which focuses more on the Science and theory behind eye care.
But B.Optom is more about the clinical practice and patient c
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, Optometry courses place a strong focus on practical training and hospital exposure. Students go through laboratory work, clinical postings and even hands-on sessions with diagnostic equipment.
Most colleges make it sure that hospital internships are there during the final year, where students us
L
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates can check the BSc Optometry fees in the best colleges below:
Colleges | BSc Optometry course fees (INR) |
|---|---|
NIMS College of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, NIMS University | 2.8 L |
1.3 L | |
4.4 L | |
4.8 L | |
3.4 L |
Note: The data has been taken from external sources and may vary.
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The duration of a BSc Optometry course is typically 4 years. This includes three years of academic study and one year of compulsory internship, which provides hands-on training in hospitals, clinics, or eye-care centers.
The academic phase focuses on building theoretical knowledge in visual sciences,
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The duration of a BSc Optometry course is typically 4 years. This includes three years of academic study and one year of compulsory internship, which provides hands-on training in hospitals, clinics, or eye-care centers.
The academic phase focuses on building theoretical knowledge in visual sciences,
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The salary after completing a BSc Optometry depends on the job role, location, and type of employer. Fresh graduates working in hospitals, eye clinics, or optical retail stores can expect an average starting salary between INR 2.5–4.5 LPA.
With experience and advanced skills, professionals may earn h
N
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
A BSc Optometry is a four-year undergraduate programme that trains students to examine, diagnose, and manage eye-related problems. It covers subjects like ocular anatomy, physiology, optics, and visual sciences while also providing practical exposure through clinical training.
The course prepares stu
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The skills important for a successful career after the Bachelor of Optometry course are:
Strong observation skills
Attention to detail
Communication and interpersonal skills
Problem-solving ability
Technical knowledge of eye care instruments
Clinical decision-making
Patience and empathy
Hand–eye coordinatio
Y
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, there is a direct admission option for the Bachelor of Optometry in India. The following are the best colleges:
Colleges | Bachelor of Optometry Course Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
1.8 K | |
4.8 L | |
1.65 L | |
4 L | |
2.16 L |
Note: The data has been taken from the external source and may vary.
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, private colleges conduct their own entrance tests for the Bachelor of Optometry like:
Exams | Full form |
|---|---|
MAKAUT CET | Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology Common Entrance Test |
SUAT | Sharda University Admission Test |
GITAM GAT | Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management Admission Test |
BVP CET | Bharati Vidyapeeth Common Entrance Test |
IUET | Integral University Entrance Test |
JET | Joint Entrance Test (conducted by various institutes/universities) |
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, Optometry graduates can pursue research opportunities in vision sciences, optical devices, or eye-related technologies. With higher studies like M.Optom or PhD, research prospects increase further.
Bachelor of Optometry course graduates can work in labs developing advanced contact lenses, surgic
L
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, optometrists are often hired in the aviation industry for vision screening of pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff. Clear vision is a safety priority in this sector.
They conduct eye check-ups, refraction tests, and color vision assessments. Aviation medical centers, airlines, and airport health
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, both PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) and PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) students can apply. Since Optometry is science-oriented, having knowledge of physics and biology is useful.
Some colleges prefer PCB students, but PCM students with mathematics can also excel due to the optical and
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
No, NEET is not compulsory for admission to the Bachelor of Optometry course. Admission is usually based on Class 12 marks in Science subjects or entrance exams like CUET.
However, some universities conduct their own tests to assess eligibility. Unlike MBBS or Bachelor0 optometry falls under Paramedi
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Fresh Bachelor of Optometry graduates usually earn between INR 2.5 to INR 4 Lacs per year in hospitals, clinics, or optical chains. With experience and specialization, salaries can rise significantly.
Optometrists working in private hospitals, MNCs, or the aviation industry often earn higher packages
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, many Optometry graduates open their own eye care clinics or optical shops after completing their degree. This allows them to be independent practitioners.
They can provide vision tests, prescribe corrective lenses, and even collaborate with ophthalmologists for patient referrals. Entrepreneurshi
N
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, Optometry graduates can apply for government jobs in hospitals, healthcare centers, railways, and defense services. Public Health programs often hire optometrists to support community eye care.
Government opportunities may be competitive but provide job security, stability, and attractive benefi
Y
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Bachelor of Optometry balances both theory and practical learning. Initially, students study theoretical subjects like optics, ocular anatomy, and pathology to build strong foundational knowledge.
Gradually, the programme shifts towards clinical training, eye examinations, and patient interaction. By
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, practical training is a core part of the Bachelor of Optometry curriculum. Students spend their final year as interns in hospitals, eye clinics, or vision centers.
This hands-on exposure allows them to practice refraction, contact lens fitting, and management of eye conditions under supervision.
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, several universities and colleges now accept CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores for admission into the Bachelor of Optometry program. This standardizes the process and makes it accessible to students across India.
However, admission policies vary. Some institutions also conduct their
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
A Bachelor of Optometry trains students to examine eyes, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, and detect vision-related problems. They focus mainly on diagnosis and corrective care.
An ophthalmologist, on the other hand, is a medical doctor (MBBS + specialization) who can perform surgeries and treat
L
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The MBBS. of Optometry is a healthcare course but not a full-fledged medical degree like MBBS. It is a paramedical programme focusing on eye care, diagnosis of vision problems, and prescription of corrective lenses.
Though optometrists are not doctors, they play a vital role in preventing blindness a
J
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The Bachelor of Optometry course in India usually takes 4 years to complete. This includes 3 years of academic study covering subjects like anatomy, optics, and eye diseases, followed by 1 year of compulsory clinical internship.
The internship helps students apply classroom knowledge in real-life set
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The following colleges provide a good balance of quality education and affordability, making them ideal choices for pursuing a Bachelor of Optometry in India.
Candidates can check the table below a list of the best affordable colleges for Bachelor of Optometry offering the course for less than INR 1
A
Contributor-Level 10
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Which course is better - Bachelor of Optometry vs BSc Optometry?