Optometry Courses: Fees 2025, Admission, Top Colleges, Distance Learning, Online

Updated on Jul 8, 2022 06:54 IST
Parul Thapa

Parul ThapaAssistant Manager

Optometry course is offered at multiple levels and modes for students who are interested in pursuing a specialised discipline that deals with comprehensive eye care. Optometry is considered to be a paramedical course and is offered at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctorate levels. The Optometry course can be pursued in not only full-time classroom mode, but there are several institutes that offer certificate courses and in distance learning mode. The duration of undergraduate Optometry courses is four years and that of the postgraduate level is two years.

Optometry Courses Offered at Undergraduate Level

The Optometry courses offered at the undergraduate level can be further segregated into a degree, diploma and online or distance learning courses.

Optometry Degree Courses

The list of Optometry undergraduate degree courses, along with their duration is given in the table below.

Course Name

Duration

BSc in Optometry

Four years

Bachelor of Optometry

Four years

Optometry Diploma Courses

The Diploma in Optometry is offered at an UG  level for a duration of 3 years. The eligibility criteria require a pass in Class 10 and Class 12 in Science stream in PCB.

Optometry Distance Education Courses

The Bachelor’s degree programme in Optometry is also offered in Distance learning mode at various institutes. The duration of the Optometry course in Distance learning mode is three years, which is divided into six semesters. After the completion of the three-year course, it is mandatory to attend one-year training programme.

The pedagogy of the Distance learning course is a combination of online courses, dispatching study materials by post and appearing for the exams at the institutes or designated centres. Candidates can connect with the faculty members via telephone or email to get any of their course curriculum-related doubts or queries.

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Optometry Courses Offered at Postgraduate Level

The postgraduate level Optometry courses are offered in degree, diploma, distance and certificate modes. Let us review each of these course types in terms of nomenclature and duration.

Optometry Degree Courses at PG Level

There are two types of Optometry degree courses at the postgraduate level. The names and the duration are given in the table below:

Course Name

Duration

MSc in Optometry

Two years

Master of Optometry (MOPTM)

Two years

Optometry Diploma Courses at PG Level

Postgraduate Diploma courses in Optometry are offered for a duration of 18 months to two years, divided into three to four semesters. The pedagogy involves both classroom learning as well as hands-on training. Students are evaluated based on written tests as well as practical exams. Students are taught core subjects as well as elective subjects.

Optometry Certificate Courses

There are a number of certifications offered for Optometry courses. The duration of the courses vary from one hour to six months.

The Optometry Certificate courses are mostly offered in an online mode and the course content is divided across modules. After the completion of each module, students have to take a test to get their learning evaluated. Unlike full-time courses, the certifications do not involve practical lessons.

Optometry Courses at Doctorate Courses

After completing postgraduation in Optometry, students may opt for a doctorate or PhD in Optometry. Prior to pursuing a PhD, they may also opt for MPhil in Optometry. The duration of the MPhil course is one to two years. On the other hand, the PhD course duration ranges from three to four years. The course can be pursued in either full-time or part-time mode. Based on this, the total duration would vary.

A doctorate in Optometry course is the highest degree to earn. The course curriculum involves research, training, and being equipped with prescribing medicines and performing surgeries on eyes or optical organs to treat optical ailments or improvement of vision. After completing a PhD in Optometry or becoming a Doctorate in Optometry, the students or professionals also become qualified to become academicians or professors.

Specialisations Offered at Optometry Courses

Optometry as a course has a vast scope. There are a number of specialisations one can opt for and build a career in it. Some of the popular Optometry course specialisations are as follows:

  • Behavioural Optometry

  • Geriatric Optometry

  • Low Vision Therapy

  • Neuro-Optometry

  • Pediatric Optometry

  • Ophthalmic Technology

  • Contact Lenses

  • Sports Vision

  • Ocular Vision

Upcoming Trends in Optometry Courses

Optometry is a dynamic field which is constantly transforming and bringing in better methods and processes to improve vision. Research has been a constant in this field which has led to the blending of technology with the subject to improve vision care. Gone are the days when those with vision ailments had to make spectacles or glasses as their constant companion. The latest Optometry advances have not only led to the invention of advanced lenses, but with different surgical or other procedures, it is even possible to reverse the optical power or other ailments completely.

Optometrists and researchers are constantly endeavouring to utilise the latest technologies to improve the following aspects:

  • Introducing different types of lenses (contact lenses as well as spectacles) to cater to patients with complicated powers.

  • Optometry is being diversified and is worked upon in close coordination with related disciplines such as Ophthalmology, Physics, Computer Science, etc.

  • Optometry as a discipline is deploying technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), among others.

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FAQs Regarding Optometry Course

Q: What are the different Optometry courses offered?

A: Optometry courses are offered in bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate levels. The course names are BSc, Msc in Optometry, Bachelor or Masters in Optometry, Diploma in Optometry and Certificate courses in Optometry.  

Q What are the eligibility criteria for studying Optometry?

A: To be eligible for Optometry courses at the UG level, candidates should pass or appear in Class 12 Board exam with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as core subjects with a minimum aggregate of 55 per cent. For PG Optometry courses, candidates should have a degree in Optometry or a related course.

Q: Is it mandatory to study Mathematics to be eligible for Optometry course?

A: No, it is not mandatory to study Mathematics to be eligible for taking admission to Optometry course. However, having a sound Mathematical aptitude is necessary to excel in Optometry course since it deals with a number of calculations and practical knowledge of Physics.

Q: Will BSc Optometry students be called doctors after completing the course?

A: No, BSc Optometry qualified students cannot be called as qualified doctors since it is a paramedical course and not a core medical course. However, after completing PhD, students would be called as Doctors.

Q: Does Optometry require NEET?

A: No, NEET is not mandatory to be taken in order to study Optometry. Admission to Optometry courses generally take place on merit basis.

Q: What is the difference between BSc Optometry and BOPT?

A: The difference between BSc Optometry and BOPT is in terms of the curriculum and the syllabus or subjects taught and the nomenclature of the degree.

Q: What is the duration of the Optometry courses?

A: The duration of the UG level of Optometry courses is four years and that of the PG courses is two years. The duration of Diploma, Certificate and Doctorate courses may vary from one to another.

Q: Which are the top colleges offering Optometry courses?

A: The top colleges offering Optometry courses are AIIMS Delhi, Christian Medical College (CMC Vellore), JIPMER, Puducherry, to name a few.

Q: What are the options after completing BSc in Optometry?

A: After completing BSc in Optometry, students can pursue MSc in Optometry or MOPT, or PG Diploma in Optometry. Some students may also opt for Certificate courses in Optometry.

Q: Can I study Masters in Optometry without study Bachelors in Optometry?

A: Students should either study BSc in Optometry of Bachelor of Optometry, or a related course to be eligible for studying Masters in Optometry. In case students lack the knowledge on optics and vision care, they would not be eligible to study PG course in Optometry.

Q: What are the different job profiles I can pursue after completing Optometry course?

A: After completing an Optometry course, students can get jobs in various profiles including Optometrist, Vision Consultant, Dispensing Optician, Optometry Professor, to name a few.
Table of content
  • 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

Following are the most popular Optometry Colleges in India. Learn more about these Optometry colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1 Course
1.2 K
24 LPA

#1 NIRF

1.8 K

#3 NIRF

1 Course
1.11 L

#13 NIRF

1 Course

#16 India Today

1 Course
3.6 K
8 LPA

#4 NIRF

48 K
5.0

#8 NIRF

Popular Private Optometry Colleges in India

6.4 L
2.52 L

Optometry Applications open. Apply Now

80 K
6.4 L
1.96 L - 5.12 L
3.8
6.9 L

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Optometry. Students interested in pursuing a career on Optometry, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

23 Oct ' 25 - 27 Oct ' 25

NEET 2025 Counselling Round 3 Institute Reporting

30 Oct ' 25 - 3 Nov ' 25

NEET 2025 Counselling Online Stray Vacancy Round ...

19 Aug ' 25 - 25 Aug ' 25

AIIMS BSc Paramedical Counselling: Online Accepta...

18 Aug ' 25

AIIMS BSc Paramedical Counselling: Seat allocatio...

Oct '25

Choice filling for NEET PG 2025 counselling round-1

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

NEET PG 2025 round-1 seat allotment

TENTATIVE

27 Oct ' 25 - 3 Nov ' 25

AIAPGET 2025 round-3 registration

30 Oct ' 25 - 3 Nov ' 25

AIAPGET 2025 round-3 choice filling

Popular Optometry UG Courses

Following are the most popular Optometry UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Optometry PG Courses

Following are the most popular Optometry PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a month ago

BSC IN AGRICULTURE 

S

SOVANDEV MANDAL

Beginner-Level 1

Answered a month 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

Yatendra Pradhan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

Mani Sahni

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

P

Parul Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

K

Kanishk Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

L

Loveleen Choudhury

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana

1.3 L

Era University

4.4 L

St.Joseph University

4.8 L

Al-Karim University

3.4 L

Note: The data has been taken from external sources and may vary.

P

Parul Thapa

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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,

...Read more

A

Aishwarya Rai

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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,

...Read more

M

Mamona Jain

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

N

Nishtha Chatterjee

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

M

Mani Sahni

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

Y

Yatendra Pradhan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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)

CMC 

1.8 K

Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal

4.8 L

Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana

1.65 L

Malla Reddy University

4 L

Rama University, Kanpur

2.16 L

Note: The data has been taken from the external source and may vary.

K

Kanishk Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

Parul Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

L

Loveleen Choudhury

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

J

Jaya Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

P

Parul Thapa

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

A

Aishwarya Rai

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

M

Mamona Jain

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

N

Nishtha Chatterjee

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

Y

Yatendra Pradhan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

M

Mani Sahni

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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.

...Read more

K

Kanishk Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

P

Parul Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

L

Loveleen Choudhury

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

J

Jaya Shukla

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

P

Parul Thapa

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month 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

...Read more

A

Aishwarya Rai

Contributor-Level 10

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