BSc Optometry: Course Details, Fees, Eligibility, Admission, Duration
BSc Optometry is a three-year undergraduate course that deals with the study of eye care, visual defects and abnormalities along with focusing on ocular pharmacology, optometric instrumentation, and vision therapy. The core BSc in Optometry subjects includes anatomy and physiology of the eye, optics and refraction, visual perception, etc.
BSc Optometry eligibility requires candidates to clear their 10+2 in science or any related stream with a minimum of 50-60% marks or unreserved with 5% relaxation for SC/ST/PwD category from an accredited board. Apart from the merit score, the candidate also needs to qualify for the entrance exams such as NEET, Amrita Entrance Exam, etc. The average BSc Optometry course fees is in the range of INR 40,000-2 LPA.
Table of Contents
- What is BSc Optometry Course?
- BSc Optometry Eligibility Criteria
- Why Choose a BSc Optometry Course?
- BSc in Optometry Admission 2023
- BSc Optometry Entrance Exams
- Top BSc Optometry Colleges in India
- Types of B.Sc Optometry Courses
- BSc Optometry Syllabus and Subjects
- BSc in Optometry College Comparison
- BSc Optometry vs B.Optom
- Salary of a BSc Optometry Graduate in India
- Courses After BSc in Optometry
- Career Options After Bachelor of Science in Optometry Course
- B.Sc Optometry Scholarships
- Skills to Excel as a BSc in Optometry Graduate
BSc Optometry Course Details
| Degree | Bachelors |
| Full Form | Bachelor of Science in Optometry |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Age | The minimum age limit to enroll in the course is 17 years. |
| Minimum Percentage | 50-60% aggregate in 10+2 examination for general category students and 5% relaxation for reserved category students. |
| Average Fees | INR 40,000-2,00,000 per year |
| Average Salary | INR 2.60 LPA (Source:Ambition Box) |
| Employment Roles | Optometric Technician, Contact Lens Specialist, Optometrist, etc. |
| Top Recruiters | Lenskart Solutions, Titan Eye Plus, ASG Eye Hospital, etc. |
What is BSc Optometry Course?
BSc Optometry or Bachelor of Science in Optometry focuses on theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of optometry, which is centered around eye and vision care. Top colleges like Dr. MGR Medical University, SVIET, Centurion University of Technology and Management, etc., offer a BSc in Optometry course. The courses fall under the umbrella of BSc courses.
B.Sc Optometry curriculum helps students gain hands-on experience in conducting eye examinations and prescribing corrective measures such as glasses and contact lenses so that they can work in roles like Low Vision Specialist, Optometrist, Refractive Surgery Coordinator, etc. The average salary of a BSc Optometry graduate is INR 2.60 LPA ( Source: Ambition Box).
BSc Optometry Eligibility Criteria
The admission procedure for BSc in Optometry requires candidates to fulfill a certain set of basic eligibility criteria including merit marks, entrance exam scores, subject requirements, etc. Below listed are the common BSc Optometry eligibility criteria:
- The candidate should have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics or Biology and English as mandatory subjects with a minimum of 50-60% marks for the unreserved category and 5% relaxation for the reserved category.
- The candidate also needs to qualify for entrance exams like NEET, Amrita Entrance Exam, etc.
- The minimum age limit to enroll in the course is 17 years.
Why Choose a BSc Optometry Course?
B.Sc in Optometry graduates are in high demand as the field of optometry is expanding due to developments in optometric technology. Nowadays, optometrists are capable of diagnosing and treating a greater variety of ocular diseases. Below listed are a few important pointers regarding why one should choose a BSc Optometry course:
- As per the BLS report the demand for optometrics is projected to grow by 9% between the years 2022-2032.
- By 2028, the size of the global optometry equipment market is projected to reach $5.9 billion, growing at a 6.4% annual rate.
- The graduates can work in different job roles from clinical optometrist to ocular disease specialist.
BSc in Optometry Admission 2023
The admission to BSs Optometry course is done through the entrance exam in colleges like Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeeth or on the basis of merit scores in PDM University, SVIET, etc. Below listed is the general BSc Optometry admission process:
- Step 1: The candidate needs to qualify for the entrance exam as per the requirements of the college.
- Step 2: The student further needs to fill out the college application form either available online or offline.
- Step 3: As per the college admission criteria such as Era University, GITAM University, the students are called for the PI process.
- Step 4: Once the college releases the merit list, the student needs to pay the fees and submit the necessary documents for verification.
BSc Optometry Entrance Exams
The admission to BSc in Optometry course is done on the basis of entrance exams held at national and institute levels such as NEET, Amrita Entrance Examination, etc. Below listed are a few important BSc Optometry entrance exams along with colleges accepting the entrance exam:
|
BSc in Optometry Entrance Exams |
Registration Date |
Accepting Colleges |
|
April 2024 |
Dr. MGR Medical University |
|
|
September 2023 - October 2023 |
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeeth |
|
|
Era University Entrance Exam |
May 2024-July 2024 |
Era University |
Top BSc Optometry Colleges in India
The average BSc Optometry course fee is in the range of INR 40,000-2 LPA. The optometry course fees in government colleges range from INR 40,000-70,000 PA, whereas for private colleges the fee is between INR 50,000-2 LPA. Below listed are the best colleges for BSc in Optometry course with their average fees:
|
Name of the College |
Average Annual Fees |
|
INR 90,000 |
|
|
INR 1,32,000 |
|
|
- |
|
|
INR 1,05,000 |
|
|
INR 1,10,000 |
|
|
- |
|
|
INR 94,500 |
|
|
INR 80,000 |
|
|
- |
|
|
INR 40,000 |
|
|
- |
|
|
Apollo University |
INR 97,800 |
|
Max Healthcare Education |
- |
|
SRI Manakula Vinayagar School of Allied Science |
INR 1,00,000 |
Read More: Top BSc Optometry Colleges in India
Types of B.Sc Optometry Courses
The BSc Optometry course can be pursued in full-time and distance mode in India. Below listed are BSc Optometry course details:
|
Types |
BSc in Optometry Eligibility |
BSc Optometry Duration |
|
Full-Time |
10+2 (High School Degree) with a minimum of 50-60% marks for the general category and 45% marks for the reserved category + Entrance Exam Score + GD/PI Performance |
3 Years |
|
Distance Education |
10+2 (High School Degree) with a minimum of 50% marks for the general category and 45% marks for the reserved category |
3-5 Years |
Distance BSc Optometry Course
The UGC-DEB recognized distance learning B.Sc. in Optometry program aids students in comprehending course principles in a flexible and economical manner. A few crucial pointers for the distance learning BSc Optometry course are listed below:
- The distance BSc in Optometry colleges include IMTS Institute, Neptune Institute of Management and Technology, Global Open University Nagaland, etc.
- The average distance BSc Optometry fees structure is in the range of INR 25,000-40,000 PA.
- IGNOU also offers a similar course to students in optometry known as B.Sc.(Hons.) in Optometry and Ophthalmic Techniques (BSCHOT), with a duration of four years.
- The course duration can be extended to five years, depending on the coursework completed by the student.
BSc Optometry Syllabus and Subjects
The first-year BSc Optometry syllabus focuses on concepts and principles of optometry, basic sciences, and clinical skills. The second-year syllabus covers advanced ophthalmic optics, visual perception, and clinical rotations whereas the third-year syllabus focuses on clinical specializations such as geriatric optometry, contact lenses, pediatric vision, etc.
Below listed are a few important BSc Optometry subjects along with topics covered:
|
BSc Optometry Subjects |
Topics Covered |
|
Anatomy and Physiology |
Neuroanatomy, Visual Perception, Structure of the Eye, Ocular Blood Flow, Myopia, Hyperopia, and Astigmatism, etc. |
|
Optics and Refraction |
Law of Refraction, Principles of Light, Lens System, Visual Acuity and Contrast Sensitivity, Refraction Errors and Correction, etc. |
|
Ocular Pharmacology |
Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Medication Safety and Administration, Common Ocular Medications, etc. |
|
Contact Lens Fitting and Management |
Types of Contact Lenses, Contact Lens Materials and Designs, Keratometry and Topography, Contact Lens Prescription, etc. |
Read More: B.Sc Optometry Syllabus and Subjects
BSc in Optometry College Comparison
The BSc in Optometry course is offered by top colleges with a focus on equipping students with a foundation in optometry and practices that help them gain a license to work as an optometrist in their region. Below listed is the comparison of course for the top 3 colleges offering B.Sc Optometry course:
|
College Name |
Dr. MGR Medical University |
SVIET |
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham |
|
Average Fees |
INR 1.10 LPA |
INR 90,000 PA |
INR 2 LPA |
|
NIRF Ranking 2023 |
92 |
NA |
7 |
|
Admission Process |
The candidate needs to have 50% marks in 10+2 (high school degree) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English. |
The candidate needs to have 50% marks in 10+2 (high school degree) in Physics and Chemistry as mandatory subjects and Biology or Maths as an additional subject. |
The candidate needs to have 60% marks in 10+2 (high school degree) with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English. |
|
Top Recruiters |
Reliance Life Sciences, Omega Healthcare, Vertex, etc. |
Bioclinica, Clicklabs, etc. |
Healthcare Community in Government semi-government, and commercial sectors. |
|
Average Placement |
INR 4 LPA |
INR 4.50 LPA |
NA |
BSc Optometry vs B.Optom
BSc Optometry has a broader scientific approach, covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and optics. On the other hand, B.Optom. is more specialized and focuses primarily on optometry-related subjects, such as visual science, clinical optometry, and ocular diseases.
The table below showcases the differences between a B.Sc in Optometry and B.Optom:
|
Course |
BSc in Optometry |
B.Optom. |
|
Full Form |
Bachelor of Science in Optometry |
Bachelor of Optometry |
|
Course Overview |
The emphasis is more on optometry's science and theory. |
A comprehensive program that blends theoretical understanding with significant clinical practice in eye care and vision correction. |
|
Stream |
Science |
Science |
|
Duration |
3 Years |
4 Years |
|
Eligibility |
10+2 (high school degree) with a minimum of 50% marks in PCM. |
10+2 (high school degree) with a minimum of 50% marks in PCM/B. |
|
Entrance Exams |
GAT, NEET, Amrita Entrance Exam, etc. |
CUET, TJEE, KCET, IUET |
|
Top Colleges |
SVIET, Dr. MGR Medical University, SGRR University |
SRM University, Chandigarh University, AIIMS Delhi, RIMT, etc. |
|
Fees |
INR 40,000-2 LPA |
INR 20,000-2 LPA |
|
Average Salary |
INR 2.60 LPA |
INR 2-4 LPA |
|
Job Role |
Optometrist, Speciality Lens Consultant, Refractive Surgery Consultant |
Vision Care Researcher, Optician, Ophthalmologist |
Read More: B.Optom
Salary of a BSc Optometry Graduate in India
The BSc Optometry salary in India on average is INR 2.60 LPA (Source: Ambition Box). Graduates after having three-plus years of experience can earn up to INR 6 LPA. Below listed are job roles for BSc in Optometry graduates along with their average entry-level salaries:
|
BSc Optometry Jobs |
Entry Level Average Salary |
Salary After 3 Years of Experience |
|
Vision Therapist |
INR 4 LPA |
INR 6-8 LPA |
|
Clinical Optometrist |
INR 3.10 LPA |
INR 7.60 LPA |
|
Public Health Optometrist |
INR 2.70 LPA |
INR 5-6 LPA |
|
Speciality Lens Consultant |
INR 3.30 LPA |
INR 5.60-7 LPA |
Read More: BSc Optometry Salary
Courses After BSc in Optometry
The graduates after completing a BSc Optometry can enroll in a higher education program or advanced certification courses to enhance their skills and domain knowledge. Below listed are a few courses that a B.Sc Optometry graduate can pursue:
- PhD in Optometry or Vision Science
- M.Phil
- MSc in Optometry
- Master’s in Vision Science
- Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) Course
Career Options After Bachelor of Science in Optometry Course
The career options after BSc in Optometry are vast, graduates can work in top organizations like Titan Eye Plus, Lenskart, SIMS Hospital, ICARE Eye Hospital, etc. Below listed are a few BSc Optometry job roles offered to graduates along with their job designation, top companies, and average salaries:
|
Job Designations |
Hiring Companies |
Average Salary |
|
Contact Lens Specialist |
Lenskart Solutions, Advanced Eye Hospital and Institute, etc. |
INR 4 LPA |
|
Optometrist |
Titan Eye Plus, Vasan Eye Care, Specsmakers, John Jacobs, etc. |
INR 4.20 LPA |
|
Low Vision Specialist |
ASG Eye Hospital, Vision Express, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, etc. |
INR 3.20 LPA |
|
Ocular Disease Specialist |
Bombay Hospital, JSS Hospital, Vasan Eye Care Hospital, etc. |
INR 4-5 LPA |
Top Recruiters for BSc in Optometry Graduates
The B.Sc Optometry graduates are hired by various private and government departments or organizations in fields like hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, optical chains, school, special education centers, etc. Below listed are a few top recruiters for graduates:
|
Top Recruiter |
BSc Optometry Monthly Salary (Average) |
|
Lenskart Solutions |
INR 25,000 |
|
Titan Eye Plus |
INR 26,000 |
|
Specsmakers |
INR 29,282 |
|
Optum |
INR 16,000-25,000 |
|
Essilor |
INR 32,000 |
[Source: Glassdoor]
B.Sc Optometry Scholarships
The students who want to study BSc Optometry can get scholarships from government initiatives, private and government colleges based on merit score, annual income, and other related factors. Below listed are a few scholarships for BSc Optometry course:
|
Scholarship |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount |
|
Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities |
|
INR 4,000 |
|
The Global Minority Scholarship |
|
INR 50,000 |
Skills to Excel as a BSc in Optometry Graduate
To excel as an Optometrist BSc graduate a combination of domain knowledge and practical skills is required. Below listed are a few skills required by the graduate:
- Clinical Competence: In order to diagnose eye vision and related problems. Along with proficiency in using eye care equipment.
- Technical Proficiency: The graduate should be proficient with healthcare software and electronic health record (EHR) systems.
- Patient Management: The graduate should be able to perform functions like patient documentation, making appointments, and providing follow-up treatment.
- Surgical Assistance: During surgery, optometrists provide assistance which makes it necessary to have familiarity with surgical techniques and tools.
Top BSc Optometry Colleges
Top Science Entrance Exams
Result Date: Mar 22, 2024
BSc Optometry Fee Structure
FAQs on BSc Optometry
Q: Does BSc Optometry require NEET?
A: No, it is not mandatory to qualify for NEET after completing BSc Optometry. Candidates can pursue the course after completing 10+2 (high school degree) in physics, chemistry and biology stream.
Q: What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
A: An optometrist specializes in examining and diagnosing eye conditions, prescribing corrective lenses, and providing vision care. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and can perform surgeries, diagnose and treat various eye diseases, etc.
Q: Is BSc Optometry a good career choice?
A: Yes, BSc Optometry is a good career choice for students as it offers career opportunities in areas of optical store management, public health and community service, ocular disease management, etc.
Q: Can I pursue a BSc Optometry course from IGNOU?
A: Yes, graduates can pursue BSc Hons in Optometry and Ophthalmic Techniques from IGNOU.
Q: Are there any job opportunities in research for BSc Optometry graduates?
A: Yes, graduates can work in research-related roles in various fields like clinical research, academic research, collaborative research in ocular disease, etc.
Q: What is the BSc Optometry course fees in private college?
A: The average BSc in Optometry course fee in private college is in the range of INR 50,000-2 LPA.
Q: Can I work in nonclinical roles after completion of BSc Optometry course?
A: Yes, after completing BSc Optometry graduates can work in non clinical roles like Optometry Consultant, Eyewear Sales Representative, Healthcare IT Analyst, Healthcare Writer, etc.
