Diploma in Optometry: Course Details, Eligibility, Admission, Fees
Diploma in Optometry in India is a two-year pre-undergraduate diploma course that deals with the different concepts of eye health, diseases, diagnosis, and treatment of human eyes. After the completion of the program, the diploma graduates are hired in professions such as Customer Care Associates, Private Practitioners, Professors, Trainee Optometrists, Vision Consultants, Optometry Researchers, etc.
Diploma in Optometry Course Details
| Degree | Diploma |
| Full Form | Diploma in Optometry |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Subjects Required | Physics, Chemistry & Biology |
| Minimum Percentage | 10+2 in Science |
| Average Fees | ₹50K - 1.5 LPA |
| Average Salary | NR 4 - 15 LPA |
| Employment Roles | Customer Care Associate, Private Practitioner, Professor, Trainee Optometrist, Vision Consultant, Optometry Researcher, Nutrition Officer/Data Assistant, Junior Medical Coder, Optometrist Assistant, e |
About Diploma in Optometry
Diploma in Optometry course in India is a two-year diploma course that deals with eye care and visual defects and abnormalities. The study includes the eye care aspects, the vision systems employed for rectifying the defects in the eye, correction of errors using contact lenses or spectacles, and diagnosis of ocular diseases.
According to Wikipedia, "Optometry is a specialized health care profession that involves examining the eyes and related structures for defects or abnormalities. Optometrists are health care professionals who typically provide comprehensive primary eye care."
Table of Contents
- Diploma in Optometry Eligibility Criteria
- Diploma in Optometry Admission Process
- Who Should Do a Diploma in Optometry?
- Types of Diploma in Optometry
- Popular Diploma in Optometry Entrance Exams
- Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges
- Study Diploma in Optometry Abroad
- Fees Structure for Diploma in Optometry
- Syllabus and Subjects for Diploma in Optometry
- Why Choose Diploma in Optometry?
- Diploma in Optometry Course Comparison
- Preparation Tips for Diploma in Optometry
- Scope of Higher Education after Diploma in Optometry
- Diploma in Optometry Salary
- Career Options After Diploma in Optometry
- Skills to Excel
Also Read: List of Medical Courses after 12th without NEET
Eligibility Criteria for Diploma in Optometry
Aspirants can do a diploma in Optometry course admission if a candidate gets a minimum 50% aggregate score in 10+2 to satisfy course eligibility criteria. Admissions to Diploma in Optometry course are either merit or entrance based. The entrance exam works as a screening process for colleges to decide whom to give admission. There is no age limit for the course.
How To Get Admission in a Diploma in Optometry?
For pursuing a Diploma in Optometry, students must ensure that they satisfy the eligibility criteria. Admissions in the course of optometry are based on the medical entrance examination. In addition, many institutions and colleges offer admission based on national level or state level examinations like NEET, AIIMS, etc. Mentioned below is the general admission process:
How to Apply?
Aspirants can find the Diploma in Optometry course details and information for admission on the college's official websites, where the students should apply. The registration process can be carried out through online and offline methods. Each college and university has a different admission process students must frequently check with the respected college/university's official website.
Selection Process
Admission is strictly offered to only those students who clear the minimum cut-off of the respective college and fulfil the eligibility criteria. The students can get their results through email communication or visit the colleges' official website.
Who Should Pursue a Diploma in Optometry?
A diploma in Optometry is a course designed for students who want to learn and acquire skills needed in the treatment of eyes. The course is also intended for students who want to prepare for further studies in the field of Optometry and medical science.
When to do a Diploma in Optometry?
Diploma in Optometryis pursued right after completion of 10+2. Students wishing to pursue further studies in education can opt for the course.
Types of Diploma in Optometry
Aspirants can pursue the Diploma in Optometry course in a full-time course or a part-time course or also as a distance course.
Full-Time Diploma in Optometry
A full-time Diploma in Optometry is a typical programme. During this time, students are required to attend classes, submit assignments, and take exams on campus. When enrolled in a full-time Diploma in optometry course, students gain more exposure, experience, and knowledge by interacting directly with colleagues and faculty.
Part-Time Diploma in Optometry
Part-time degrees allow the student to complete their degree programme on their own time. The course is structured for working professionals. Colleges do offer a Diploma in Optometry as a part-time course.
Distance Diploma in Optometry
Distance Education colleges allow students to earn their degrees while working. This is frequently the most adaptable type of degree programme. A diploma in Optometry is offered as distance education.
Popular Entrance Exams for Diploma in Optometry
Candidates are admitted for respective courses based on their scores in the entrance exams. The candidates who sit for the entrance examination have to clear the cut-off to get admission. The national eligibility cum entrance test (NEET) and common entrance test (CET) are considered entrance tests in some colleges. Other colleges conduct their entrance exam for admission. Some of the top entrance exams are:
A Quick Glance at the Diploma in Optometry Entrance Exams
Students who desire to opt for a Diploma in Optometry course should know the exam pattern and syllabus well before time. This helps students in timely preparation for the entrance exams. The entrance exam has the following pattern:
- It consists of 180 objective-type questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- The duration will be 3 hours.
- 4 Marks for each correct answer, reduced by 1 for each incorrect answer, and no marks for unmarked questions.
Study Diploma in Optometry in India
India is home to some of the top colleges offering the Diploma in Optometry. Depending on their interests, candidates can choose from a variety of Diploma in Optometry courses. Candidates must select from the available options the best Diploma in Optometry programme. The following are a few of India's top colleges offering a diploma in optometry:
Top 10 Diploma in Optometry Colleges in India
Various colleges in India offer the Diploma in Optometry course in India. Students can opt for the top Diploma in Optometry colleges in India, depending on their merit. Some of the top 10 colleges for Diploma in Optometry courses in India are listed below:
| Sl.No. | Name of the Institute |
| 1 | Paramedical College, Durgapur |
| 2 | CMC, Vellore |
| 3 | St. Johns Medical College, Bengaluru |
| 4 | IAMR, Ghaziabad |
| 5 | Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai |
| 6 | AIIMS, New Delhi |
| 7 | IAMR, West Bengal |
| 8 | NIMS University, Jaipur |
| 9 | Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada |
| 10 | NIHSR, New Delhi |
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Delhi
Delhi has some of the best institutions for Diploma in Optometry in India. Check the table below for the top Diploma in Optometry colleges in Delhi:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | AIMS |
| 2 | IIT University |
| 3 | Institute of Paramedical Science and Management |
| 4 | Delhi Paramedical and Management Institute |
| 5 | Santosh University |
Read More: Diploma in optometry colleges in Delhi
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Dehradun
Dehradun offers various colleges and institutions for Diploma in Optometry. Below is a list of various colleges offering Diploma in optometry:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | Uttaranchal PG College of Bio-medical |
| 2 | Himalaya University |
| 3 | Sai Institute of Paramedical and Allied Science |
Read More: Diploma in OptometryColleges in Dehradun
Top Diploma in OptometryColleges in Mumbai
Mumbai is home to some of the premier institutions for Diploma in Optometry in India. Check the table below for the best Diploma in Optometry colleges in Mumbai:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | Kohinoor College of Paramedical Science |
| 2 | Imperial Institute of Management |
Read More: Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Mumbai
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Lucknow
Lucknow is renowned around the country for colleges offering top Diploma in Optometry programmes. Check the table below for the best Diploma in Optometry colleges in Lucknow:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | King’s George Medical University |
| 2 | Avadh Institute of Medical Technologies and Hospital |
| 3 | Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital |
| 4 | Integral University |
| 5 | Indian Insitute of Professional Studies |
Read More: Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Lucknow
Top Diploma in Optometry Government Colleges
There are several top Government Colleges offering quality Diploma in Optometry programmes across the country. Check the table below for the top Diploma in Optometry government colleges in India:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | King’s George Medical University, Lucknow |
| 2 | Institute of Post Graduate Medical Educational and Research, Kolkata |
| 3 | The Maharashtra University of Health Science, Nashik |
| 4 | Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore |
Top Diploma in Optometry Private Colleges
India has seen significant growth in the number of quality Diploma in Optometry private colleges that offer some of the best programmes in the country. Check the table below for the top Diploma in Optometry private colleges in India:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | CMC, Vellore |
| 2 | IUL, Lucknow |
| 3 | Rama University, Kanpur |
| 4 | IIMT University, Meerut |
| 5 | LNCT University, Bhopal |
Study Diploma in Optometry Abroad
Students can pursue a tax law diploma while studying abroad if they have the funds to do so. The length of the international diploma in optometry programme varies by course, institution, and nation. There are many benefits to studying abroad, including exposure to the subject and diverse cultures, as well as having access to some of the top faculty, facilities, and resources. Students must also have a high school diploma and be proficient in English. Below is a list of the top optometry schools in the world along with their tuition costs:
Top Diploma in optometry colleges Abroad
The table below contains the list of some of the best colleges abroad for Diploma in Optometry:
| Sl. No. | Institution |
| 1 | University of Auckland, New Zealand |
| 2 | the University of West England, UK |
| 3 | University of Plymouth, UK |
| 4 | University Winnipeg, Canada |
| 5 | Western New England University, USA |
| 6 | University of Western Australia, Australia |
| 7 | University of Huddersfield, UK |
| 8 | Queensland University of Technology, New Zealand |
| 9 | Northwest Missouri State University, USA |
| 10 | the University of Missouri, USA |
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in the USA
The USA is home to some of the best universities and colleges offering top-notch Diploma in Optometry programmes in the world. The table below contains the list of top colleges for Diploma in Optometry in the USA:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | Northwest Missouri State University |
| 2 | University of Missouri |
| 3 | Western New England University |
| 4 | Maryville University |
| 5 | Portland State University |
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in the UK
The UK has institutions that date back to the 13th century. This makes the UK one of the best destinations for pursuing optometry. The table below shows the top colleges for Diploma in Optometry in the UK:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | University of West England |
| 2 | University of Plymouth |
| 3 | University of Huddersfield |
| 4 | Anglia Ruskin University |
| 5 | Cardiff University |
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Canada
Known as the ‘Great White North, Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for Diploma in Optometry programmes in the world. The table below shows the top universities for Diploma in Optometry in Canada:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | South Albert Institute of Technology |
| 2 | University of Winnipeg |
| 3 | University of Regina |
| 4 | Campion College |
Top Diploma in Optometry Colleges in Australia
For many students, Australia has emerged as one of the top locations for higher education. The list of top colleges for Diploma in Optometry in Australia are as follows:
| Sl.No | Institution |
| 1 | Deakin University |
| 2 | University of New South Wales |
| 3 | Flinders University |
| 4 | University of Western Australia |
| 5 | Queensland University of Technology |
Fee Structure for Diploma in Optometry
The average Diploma in Optometry course fees in India ranges from INR 50,000 - 1.5 LPA. The Diploma in Optometry fees structure may vary according to the college or university based on the type of institute, location, infrastructure, faculties, and facilities available. Diploma in Optometry fees is reasonable compared with those in foreign countries. The Diploma in Optometry fees are as follows:
| Sl.No. | Name of the Institute | Average Annual Fees |
| 1 | Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi | INR 15,450 PA |
| 2 | Maharajah’s Institute of Medical Science, Andhra Pradesh | INR 48,330 PA |
| 3 | Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College, Mumbai | INR 1 LPA |
| 4 | Aliragh Muslim University, Aligarh | INR 5 LPA |
| 5 | B.J.Medical College, Ahmedabad | INR 6,000 PA |
Syllabus and Subjects for Diploma in Optometry
The Diploma in Optometry duration is a two-year-long diploma course spread across four semesters. The course has both core subjects and electives that the students can study. Students are rendered the understanding of different aspects related to health science. Listed below are a few core subjects in the course are:
- General Physiology
- Practical Lab
- Visual Optics
- Optical Instrumentation
- Eye Disorder Analysis
- Orthoptics
- Vision Theory
Read More: Diploma in Optometry Syllabus and Subjects
Why Choose Diploma in Optometry?
Students often wonder about Diploma in Optometry course details before choosing the course. Before deciding on a career, students encounter queries like, "What is Diploma in Optometry?" and "Why choose a Diploma in Optometry?". To clearly understand answers to these questions, we have framed the following three pointers:
What is a Diploma in Optometry All About?
The Diploma in Optometry course is a two-three year-long diploma course. The course is all about eye care and the abnormalities and rectification methods. This course handles the study of contact lenses and spectacles. The students are trained to identify the defect in the eye and propose rectification methods.
What Does a Diploma in Optometry Graduate Do?
A wide range of job opportunities is available for Diploma in Optometry graduates. After completing the program, candidates can go on to choose their careers in public and private hospitals and clinics. College graduates can also work under some organizations and private sectors for career growth.
Optometry Technician: Optometric Professionals/Technicians play out an assortment of undertakings to help the optometrist in eye examinations and corrective procedures. They record medicinal histories and help in patients' vision examinations. They likewise help with tests that assist in diagnosing and treating an infected eye.
Reasons Why Diploma in Optometry Can Fetch You a Rewarding Career?
A diploma in Optometry can fetch a rewarding and successful career path for students as it is a very in-demand job. Moreover, students' knowledge during their education will help them get a sharper edge and help them enter the workforce with full confidence.
Career Scope and Options: There is a lot of scope for graduates as many organizations and clinics need eye specialists for their organizations to continue providing service. In addition, after completing the course, graduates can get job offers with handsome salary packages.
Read More: Diploma in Optometry Job Opportunities & Scope
Diploma in Optometry Course Comparison
Diploma in Optometry is typically catered to students interested in and inclined toward developing skills in the field of eye care. Below is a comparison of the Diploma in Optometry course with other courses:
Diploma in Optometry vs B. Optometry
The table below showcases the differences between the Diploma in Optometry and B. Optometry
| Course | Diploma in Optometry | B. Optometry |
| Full-Form | Diploma in Optometry | Bachelors in Optometry |
| Stream | Medical | Medical |
| Duration | 2 Years | 4 Years |
| Eligibility | a minimum 50% aggregate score in 10+2 with PCB. | a minimum 50% aggregate score in 10+2 with PCBM. |
| Exam | NEET, JIPMER, CMC Entrance Exam | NEET, AIMS, UPCET, IMU CET |
| Top Colleges | CMC Vellore, AIIMS Delhi, IAMR Ghaziabad, NIMS University, Jaipur | AIMS Delhi, CMC Vellore, Sharda University, ITM University |
| Average Fees | INR 50,000 - 1.5 LPA | INR 25,000 -3 LPA |
Preparation Tips for Diploma in Optometry
Having a Diploma in Optometry opens new doors to thriving career opportunities. Some of the essential Diploma in Optometry course preparation tips for a candidate who wants to pursue a Diploma in Optometry:
Get to Know the Syllabus: The course syllabus is something that a student should know. This helps the student know how to perform at the time of the examination.
Practice Regularly: Practice regularly so that it becomes easy for practical examinations.
Make a Plan: Make a course plan that helps plan accordingly to study and work, which helps them keep both balanced.
Practice Makes Perfect: Go through all the subjects and the modules taught during the course duration.
Scope For Higher Education
After completing the program, graduates can go on to pursue a future qualification in the field of Optometry to gain further knowledge of the field. It will help them gain a deeper insight into the subject and a sharper edge in the job market. Additionally, if students want, they can pursue a certification course after graduation. Some of the higher education programs include:
- B.Sc Optometry
- B.Optom
- M.Sc Optometry
- M.Optom
- Advanced Certification in Optometry
Salary of a Diploma in Optometry Graduate
An Optometrist can earn INR 4 to 5 LPA as a fresher. An Optometrist makes different salaries depending upon their employment place, applicable skills, and geographical area. In India, they can earn at least INR 9 to 10 LPA [Source: Glassdoor], depending upon the sector, skills and experience in the Optometry field.
Read More: Diploma in Optometry Salary
Career Options After Diploma in Optometry
There are many career options for students after completing a Diploma in Optometry. Scope of Diploma in Optometry course colleges in India provides students with practical and theoretical skills to help them advance their careers. The education helps the students to learn about a very relevant sector of employment. Some of the popular job roles for the graduates of this course are:
- Vision Consultant
- Customer Care Associate
- Optometry Researcher
- Professor
- Ophthalmic Assistant
- Sports Vision Consultant
- Orthoptics Specialist
- Pediatric Optometrist
Skills That Make You The Best Diploma in Optometry Graduate
There are many skills that students need to have to ensure that they can carve a successful career path for themselves. Students' skills to develop for their career growth can also be developed according to their interests. Must-have skills are:
- Positive Attitude
- Good problem-solvers
- Behaviour and Emotional Stability
- Motivation and Initiative
- Honesty and Integrity
- Interpersonal Skills
- Leadership Quality
- Physical Awareness
