About Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology is the study of medical conditions related to eye and vision care. The study also includes performing operations or surgeries on the eyes. Individuals who study ophthalmology will develop subject-related skills, including, recognition, diagnosis, detection, prevention and management of diseases and conditions affecting the eye and the surrounding area. The studies are designed to impart an understanding of the scientific principles of eye care to empower students to build careers as specialist ophthalmologists. Students will learn through lectures, seminars and tutorials, and practical work from clinic work where they will be able to test out their knowledge that they have gained in the classroom.

　　

Is studying Ophthalmology right for me?

If you are interested in the medical profession and passionate about the eye and its many functions then this field of study is a right choice for you. Students who excelled in biological sciences during their high-school tend to do best in a Ophthalmology program. Ophthalmology students enjoy learning, driven by their innate curiosity. Moreover, successful ophthalmologists are empathetic individuals looking to help others through their specialist knowledge. If you believe you possess the aforementioned qualities, then Ophthalmology is the right fit for you.

　　

Study options and costs

　　A bachelor’s degrees in Ophthalmology will typically involve coursework in general sciences, such as biology, genetics, and chemistry, as well as mathematical subjects such as physics and calculus. A bachelor’s degree in Ophthalmology typically takes 4 years to complete and on average costs $11,500-$20,000 per year in the US.

　　A master's in ophthalmology is a focused program where students can choose an area of specialisation to focus on. A Master's of Science (MSc) in Ophthalmology will help students perform a wider range of tasks in research and academia. It usually takes 2 years to complete and costs around $8,472 to $12,248 per year depending on the country and the school they choose to attend.

　　

Future outlook

The job outlook for ophthalmologists and optometrists in the comings years is favourable. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the employment growth for ophthalmologists is 9%. A number of factors are driving this growth. Foremost, is an aging population requiring eye care and corrective vision devices. Secondly, most comprehensive healthcare plans cover eye care. Over 17,000 additional jobs are projected for eye care specialists and a similar number is expected for ophthalmologists this decade.

　　

Career pathways  for Ophthalmology graduates

　　

Optometrists

　　These eye care specialists diagnose and treat a variety of eye diseases. They perform vision tests, prescribe glasses and lenses, promote eye hygiene, provide vision therapy and may even perform operative care.

　　

Ophthalmologist

　　An ophthalmologist is a medical or osteopathic doctor who specialises in eye and vision care. Ophthalmologists differ from optometrists and opticians in their levels of training and in what they can diagnose and treat. These individuals earn on average 149,675 per year.

　　

Ophthalmology Surgeon

　　An ophthalmic surgeon specialises more in surgery than a traditional ophthalmologist. They will likely spend most of their days consulting with patients and performing surgery in the operating room. Ophthalmic surgeons may also spend time doing scientific and medical research. Their annual average income is around $208,981.

　　

Ophthalmology lecturer

　　An ophthalmology professor/lecturer is responsible for providing direct patient care, consultative services, outpatient services and care of hospitalized patients. They will participate in all teaching activities of the department including conferences and lectures. The average annual income of an ophthalmology professor/lecturer is $95,842.

　　

Ophthalmology consultant

　　Ophthalmology consultant provide clinical leadership in developing services. This involves working closely with administrators, commissioners, optometrists, and other clinicians. The average annual income of an ophthalmology consultant is $84,559.