NIMS University, Jaipur
- Fees: ₹ 90000
What is Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology is the branch of medicine which deals with the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases pertaining to the eye and the visual system as a whole. The eye is the most crucial organ in the visual system and is sensitive to many different clinical conditions. Doctors who specialise in ophthalmology are known as ophthalmologists, and their work revolves around the therapy of these conditions.
As the population ages, eye care becomes more important with the higher risks of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. The field of ophthalmology is dedicated to the extensive study and research of these conditions and incorporates relevant technologies to treat them efficiently. More than 500 colleges in India offer Ophthalmology courses.
In addition to medical and surgical treatment, ophthalmology also involves preventive eye care, rehabilitation, and vision enhancement techniques. With advancements in laser surgery, imaging technology, and microsurgical tools, the field continues to evolve rapidly. Students pursuing ophthalmology receive both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical training to become proficient eye care professionals.
Ophthalmology Course Highlights
Ophthalmology offers a wide range of academic and career opportunities through undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Admissions are primarily entrance-based, and fees vary by institute and level. With promising job roles and attractive salaries, the field continues to grow steadily in both the government and private healthcare sectors. Below are the key highlights of the Ophthalmology course:
| Particulars | Values |
|---|---|
Branch Name | Ophthalmology |
Degree | UG: MBBS, BSc, Diploma |
Duration | UG: 3-4 years PG: 2 years |
Eligibility | UG: 10+2 with a minimum 50 per cent aggregate with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects. PG: Bachelor’s degree in related disciplines |
Admission Process | Entrance Examination or Merit-Based |
Entrance Exam | NEET, CUET UG, NEET PG, INI CET |
Average Course Fees | Rs. 4,600 to Rs. 96 lakhs |
Top Colleges | AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, PGIMER, JIPMER, JSS Medical College, CMC Vellore |
Career Options | Ophthalmologists, ENT Specialists, Ophthalmology Surgeons, Clinical Assistants, Medical Consultants, Professors |
Average Salary | Rs. 12 LPA (Ophthalmologist) |
Recruiting Companies | AIIMS, Fortis Healthcare Ltd., SIMS Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., Rotary Narayana Eye Hospital, Violet Rays, Bangalore |
Specialisation or Similar Ones
Ophthalmology provides a variety of specialisations that allow doctors to focus on different aspects of eye care and vision science. These fields offer advanced knowledge in diagnosis, treatment, and surgery related to eye diseases. Below are some of the major Ophthalmology specialisations and related areas.
Cornea and External Diseases | Cataract and Refractive Surgery |
Glaucoma | Community Ophthalmology |
Retina and Vitreous | Ocular Oncology |
Neuro-Ophthalmology | Oculoplasty and Reconstructive Surgery |
Paediatric Ophthalmology | Uvea and Ocular Inflammation |
Top Private Ophthalmology Colleges in India
India has over 300 private colleges offering Ophthalmology courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These institutions provide advanced facilities, experienced faculty, and industry-relevant training. The fee structure in private colleges is generally higher compared to government institutions. Mentioned below are some of the top private colleges offering Ophthalmology courses in India:
| Top Colleges | NIRF Rank | Fees |
|---|---|---|
3 | Rs. 6.60 Lakhs | |
10 | Rs. 79.20 Lakhs | |
30 | Rs. 35.67 Lakhs | |
35 | Rs. 79.20 Lakhs | |
36 | - | |
37 | - | |
42 | Rs. 96 Lakhs | |
43 | Rs. 3.85 Lakhs | |
46 | - | |
47 | Rs. 19.50 Lakhs |
Note: The fee structure provided above can be for any particular Ophthalmology (Diploma/ Degree/PGD).
Top Government Ophthalmology Colleges in India
Around 210 government-funded medical institutes are the top choices for students who are interested in pursuing Ophthalmology courses. These government colleges not only offer high-class academic curricula but also high placement offers. Here are some of the top government colleges listed below, along with their fee structure:
| Top Colleges | NIRF Rank | Fees |
|---|---|---|
1 | Rs. 1,200 | |
2 | Rs. 12,410 | |
4 | Rs. 43,580 | |
5 | Rs. 1.12 Lakhs | |
8 | Rs. 99,700 | |
13 | Rs. 1,200 | |
14 | - | |
16 | - | |
19 | - | |
22 | - |
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Ophthalmology
Candidates aspiring to build a career in Ophthalmology must first complete an undergraduate medical degree, such as MBBS or an equivalent qualification in medicine or health sciences. After graduation, they can pursue a postgraduate degree like an MD or MS in Ophthalmology. Below are the eligibility criteria for both UG and PG levels.
Ophthalmology Eligibility For UG Course:
The eligibility criteria for Ophthalmology courses may vary depending on the institute and programme level. Most universities follow specific academic and entrance exam requirements for admission. Candidates are advised to check the official website of the respective institute for accurate details. Below are the general eligibility criteria for UG courses.
- Candidates must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects from a recognised board.
- They must have secured a minimum of 50 per cent aggregate marks (45 per cent for reserved categories).
- MBBS admission is generally based on performance in NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test).
- The minimum age limit is 17 years at the time of admission.
- Candidates must also meet the medical fitness criteria set by the respective institute.
Top Entrance Exams for UG Courses
Admission to undergraduate Ophthalmology courses in India is mainly based on national-level medical entrance examinations. The selection process evaluates students’ knowledge of science subjects and their aptitude for medical studies. Below are some of the common entrance exams for UG Ophthalmology courses:
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | NTA | ||
National | NTA |
Ophthalmology Eligibility For PG Course:
The eligibility requirements for postgraduate Ophthalmology courses may differ slightly among universities and medical institutes. Candidates must fulfil academic and entrance exam criteria before applying for admission. Below are the general eligibility conditions for postgraduate Ophthalmology courses.
- Candidates must hold an MBBS degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised medical university or institution.
- They should have completed a one-year compulsory internship before applying for admission.
- Admission is generally based on performance in NEET-PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates).
- Candidates must hold permanent or provisional registration with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or a State Medical Council.
- Applicants should also meet the minimum qualifying marks and medical fitness requirements set by the institution.
Top Entrance Exams for PG Courses
Admission to postgraduate Ophthalmology courses in India is primarily through national-level entrance exams. The major ones include NEET PG conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) and INI CET conducted by AIIMS. These exams assess candidates’ medical knowledge and are essential for securing seats in top medical institutions.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | NBE | ||
National | AIIMS |
College Predictors VIEW ALL
Scope of Ophthalmology in India and Abroad
The scope of Ophthalmology in India continues to expand with increasing awareness of eye health, government eye-care programmes, and growth in private healthcare infrastructure. Professionals can find opportunities in hospitals, eye clinics, and research centres, or even establish private practices, making it a rewarding and stable medical specialisation.
Technological innovations and modern surgical techniques are transforming the field of Ophthalmology in India. With rising demand for advanced eye care, the ophthalmic devices market is projected to reach around USD 1,549.9 million (approximately INR 12,900 crore) by 2033, showing promising scope for skilled professionals and researchers in vision care. (Source: IMARC Group)
Course Fees Ophthalmology
| Minimum Fees | Maximum Fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private | Government | Private | Government | |
| UG |
50.00 K
B.Sc. in Ophthalmology at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai
|
16.50 K
B.Sc. in Ophthalmology at Dr NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada
|
35.11 Lakhs
M.S. in Ophthalmology at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal
|
2.01 Lakhs
B.Sc. in Ophthalmology at Institute of Paramedical Science and Management, Delhi
|
| PG |
---
Data not available
|
1.20 K
M.S. in Ophthalmology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bibinagar
|
1.65 Crores
M.S. in Ophthalmology at Pacific Institute of Medical Sciences, Udaipur
|
55.92 Lakhs
M.S. in Ophthalmology at Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research, Surat
|
| DOCTORAL |
90.00 K
Ph.D in Ophthalmology at NIMS University, Jaipur
|
67.92 K
Ph.D in Ophthalmology at University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
|
33.00 Lakhs
Ph.D in Ophthalmology at BLDE University, Bijapur
|
67.92 K
Ph.D in Ophthalmology at University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
|
| DIPLOMA |
5.00 K
Diploma in Ophthalmology at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Karad
|
1.50 K
Diploma in Ophthalmology at Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College and Hospital, Gaya
|
75.00 Lakhs
Diploma in Ophthalmology at MGM Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai
|
11.94 Lakhs
Diploma in Ophthalmology at Government Cuddalore Medical College, Annamalainagar
|
Course Subjects
The Ophthalmology course encompasses a broad range of subjects across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. UG subjects include ocular anatomy, physiology, optics, and diseases of the eye. At the PG level, students study advanced topics like ophthalmic surgery, neuro-ophthalmology, retinal disorders, and clinical ophthalmology. Below are the syllabi for both the UG and PG courses:
Ophthalmology Syllabus for UG Courses
In the UG syllabus of Ophthalmology, students learn about eye anatomy, vision science, optics, and diagnostic procedures. The course also includes clinical training to help students understand eye diseases and assist in treatments and surgeries. This is a BSc in Ophthalmic Technology syllabus offered by IPHH College of Medical Sciences.
First Year | Second Year |
Human Anatomy and Physiology | Pharmacology and Pharmacy |
Ocular Anatomy, Pathology, and Microbiology | Refraction (Including prescription and fitting of Glasses) |
Ocular Physiology, including Binocular Reflexes and their Maintenance | Investigative Ophthalmology |
Optics | Ophthalmic Instruments and Appliances |
Third Year | Fourth Year |
Clinical and Advanced Optics & Orthoptics | Hospital Training |
Clinical Refraction and Contact Lenses | Comprehensive academic and general viva voce |
Community Ophthalmology, Eye Banks, and Eye Camps | - |
Investigations in Clinical Ophthalmology and Management of OT | - |
Ophthalmology Syllabus for PG Courses
In the PG syllabus for Ophthalmology, students explore advanced topics like ocular diseases, surgical techniques, and therapeutic procedures. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical training to prepare specialists in eye care and vision surgery. In the table below, we have added the subjects in the MS in Ophthalmology from Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences (SMC-SIMCH).
Anatomy and Physiology | Ophthalmic Optics |
Ocular Examination Techniques and Ocular Therapeutics | Diseases of the Eye |
Disorders of Motility | Diseases of the Adnexa |
Systemic Ophthalmology | Preventive Ophthalmology |
Surgical Instruments in Ophthalmology | Practicals |
Careers in Ophthalmology
A career in Ophthalmology offers various opportunities across clinical practice, research, and academia. Professionals in this field play a key role in preventing, diagnosing, and treating eye-related disorders while contributing to public eye health awareness. Below are some of the job roles available after completing an Ophthalmology course:
| Job Roles | Description |
|---|---|
Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat various eye diseases and vision problems. They also perform surgeries and prescribe corrective lenses or medications to restore and maintain vision health. | |
ENT Specialists focus on conditions related to the ear, nose, and throat. They often work closely with ophthalmologists in treating cases involving vision, hearing, and facial structures. | |
Ophthalmology Surgeons | Ophthalmology Surgeons perform delicate eye surgeries such as cataract removal and laser procedures. They ensure precision in restoring sight and improving patients’ overall eye health. |
Clinical Assistants | Clinical Assistants support ophthalmologists during examinations, tests, and surgical procedures. They manage patient records and help ensure smooth clinical operations in eye care facilities. |
Medical Consultants | Medical Consultants provide expert advice on complex eye conditions and treatment plans. They guide patients and junior doctors to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective care. |
Professors | Professors teach medical students and ophthalmology trainees, sharing their expertise in eye anatomy, diseases, and surgical techniques. They also conduct research to advance eye care practices. |
Upcoming trends
The current trends in Ophthalmology focus on key areas such as cataract and lens implantation, corneal and external eye disorders, oculoplastic and orbital surgery, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, and refractive surgery. Some of the upcoming trends are as follows:
- Robotic Surgery – Enhances surgical precision and reduces recovery time.
- Nanotechnology – Aids in targeted drug delivery and early detection of eye diseases.
- Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) – Used for surgical training and patient education.
- Personalised Medicine – Tailors treatment based on genetic and individual patient data.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning – Supports early diagnosis and treatment planning through image analysis.
- Teleophthalmology – Expands access to eye care in remote and rural regions through digital consultations.
- Gene Therapy – Focuses on treating inherited retinal disorders and restoring vision.
- Minimally Invasive Surgeries – Reduce surgical trauma and accelerate recovery.
- Regenerative Medicine – Works on restoring damaged eye tissues using stem cells.
- Smart Contact Lenses – Monitor eye health parameters like intraocular pressure and glucose levels.
Job Profiles and Top Recruiters
Graduates in Ophthalmology have a wide range of career opportunities in hospitals, research centres, eye clinics, and academic institutions. They can work with public healthcare services or private organisations dedicated to vision care and eye health. Below are some of the top recruiters for Ophthalmology professionals:
Top Recruiters
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, multiple cities
- Fortis Healthcare Ltd.
- SIMS Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.
- Rotary Narayana Eye Hospital
- Violet rays, Bangalore
- Sri Ganesh Vinayak Eye Hospital, Dehradun
- Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya
Average Salary
The salary in Ophthalmology depends on factors like experience, job role, institution type, and location. Entry-level professionals may earn modestly, while specialists and surgeons can draw significantly higher packages. Academic and research roles also offer stable incomes. The average annual salaries of different Ophthalmology roles are approximated as given below:
| Job Profiles | Average Salary |
|---|---|
Ophthalmologist | Rs. 12 LPA |
ENT Specialist | Rs. 16.2 LPA |
Ophthalmology Surgeon | Rs. 15 LPA |
Clinical Assistant | Rs. 7.4 LPA |
Medical Consultant | Rs. 8.6 LPA |
Professor | Rs. 16.1 LPA |
Source: AmbitionBox
Required Skillset for Ophthalmology
To build a successful career in Ophthalmology, a postgraduate degree is just one of the many foundations required. While surgical specialists need precision and extensive hands-on practice, medical experts must possess a deep theoretical understanding. Some of the essential skills in Ophthalmology include:
- Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
- Strong observational and diagnostic abilities
- In-depth knowledge of eye anatomy, physiology, and visual system disorders
- Proficiency in using advanced ophthalmic instruments and technologies
- Analytical and problem-solving skills for accurate clinical decisions
- Good communication and empathy to interact with patients
- Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure
- Continuous learning to stay updated with medical research and innovations
Course Curriculum for Ophthalmology
The course curriculum of Ophthalmology is designed to give students a strong foundation in the study of the human eye and vision system. It covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, and diseases of the eye, helping learners understand diagnostic procedures and basic eye care techniques used in clinical practice.
At the postgraduate level, the curriculum focuses on advanced ophthalmic sciences, surgical training, and research. Students gain practical experience through internships, clinical rotations, and case studies, which prepare them for careers in hospitals, eye care centres, and research institutions. The programme emphasises both theoretical knowledge and hands-on expertise.
Popular Ophthalmology Entrance Exams in India
Popular Ophthalmology Colleges in India VIEW ALL
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SGT University
- Fees: ₹ 412500
SKIMS Srinagar
- Exams: NEET PG
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: What to expect during the Ophthalmology Residency?
Answer :
60 percent of resident training for Ophthalmology in India is done under government organisations, while the remaining are private organisations. Training imparted during this period is in various settings, mostly medical colleges and private institutes. The training does not follow a coherent system, as a result, the quality of training can vary enormously from institute to institute.
Question: How are Internship, Residency, and Fellowship different?
Answer :
Residency in any medical discipline is a training programme, typically lasting about three years. The first year of training immediately after medical school is known as the internship or postgraduate year one. After completing a residency, the training that students undergo in a subfield or sub-specialty is known as the fellowship.
Question: What is the scope of Ophthalmology?
Answer :
The scope of Ophthalmology is vast, with growing demand for skilled eye care professionals in hospitals, clinics, and research centres. Ophthalmologists can specialise in areas such as cataract surgery, corneal disorders, or retinal diseases. With advancing technologies, career opportunities are expanding both in India and abroad.
Question: Why is ophthalmology so important?
Answer :
Ophthalmologists are important and a necessity because human eyes face a lot of strain due to constantly seeing light which causes the human eye to have more strain.
Question: What are the subspecialties in Ophthalmology for which I can do a fellowship?
Answer :
Some of the fellowship programmes offered by top institutes are Cornea and Ocular Surface, Cataract, Medical Retinal, Vitreo Retina, Retinopathy of Prematurity, Glaucoma, Oculoplasty, and Pediatric Ophthalmology.
Questions related to Ophthalmology
Showing 129 out of 129 Questions
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Neetpg 50000rank ews category female fr Andhrapradesh any chance in ent, ophthalmology in state/ dnb/ all india counseling including category b
21st Sep, 2025
Hey! With a NEET PG rank of 50,000 in the EWS category (female, Andhra Pradesh), your chances for MS ENT or MS Ophthalmology are very low in both All India and state quota counseling. However, you may have a chance in DNB Ophthalmology, as some colleges have closing ranks closer to your score. It is recommended to focus on DNB Ophthalmology and state quota Ophthalmology seats, and keep checking counseling updates for mop-up rounds.
Answer later 3 Views
Nri quota ophthalmology seats in tamilnadu and pondy
23rd Aug, 2025
If you're targeting an NRI quota seat for Ophthalmology (MS or Diploma), Puducherry is more promising especially at Aarupadai Veedu Medical College, MGMC & RI, and Vinayaka Missions Medical College, each offering specific NRI seats. In Tamil Nadu, while NRI seats do exist for PG courses including Ophthalmology, they are rare typically only one seat in select self-financing colleges.
79 Views
What are the closing ranks for st category for ophthalmology seat in all aiims institutes?
11th Dec, 2024
Hello,
The closing ranks for ST category seats in ophthalmology at AIIMS institutions, based on recent years' trends from INI-CET (Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test), vary across different campuses. Here are some insights:
-
AIIMS Delhi : Known for the highest demand, closing ranks for ST candidates in ophthalmology typically fall within the top few thousand ranks in INI-CET exams, depending on seat availability.
-
AIIMS Bhubaneswar and Bhopal : Closing ranks for MS Ophthalmology have hovered around 564 to 584 in recent years for general candidates, with ST category candidates receiving relaxation and often securing seats at lower ranks
-
AIIMS Jodhpur : Similar trends have been observed, with competitive ranks for ST candidates in specialties like ophthalmology being slightly higher than other newer AIIMS.
The exact closing ranks for 2023 or 2022 were not fully disclosed in the sources, but the general trend indicates significant relaxation for ST candidates compared to general and OBC categories.
Hope it helps !
22 Views
Hello sir My rank is 21061 aiq can I get ms ophthalmology in this college
24th Sep, 2024
With an All India Quota (AIQ) rank of 21,061, it is quite challenging to secure an MS in Ophthalmology, as this specialty typically has higher cut-off ranks due to limited seats and high competition.
However, availability can vary based on the specific college, state quotas, and the number of applicants. It’s advisable to:
Check Previous Year Cut-offs: Look at the previous year's cut-off ranks for MS Ophthalmology in the college you're interested in to gauge your chances.
Participate in Counseling: Make sure to register for the counseling process to explore your options.
Consider Other Options: If not successful, consider related fields or lower-ranked colleges where you might have a better chance.
Always confirm with the official counseling body or the college for the most accurate and updated information.
104 Views
I have got a rank of 64k in neet pg 2024 which colleges can I get in pg diploma ophthalmology
24th Sep, 2024
Potential Course of Action:
Private Medical Colleges: The cutoff points for diploma programs may be lower at several private universities. Examine the particular universities in your state or the areas close by.
Government Colleges: There may be seats available at some government medical colleges, although there may be fierce competition. Seek out universities where there are more available seats.
Counselling: Take part in the counselling procedure to gain a better understanding of the seats that are available and the cut-off ranks for the Postgraduate Diploma in Ophthalmology.
Suggestions:
Investigative Universities: To determine your chances, check the particular cutoffs for the PG Diploma in Ophthalmology at different colleges from prior years.
Think About Different Specialities: If you are not accepted into ophthalmology, you may wish to look into less competitive specialisations or adjacent fields.
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