A health profession that is concerned with the eyes and its related structure is called as Optometry. Physicians of this field are called as Optometrists and they treat diseases of the eye. Ophthalmology is a medicinal branch that deals with the physiology as well as anatomy of the eye. Studies about the diseases that may occur to the eye are also learned in this scientific branch. An ophthalmologist is a specialist in surgical and medical problems.

Optometry course and Career Opportunities

The qualification required for an aspirant to practice as an optometrist is a Bachelors degree in Optometry. To join this course, the aspirants will be required to write an entrance exam – the EYECET.  A pass in class 12 with a background in science is needed to appear for this exam.  Subsequent to the conclusion of the course on Optometry, an Optometrist can choose from a variety of career opportunities. They can set up their own private clinics or lens manufacturing firms. An alternative to this is to work with eye departments of the hospitals or Optician showrooms. It is also possible for Optometrists to get employed with colleges or universities that offer optometry as a subject.

Ophthalmology course and career opportunities

The basic qualification required for a candidate to join the course in ophthalmology is MBBS degree. Students can go for specialization in ophthalmology following the completion of this course. They are also required to finish the required period of years of internship. For a student who have finished his/her course, many career opportunities are made available. They can get jobs with both the private as well as the public sectors. Health centres, departments of primary health and NGOs also take in ophthalmologists.  Students also have an option to submit an application to the Combined Medical Services entrance examination that is organized by the U.P.S.C for the post of senior specialist in Ophthalmology or ophthalmologist. Those who have interest in a career in the defense services can join  the air force, the army or the navy as ophthalmologits.

Key differentiators between Optometry and Ophthalmology

Optometry and Ophthalmology have a big place in our lives today. Though both go together in the treatment of Visual disorders, Optometry should not be mixed with ophthalmology. While the former deals with the treatment of eye diseases, the latter is concerned with the anatomy and composition of the eye. An optometrist carries out all the tasks an ophthalmologist does, save surgery. An ophthalmologist performs surgery and carries out an analysis on the injuries or diseases the eye might have.