Diploma in Optometry (DOPT) is a two-year programme with 6 months internship programme started with the objective of producing trained ophthalmic personnel for rendering eye care services to the masses. The incidence of preventable blindness in India is ever increasing due to non-availability of qualified eye care professionals. The qualified personnel can work with vision care hospital as a part of team with ophthalmologists and optometrists and contribute towards prevention of blindness.
The basic eligibility criteria for pursuing Diploma in Optometry is qualifying 10+2 or equivalent examination in Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and/or Mathematics from a recognized board of the country.
The optometrists are required to examine and diagnose specific eye-related disorders, manage injuries and underlying problems of the visual system and also counsel and prepare clients for their underlying treatment options (both surgical and non-surgical). For performing these duties diligently, the candidate has to be: