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B-OPTOM in General at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Bachelor of Optometry B.Optom program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on developing highly skilled professionals capable of providing comprehensive eye care services. The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover all facets of ocular health, from basic anatomy and physiology to advanced diagnostic and management techniques, reflecting the growing demand for qualified optometrists in the Indian healthcare sector. It aims to equip students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for a successful career in eye care.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with a science background, particularly those with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, who possess a keen interest in human vision and eye health. It attracts individuals aspiring to a clinical career in healthcare, offering direct patient interaction and a significant impact on quality of life. The program also suits those looking for a stable and growing profession within the allied health sciences field in India, offering both academic rigor and practical exposure.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths as independent optometrists, clinical practitioners in hospitals, or consultants in optical industries across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15+ LPA for experienced professionals. The program prepares students for roles in vision correction, ocular disease detection, and rehabilitation, aligning with the increasing focus on preventive and primary eye care services demanded by India''''s vast population.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Anatomy & Physiology Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding the detailed structure and function of the human body, especially the eye. Use 3D anatomy apps, participate actively in lab dissections if applicable, and draw diagrams to solidify learning. Form study groups to discuss complex physiological processes.
Tools & Resources
Visible Body 3D Anatomy Atlas, Gray''''s Anatomy, SRMIST''''s anatomy labs
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is crucial for accurate diagnosis and understanding of ocular diseases in clinical practice, forming the bedrock for advanced optometry skills.
Develop Strong Ophthalmic Optics Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice extensively with prisms, lenses, and ophthalmic instruments. Spend extra hours in the lab understanding calibration, measurement, and the principles of light interaction. Seek feedback from lab instructors to refine your practical techniques early on.
Tools & Resources
Ophthalmic Optics Lab manuals, online simulations of lensometry, self-assessment quizzes
Career Connection
Proficiency in optical principles and instrument handling is fundamental for accurate refraction, lens dispensing, and overall patient care, directly impacting diagnostic accuracy.
Cultivate Effective Study Habits & Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a consistent study routine, review lecture notes daily, and summarize key concepts. Actively participate in peer study groups to clarify doubts, teach concepts to others, and prepare for continuous assessments. Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization.
Tools & Resources
Digital note-taking apps like OneNote, collaborative study platforms, library resources
Career Connection
Effective study habits lead to academic excellence, which is often a criterion for internships and higher education, while peer learning enhances problem-solving and communication skills essential in a clinical team.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Early Clinical Exposure & Observation- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to observe senior optometrists and ophthalmologists at SRM''''s affiliated hospitals or local eye clinics during non-academic hours. Focus on patient interaction, case history taking, and understanding the flow of a clinical examination. Maintain a reflective journal of your observations.
Tools & Resources
Clinical observation logs, mentorship from senior students/faculty, hospital visit permits
Career Connection
Early exposure builds confidence, provides practical context to theoretical knowledge, and helps identify areas of interest for future specialization, making you more employable.
Specialize in Contact Lens & Low Vision Application- (Semester 4-5)
Dive deep into contact lens fitting, care, and troubleshooting, as well as low vision assessment and aid prescription. Practice extensively in lab sessions and volunteer for relevant community outreach programs. Attend workshops and webinars on advanced contact lens technologies.
Tools & Resources
Contact lens trial sets, low vision testing kits, industry webinars, professional body workshops
Career Connection
These are highly sought-after skills in optometry, opening doors to specialized clinics, optical chains, and entrepreneurial ventures in a rapidly growing segment of eye care in India.
Develop Strong Communication & Patient Counseling Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Practice explaining complex ophthalmic conditions and treatment plans to peers and simulated patients. Focus on empathy, clarity, and active listening. Participate in role-playing exercises and mock patient consultations to refine your communication style.
Tools & Resources
Communication skills workshops, ethical guidelines for healthcare professionals, mock patient scenarios
Career Connection
Excellent communication is paramount for building patient trust, ensuring compliance with treatment, and effectively collaborating with other healthcare providers, directly impacting patient outcomes and your professional reputation.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Comprehensive Clinical Rotations & Case Studies- (Semester 7-8)
Fully immerse yourself in the clinical internship, rotating through various departments like General Optometry, Contact Lens, Low Vision, Pediatrics, and Glaucoma. Document diverse case studies, present them to faculty, and actively participate in grand rounds.
Tools & Resources
Hospital EMR systems, detailed case presentation templates, faculty supervision, peer review sessions
Career Connection
This hands-on experience is critical for developing clinical acumen, independent decision-making, and preparing for the demands of real-world practice, making you placement-ready for top hospitals and clinics.
Engage in Research & Evidence-Based Optometry- (Semester 6-7)
Actively participate in research projects, either as part of your curriculum or independently with faculty guidance. Learn to critically appraise scientific literature and apply evidence-based practices in clinical scenarios. Present your findings at college-level or regional conferences.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology textbooks, statistical software like SPSS, PubMed, Google Scholar, SRM''''s research ethics committee
Career Connection
Research skills enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and contribute to professional development, potentially leading to academic or specialized research roles and keeping you updated with the latest advancements.
Prepare for Professional Licensing & Career Planning- (Semester 7-8)
Understand the licensing and registration requirements for optometrists in India, such as from the Optometry Council of India. Develop a clear career plan, including specialization interests, desired work settings (hospital, private practice, academia), and potential employers. Attend career fairs and network with alumni.
Tools & Resources
Optometry professional bodies websites, career counseling services, alumni network platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from student to professional, aligns your skills with industry needs, and helps secure desirable job placements or entrepreneurial opportunities post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology / Botany & Zoology and English with minimum 50% aggregate marks. Minimum age 17 years as on 31st December of the admission year.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters, including 1 year internship)
Credits: 206 Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per university norms, External: As per university norms
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B101 | Human Anatomy (General & Ocular) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Anatomy, Human Systems, Ocular Anatomy, Embryology of Eye, Histology of Eye |
| BO18B102 | Human Physiology (General & Ocular) | Core | 4 | General Physiology, Blood, Cardiovascular System, Nervous System, Ocular Physiology |
| BO18B103 | Geometrical Optics | Core | 4 | Light Nature & Propagation, Reflection, Refraction, Prisms, Lenses, Lens Aberrations |
| BO18B104 | Physical Optics | Core | 4 | Wave Nature of Light, Interference, Diffraction, Polarization, Optical Instruments, Lasers |
| BO18B105 | Ocular Anatomy & Physiology Practical | Lab | 4 | Identification of Tissues, Organ Systems, Gross Ocular Structures, Microscopic Ocular Structures, Physiology Experiments |
| BO18B106 | Ophthalmic Optics Practical I | Lab | 4 | Prism & Lens Characterization, Spherical Lenses, Cylindrical Lenses, Neutralization, Lensometers |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B201 | Ophthalmic Instruments | Core | 4 | Visual Acuity Charts, Refractometers, Keratometers, Ophthalmoscopes, Slit Lamps, Perimeters |
| BO18B202 | Ophthalmic Pathology & Microbiology | Core | 4 | General Pathology, Ocular Infections, Inflammation, Neoplasia, Microbiology of Eye, Sterilization |
| BO18B203 | Biochemistry | Core | 4 | Biomolecules, Metabolism, Enzymes, Vitamins, Hormones, Ocular Biochemistry |
| BO18B204 | Pharmacology | Core | 4 | General Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Autonomic Nervous System Drugs, Ocular Therapeutics, Adverse Drug Reactions |
| BO18B205 | Ophthalmic Optics Practical II | Lab | 4 | Ophthalmoscopy, Retinoscopy, Keratometry, Slit Lamp Examination, Visual Fields |
| BO18B206 | Biochemistry & Pharmacology Practical | Lab | 4 | Biochemical Tests, Drug Dilution, Administration Routes, Effect of Drugs, Pharmacy Calculations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B301 | Visual Optics | Core | 4 | Accommodation, Ocular Refraction, Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism, Presbyopia |
| BO18B302 | Ophthalmic Lenses | Core | 4 | Lens Materials, Single Vision Lenses, Bifocal Lenses, Progressive Addition Lenses, Contact Lenses Introduction, Spectacle Frames |
| BO18B303 | Binocular Vision | Core | 4 | Ocular Motility, Sensory & Motor Fusion, Stereopsis, Strabismus, Amblyopia, Diplopia |
| BO18B304 | Ophthalmic Dispensing | Core | 4 | Frame Selection, Pupillary Distance, Optical Centers, Lens Tinting, Dispensing Prescriptions, Trouble Shooting |
| BO18B305 | Visual Optics & Binocular Vision Practical | Lab | 4 | Retinoscopy, Subjective Refraction, Cycloplegic Refraction, Ocular Motility Assessment, Prism Bar Cover Test |
| BO18B306 | Ophthalmic Lenses & Dispensing Practical | Lab | 4 | Lens Verification, Bifocal & Progressive Fitting, Frame Adjustments, Contact Lens Basic Handling, Spectacle Repairs |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B401 | Contact Lenses I | Core | 4 | Contact Lens Materials, Design, Fitting, Care & Maintenance, Complications, Soft Contact Lenses |
| BO18B402 | Low Vision Aids | Core | 4 | Low Vision Definition, Assessment, Magnifiers, Telescopes, Electronic Aids, Rehabilitation |
| BO18B403 | Public Health & Community Optometry | Core | 4 | Epidemiology, Vision Screening, Ocular Morbidity, Health Education, National Programs |
| BO18B404 | Systemic Diseases & The Eye | Core | 4 | Diabetes, Hypertension, Thyroid Disorders, Autoimmune Diseases, Neurological Diseases, Nutritional Deficiencies affecting the eye |
| BO18B405 | Contact Lenses & Low Vision Practical | Lab | 4 | Contact Lens Fitting Soft, RGP Lens Fitting, Slit Lamp Evaluation, Contact Lens Care, Low Vision Assessment, Aid Prescription |
| BO18B406 | Public Health & Systemic Diseases Practical | Lab | 4 | Vision Screening Protocols, Fundus Examination, Blood Pressure Measurement, Case History Taking, Public Awareness Campaigns |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B501 | Clinical Optometry I | Core | 4 | Case History, Visual Acuity, Refraction Techniques, Pupillary Reactions, Anterior Segment Examination |
| BO18B502 | Advanced Contact Lenses | Core | 4 | Toric Lenses, Multifocal Lenses, Prosthetic Lenses, Scleral Lenses, Orthokeratology, Contact Lens Advanced Complications |
| BO18B503 | Pediatric Optometry | Core | 4 | Visual Development, Infant & Child Eye Examination, Refractive Errors in Children, Amblyopia, Strabismus |
| BO18B504 | Geriatric Optometry | Core | 4 | Aging Eye, Presbyopia Management, Cataract, Glaucoma, Age-Related Macular Degeneration ARMD, Low Vision in Elderly |
| BO18B505 | Clinical Optometry Practical I | Lab | 4 | Comprehensive Eye Examination, Retinoscopy, Subjective Refraction, Gonioscopy, Indirect Ophthalmoscopy |
| BO18B506 | Advanced Contact Lenses & Pediatric Optometry Practical | Lab | 4 | Toric CL Fitting, Multifocal CL Fitting, CL Complications Management, Pediatric Refraction, Vision Therapy for Children |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B601 | Clinical Optometry II | Core | 4 | Glaucoma, Cataract, Retinal Diseases, Optic Nerve Disorders, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Ocular Trauma |
| BO18B602 | Occupational Optometry & Ergonomics | Core | 4 | Visual Demands in Occupation, Ergonomics, Occupational Hazards, Industrial Vision Screening, Computer Vision Syndrome |
| BO18B603 | Law & Optometry | Core | 4 | Professional Ethics, Optometry Laws, Clinical Governance, Patient Rights, Informed Consent, Malpractice |
| BO18B604 | Research Methodology & Biostatistics | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection, Statistical Methods, Hypothesis Testing, Evidence-Based Optometry |
| BO18B605 | Clinical Optometry Practical II | Lab | 4 | Anterior Segment Evaluation, Posterior Segment Evaluation, Tonometry, Perimetry, Optical Coherence Tomography OCT interpretation, Fundus Photography |
| BO18B606 | Community Optometry & Research Practical | Lab | 4 | Eye Camp Organization, Data Analysis, Research Project Design, Literature Review, Presentation of Findings |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B701 | Advanced Ophthalmic Instruments & Diagnostic Techniques | Core | 4 | Aberrometry, Corneal Topography, Electrodiagnostics, Fundus Fluorescein Angiography, Ultrasound B-scan |
| BO18B702 | Medical & Surgical Management in Ophthalmology | Core | 4 | Pre & Post-operative Care, Refractive Surgeries, Cataract Surgery, Glaucoma Surgery, Retinal Surgery |
| BO18B703 | Hospital & Clinical Management | Core | 4 | Hospital Administration, Practice Management, Health Economics, Quality Management, Human Resource Management |
| BO18B704 | Project Work | Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Collection & Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BO18B801 | Clinical Internship | Internship | 48 | Comprehensive Patient Care, Clinical Skills Refinement, Advanced Diagnostic Procedures, Specialized Clinics, Practice Management Exposure |
