AHIR KRISHNA
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स्वस्थ्य भारत, सुखी भारत
OPTOMETRY ( TWO YEAR COURSE )
Syllabus & Curriculum
Of
Optometry ( Two Year )
OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE:
The aim of this diploma is to train competent Optometry with practical knowledge, ethical values, and technical proficiency. The course is structured to achieve the following objectives:
1- To impart knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, and common disorders of the human eye.
2- To develop core competencies in vision testing, refraction, and diagnosis of refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia).
3- To train students in the use, handling, and maintenance of essential optometric instruments (e.g., retinoscope, slit lamp, autorefractor).
4- To enable accurate spectacle prescription and dispensing through understanding of optics, lens types, and frame selection.
5- To provide hands-on experience in contact lens fitting, care, and patient education.
6- To introduce the basics of ocular pharmacology and common ophthalmic conditions like cataract, conjunctivitis, and glaucoma.
7- To develop skills in low vision assessment and use of low vision aids for partially sighted individuals.
8- To expose students to clinical practice through real-time training in outpatient departments, optical stores, and eye hospitals.
9- To build confidence in patient communication, history-taking, vision screening, and record-keeping.
10- To introduce community optometry, with focus on public health, eye screening camps, and school-based programs.
11- To prepare optometry technicians capable of assisting ophthalmologists and optometrists in both urban and rural healthcare settings.
12- To cultivate awareness of ethics, safety, and hygiene in optical and clinical environments.
13- To familiarize students with visual optics concepts such as vergence, accommodation, and binocular vision anomalies.
14- To train in pediatric and geriatric optometry, enabling age-specific eye care and visual development monitoring.
15- To promote understanding of optical materials, including frame and lens selection based on prescription and patient lifestyle.
16- To develop competence in pre- and post-operative eye care, assisting in patient preparation and follow-up.
17- To introduce electronic health records (EHR) and digital tools used in modern optometry practice.
18- To encourage participation in interprofessional healthcare teams, improving coordination in vision and general health services.
19- To provide awareness on vision-related public health issues, including preventable blindness and visual impairment statistics.
20- To teach the basics of ophthalmic business practices, such as managing an optical store or vision care center.
21- To cultivate soft skills, including ethical behavior, empathy, counseling, and customer service in optometry.
22- To develop the ability to conduct vision screening programs in schools, industries, and rural health camps.
23- To enhance troubleshooting abilities related to optical devices, spectacle fitting errors, and patient complaints.
24- To reinforce adherence to safety protocols in handling lenses, instruments, and biohazard materials in clinical settings.
25- To prepare for further academic progression, such as Bachelor of Optometry (B.Optom) or specialized certifications.
26- To introduce tele-optometry concepts, enabling students to assist in remote eye care and virtual consultations.
27- To build understanding of visual ergonomics, helping prevent digital eye strain and advising on workplace eye safety.
28- To educate about systemic diseases affecting vision, such as diabetes, hypertension, and their ocular manifestations.
29- To promote research aptitude and curiosity, by encouraging mini- projects, case studies, and evidence-based practice in optometry.
30- To develop awareness about medico-legal responsibilities and patient rights in vision care practice.
31- To provide exposure to global optometry standards and guidelines laid out by WHO, ICO, and other international bodies.
32- To train in the interpretation of optical prescriptions and coordinate with labs for spectacle or contact lens preparation.
33- To enhance skills in visual rehabilitation, especially for patients with permanent visual impairment or neurological disorders.
34- To ensure proficiency in infection control, sterilization protocols, and hygiene in clinical and optical environments.
35- To cultivate leadership and team collaboration skills, essential for working in hospitals, clinics, or independently-run optical outlets.
36- To familiarize with the basics of ophthalmic imaging, such as fundus photography, OCT (if equipment is available), or visual field testing.
37- To train in counseling patients on lifestyle modifications, including nutrition, screen use, and UV protection for better visual health.
38- To promote lifelong learning and adaptability, preparing students to stay updated with advancements in optometry and eye care technologies.
39- To empower students for community awareness programs, promoting eye donation, childhood vision screening, and blindness prevention.
40- To instill professional accountability and reflective practice, encouraging continuous self-evaluation and ethical patient care.
Course Semesters / Course Modules
Year 1 : Foundation in Clinical Optics
Semester 1 : Fundamentals of Vision & Visual Optics
Module 1 : Human Eye Anatomy & Physiology
Duration : Six weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Understand structure and function of the human eye.
Module 2 : General Optics & Refraction
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Grasp the concepts of light and its behavior through lenses.
Module 3 : Visual Optics & Visual Acuity
Duration : Seven Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Understand visual acuity and lens application in correction.
Module 4 : Optometric Instruments - I
Duration : Seven Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Learn handling of basic optometry tools. protocols.
Semester 2 : Primary Optometry & Refraction Techniques
Module 5 : Binocular Vision & Accommodation
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Understand binocular vision functions and disorders.
Module 6 : Contact Lens Basics
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Learn basics of contact lens use and care.
Module 7 : Optometry Clinic Management
Duration : Eight Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Learn patient data handling and clinic procedures.
Module 8 : Eye Screening & Community Optometry
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Exposure to eye care in community settings..
Year 2 : Optometry Technician Program – Advanced Level
Semester 3 : Clinical Eye Care & Lens TEchnology
Module 9 : Common Eye Disorders & Pharmacology
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Identify and support in treating basic ocular diseases.
Module 10 : Optical Dispensing & Spectacles
Duration : Eight Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Learn spectacle lens fitting and frame selection..
Module 11 : Pediatric & Geriatric Optometry
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Learn age-specific vision care.
Module 12 : Low Vision Aids
Duration : Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective : To Identify and prescribe low vision aids.
Semester 4 : Clinical Internship & Case Exposure (Full Semester)
Module 13 : Clinical Internship
Duration : Twenty Six Weeks
Type : Theory + Practical
Objective :
=> To gain firsthand exposure to common eye disorders and refractive errors in various age groups.
=> To practice visual acuity testing, PD measurement, and frame selection with actual cases.
=> To understand real-life variations in patient responses and presentations.
=> To develop confidence in basic clinical procedures through repetition and observation.
=> To collaborate with optometrists and ophthalmic assistants in team-based care.
=> To build early clinical judgment by recognizing when referrals or further testing are needed