MS Ophthalmology

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Jun 27, 2023 15:28PM IST

MS Ophthalmology

Master of Surgery in Ophthalmology or MS in Ophthalmology is a 2 year postgraduate degree. The course curriculum of this specialization deals with studies about various surgical procedures, the structure of the eye, diseases of the eye, problems affecting the eye, and their possible remedies. The eligibility criteria for MS Ophthalmology require students to pass their MBBS degree with at least 50% to 55% marks in aggregate. There are many entrance exams that grant students admission to colleges offering MS Ophthalmology courses. Many institutes hold their personal entrance exams. Some of the entrance exams for MS Ophthalmology courses are NEET-PG and INI CET. This is a full-time course and all the coursework is conducted in offline mode. 

In India, there are many top-ranked colleges where students can choose to complete their MS in Ophthalmology degree. Some eminent institutes are CMC Vellore, AIIMS Delhi, KMC Mangalore, Kasturba Medical College, etc. The average course fee lies between 1,00,00 to 7,00,000 INR. After completing the course, an individual can explore several career prospects such as Professor, ENT Specialist, Ophthalmologist, etc. after completing their MS Ophthalmology degree. After passing with an MS Ophthalmology degree, candidates can get a salary between INR 4,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 per annum. 

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MS Ophthalmology Course Highlights:

Course Name

Master of Surgery in Ophthalmology

Course Duration

2 years

Course Level

Post-graduate

Course Fee

50,000 to 15,00,000 INR

Examination Pattern

Semester

MS Ophthalmology Admission process

Entrance exam, Counseling, Personal Interview, Group Discussions

Admission

Through entrance exams conducted by respective colleges

Minimum Aggregate Required for MS Ophthalmology

60% in high secondary level and 50% in MBBS level along with a 1-year internship.

Top Colleges for MS in Ophthalmology

  • CMC Vellore - Christian Medical College
  • KMC Manipal - Kasturba Medical College
  • AIIMS Delhi - All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi
  • Maulana Azad Medical College
  • Armed Forces Medical College

Average Salary

4,00,000 to 12,00,000 INR

Designations

  • ENT Specialist.
  • Lecturer/Professor.
  • Medical Consultant/Visiting Medical Consultant.
  • Ophthalmologist.
  • Product Specialist.
  • Senior Resident/Consultant.

Recruiting Organizations

Apollo Super Speciality Hospital, AIIMS, GNRC

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Why Choose MS Ophthalmology?

There are several reasons that make MS Ophthalmology a worthy course to choose from. Some of the reasons why students should opt to pursue this degree are

  • It is one of the medical courses that is rapidly gaining popularity among students, both in India and abroad.
  • There are ample career options to choose from. Completion of this degree makes a candidate eligible for a variety of job roles. Designations like Ophthalmologists, ENT Specialists, etc. are highly paid off.
  • Students who wish to continue their studies after MS in Ophthalmology can pursue fellowships and research grants.
  • Aspirants who wish to learn practically while making their foundations strong in the Ophthalmology field can opt for this program as it makes them eligible to perform surgeries also.
  • Professionals who wish to give optimal care to patients with their eyesight can choose to become surgeons after MS Ophthalmology.
  • Many government and private medical establishments hire individuals who have completed their MS in Ophthalmology degree. These job profiles come with further research options.
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Entrance Exams for MS Ophthalmology

Students who wish to take admission to this course need to clear an entrance test. Many colleges in India hold their own admission exam. The major entrance tests held at the national level for MS Ophthalmology are mentioned below:

Exam

Exam Date

Details

PGIMERAugust 4, 2023This entrance test is conducted by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research twice a year. The duration of this test is 3 hours. There is no negative marking for wrong answers and all the questions are multiple-choice based. The syllabus of this exam covers the entire curriculum of the MBBS degree including pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical subjects. Students will get 3 hours to complete the test. Various subjects covered are; Pathology, Pharmacology, Applied Physiology, Forensic Medicine, Social and Preventive Medicine, Molecular Biology, Dermatology, Pediatrics, Radiotherapy, ENT, Ophthalmology, Gynecology, etc.
INI CETMay 7, 2023This entrance test is conducted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS, New Delhi) for enrolling students into Postgraduate courses. It is conducted twice every year. Students need to sit for this computer-based test from designated examination centers. The duration of this test is 180 minutes
NEET PGMarch 5, 2023This is a computer-based, pan-India entrance test held by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). The exam covers the entire syllabus of the MBBS level. The NEET PG exam is conducted for 3 hours and 30 minutes. The total marks for the test are 200 and the question paper is divided into several sections: match-making, identifying true or false statements, quantitative aptitude, etc. All of these questions are multiple-choice. Students who qualify for this entrance exam can get admission to medical colleges in any part of India on the basis of their personal interview, ranking, and counseling
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MS Ophthalmology Eligibility Criteria

Here are the minimum requirements one must fulfill to gen admission in the MS Ophthalmology course:

  • Students who wish to study MS Ophthalmology must start preparing from their high school level i.e. studying physics, chemistry, and biology as their main subjects. 
  • After completing high school, they have to finish their MBBS degree or any other relevant medical degree at their graduation level. 
  • Candidates have to graduate with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
  • Students have to pass the entrance exam for enrolling in MS Ophthalmology. 
  • Applicants who want to pursue their MS Ophthalmology degree from foreign universities, need to present their IELTS, and TOEFL scores during the time of admission.
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Admission Process of MS Ophthalmology

The admission process for an MS Ophthalmology degree is almost the same in every state of India. After graduating with an MBBS degree, students need to submit their application form to the respective universities. They need to pass the entrance exam held by the college. After that, a group discussion session is held. Based on the marks scored in the written exam and group discussion stage, candidates are ranked and allotted seats. During admission, colleges take a round of personal interviews with all the students. 

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Popular Colleges in India Offering MS Ophthalmology

Since the demand for MS Ophthalmology is rising every year, many new colleges have introduced this course to their curriculum. There are many prominent educational establishments all over India that offer MS Ophthalmology degrees to their students. Some of the popular MS Ophthalmology colleges are mentioned below:

COLLEGE NAME

ENTRANCE EXAM

COURSE FEE

Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute

RUGHS

70,000 to 1,00,000 INR

Amrita School of Medicine

NEET-PG

10,000 to 12,000 INR

Gandhi Medical College

NEET-PG

25,000 to 70,000 INR

Baba Farid University of Health Sciences

NEET-PG

1,00,000 to 1,57,000 INR

Dayanand Medical College

NEET-PG

1,00,000 to 5,50,000 INR

Armed Forces Medical College

NEET-PG

1,50,000 to 3,40,000 INR

Institute of Human Behavior and Allied Science

NEET-PG

25,000 to 80,000 INR

Maulana Azad Medical College

NEET-PG

30,000 to 50,000 INR

Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research

NEET-PG

10,000 to 12,000 INR

Bombay Hospital and Institute of Medical Sciences

NEET-PG

10,000 to 25,000 INR

Smt.NHL Municipal Medical College

NEET-PG

2,80,000 to 5,00,000 INR

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Colleges Abroad Offering MS Ophthalmology

MS Ophthalmology is one of the most sought-after degrees by students in foreign countries. The course fees of the colleges vary depending on the country, faculty, laboratory pieces of equipment, etc. Some of the top colleges in foreign countries that offer MS Ophthalmology degrees are mentioned below:
 

College/University

Country

University of Manchester

United Kingdom

University of Waterloo

Canada

University of California

United States of America

University of London

United Kingdom

University of Adelaide

Australia

University of Auckland

New Zealand

Cardiff University

United Kingdom

Illinois College of Optometry

United States of America

University of Bradford

United Kingdom

Nova Southeastern University

United States of America

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Colleges in India Offering MS Ophthalmology (State and City Wise)

There are many colleges in India that offer MS Ophthalmology degrees. Some of the top colleges (State and City wise) is mentioned below:

West Bengal

University/College

City

Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research 

Kolkata

Kolkata Medical College

Kolkata

Midnapore Medical College and Hospital

Midnapore

Nilratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital

Kolkata

West Bengal University of Health Sciences

Kolkata

Maharashtra

University/College

City

Dr. DY Patel Vidyapeeth

Pune

Armed Forces Medical College

Pune

Seth GS Medical College

Mumbai

Maharashtra Government Medical College

Latur

MGM Medical College

Navi Mumbai

Maharashtra Institute of Medical Education and Research

Pune

Rastrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University

Nagpur

Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University

Pune

Karnataka

University/College

City

Kasturba Medical College

Manipal

St. John’s Medical College

Bangalore

Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute

Bangalore

KS Hegde Medical Academy

Mangalore

Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College

Belagavi

JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research

Mysore

Yenepoya University

Mangalore

AdiChunchanagiri University

Mandya

NITTE

Mangalore

Dr. BR Ambedkar Medical College

Bangalore

Delhi NCR

University/College

City

Jamia Hamdard University

Delhi

Vardhman Mahavir Medical College 

New Delhi

University College of Medical Sciences

New Delhi

Lady Hardinge Medical College

New Delhi

Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University

New Delhi

All India Institute of Medical Sciences

New Delhi

Sardah University

Noida

Andhra Pradesh

University/College

City

PES Institute of Medical Sciences and Research

Kuppam

Great Eastern Medical School and Hospital

Srikakulam

GSL Medical College and General Hospital

Rajahmundry

Guntur Medical College

Guntur

NRI Medical College

Guntur

Narayana Medical College and Hospital

Nellore

Siddhartha Medical College

Vijayawada

Santhiram Medical College and General Hospital

Nandyal

Madhya Pradesh

University/College

City

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College

Jabalpur

LNCT University

Bhopal

People’s University

Bhopal

Chirayu Medical College and Hospital

Bhopal

Gajra Raja Medical College

Gwalior

Index Medical College Hospital and Research Center

Indore

Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences

Indore

Gandhi Medical College

Bhopal

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Course Fee For MS Ophthalmology

The average course fee for an MS Ophthalmology degree in India varies within the range of 50,000 to 15,00,000 INR. It is dependent upon several crucial factors like the strength of the faculty, the location of the college, laboratory equipment, etc. The college fees for government and public institutions are lower than the private ones. The average course fee for government colleges ranges between 50,000 to 2,00,000 INR, whereas, the average course fee for private colleges lies between the range of 1,00,000 to 12,00,000 INR. Applicants who wish to pursue their MS Ophthalmology degree from foreign countries need to pay an average course fee between 14,00,000 to 30,00,000 INR.

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Subjects Under MS Ophthalmology

These are the core subjects taught under the MS Ophthalmology degree.

  • Biochemistry: This subject deals with the composition and function of various chemicals as well as organic substances within a living organism. Biochemistry is the mixture of two main subjects - biology and chemistry. This combination of two subjects helps us understand the chemical composition and its changes within the physiology of any living thing. Biochemistry is used to learn and conduct research on the hormonal, chemical, and muscle behavior of the body. Several laboratory techniques to detect and understand nature as well as the cause of any disorders are taught under this subject. 
  • Orbital and Ocular Anatomy: This is one of the vital subjects for all the students of MS Ophthalmology. Under this course, the anatomy of the eye is taught thoroughly for surgical purposes. Orbital Anatomy defines the anatomy of the eyeball socket or the bone cavity that contains the eye. Ocular Anatomy thoroughly explains all the optic nerves and fibers that are present around the eye of the organism. 
  • Diseases of the Eye: Students are acquainted with all the possible and rare eye diseases and how to effectively deal with them in this subject. They are introduced to all the ongoing searches in this field. This subject also includes all the surgical and non-surgical procedures to diagnose any diseases that affect the eye directly or indirectly. 
  • Gross Anatomy: Under this topic, medical examination of all the tissues and nerves at the macroscopic level is taught to the students. 
  • Ophthalmic Optics: The word Ophthalmic means “of or pertaining to the eye”. This is also a very vast subject taught under MS Ophthalmology. This topic teaches students about the science that is used for the improvement of vision or to treat any visual impairment problems. Students are taught about the use of lenses, glasses, and other visual aids. The anatomy of the eye is also explained under this subject.
  • Surgical Instruments in Ophthalmology: MS Ophthalmology degree enables a person to become a registered surgeon. Hence this is one of the vital subjects of study in this course. In order to perform surgeries, students need to get well acquainted with all the instruments that are involved during procedures. Candidates learn how to use some vital surgical instruments like minor blades, speculums, hooks and probes, micro scissors, etc. 
  • Diseases of Adnexa: The anatomy of the Ocular Adnexa, i.e., the region that orbits the upper portion of the eyeball is taught to the students for surgical purposes. The diseases that affect Adnexa and their possible treatments are also defined thoroughly. 
  • Preventive Ophthalmology: Widely known as Community Ophthalmology or Public Health Ophthalmology, this subject deals with the steps that are involved in maintaining the optimal health of the eye. Students learn how to correctly identify eye disorders and several primary, secondary, as well as tertiary preventive measures. Candidates also get an idea of the steps to care for the eye, how to avoid exposure to several pathogens damaging the eyesight, etc.
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Best Books for MS Ophthalmology

Several books are available in the market written by Indian and Foreign authors that are used as textbooks and reference materials by students during their coursework in MS Ophthalmology. Some of the books that are popular choices among students of MS Ophthalmology are mentioned below for your reference:

Book

Author Name

Clinical Examination in Ophthalmology

P. K. Mukherjee

Practical Ophthalmology: A Manual for Beginning Residents

AAO

Recent Advances in Ophthalmology’

H V Nema

Comprehensive Ophthalmology

A.K. Khurana

Modern Ophthalmology

Dutta L.C.

Postgraduate Ophthalmology

Zia Chaudhuri

Ophthalmology

Yanoff and Duker

Phacodynamics: Mastering the Tools & Techniques of Phacoemulsification Surgery

Barry S. Seibel

Peyman's Principles and Practice of Ophthalmology

Aravind FAQs in Ophthalmology

Principles and Practice of Ophthalmology

Albert and Jakobiec

Strabismus Simplified

Pradeep Sharma

Walsh and Hoyt'sManual of Systematic Eyelid Surgery 

J R O Collin

Uveitis, Fundamentals, and Clinical Practice

Nussenblatt& Whitcup

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Curriculum Structure of MS Ophthalmology Course

The entire curriculum of MS Ophthalmology is divided into 2 years. After every 6 months, an annual evaluation is done. Thus, in total, there are 4 semesters. During each semester, besides theory examination, students need to undergo other activities like research work, case studies, laboratory demonstrations 3, surgical practices, etc. Semester-wise syllabus distribution is given below for your reference: 

Semester 1

Semester 2

Semester 3

Semester 4

Trauma and Emergency Ophthalmology

Lens and Glaucoma

Disorders Of The Lids, Lacrimal Drainage Apparatus, Orbit and Oculoplastic

Community Ophthalmology

Basic Science in Ophthalmology

Uvea and Vitreoretinal Diseases

External Eye Disease, Sclera, Cornea

Ocular Motility, Strabismus, Pediatric Ophthalmology

Optics, and Refraction

Community Ophthalmology

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Career Prospects after MS Ophthalmology

Students who finish their MS Ophthalmology degree become eligible for a number of designations. The salary scale of the professionals depends on factors like; their total work experience, how well they are acquainted with surgical procedures, highest qualification, their contribution in this field, job location, etc. Some of the designations are mentioned below:

Designation

Job Role

Average Salary

ENT Specialist

The registered medical professionals who treat medical problems related to the ear, eye, and throat, are known as ENT specialists. They have permission to work in private and government hospitals as well as open their own clinic. They are also known as Otolaryngologists.

4,00,000 to 5,00,000 INR

Ophthalmologists

They are registered medical professionals who identify and treat the diseases and problems associated with the eye. Professionals/ graduates are eligible to prescribe medication to their patients and can also open their own clinics for practice, with proper legal licenses.

3,00,000 to 8,50,000 INR

Clinical Associate

They look after the overall management of medical institutions like hospitals, nursing homes, and even personal chambers of doctors. Their tasks include assisting the doctors, dealing with patient parties, keeping medical records of patients, arranging meetings and appointments, etc.

2,55,000 to 8,00,000 INR

Surgeon

They perform all the surgeries that involve the eye. All the critical operations like cornea operation, retinal operation, and minor operations like a cataract operation, lens operation, etc. are performed by them.

5,00,000 to 20,00,000 INR

Professor

They deliver lectures, demonstrate surgical and laboratory techniques, and teach students of postgraduate level in several colleges. Professors can also design the evaluation process. 

3,00,000 to 6,00,000 INR

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Top Recruiting Agencies in India

Many agencies in India hire graduates with a degree in MS Ophthalmology. Some of the top agencies which hire these professionals almost every year with good compensation are listed below:

  • AIIMS
  • Indian Railways
  • Columbia Asia
  • Sparsh Hospitals
  • Vitality Healthcare
  • Indo-American Hospital
  • Max Healthcare Institute Ltd.
  • Apollo Super Speciality Hospital
  • Recmasters
  • Fortis Hospital
  • StaffPointe Recruiter
  • ArtemisEnterprise Medical Service
  • Onyx M.D
  • Narayana Hrudayalaya Health City
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Skills Required for MS Ophthalmology

There are many skill sets that make an individual stand out from the rest of the group. The most desirable skills for a person pursuing an MS Ophthalmology degree are:

  • Should have great interest in helping others compassionately
  • An eye for every minute detail is a crucial trait for surgeons
  • Possessing a team spirit is of paramount importance. While performing any major surgery, doctors need to work closely with a huge medical team and for that coordination is important.
  • An in-depth knowledge of the subject is ideal.
  • He/she should have a clear knowledge of the basic concepts of all topics.
  • Sometimes, whenever needed, the person should be able to conduct training sessions and demonstrate various laboratory, and surgical techniques to their peers.
  • It is a plus point if a person with MS Ophthalmology is interested in conducting research and contributing towards the development of this field.
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FAQs about MS Ophthalmology

What can I do after MS Ophthalmology?

There are several options one can choose from after their MS Ophthalmology degree. They can opt to complete their specialization in any relevant subject or can enroll for a Diploma degree in ophthalmology. One can also choose to complete their fellowship

What is the highest degree in Ophthalmology?

The highest degree in Ophthalmology is a Doctor of Medicine or MD in Ophthalmology. This is a doctorate-level degree that students need to complete within 3 years.

What is the duration of MS Ophthalmology?

The duration of MS Ophthalmology is 2 years. This is a postgraduate-level degree course and all the coursework is done in offline mode.

How difficult is Ophthalmology?

This is one of the most complicated branches of a medical study. Since the main subject of study involves the eye, students need to know every minute detail about it. Individuals with high intellect and interest should opt for this course.

Can I do Ophthalmology without MBBS?

It is not possible to enroll for an MS Ophthalmology course without completing the MBBS degree as this is the minimum eligibility criteria to sit for entrance tests of MS Ophthalmology.

Are Ophthalmologists high in demand?

Ophthalmologists have always been in demand since they specialize in eye treatment. In India and in foreign countries, many students apply for this course.

What is the average salary of an Ophthalmologist in India?

The average salary scale of Ophthalmologists in India lies between 5,00,000 to 12,00,000 INR per annum. The pay structure depends on the work experience of the person. 

Which country is best for studying MS Ophthalmology?

The United Kingdom is one of the finest places to study MS Ophthalmology, followed by the United States of America.

Is ophthalmology a good career?

Yes. Ophthalmology is a great career choice. There are ample job opportunities for candidates to choose from. One can find employment in both government/ public and private sectors. All of the job roles are well-paid.

Is MS Ophthalmology a competitive field?

Yes. MS Ophthalmology is getting more competitive each year as the demand for this course is rising. However, if one possesses the dedication and grit to learn, nothing will come between you and your goals.

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