Can an optometrist become an ophthalmologist?

Yes, an optometrist can become an ophthalmologist, however, it requires the optometrist to get additional education and training to do so. Optometrists are technically not considered doctors. They are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating vision issues and conditions by prescribing corrective glasses or lenses.

How To Become An Ophthalmologist: What It Is and Career Path

What is an ophthalmologist and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted Expert

Mark Nakano OD

Understanding what an ophthalmologist does is easier than spelling their job title. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors that diagnose and treat eye diseases. They are different from optometrists, who can only test patients' eyesight and prescribe glasses. Ophthalmologists can test people's eyesight, but they also diagnose eye conditions and diseases such as glaucoma or cataract issues. They use various tests, such as angiographies and orbital ultrasounds, to diagnose eye conditions. Ophthalmologists are also qualified to perform surgical procedures such as LASIK vision correction. Besides interacting with patients, ophthalmologists are responsible for the administrative tasks associated with running a practice, such as processing insurance paperwork.

Ophthalmologists undergo extensive training before practicing, just like other medical doctors. They need a bachelor's degree and a medical degree. They also need to complete an internship and a residency before earning a license to practice. Some undergo additional training to specialize in a specific eye issue, such as cornea damage.

Ophthalmology is a lucrative specialty. The average ophthalmologist earns a salary of $218,224 a year.

What general advice would you give to an Ophthalmologist?

Mark Nakano OD

Associate Dean for Clinics, Assistant Professor, Marshall B. Ketchum University

Being a lifelong learner is always an important attribute so that you stay current with the evolution of the profession. A special skill set would include being able to utilize technology in clinical care. More equipment that incorporates technology is prevalent and will improve the outcomes for patients. I believe that connecting with your patient and establishing a trusting relationship will remain the most important piece.

ScoreOphthalmologistUS Average

Salary

10.0

Avg. Salary $234,030

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

10.0

Growth Rate 7%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

1.7

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.16%

Asian 18.63%

Black or African American 5.07%

Hispanic or Latino 9.54%

Unknown 4.45%

White 62.15%

Gender

female 77.26%

male 22.74%

Age - 48

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 48

Stress Level

10.0

Stress level is very high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

10.0

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

3.8

Work Life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

Newest jobs for Ophthalmologist in Columbus, OH

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Key steps to become an ophthalmologist

Explore ophthalmologist education requirements

Most common ophthalmologist degrees

Bachelor's

30.4 %

Doctorate

17.6 %

Associate

14.6 %

Start to develop specific ophthalmologist skills

Skills	Percentages
Patients	25.84%
Ophthalmology	19.39%
Surgery	11.64%
Patient Care	6.08%
Glaucoma	4.33%

Research ophthalmologist duties and responsibilities

Process medical and insurance claims, medical billing, CPT 4 and ICD 9 coding.
Perform tests: visual acuity, color vision, visual field, eye pressure, dilation, and OCT.
Work with EHR program, EMA.
Co-Manage cataracts, PRK/LASIK, DSEK, DMEK, and PTK.

Prepare your ophthalmologist resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your ophthalmologist resume.

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Choose From 10+ Customizable Ophthalmologist Resume templates

Build a professional Ophthalmologist resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Ophthalmologist resume.

Apply for ophthalmologist jobs

Now it's time to start searching for an ophthalmologist job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do ophthalmologists rate their job?

What is an ophthalmologist and how to become one

What general advice would you give to an Ophthalmologist?

Newest jobs for Ophthalmologist in Columbus, OH

Ophthalmologist career paths

Key steps to become an ophthalmologist

Explore ophthalmologist education requirements

Most common ophthalmologist degrees

Start to develop specific ophthalmologist skills

Research ophthalmologist duties and responsibilities

Prepare your ophthalmologist resume

Choose From 10+ Customizable Ophthalmologist Resume templates

Apply for ophthalmologist jobs

How Did You Land Your First Ophthalmologist Job

Average ophthalmologist salary

How do ophthalmologists rate their job?

Ophthalmologist FAQs

Can an optometrist become an ophthalmologist?

Search for ophthalmologist jobs